The Mullet: A Guide to the Resurgence of a Controversial Style | From '80s Relic to Modern Chic

The Mullet: A Hairstyle Resurrected

For decades, it was the punchline of the hair world, a style synonymous with cringe-worthy family photos and a very specific cultural era. The mullet—business in the front, party in the back—has one of the most polarizing histories of any haircut. Yet, against all odds, it has clawed its way back from the brink of obscurity and into the high-fashion spotlight. The resurgence of the mullet is more than just a fleeting trend; it’s a cultural phenomenon, a symbol of rebellion, and a testament to the cyclical nature of style. Far from the rigid, unflattering cuts of the past, the modern mullet is a versatile, textured, and surprisingly chic statement of individuality.

This revival isn't a carbon copy of its '80s ancestor. Today’s mullet is softer, more nuanced, and endlessly adaptable. It has been embraced by celebrities, influencers, and everyday fashion enthusiasts who are drawn to its edgy, non-conformist vibe. From the textured wolf cut to the subtle micro-mullet, the style has fragmented into a dozen different iterations, proving its incredible versatility. This guide explores the mullet’s journey from controversial relic to coveted modern hairstyle, breaking down its history, its modern variations, and providing expert advice on how you can make this iconic look your own.

Whether you're curious about its history or considering taking the plunge yourself, understanding the mullet's evolution is key to appreciating its current cultural significance. It’s a haircut that challenges conventions, blurs gender lines, and celebrates personal expression. Join us as we deconstruct the mullet and celebrate its powerful, stylish, and unapologetic comeback.

A Look Back: The Mullet's Controversial History

The story of the mullet is far older and more complex than its association with '80s rock bands and hockey players. While the term "mullet" wasn't coined until the 1990s (reportedly by the Beastie Boys), the style itself—short on the top and sides, long in the back—has appeared throughout history. Ancient texts describe Greek warriors wearing a similar cut to keep hair out of their eyes in battle while protecting their necks. There's a persistent myth about Benjamin Franklin sporting a version of it, though his "skullet" was more a product of balding than a fashion choice. The style truly began to take its modern form in the 1970s, an era of androgyny and rock-and-roll rebellion.

David Bowie, with his fiery orange Ziggy Stardust creation, is perhaps the most iconic early adopter of the mullet. His version was less a haircut and more an art form—a gender-bending, futuristic statement that perfectly captured the glam rock ethos. Other rock legends like Rod Stewart and Paul McCartney followed suit, cementing the style as a symbol of cool, rebellious masculinity. This era defined the mullet as edgy and fashion-forward, a far cry from the reputation it would later develop.

The 1980s and early '90s were the mullet's golden age and, ultimately, its downfall. It became the unofficial uniform for everyone from country music stars like Billy Ray Cyrus to action heroes and athletes. The style became more extreme, with permed, voluminous tops and long, flowing backs. This ubiquity led to its demise. As the '90s ushered in a new era of grunge minimalism and sleek, polished looks, the mullet became a caricature of the previous decade's excess. It was labeled as tacky and unsophisticated, a cultural punchline that would last for over two decades.

The Great Resurgence: Why is the Mullet Back in 2025?

So, how did a hairstyle that was so widely ridiculed make such a powerful comeback? The modern mullet's resurgence is a product of several converging cultural forces. It’s not just about nostalgia; it’s about a collective desire for authenticity, individuality, and a break from conventional beauty standards. The internet, and particularly social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, played a monumental role in reintroducing the style to a new generation.

The Influence of Pop Culture and Social Media

Celebrities and influencers were the initial catalysts. Stars like Miley Cyrus, Troye Sivan, and Jacob Elordi began sporting modern, updated versions of the mullet, showcasing its potential to be chic and edgy. Social media trends like the "wolf cut"—a softer, heavily layered hybrid of a shag and a mullet—went viral on TikTok, with millions of users attempting the DIY cut at home during the pandemic. This user-generated content stripped the mullet of its old-fashioned stigma and reframed it as a cool, accessible style for all genders.

A Rebellion Against Convention

The modern mullet is a powerful statement against polished perfection. In a world of curated Instagram feeds and flawless beach waves, the mullet feels raw, authentic, and unapologetic. Its gender-fluid nature appeals to a generation that is increasingly rejecting traditional gender norms. The haircut works beautifully on people of all genders, allowing for a form of self-expression that isn’t confined to binary standards. It’s a visual rejection of the status quo, a way to signal that you value individuality over conformity.

