The mullet is back, but not the way you remember it. The modern mullet is softer, more textured and better blended than its 1980s ancestor. The key upgrade is the fade: a low taper on the sides cleans up the outline so the length at the back looks intentional, not accidental.
Quick Facts
| Top length | 2 to 4 inches |
| Back length | 3 to 6+ inches (touching or past the collar) |
| Fade height | Low (burst fades are also popular) |
| Bottom length | Skin to #0.5 around the ears |
| Best hair types | Wavy, curly, thick straight |
| Face shapes | Oval, square, oblong |
| Product | Sea salt spray, matte clay, curl cream |
What Makes a Modern Mullet?
- Shorter front and top, often with texture or a fringe.
- Longer back, reaching the neck or beyond.
- Clean sides with a low taper or burst fade around the ears.
- Blending between the sections, rather than sharp steps.
12 Best Low Taper Fade Modern Mullet Styles
1. Subtle Mullet
The back is only slightly longer than the top. A soft entry point.
2. Classic Modern Mullet
A clear difference between short top and longer back, with a textured fringe.
3. Curly Mullet
Curls on top and at the back. Very popular. See curly hair.
4. Wavy Mullet
Waves flow naturally at the back. See wavy hair.
5. Mullet with a Burst Fade
The fade curves around the ear, keeping length at the back. See burst fade.
6. Textured Fringe Mullet
A choppy fringe at the front. See textured fringe.
7. Curtains Mullet
Middle-parted front with length behind. See curtains.
8. Mohawk Mullet (Mohullet)
A strip of length through the middle that continues down the back.
9. Blonde Mullet
Bleached or highlighted. See blonde hair.
10. Long Mullet
Back reaching the shoulders. See long hair.
11. Mullet with a Beard
Rugged and balanced. See with beard.
12. Mullet with a Drop Fade
The fade dips behind the ear. See drop fade.
How to Ask Your Barber
"Modern mullet with a low taper fade. Taper around the ears down to skin, but keep the length at the back: I want it touching my collar. On top, about 3 inches with a textured fringe. Please blend the top into the back so it flows, no harsh steps."
Important: tell the barber clearly not to taper the back of the neck if you want the length there. A taper around the ears only, or a burst fade, keeps the mullet shape.
How to Style It
- Apply sea salt spray (straight/wavy) or curl cream (curly) to damp hair.
- Scrunch the back for texture.
- Blow-dry the top forward or tousled.
- Finish with a small amount of matte clay on top.
Growing a Mullet
From a short cut, the back needs around 2 to 4 months to reach collar length. Keep the taper and top trimmed while the back grows so the in-between stage looks deliberate.
Mullet Proportions: Finding Your Balance
The modern mullet is all about proportion. Think of the head in three zones:
- Front and top: the shortest part, usually 2 to 4 inches.
- Sides around the ears: tapered short with a low taper or burst fade.
- Back: the longest part, at least collar length.
The bigger the difference between the top and the back, the bolder the mullet. For a subtle version, keep the back just 1 to 2 inches longer than the top. For a statement mullet, let the back grow to the shoulders.
Mullet for Different Face Shapes
- Oval: any proportion works.
- Long face: keep the top shorter and add a fringe to shorten the face.
- Round face: add height on top and keep the back sleek rather than wide.
- Square face: softer, wavier mullets balance a strong jaw.
Mullet at Work
A subtle mullet with a low taper can pass in many workplaces, especially if the back is tidy and the top is neat. Tie the back into a small ponytail if needed, or tuck it into your collar. Very long, shaggy mullets are better suited to creative workplaces and weekends.
Common Mullet Mistakes
- Tapering the nape. That removes the length you are growing. Tell your barber clearly.
- A harsh step between top and back. The modern mullet is blended.
- Ignoring the sides. Without a fresh taper, the mullet looks overgrown rather than intentional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the mullet still in style in 2026?
Yes. The modern, blended mullet with a low taper or burst fade remains popular, especially with wavy and curly hair.
How long should the back of a mullet be?
At least to the collar; longer for a bolder look.
Do I tell my barber to taper the back?
No, unless you want a very subtle version. Ask for the taper around the ears only, or a burst fade.
Which hair type is best for a mullet?
Wavy and curly hair look especially good because the back has natural movement.
