Want a haircut that’s bold, easy, and full of personality? The curly hair mullet is the answer. This 2026 trend mixes retro charm with fresh, modern style. It works with tight curls, loose waves, or coils. Short on top, longer in back, curl texture does the rest. Whether you want a shaggy mullet, curly mullet fade, or wispy mullet, there’s a version for your face shape. Below, we’ll cover styles, hair care routine tips, and how to talk to your barber for the perfect cut. If the mullet isn’t quite your style, our full Curly Haircuts Guide covers plenty of other cuts worth considering too.
Why the Mullet is a Great Choice for Curly-Haired Men
The curly hair mullet is officially one of 2026’s boldest statement haircuts for men. It blends natural coils with a longer back and short sides for serious volume and movement. This isn’t your dad’s retro cut anymore. Today’s version is smarter, cleaner, and built around your curl pattern. Whether you have coily hair, wavy hair, or bouncy curls, there’s a variation that fits your face shape and hair texture perfectly. From a burst fade to a disconnected mullet, the options are massive. This guide covers all 55 curly mullet styles with real men’s grooming tips that actually work.
55 Best Mullet Haircut Styles for Men in 2026
1. Modern Mullet
The modern mullet follows the business-front party-back style. It uses sea salt spray, matte clay, or texture paste. Stars like Connor Storrie sport mini mullets and tousled finishes. TikTok trend fans love this mid-length texture, perfect for an oval face shape.
2. Wolf Cut Mullet
The wolf cut mullet blends a shag haircut with mullet shape. It’s a mullet-shag blend with choppy layers and crown volume. Loved by K-pop idols, this style suits wavy hair or curls. The curly wolf cut gives a lived-in look. Style with texture spray for a rebellious, low-maintenance finish. If you have curly hair, check out our guide on Wolf Cut for Curly Hair for the best styling tips.
3. Burst Fade Mullet
The burst fade mullet curves a burst arc around the ear. Choose low burst fade, mid burst fade, or high burst fade. It blends into a mullet fade at the neckline. This hybrid haircut suits curls, adding swagger and bold contrast.
4. Mullet Fade
A mullet fade blends short, faded sides with a long back. Choose a taper fade, skin fade, or drop fade. A curly mullet fade keeps curls on top. Try an asymmetrical or mohawk mullet fade for bold flair. Add curl oil for shine.
5. Curtain Mullet
The curtain mullet mixes curtain bangs with mullet length. A center part gives face-framing fringe. Loved in K-pop style, also called the leaf cut. Curly hair adds movement. Use finger-shaping with a vented brush for soft, natural flow.
6. Low Taper Mullet
A low taper mullet starts fading near the sideburn area. It gives a soft gradient into a light tail. Great for kinky hair, debulking, and a professional finish. Compare it to a mid-taper mullet or a high-taper mullet for more contrast.
7. Korean Mullet
The Korean mullet mixes a two-block haircut style with soft layers. It gives a feathered back and a light lift on top. Try a loose perm for curls. K-pop idol fans love this comma hair look. Style with textured clay.
8. Skin Fade Mullet
A skin fade mullet shaves bare skin sides with a sharp edge-up. It pairs well with curls for a lived-in appearance. Try the Edgar mullet or comma hair mullet variation. Great for dense hair, low-maintenance grooming, and an executive style.
9. Textured Fringe Mullet
The textured fringe mullet keeps a forward-cropped fringe. It leaves more length at the back to give a mullet look. Try broken-up fringe with matte clay separation. It suits the growing-out phase of hair and is glasses-friendly. Works for curls or waves.
10. Side Part Mullet
The side part mullet uses a clean side part up front. Sides stay softly tapered, with a light volume top. It’s a milder twist than middle part mullet styles. A round brush and Volumizing Mousse will help you create a layered cut with curls.
11. Edgar Mullet
The Edgar mullet combines a sharp, cropped fringe with mullet length. It features blunt edges and precision-cut fringe up front. Curls form natural ringlets and coils at the back. Try Fluffy Edgar for mixed textures and a streetwear vibe.
12. Comma Hair Mullet
The comma hair mullet mixes curved bangs with mullet length. The C-shaped bangs sit softly on the forehead. Inspired by K-drama influence and BTS style. A garma perm adds bouncy curls. Finish with wax hold for tousled top texture.
