The faded mullet is a modernized take on the 1980s mullet, where the hair is shorter at the front and sides, but longer at the back. By incorporating a fade into the classic mullet, you get a gradual blending of hair lengths along the sides, enhancing the mullet’s structure with a stylish, defined edge. From low fades to high fades, each version creates a unique look, letting you express your individuality and personality.
1. Classic Faded Mullet
This timeless take on the mullet has a simple fade on the sides that doesn’t stray too far from the mullet’s traditional look. The sides are shorter, but the fade is subtle, blending naturally with the longer back.
Styling Tip: Keep the hair at the back to shoulder length for a true classic feel. Regularly trim the fade to maintain sharpness, and use a lightweight styling cream to keep the top and back hair looking polished.
2. Low Fade Mullet
The low fade mullet starts fading at the very bottom of the sides, near the ears. This look is ideal for those new to the mullet trend, as the low fade adds just a hint of edge without going overboard.
Styling Tip: Apply a light-hold pomade to the top to add volume without losing natural movement. A texturizing spray will also help define the layers.
3. High Fade Mullet
For those wanting a more dramatic effect, the high fade mullet starts fading closer to the temples. This heightens the contrast between the short sides and the longer back, creating an eye-catching look.
Styling Tip: Use a pomade to style the top hair upwards for added impact. This keeps the high fade looking clean and sharp while giving volume to the top.
4. Skin Fade Mullet
The skin fade mullet is a bold and daring choice. The fade tapers down to the skin, creating a smooth, seamless transition from the shaved sides to the longer hair at the back.
Styling Tip: Skin fades require frequent touch-ups to maintain the close-shaved look. Use a hydrating styling cream on the longer sections to keep hair soft and manageable.
5. Curly Faded Mullet
For men with natural curls, the curly faded mullet embraces texture while adding structure with a fade. The fade on the sides frames the curls, making them the focal point.
Styling Tip: Use a curl cream or leave-in conditioner to define the curls without frizz. This style looks best with regular trims to keep the curls from becoming unruly.
6. Burst Fade Mullet
The burst fade wraps around the ear, creating a circular shape. This draws attention to the length in the back, giving a rounded, focused shape to the mullet.
Styling Tip: A matte pomade or wax works well to control and define the longer hair at the back without creating excessive shine.
7. Taper Fade Mullet
With a taper fade, the hair gradually shortens towards the neckline rather than ending in a sharp fade. This creates a subtle, seamless look that’s ideal for a softer mullet.
Styling Tip: To enhance the natural flow, apply a light-hold mousse and style the top and back hair with your fingers for a relaxed look.
8. Drop Fade Mullet
In the drop fade mullet, the fade dips down towards the neckline, following the natural shape of the head. This results in a unique, customized look that emphasizes the mullet’s back length.
Styling Tip: Use a medium-hold styling cream to shape the hair at the top and ensure the drop fade blends well into the longer back hair.
9. Textured Faded Mullet
Adding texture to the mullet gives it a rugged, tousled appearance. The fade complements this style by cleaning up the sides and framing the texture on top and in the back.
Styling Tip: Apply a sea salt spray to damp hair for natural texture, and use your hands to scrunch and define the hair for a beachy effect.
10. Modern Faded Mullet
This polished version of the mullet keeps things neat and sleek. With a high fade, the modern mullet typically features a well-styled top and a shorter back for a refined look.
Styling Tip: Use a lightweight pomade for a defined, clean finish. The top can be slicked back for a more professional look or styled with volume for a trendy, edgy effect.
11. Undercut Fade Mullet
The undercut fade mullet features a distinct contrast between the sides and the top. The fade blends with the undercut, allowing the longer top to transition smoothly into the mullet.
Styling Tip: Keep the undercut well-groomed with regular barber visits, and use a strong-hold gel or pomade to style the top for a polished, structured look.
12. Mohawk Faded Mullet
The mohawk-faded mullet combines two bold looks into one. The high fade emphasizes a narrow strip of hair running from the top to the back, where it transitions into a mullet.
Styling Tip: Use a firm-hold gel to keep the mohawk section upright. Apply a texturizing spray to add volume and definition to the longer back.
13. Shaggy Faded Mullet
The shaggy mullet embraces a rugged, undone look with layers that create movement. The low fade adds structure without sacrificing the laid-back appeal.
Styling Tip: A leave-in conditioner or lightweight mousse will keep the shaggy layers defined and manageable without weighing down the hair.
14. Wavy Faded Mullet
This mullet suits wavy hair perfectly, keeping the natural waves flowing in the back while a subtle fade frames the sides.
Styling Tip: Apply a leave-in conditioner to maintain softness and prevent frizz. Use a diffuser attachment on a blow dryer to enhance the waves.
15. Spiky Faded Mullet
The spiky faded mullet brings a punk-inspired edge. The top hair is spiked up, while the high or mid-fade allows for a bold look that stands out.
Styling Tip: Use a strong-hold gel or wax to create sharp spikes on the top, and smooth the back hair for a clean contrast.
Essential Styling and Maintenance Tips for Faded Mullets
- Regular Trims for the Fade: Fades can quickly lose their shape, so plan on touch-ups every 2-4 weeks to maintain the fade’s precision and keep the longer back hair looking intentional.
- Choose the Right Products: Use products that complement your hair texture. For curly hair, opt for curl creams; for straight hair, use pomades or texturizing sprays.
- Add Volume and Texture: Volume can make a faded mullet more dynamic. Use a blow dryer and a volumizing mousse to create lift at the top.
- Use Moisturizing Products: The longer hair in the back can become dry, so regular conditioning is essential.
- Experiment with Styles: Try different ways to style the top, from spikes to slicked-back looks, to find what works best for you.
(FAQs)
1. How often should I maintain a faded mullet?
- A faded mullet needs a trim every 2-4 weeks to keep the fade sharp and prevent the back from becoming too long or uneven.
2. Is a faded mullet suitable for all hair types?
- Yes, faded mullets work with various hair types. Curly, wavy, and straight hair all offer unique looks, though the fade and styling products may vary to best suit each type.
3. Does a faded mullet require a lot of maintenance?
- While fades need regular trims, the overall style can be low-maintenance, especially with the right products.
4. Can I dye my faded mullet?
- Definitely! Adding color or highlights can further personalize your mullet. Opt for color-safe products to maintain the color’s vibrancy.
5. How do I keep the back from looking messy?
- Regular trims and a hydrating leave-in conditioner will keep the longer back section looking polished and healthy.
Conclusion
The faded mullet is an incredible blend of retro style and modern precision, making it ideal for anyone looking to make a bold statement. Whether you’re into a sleek modern mullet or an adventurous high fade with spikes, there’s a style for everyone. This versatile haircut lets you customize and experiment with texture, volume, and shape to fit your personality. With the right products, regular trims, and confidence, the faded mullet can help you stand out and make a lasting impression.