The Pandemic Effect

The global lockdowns of 2020 created a unique environment for hair experimentation. With salons closed, many people took scissors into their own hands, and the mullet, with its forgiving, choppy layers, was a popular choice for at-home haircuts. This period fostered a widespread desire for change and reinvention. As the world reopened, people sought bold new looks to mark a new chapter, and the mullet, a haircut that is impossible to ignore, was the perfect vehicle for that transformation.

Deconstructing the Modern Mullet: It's Not Your Dad's Haircut

The key difference between the classic mullet and its modern counterpart lies in the details: texture, blending, and subtlety. While the '80s version was defined by a stark, almost comical disconnection between the short top and long back, the 2025 mullet is all about a seamless, or at least intentional, transition. Professional stylists use advanced texturizing and layering techniques to create movement and softness, resulting in a look that feels more organic and less like two different haircuts combined.

The Shag Mullet (or 'Shullet')

This is perhaps the most popular and wearable modern variation. The "shullet" is a perfect marriage of the '70s shag and the mullet. It features heavy, face-framing layers, lots of texture through the crown, and a softer, wispier length in the back. The focus is on creating volume and movement throughout the entire cut, making the transition from front to back feel fluid and cohesive.

The Wolf Cut

A viral sensation in its own right, the wolf cut is a close cousin to the shullet. It’s characterized by shorter, choppier layers on top and longer, thinned-out lengths towards the bottom. The wolf cut often has more volume at the crown and a more tapered look through the back, creating a silhouette that is wild, textured, and full of life. It’s a slightly less extreme version of the mullet, making it a great entry point for those curious about the trend.

The Micro Mullet

For a more subtle and high-fashion take, the micro mullet is the perfect choice. This version keeps the length in the back much shorter, often just grazing the nape of the neck. The layers on top are also shorter and can be styled in various ways, from slicked back to soft and piecey. It offers the edgy silhouette of a mullet in a more compact and refined package, making it surprisingly versatile and chic.

The Curly Mullet

Natural texture completely transforms the mullet. For those with wavy or curly hair, the cut can enhance the natural pattern and create incredible shape and volume. A curly mullet allows the layers to blend beautifully, preventing the harsh lines of the classic version. The curls add softness and dimension, turning the mullet into a stunning, voluminous style that is both rebellious and romantic.

Is the Mullet Right for You? A Stylist's Perspective

While the mullet is a statement of individuality, certain considerations can help you and your stylist tailor the perfect version for you. Factors like face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle all play a role in creating a mullet that is both flattering and manageable. A thorough consultation with an experienced stylist is crucial to ensure the final result complements your unique features.

For face shapes, the mullet is incredibly versatile. Oval faces can pull off almost any variation. For those with square or angular jawlines, a softer mullet with wispy layers around the face can add a beautiful contrast. Rounder face shapes can benefit from a mullet with more volume and height at the crown, which helps to elongate the face. A stylist can strategically place layers to highlight your best features, like your cheekbones or eyes.

Hair type is another critical factor. The mullet works surprisingly well on a wide range of textures. Fine or thin hair can gain the illusion of volume and thickness from the short, choppy layers on top. Thick hair is ideal for creating texture and removing weight, allowing for a beautifully sculpted shape. Wavy and curly hair, as mentioned, brings a natural softness and movement to the style that prevents it from looking too severe. A professional will adapt their cutting technique based on your hair's density and pattern.

The Salon Visit: How to Ask for the Perfect Modern Mullet

Communicating your vision effectively is the most important step in getting a haircut you love. Simply asking for a "mullet" isn't enough, given the style's vast number of interpretations. Preparing for your appointment at a professional hair salon will ensure you and your stylist are on the same page.

Bringing Visual References

Words can be subjective, but pictures are universal. Collect a small gallery of images on your phone that capture the elements you like. Look for examples on people with a similar hair texture and face shape to your own. This gives your stylist a clear visual blueprint to work from and opens up a conversation about what is realistically achievable with your hair.

Discussing Length and Layers

Use specific language during your consultation. Talk about the desired length in the back—do you want it at the nape of the neck, shoulder-length, or longer? Discuss the front and top. Do you want short, choppy bangs, soft curtain bangs, or longer face-framing layers? Key phrases like "soft disconnection," "internal texturizing," and "blended layers" can help convey that you're looking for a modern, nuanced version of the cut, not a harsh '80s throwback.

