Why the Mullet Haircut Is Back - And Better Than Ever

The mullet has re-emerged as one of the most fashion-forward haircuts of the moment. Reimagined with softer blends, refined texture and effortless movement, today’s mullet is less about shock value and more about self-expression. In this blog, Laura Elliott, Head of Education at Neäl & Wølf answers your most frequently asked questions about mullets.

1. What is a mullet?

Mullets are renowned for being bold and beautiful. Mullet haircuts have short or shaved hair at the sides, shorter hair at the front and longer hair at the back of the head. The look is the epitome of the phrase “business in the front, party in the back”, with the name made popular by the Beastie Boys in their 1994 song ‘Mullet Head’.

Although traditionally dramatic, the modern mullet is made softer with layering and tailored shaping. There’s textured layers for movement, usually a refined fringe or curtain bangs, and fading at the sides.

2. When was the mullet popular?

Mullets were most popular in the 1980s, styled by celebrities like Tina Turner, Billy Ray Cyrus and Patrick Swayze. They were heavily worn by rock musicians, athletes and style rebels to symbolise individuality and edge. Despite being at their peak in the 80s, the style was popularised in the 1970s by the likes of David Bowie and Paul McCartney - and it’s a style still worn today!

3. Why is the mullet coming back?

The resurgence of the mullet aligns with a broader movement towards individuality and undone texture. It celebrates your natural hair, and helps you to feel expressive and fashion-forward. More key reasons for the mullet’s come back are:

Pop culture influence

Recently stars like Miley Cyrus, Zendaya, Jacob Elordi and Paul Mescal have shown off their mullets, influencing fans. In popular culture, characters like Billy Hargrove from the show Stranger Things have also served as inspiration. And in the world of fashion, it’s a style that has even been seen on runways by brands like Gucci.

Covid-19 lockdown

Lockdown forced many people to grow their hair out, leading people to experiment with shaggier, longer styles that eventually moved into mullets. The look was ideal for Zoom and virtual calls, as it allowed you to look put together at the front, and undone at the back!

4. Should you get a mullet?

One of the best parts of the modern mullet is its adaptability. It works particularly well if you have an oval or heart-shaped face, medium to thick hair, and a natural wave or curl. Finer hair types can wear a mullet, but you may need more volumising support to maintain structure and movement. If you prefer polished, sleek styles, this look is unlikely to be for you. But if you like texture, personality and edge, the mullet could be the ideal hair match for you.

5. How do you grow a mullet?

To grow a mullet, you need patience - and a lot of it! To create a noticeable difference in length between the front and back of your locks, you would likely need to let hair grow for 3-6 months. During this time, you should still visit your salon for maintenance, but avoid any heavy trimming at the nape of your neck.

6. How do you cut a mullet?

To get the best results, you should trust your stylist to create your mullet hairstyle. Your hairdresser will typically layer hair through your crown, maintain length at the back, and soften transitions with texturising techniques. Precision is key!

Video & Stylist Credit: Instagram @paul.thompson_

7. How do you ask for a modern mullet?

When you go to your stylist for a mullet, you should bring reference imagery to make sure that your vision matches your stylist’s. You might ask for a “soft, blended mullet with movement”, or “shorter layers at the front but length at the back”. Book in at your local salon today: Neäl & Wølf Salon Finder

8. How do you style and maintain a mullet?

Truly achieving a mullet only starts at the salon - personality can be built with at-home styling. Alongside frequent cuts at the salon, we’d recommend using styling products to keep your mullet in check at home.

Step 1. Wash hair with volumising shampoo and conditioner

Start by washing hair with specialised products that don’t strip your hair of natural oils, like our AMPLIFY Volumising Shampoo and Conditioner. These products use a blend of wheat protein and panthenol to help give your mullet the thick, full texture that is so characteristic.

Step 2. Apply a hair mist

After using a microfibre towel to dry your hair, spritz a product like our UPLIFT Volumising Mist directly onto your roots. This enhances volume and protects against humidity.

Stylist shows results from using UPLIFT Volumising Mist

Video & Stylist Credit: @bethanyhoneyhair

 Step 3. Use a diffuser

Diffusers are a key tool to achieve a voluminous mullet cut. Our HERØ Ionic Technology Hair Dryer comes with a diffuser attachment, helping to dry hair fast and quietly - whilst giving it a bouncy boost.

Step 4. Set and spray

Lock your look in place by spraying hair with a hairspray like our FIX Hold & Shine Hairspray. This spray gives a flexible hold, whilst also giving a layer of shine.

Step 5. Dry shampoo between washing

Between washes, keep your hair refreshed by using a dry shampoo like our TEXTURE Dry Texture & Finishing Spray. This works like a back comb without the brush, giving your hair an instant lift.

9. How do you grow out a mullet?

If you’re ready to move on from your mullet, growing it out needs subtle reshaping. Your stylist might gradually shorten the back of your locks, blend your layers into a shag or textured bob, and adjust your fringe. The key is subtle evolution rather than dramatic overhaul.

Mullets have evolved from retro to a fashion-conscious statement. With the right tailoring and expert care, they can revolutionise your look. If you’re looking to embrace texture, personality and modern edge, browse our range of products to help you get there: Volumising Hair Products