13. Mullet with Bangs
A mullet with bangs pairs a straight fringe with a longer back. Choose blunt fringe bangs or side-swept bangs for a youthful look. Micro bangs suit long faces. Singer Troye Sivan rocked this style. Use lightweight wax for slightly tousled bangs.
14. Flow Mullet
The flow mullet focuses on natural movement and minimal layering. Loved by surfers and skaters, it’s a beach-ready style. Curls get debulking with light point cutting. Style with sea salt spray for tousled locks and a low-effort aesthetic.
15. K-Pop Mullet
The K-pop mullet mixes a short front with a long back. Stars like G-Dragon, RM, and Baekhyun wear it. Try a permed mullet for soft texture volume. Add color highlights for a fashion-forward image. Great for idol-inspired haircut fans with curls.
16. V-Shaped Mullet
The V-shaped mullet carves a sharp V-neck haircut at the nape. It uses a graduated layered effect with hair clipper precision. Pair with temple fade mullet or burst taper fade. Curls flow into a wet look mullet finish.
17. Messy Modern Mullet
The messy modern mullet mixes a messy textured top with a longer back. Try spiky styling or a shag mullet for choppy ends. Curls give a carefree tumble and disheveled look. Add platinum blonde highlights for character and movement.
18. Pompadour Mullet
The pompadour mullet mixes swept-back front volume with a longer back. It gives vintage volume and a retro-meets-now vibe. Curls work great with Curly Pompadour styling. Use finger styling and Pomade hold for dramatic height and statement style.
19. Quiff Mullet
The quiff mullet lifts the front into a lifted front section. The back keeps mullet length and flow. Try a mid fade with a hard part for sharp lines. Curls form S-pattern curls on top. Great for a teen-friendly vibe.
20. Modern Mullet Fade
The modern mullet fade mixes blended layers with a shadow fade. It follows a 3-to-1 ratio for balance. Point-cutting removes weight from curls. This gives a curated mess that’s office-friendly yet trendy. Loved for its viral presence online.
21. Short Mullet
The short mullet offers a low-maintenance cut with cropped sides. It keeps a subtly longer back for that mullet vibe. Great for office-appropriate looks and curls. Try a short curly mullet with curl enhancer for a tidy, relaxed look. Easy and office-appropriate.
22. Curly Mullet
The curly mullet keeps the back long, sides short, avoiding a mushroom shape. Try a starter mullet if you’re new. Use curl-defining cream for high-volume, vibrant curls. Stars like Timothée Chalamet rock this look. It’s a true statement style for curls.
23. Taper Fade Mullet
A taper fade mullet uses mid taper fade or high taper fade sides. Curls get blowout curls and volume on top. Fits 2B to 3A curl pattern or 3C-4A coils. Avoid over-thinning for curl pattern integrity. Bring a photo reference for your taper height
24. Long Mullet
The long mullet shows off extra length back for a dramatic profile. It’s a full commitment cut, needing 8 to 12 weeks of growth. Try a permed back with texturizing mousse. A beard helps anchor the face. Don’t half-commit to this bold style.
25. Middle Part Mullet
The middle part mullet uses a center-parted style with mullet length. It creates a symmetrical front and party-in-the-back vibe. Athletes like Hector Bellerin wear this athlete mullet. Style with blow-dry cream for soft waves parted center and warm brunette tones.
26. Mohawk Mullet
The Mohawk mullet mixes a faux hawk mullet strip with mullet length. Shaved or faded sides show off spiraled strands on top. Suits oblong square face shapes. This punk vibe pairs well with naturally curly, coily hair. Use strong-hold gel for a sharp contrast, standout volume look.
27. Wavy Mullet
The wavy mullet highlights natural spring curls for structural volume. Use magnesium sea salt spray and jojoba oil curl cream. Try the scrunch method, then air-dry. Don’t touch hair until curl clumps set. This gives a lived-in finish with a rock-star look.
28. Asian Mullet
The Asian mullet suits unique hair density and texture types. Known as MacGyver Hair in Korea, it nods to the cultural symbol of the 1980s. This sleek variation blends rebellious Western influence with local flair. Try Asian curly mullet with softer layered structuring for a fresh group identity look.
