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The Modern Mullet: Edgy, Faded & Seriously On-Trend

12 Jun 20259 min readNo commentsHair Style
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Tldr:
The Modern Mullet is a sharp, updated take on the classic mullet, blending short, faded sides with longer textured hair at the back. It’s all about a bold, edgy look that’s surprisingly versatile and right on trend in Australia, making it a top pick for men who want to stand out while keeping things stylish and easy to manage.

 

Introduction

The Modern Mullet: Edgy, Faded & Seriously On-Trend is more than just a throwback—it’s one of the biggest hairstyle comebacks we’ve seen in Aussie barbershops. With its signature short sides, faded or tapered edges, and longer, textured length at the back, this revamped mullet is perfect for blokes keen to make a statement without sacrificing everyday wearability.

Whether you’re after a subtle nod to retro style or a full-blown bold transformation, the Modern Mullet works across a range of hair types and face shapes. It’s a favourite among footy players, musos, and trendsetters, but it’s also surprisingly adaptable for everyday guys wanting a bit of edge. Let’s break down what makes this cut so popular, who it suits best, and how you can nail the look—either in the barber’s chair or at home.

 

What Are the Key Features of a The Modern Mullet?

The Modern Mullet stands out thanks to a unique blend of retro vibes and modern techniques. Here’s what sets it apart:

  • Short, faded, or tapered sides: Unlike the old-school mullet, the modern version often features a skin or low fade on the sides, giving it a cleaner, sharper finish.
  • Longer hair at the back: The length at the back is where you get that classic mullet flow, but with more texture and movement.
  • Textured top: The top is usually left a bit longer and styled with texture for a messy or tousled effect.
  • Blended transition: Modern barbering ensures a smooth blend from short sides to longer back, avoiding any harsh or awkward lines.
  • Customisable: You can go for a subtle look or dial up the drama with extra length, bold fades, or even a fringe.

 

Who Does the The Modern Mullet Suit Best?

The Modern Mullet is surprisingly versatile, but some factors will help you decide if it’s right for you:

  • Face shape: Suits oval, square, and round faces best. The extra length at the back can elongate rounder faces, while fades can balance out strong jawlines.
  • Hair type: Works well with straight, wavy, or curly hair. Thicker hair gives more natural volume, but even finer hair can rock the look with the right styling.
  • Lifestyle & personal style: Perfect for blokes wanting a standout look without too much fuss. Whether you’re into streetwear, surf culture, or just want to shake things up, the Modern Mullet fits a wide range of styles.

 

How to Get the Perfect The Modern Mullet from Your Barber

Want to nail The Modern Mullet: Edgy, Faded & Seriously On-Trend? Here’s how to talk to your barber:

  1. Bring reference photos: Show your barber a few clear pics of the Modern Mullet you’re after—especially if you like a particular fade or length at the back.
  2. Discuss the fade: Decide if you want a skin fade, taper, or something in between. The fade sets the overall vibe—sharper for a bold look, softer for something more relaxed.
  3. Talk about length: Be clear about how long you want the back and top. Some prefer a subtle difference; others want a dramatic contrast.
  4. Ask for texture: Request choppy or razored texture on top and at the back for that modern, messy finish.
  5. Mention maintenance: Let your barber know how much time you want to spend styling. They can tailor the cut to suit your routine.

Popular variations for The Modern Mullet: Edgy, Faded & Seriously On-Trend include the Mullet Fade (with a strong skin fade), the Wolf Cut (shaggier, more layered), and the Classic Mullet (less contrast, more length throughout).

 

Styling Your The Modern Mullet at Home

Keeping your Modern Mullet looking sharp is easy with the right routine:

  1. Start with clean, towel-dried hair.
  2. Apply a styling product suited to your hair type—sea salt spray for volume and texture, or a light wax/clay for hold.
  3. Blow-dry or air dry: For extra volume, blow-dry the top and back using your fingers or a vent brush to lift the roots.
  4. Shape the back: Use your fingers or a comb to keep the flow at the back looking natural.
  5. Finish with a little product: Scrunch or twist sections for added texture, or smooth down flyaways for a cleaner finish.

