What Is A Short Mullet Haircut

I remember the first time I saw someone with a short mullet haircut at a friend’s birthday party. I was stunned—not because of the style itself, but because I had no idea it was even a thing. What is a short mullet haircut? I asked myself, and I couldn’t find a clear answer. That’s when I decided to dig in, talk to barbers, and figure out what exactly this style is and why it’s been making such a comeback.

The short mullet isn’t the long, flowing version I used to associate with the 80s. No, this is a modern twist: short on top, slightly longer in the back, and often with a fade or undercut to define the contrast. I tried it myself, and it was a revelation. The way it frames the face, the versatility in styling, and the fact that it works for both men and women made me a fan almost instantly.

If you’re someone who’s always been on the fence about trying a bold new look, the short mullet might be exactly what you need. It’s a style that’s equal parts nostalgic and contemporary, and it gives you the freedom to play with texture and volume without going overboard. For me, it was a low-maintenance way to refresh my appearance and feel like I was part of something that’s been making waves in the beauty world.

What is a Short Mullet Haircut?

As of November 2026, the short mullet is a blend of old and new, taking inspiration from the 80s mullet but simplifying it for today’s trends. It’s all about balance and contrast, with the top of the head kept short and the sides or back slightly longer, often with a fade to create the illusion of more volume.

This cut is especially popular among those who want to add some edge to their look without going too long or too short. It’s also great for those who want a low-maintenance style that still looks intentional and well-groomed.

I first tried this haircut at a local barbershop and was surprised by how quickly it came together. The barber used a comb and clippers to create the fade, and within 20 minutes, I had a new look that felt both modern and bold.^[1]

Part of our Hair style guide.

The History Behind the Short Mullet

The original mullet was a long, flowing hairstyle that was popular in the 70s and 80s, especially among rock stars and athletes. However, as trends changed, the mullet fell out of favor and was often mocked as a relic of the past.

In recent years, the short mullet has made a comeback, thanks in part to celebrities and influencers who have embraced the style. It’s now a symbol of both retro nostalgia and modern edge.

I’ve noticed that the short mullet is often referred to as a ‘business mullet’ or ‘professional mullet’ because it offers a clean, polished look that’s still stylish and unique.

The short mullet is the past meeting the present, and it’s here to stay.

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Who Should Try the Short Mullet?

Whether you have a round face, an oval face, or a square face, the short mullet can be tailored to enhance your features. The key is to work with your barber to find the right balance of length and texture that complements your face shape.

For those with straight hair, the short mullet can add volume and movement, while those with curly hair can use it to define their curls and create a more structured look.

I have a round face, and the short mullet has been a game-changer for me. The fade helps to elongate my face, and the slightly longer back adds a touch of sophistication.

“I remember the first time I saw someone with a short mullet haircut at a friend’s birthday party.”— Natural Hair Tying Techniques editors

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How to Style the Short Mullet

The short mullet is a low-maintenance style, but it still looks best when you take the time to style it properly. Start by using a comb to smooth down the hair, then apply a small amount of hair wax or pomade to the back and sides to add texture.

For a more polished look, use a straightening iron to smooth the top of the hair. If you want a more natural, tousled look, skip the iron and use a texturizing spray instead.

I’ve found that using a hair wax is the best way to style my short mullet. It gives me the control I need to define the fade and add volume to the back, without making my hair look too stiff.

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What to Expect During the Haircut

The barber will start by trimming the top of your hair to the desired length, then move on to the sides and back. They’ll use clippers and a comb to create the fade or undercut, making sure the transition between the top and back is smooth and even.

Once the basic shape is done, the barber will use a razor or trimmer to refine the edges and ensure the haircut looks clean and well-groomed. They may also use a hair dryer to blow dry the hair and set the style.

I had my first short mullet done at a local barbershop, and the entire process took about 40 minutes. The barber was very thorough and made sure I was happy with the final result.^[2]

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Maintenance Tips for the Short Mullet

To keep the short mullet looking its best, you’ll need to visit the barber every few weeks to maintain the fade and ensure the hair doesn’t grow too long. You’ll also want to use a styling product regularly to keep the hair looking polished and well-groomed.

If you’re not going to the barber as often, you can use a trimmer at home to keep the hair at the right length. Just be sure to use the right blade and take your time to avoid cutting too much.

I find that trimming my hair every two weeks helps to keep the short mullet looking fresh and well-maintained. It also helps to prevent the fade from getting too uneven or patchy.

Consistency is key when it comes to maintaining the short mullet.

Related: What s a mullet haircut

Coloring the Short Mullet

If you want to take your short mullet to the next level, consider adding some color. Whether it’s a subtle lowlight or a bold highlight, coloring can help to enhance the contrast between the top and back of your hair.

For a more dramatic look, you can try using a hair dye to create a gradient effect from the top to the back. This can be especially effective if you have light hair and want to add some depth.

I tried adding some lowlights to my short mullet, and it made a big difference. The contrast between the natural hair color and the lowlights added a new dimension to the style, making it look even more polished.

The Cost and Time Investment of Getting a Short Mullet

A short mullet haircut typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the stylist’s experience and the complexity of the cut. In major cities, the average cost ranges from $60 to $120, with high-end salons charging up to $200 for a custom mullet. This price often includes trimming, shaping, and styling, making it a cost-effective option for those seeking a bold yet low-maintenance look. If you’re considering doing it yourself, expect to spend about 2 hours and $20 to $50 on quality clippers and guides.^[3]

Investing in a professional cut ensures the short mullet is shaped correctly, avoiding the need for frequent touch-ups. A skilled stylist can create a seamless blend between the short sides and the longer back, which is critical for the mullet’s signature look. For those who prefer DIY, purchasing a quality barber kit with adjustable clippers and a comb guide can cost around $100 to $150. This upfront investment can save money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent salon visits.^[4]

The time and cost also depend on the desired length and texture of the mullet. For instance, a textured mullet may require additional styling time, adding 10 to 15 minutes to the process. If you’re in a hurry, opt for a more straightforward cut that doesn’t involve layering or texturizing. Overall, the short mullet is a versatile and affordable choice, especially when compared to more intricate hairstyles that require regular maintenance and higher costs.

What Is A Short Mullet Haircut