29. Shaggy Mullet
The shaggy mullet mixes heavy layers with a messy finish. It gives a rock-inspired appearance and laid-back vibe. Best for medium to thick hair with voluminous curly layers. Use curl-enhancing cream for light blended layers. Suits oval square face shapes, too.
30. Permed Mullet
The permed mullet uses a modern perm for a defined bouncy curl. Try perm rods for spiral curls or voluminous mullet curls. This globally recognized trend mixes rebellion and sophistication in balance. Use perm-safe shampoo to protect curls and keep the permed mullet taper sharp.
31. Shag Mullet
The shag mullet uses wispy fringe to frame the face naturally. Feathered texture and blunt ends create movement. Rock legends like Mick Jagger wore this 70s aesthetic. Best for 3A-4A curl patterns with a curl-experienced barber. Try the scrunching method for defined curls.
32. Medium Mullet
The medium mullet offers balanced, textured volume and layered flow. It uses short faded sides and a cool modern shape. Great for teens and young men. Curls spring with weight-controlled styling. Easy to wear after hours, with a near-collar-length finish.
33. Straight Hair Mullet
A straight hair mullet is all about sharp lines and smooth flow. It comes with short frontal and side lengths, while the back length is longer, creating an excellent difference. Point-cutting and layering add dimension and volume to flat strands. Spray your damp hair using sea salt spray and low-heat dry your hair. Finish with matte clay or blow-dry cream for a clean, lived-in feel.
34. Modern Mullet Taper
The modern mullet taper is a clean, barbershop-precise cut. It uses a soft gradient that blends through the neckline with a polished transition. A low taper or mid taper keeps tapered sides neat. Natural curls stay fuller on top with natural volume. Use curl-enhancing cream for defined curls and a sharp, retro-meets-modern finish.
35. French Crop Mullet
This hairstyle is ideal for the French crop mullet look. It features a blunt fringe, short sides, and a longer nape section. For curly-coiled guys, a burst fade controls volume beautifully. Apply curl-enhancing cream on damp hair, then use a diffuser for defined movement. Finger-styling with matte clay or sea salt spray adds a polished, textured top finish.
36. Two Block Mullet
The two-block mullet is a Korean-inspired cut rooted in K-pop culture from South Korea. Known as du-keot-meori, it features disconnected sides, a voluminous top, and an extended back. The sharp contrast gives bouncy curls major personality. Use curl-defining cream and light hairspray to hold shape. Curtain bangs with a middle part add a youthful appearance that suits Gen Z perfectly.
37. Mid Taper Mullet
The mid-taper mullet starts fading right at the temple area. Using clipper-over-comb or scissor-over-comb, barbers create a gradual transition down to a clean tapered neckline. This gives a defined silhouette without harsh contrast. For men with coarse hair or lively curls, choppy layers add real depth. Finish with matte cream or texture powder for a polished appearance and a neat sculpted back.
38. Textured Mullet
The textured mullet is all about flow and separation, not stiffness. Thinning shears and slide cutting handle weight removal around the crown. For coily hair, apply curl foam and leave-in conditioner, then air dry. A wide-tooth comb lifts the roots gently. Finish with texturizing paste for that curated mess, lived-in look, zero puffiness, maximum natural bounce.
39. Classic Mullet
The classic mullet is the original 80s cut: short front, long back, and pure rebellious spirit. Celebrities such as Billy Ray Cyrus and David Bowie rocked their stark differences proudly. Rooted in glam rock and country music, this vintage hairstyle shaped a generation. Its cultural comeback proves the Kentucky waterfall never really went out of style.
40. Undercut Mullet
The Undercut Mullet pairs short sides with long, curly top layers in back. Faded sides create a sharp contrast against bouncy curls. This bold hairstyle suits guys who love textured layers and natural volume. Add styling cream to boost curl definition without weighing curls down. A skin fade keeps things clean, while curls add personality. Pair it with stubble for a balanced, masculine finish. It’s a low-maintenance cut that still feels fresh and stylish.
41. Fluffy Mullet
The Fluffy Mullet gives curls soft volume and airy crown lift. Layered texture adds movement without losing shape. Wavy hair loves this relaxed silhouette. Use volumizing mousse for full-bodied curls and lift. A burst fade sharpens the sides nicely. It’s truly a low-maintenance style with retro charm and a trend-driven look.
