The mullet fade haircut is making a huge comeback in 2024. Combining the bold retro flair of the mullet with the sleekness of a fade haircut, this stylish men’s haircut offers the best of both worlds.
Whether you’re going for an edgy, modern look or a classic, timeless vibe, the mullet fade provides endless versatility for different hair types and personal styles. In this ultimate guide, we’ll take a deep dive into everything you need to know about this trendy cut: the different variations, how to get the perfect mullet fade, and expert barber tips.
What is a Mullet Fade Haircut?
At its core, a mullet fade haircut fuses two distinct styles—the classic mullet and the modern fade. The mullet, known for its longer hair in the back and shorter hair on the sides and top, originated in the 1970s and 1980s.
Today’s fade haircuts bring a sleek, contemporary touch by gradually tapering the hair on the sides and back down to the skin. The fade style accentuates the contrast between the short sides and the longer top and back, creating a stylish mullet that’s both trendy and functional.
Why is the Mullet Fade so Popular?
The resurgence of the mullet fade comes down to its versatility and unique charm. Here are some reasons why this haircut trend has become so popular:
Versatility: The mullet fade can be tailored to suit different face shapes, hair textures, and personal tastes. Whether you have curly hair or straight hair, a mullet hairstyle can be customized to work for you.
Pop Culture Influence: Celebrities like Joe Exotic, Post Malone, and Miley Cyrus have contributed to the mullet’s rise in popularity. Pop culture figures embracing this bold look have made it more acceptable to wear a fade mullet haircut in modern times.
Unique Appeal: The mullet fade stands out from traditional men’s haircuts due to its distinctive style. It’s an edgy style that’s bold, daring, and fashion-forward.
Different Types of Mullet Fade Haircuts
The mullet fade offers plenty of styling options to explore. From classic looks to more daring, contemporary designs, there’s a mullet fade for everyone. Below, we’ll break down the top 13 haircut types and explain how each one differs in its version diversity.
Classic Mullet Fade
For those who love retro fashion, the classic mullet fade is the way to go. This timeless haircut stays true to the mullet’s roots with a longer back and shorter top, but incorporates a clean fade technique to modernize the look. The iconic mullet remains versatile, allowing for easy adaptation to personal style.
Modern Mullet Fade
The modern mullet fade brings an updated twist to the traditional cut. Featuring a sleek design with a smooth fade, this contemporary mullet is ideal for those who want to stay on the cutting edge of hair fashion. It often incorporates more texture and volume on top, paired with a cleaner and sharper fade.
Curly Mullet Fade
For men with naturally curly or wavy hair, the curly mullet fade offers the perfect balance of texture and definition. The curly hairstyle emphasizes the natural volume and movement in your curls while keeping the sides neatly faded. This textured cut works well with natural curls, giving a structured yet playful vibe.
Low Fade Mullet
A low fade mullet features a fade that begins lower on the sides, close to the ears. This fade gradually blends the short sides with the longer hair on top, creating a smoother transition. The low fade is ideal for a more subtle, everyday style.
High Fade Mullet
In contrast, the high fade mullet begins the fade higher up, near the temples. This high fade creates a striking contrast between the short, almost-shaved sides and the longer top and back. It’s a bold and edgy style, great for those who want to make a statement.
Burst Fade Mullet
The burst fade mullet is a popular haircut variation where the fade is concentrated around the ears, creating a rounded, semi-circle shape. This distinct look adds a unique flair to the mullet fade, and works especially well with textured hair. The burst style is one of the most stylish options for those seeking a trendy yet different fade style.
Mohawk Mullet Fade
For a more daring and rebellious look, the mohawk mullet fade combines the best elements of the mullet hairstyle and the mohawk. The sides are shaved or faded, while the hair in the center is left longer, creating a striking haircut that blends the mohawk style with a classic mullet shape. This standout look is perfect for those who want a bold haircut that turns heads.
Taper Fade Mullet
The taper fade mullet is a more understated version of the mullet, where the hair gradually tapers down in length without reaching a full fade. It’s a subtle, traditional style that works well for those who want a more professional appearance while still keeping the mullet combination intact.
Skin Fade Mullet
The skin fade mullet is one of the most dramatic versions, featuring a fade that goes down to the skin on the sides. This fade technique creates a stark contrast with the longer hair on top and back, making it a fashion-forward choice for men who like a sharp and edgy cut.
Layered Mullet Fade
A layered mullet fade focuses on adding layers to the longer sections of the hair, creating volume and dimension. This is an excellent styling option for those with thick hair who want to enhance their natural texture.
Shaggy Mullet Fade
The shaggy mullet fade embraces a messier, more laid-back look. With a loose, unstructured style, this trendy hairstyle is ideal for men who prefer a more casual, lived-in feel. The faded sides balance out the textured, tousled top and back.
Asymmetrical Mullet Fade
For an ultra-modern, fashion-forward look, the asymmetrical mullet fade is the perfect choice. This edgy style features uneven lengths on either side of the head, giving the haircut an avant-garde, unique mullet vibe. It’s a great option for those looking to push the boundaries of men’s style.
Afro Mullet Fade
The Afro mullet fade is designed specifically for men with naturally curly or kinky hair. This version of the mullet fade maintains the volume and shape of an afro, while incorporating a sharp fade on the sides. The result is a bold look that celebrates natural texture while keeping the overall style clean and defined.
Is a Burst Fade a Mullet?
No, a burst fade is not the same as a mullet. A mullet has much longer hair in the back compared to the short front and sides. A burst fade has hair that gradually gets longer from the sides up to the top in an even, circular pattern – there is no distinct long section just in the back like a mullet requires.