The Consultation Process

A great stylist will ask you plenty of questions. They’ll want to know about your daily routine, how much time you spend on your hair, and what products you use. Be honest about your lifestyle. If you're a low-maintenance person, they will design a mullet that looks great air-dried. If you enjoy styling, they might suggest a cut that offers more versatility. This collaborative process is the key to a successful and personalized modern mullet.

Styling and Maintaining Your Mullet at Home

One of the best things about a well-cut modern mullet is its versatility in styling. It can be worn sleek and polished, or messy and textured. The right products and techniques will help you get the most out of your new haircut and maintain its shape between salon visits.

Essential Products

Building a small arsenal of styling products is key. A sea salt spray is a must-have for creating that effortless, lived-in texture. A matte texture paste or clay is perfect for defining layers and adding piecey separation without shine. For those with fine hair, a volumizing mousse applied to the roots before drying can create lift and body. If you have curly hair, a good leave-in conditioner and curl cream will keep your mullet hydrated and defined.

Styling Techniques

Embrace your natural texture! Many modern mullets are designed to be low-maintenance. Often, the best approach is to apply product to damp hair and let it air-dry. For extra volume and shape, use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer, scrunching your hair as you go. To refresh the style on the second day, a light mist of water or a dry texturizing spray can bring the layers back to life. Experiment with different partings and finishes to discover the many personalities of your mullet.

Maintenance Schedule

To keep your mullet looking sharp and intentional, regular trims are non-negotiable. The short layers on top and around the face tend to grow out the fastest, which can throw off the balance of the haircut. Plan to visit your stylist for a maintenance trim every 6 to 8 weeks. This will keep the shape clean, the layers defined, and the overall look fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Mullet

Q1: Is the mullet still in style in 2025?

Absolutely. The mullet has proven to be more than a fleeting fad. It has evolved into a staple alternative hairstyle, with new variations like the 'shullet' and wolf cut keeping it fresh and relevant. Its association with individuality and gender fluidity ensures its place in modern hairstyling.

Q2: Can I get a mullet if I have thin or fine hair?

The mullet can be an excellent choice for thin hair. The shorter layers on top and at the crown create the illusion of volume and density. A skilled stylist can use texturizing techniques to make the hair appear fuller and more dynamic.

Q3: How do I grow out a mullet gracefully?

Growing out a mullet is a process. The key is to let the top and side layers catch up to the length in the back. Regular maintenance trims are crucial to reshape the cut as it grows, gradually transitioning it into a shag, a bob, or a layered mid-length style. Communicate your goal to your stylist, and they can map out a trimming schedule.

Q4: What's the main difference between a mullet and a wolf cut?

Think of the wolf cut as a softer, more blended cousin of the mullet. A wolf cut is essentially a shag with mullet-like tendencies. It has heavy layers and volume on top that blend more seamlessly into longer, wispier lengths, whereas a traditional mullet has a more pronounced disconnection between the front and back.

Q5: Can the mullet be a professional hairstyle?

In many modern and creative workplaces, yes. The key is in the styling. A well-maintained, subtly styled micro-mullet or a softly blended shullet can look incredibly chic and polished. When styled neatly, it can be just as professional as a classic bob or pixie cut.

Q6: How long does my hair need to be to get a mullet?

You don't need extremely long hair to start. To get a noticeable mullet shape, you'll want at least 2-3 inches of length on top and enough hair in the back to at least cover the nape of your neck. The longer your hair is, the more dramatic the options become.

The Verdict: More Than Just a Haircut

The mullet has completed an extraordinary journey from a cultural joke to a symbol of high-fashion rebellion. Its resurgence is a powerful reminder that style is cyclical, and that true self-expression never truly goes out of fashion. The modern mullet is a celebration of texture, individuality, and the courage to stand out. It's a versatile canvas that can be tailored to suit any face shape, hair type, and personality.

Far from the rigid style of the past, today’s mullet is defined by its fluidity and adaptability. It’s a testament to the skill of professional stylists who have reimagined and refined it for a new generation. Whether you opt for a subtle shullet or a bold, classic take, the mullet is a declaration of confidence. If you're ready to embrace a hairstyle that is equal parts history, rebellion, and art, consider consulting an experienced stylist. They can help you navigate the endless possibilities and craft a modern mullet that is uniquely, unapologetically you.