42. Faux Hawk Mullet
The Faux Hawk Mullet builds height through a center ridge. Tapered sides keep things clean. Longer back adds movement and flow. Curly guys love this bold contrast. A low fade offers an office-friendly look. Use texture clay for spiked top definition. Sea salt spray boosts natural waves. Regular trims keep this versatile cut sharp and edgy.
43. High Taper Mullet
The High Taper Mullet suits curly hair best. Tight sides create real contrast. Type 2 curls and type 3 curls gain natural volume here. Curl cream keeps curls defined. Layered movement flows nicely down the back. A clean blend line adds a sharp silhouette. Pair with a defined beard for balance. Expect frequent touch-ups to stay fresh.
44. Fringe Mullet
The Fringe Mullet brings choppy fringe to curly styles. Curly fringe adds bounce around the forehead. Layered mullet shape boosts forehead volume nicely. Use curl-enhancing cream for natural texture and shine. This relaxed silhouette suits medium-length hair perfectly. It’s a trendy haircut with an edgy appearance and a fashion-forward style.
45. Modern Mullet Low Fade
Modern Mullet Low Fade Haircut suits curly hair perfectly. Tight curls stay full with wavy layers on top. A smooth transition keeps neat sides looking sharp. Curly low fade styles add sculpted elegance instantly. This classy haircut is suitable for round faces and oval-shaped faces alike. It’s a versatile option for casual or dressy days. Curls bring definition and texture that feels fresh.
46. Layered Mullet
A layered mullet uses soft layers and point-cutting to remove bulk evenly. The layered structure helps distribute volume from the crown to the nape naturally. Choppy layers add body, dimension, and a great tousled texture. Face-framing layers enhance your curl pattern beautifully. A little lightweight mousse or curl cream gives an effortless, lived-in look with real natural movement and bounce.
47. Punk Mullet
The punk mullet carries a raw, rebellious spirit with serious rock ‘n’ roll energy. Shaved sides create a dramatic contrast against voluminous curls and wild flow at the back. This non-conformist cut celebrates individuality with bold color streaks and jagged edges. Use molding paste or strong-hold gel to lock in that grunge-inspired vibe all day.
48. Modern Mullet with Beard
A modern mullet with a beard is a true power combo for curly-haired men. The full beard enhances facial structure and sharpens the jawline beautifully. A faded beard keeps a well-defined profile and cohesive look. Use beard oil or beard balm daily. Trim regularly along the neckline and cheek line for a clean, balanced look.
49. Euro Mullet
The Euro mullet is a high-fashion, sporty cut loved in European street style. It has an uncomplicated straight fringe that is coupled with tightly tapered sides and a flowing tail. Soft curls flowing at the back create a great artistic profile. Use blow-dry cream and texture powder for a sharp, defined finish.
50. Spiky Mullet
A spiky mullet pushes spiked strands up at the apex for serious volume and edge. Razor texturizing and scissor-cut layers create that raw, disheveled look. Use matte clay or strong-hold gel to keep upward spikes in place. Blow-dry upward for the best lifted crown and sharp texture all day.
51. Disconnected Mullet
A disconnected mullet features no blending between the sides and top — creating a sharp, hard line. That bold separation line makes curls pop with a real striking contrast. The detached sides paired with a longer top give serious, dynamic masculine energy. Use leave-in conditioner to keep corkscrew curls defined and healthy at the nape.
52. Drop Fade Mullet
Drop fade mullet has a hairline fade that drops down behind the ears, following the curvature of the head. This distinctive arc creates a smooth, elegant side profile with real depth and dimension. The curved fade transitions gently from top to nape. Use a diffuser and light hold cream for a defined, clean curly tail.
53. Mullet with Hard Part
A mullet with a hard part uses a straight razor to shave a crisp, clean-cut line into the scalp. This razor-shaved line creates permanent visual separation and adds real barbershop precision to your structured mullet. A bold top and a flowing back will stay that way.. Keep the part 1mm wide for a sharp, polished finish.
54. Mullet with Temple Fade
A temple fade mullet focuses fading only on the temple area near the forehead and sideburns. This keeps the perimeter disciplined while crown volume stays full. The sharp transition and flowing neckline look genuinely intentional. Use scissors on the back to protect the curl pattern, then scrunch with curl-enhancing cream and air dry.