How to Get the Perfect Mullet Fade (Step-by-Step Guide)
Achieving the perfect mullet fade requires precision and a good understanding of your hair’s texture and face shape. Here’s a step-by-step haircut guide to help you get this flawless fade.
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Classic Mullet Fade
Retro lovers
Keep the back long and full
Modern Mullet Fade
Trendsetters
Use texture spray for volume
Curly Mullet Fade
Naturally curly or wavy hair
Apply curl cream to define curls
Burst Fade Mullet
Textured or thick hair
Shape the burst fade around the ears
Mohawk Mullet Fade
Edgy and rebellious personalities
Keep the center strip voluminous
Asymmetrical Mullet Fade
Avant-garde style seekers
Experiment with bold uneven cuts
Step 1: Consult Your Barber
Before getting the ideal hairstyle, make sure you communicate clearly with your barber. Bring reference photos and discuss the look you want. This helps your barber understand your vision and ensure you leave with the mullet perfection you’re after.
Step 2: Finding the Right Mullet Length
One of the key elements of a mullet fade is the length in the back. Decide if you want to keep it long and dramatic or shorter and more practical.
Step 3: Choosing the Perfect Fade
The fade is crucial to nailing the fade mullet haircut. Discuss with your barber whether you want a low, mid, high, or burst fade to complement the rest of the style.
Step 4: Refining and Detailing
Once the basic cut is done, your barber will refine the lines, ensuring sharp, clean edges around the fade. This final detailing will set the style apart and give it a polished finish.
Step 5: Styling and Maintenance
To keep your mullet fade looking its best, you’ll need to regularly style and maintain it. Use products like pomades, clays, or texture sprays depending on your hair type.
Pro Tips for Mullet Fade Maintenance
Trim regularly: Keep the fade sharp by visiting your barber every 2–3 weeks.
Use a lightweight pomade: This will help keep your longer hair styled without weighing it down.
Comb through the back: Maintaining the volume and shape of the longer back section is essential to keeping the mullet looking fresh.
Mullet Fade Style
Recommended Products
Application Tips
Classic Mullet Fade
Light hold pomade
Apply to damp hair for a natural look
Modern Mullet Fade
Texturizing spray
Use on dry hair for added volume
Curly Mullet Fade
Curl cream or mousse
Scrunch into damp hair to define curls
Low Fade Mullet
Hair wax
Work through dry hair for a sleek finish
High Fade Mullet
Strong hold gel
Apply to damp hair, style with a comb
Burst Fade Mullet
Sea salt spray
Spray on dry hair for a beachy, textured look
Mohawk Mullet Fade
Heavy duty styling gel
Use for maximum hold, style while damp
Layered Mullet Fade
Lightweight cream
Apply to dry hair to enhance layers
Shaggy Mullet Fade
Texturizing paste
Rub through hair for a tousled effect
Asymmetrical Mullet Fade
Flexible hairspray
Mist on styled hair for hold without stiffness
Conclusion
The mullet fade haircut is here to stay in 2024. Whether you’re opting for a burst fade mullet, a curly mullet fade, or something more asymmetrical, this modern hairstyle offers endless possibilities. Its unique design allows you to express your personality while staying trendy and up-to-date with men’s hair fashion. By choosing the right variation and following proper styling steps, you’ll achieve mullet perfection in no time.
FAQ
Which face shapes and hair types work best with a mullet fade?
The fade mullet haircut works best with oval and square face shapes. As for hair types, it can suit everything from straight to curly hair, though the curly mullet fade tends to stand out for those with natural texture.
How do I explain the mullet fade I want to my barber?
Use descriptive language when talking to your barber. Reference a specific fade style (e.g., high, burst) and bring photos of the exact look you’re going for.
How do I keep my mullet fade looking fresh?
Regular trims every 2–3 weeks will keep your fade sharp and mullet stylish. Use styling products like pomade or texturizing spray to maintain shape and texture.
Can I pull off a mullet fade with thin or fine hair?
Yes! You may want to opt for a layered mullet fade to add volume or a burst fade to create a stronger visual contrast.
This comprehensive guide should give you everything you need to know about mullet fade haircuts. Whether you’re experimenting with a classic mullet fade or opting for a more modern mullet fade, there’s no doubt this men’s haircut is one of the hottest styles of the year.
What is the best way to style a curly mullet fade?
For a curly mullet fade, use a curl cream or mousse on damp hair. Scrunch the product into your curls to enhance their natural texture. Avoid heavy products that may weigh down your curls and disrupt the volume.
How often should I get a trim for my mullet fade?
To keep your mullet fade looking fresh, aim for a trim every 2–3 weeks. This helps maintain the fade’s sharpness and the overall shape of the hairstyle.
Can I dye my hair with a mullet fade?
Absolutely! A mullet fade can be customized with hair color. Whether you choose a bold shade or highlights, it can add dimension and personality to your hairstyle. Just make sure to consult with your barber or stylist for the best approach.
What is the difference between a taper fade and a mullet fade?
A taper fade gradually shortens the hair down to the skin along the sides, blending into the longer top without a stark contrast. In contrast, a mullet fade maintains longer hair in the back and emphasizes the length difference between the top and sides, creating a more pronounced look.
How can I prevent my mullet fade from looking unkempt?
To avoid an unkempt appearance, use the right styling products to keep your hair in place, and maintain regular trims. Additionally, establish a grooming routine that includes washing and conditioning your hair to keep it healthy and manageable.