55. Curly Mullet with Line Up
A curly mullet with line-up adds a sharp edge up along the hairline to give your curls a defined shape. Without it, curls risk looking unfinished. A precision trimmer creates neat edging and sharp borders with clean, zero-gap results. Schedule a weekly touch-up to keep everything looking fresh and seamlessly polished.
For more face-framing curly fringe ideas, explore our curtain bangs for curly hair guide
Styling Tips for Your Curly Mullet Hairstyle
Begin by applying curling cream onto wet hair. Use a diffuser to build volume and enhance natural texture. Work a little sea salt spray through for loose waves. Shape the textured back with fingers. Apply matte clay for a flexible hold. Ask your barber for point cutting on top, layered sides, a clean taper fade, and a sharp neckline for a defined mullet silhouette with a smooth blended transition.
Steps to Get the Perfect Curly Mullet Haircut
1. Pick the Right Hair Stylist
Always choose a curl specialist who uses dry cutting and the curl-by-curl method. Book a consultation first. Check their portfolio and before-and-after transformations before your booking appointment.
2. Choose Your Hair Length and Shape
Pick a short curly mullet for easy control. Try medium-length curls for balance. A long curly mullet with a layered structure suits oval and square face shapes perfectly.
3. Add a Fade or Taper to the Sides
A low fade will keep the sides looking tidy and clean. Try a mid-taper fade at the temple area for a seamless blend and sharp, clean edges.
4. Get Regular Trims to Keep the Shape
Trim regularly every 6-8 weeks to keep split ends away and protect curl formation. A curl specialist works with your curl pattern on a dry cut for better curl definition. This also helps with length retention and keeps your bounce alive.
5. Try Different Styling Products
Not every product works for every curl type. Try a curl cream or styling cream for soft hold and shape. Use hair gel for stronger definition and humidity control. Mousse adds volume without weight. A curl activator boosts your pattern. Add a hair mask weekly for deep nourishment. Find your perfect lightweight formula through trial.
Easy Tips to Keep Your Curly Mullet Looking Fresh
Use a sulfate-free shampoo and co-washing to protect natural oils and avoid buildup. Deep conditioning once a week boosts elasticity and keeps curls bouncy and frizz-free. Always use a heat protector when heat styling. Cool rinse for an added shine boost. At night, try the pineapple method using a satin scrunchie on a satin pillowcase to retain moisture and prevent overnight dryness. In the morning, revive curls with a hydrating mist or curl mist on damp hair. Use a curl activator gel on damp hair at a low setting with a diffuser. Trim every six weeks to remove split ends and keep the longer back section healthy and shaped.
How To Make Sure Your Barber Gives You The Exact Curly Mullet That You Want?
Always show pictures of the hairstyle you want from all angles. Tell your barber your curl type, like 3A or 3B, and remember curls shrink when dry. State your back length in inches and your preferred guard number for the sides. Mention fade height, neckline shape, and back layers clearly. Also, point out what you love and hate to avoid ambiguity and get the cut right the first time.
FAQs
1. Which face shapes look best with a mullet?
Mullets work best with oval, square, and heart-shaped faces as the volume on top and length at the back help balance facial features naturally.
2. Why are mullets so popular with Gen Z?
Gen Z loves mullets because they mix a retro 80s vibe with a modern edge, making it a bold way to stand out and express personal style.
3. What makes a modern mullet different from the old-school mullet?
The modern mullet is cleaner and more styled with tapered or faded sides, while the classic version had blunter cuts and a much longer, shaggier back.
4. How often do you need to trim a mullet to keep it looking fresh?
A trim every 4 to 6 weeks is ideal to maintain the shape, keep the sides neat, and prevent the back from looking too wild or uneven.
5. What hair products work best for styling a mullet?
A light-hold curl cream or sea salt spray works great for curly mullets, while a matte pomade or wax suits straighter styles for a natural finish.
6. How do I tell my barber I want a mullet?
Simply ask for a short crop on top, faded or tapered sides, and more length kept at the back. Bringing a reference photo always helps your barber understand exactly what you want.
7. Are mullets still trending in 2026?
Yes, mullets are very much still in style in 2026, with modern variations like curly mullets and faded mullets staying strong on social media and runways alike.