Pro tip: Don’t overdo it—The Modern Mullet looks best a bit messy and effortless.

 

Best Hair Products for the The Modern Mullet

Choosing the right products will keep your Modern Mullet looking on point:

  • Sea salt spray: Adds texture and volume, especially for finer or straight hair.
  • Matte clay or paste: Offers hold and definition without making hair stiff or shiny.
  • Texturising powder: Great for lift and a lived-in look.
  • Light pomade or cream: For a sleeker, more classic finish.
  • Leave-in conditioner: Keeps longer hair at the back healthy and manageable.

 

Maintaining Your The Modern Mullet

To keep your Modern Mullet fresh:

  • Barber visits: Get a tidy-up every 3-5 weeks to keep fades sharp and the back in shape.
  • At-home care: Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner, especially for longer hair at the back.
  • Trim split ends: If you’re growing out the length, snip the ends every few months.
  • Daily styling: A quick spritz or scrunch keeps texture looking natural.

 

Variations of the The Modern Mullet

There’s more than one way to rock The Modern Mullet: Edgy, Faded & Seriously On-Trend:

  • Mullet Fade: Features a bold skin or drop fade on the sides for a super-modern twist.
  • Wolf Cut: A shaggier, heavily layered version that brings a bit of rockstar attitude.
  • Classic Modern Mullet: Less dramatic fade, more even length, and a softer blend for everyday wear.

 

A Brief History of the The Modern Mullet

The mullet first rose to fame in the ’70s and ’80s, but today’s Modern Mullet has evolved with cleaner fades, better blending, and a focus on texture. It’s gone from bogan stereotype to runway staple, thanks to creative barbers and trendsetters.

 

Famous Wearers of the The Modern Mullet

Aussie footy stars, musicians like Troye Sivan, and even global celebs like Miley Cyrus and Zac Efron have all rocked versions of the Modern Mullet, proving it’s a style with serious staying power.

 

Related Styles & Further Reading

If The Modern Mullet: Edgy, Faded & Seriously On-Trend has caught your eye, you’ll want to check out our main guide on The Mullet Hairstyle for a deep dive into the mullet’s evolution. You might also find these related styles interesting: the sharp Mullet Fade, the wild Wolf Cut for men, and the iconic Classic Mullet. Each offers a different spin on this legendary look.

 

Learn More From External Experts

For additional insights and inspiration, see what Esquire has to say about the Modern Mullet.

 

Key Takeaways

  • The Modern Mullet is a bold, updated hairstyle featuring faded sides, a textured top, and longer hair at the back.
  • It suits a wide range of face shapes and hair types, and is a massive trend in Australia right now.
  • Regular trims and the right styling products keep it looking fresh and on point.
  • There are several variations, including the Mullet Fade and Wolf Cut, to suit your personal style.
  • With the right approach, the Modern Mullet is surprisingly easy to maintain and customise.

Frequently Asked Questions about the The Modern Mullet

The modern version of the mullet features short, faded or tapered sides, a textured top, and longer hair at the back. It’s a cleaner, more wearable update on the classic mullet, blending sharp barbering with a bit of attitude.

Gen Z gravitates towards mullets because they’re bold, expressive, and break traditional style rules. The Modern Mullet taps into nostalgia while offering a fresh, individual look that stands out on social media and in everyday life.

Yes, the Modern Mullet can flatter a round or chubby face. The extra length at the back elongates the face, while faded sides help slim down the appearance of cheeks.

A mullet is cut by keeping the sides and top shorter (often faded or tapered) and leaving the back significantly longer. Modern techniques focus on blending and texture to avoid harsh lines and create a smooth transition.

The Modern Mullet works well for oval, square, and round face shapes. The cut adds length to rounder faces and balances out strong jawlines on square faces.

The wolf cut is a variation of the mullet, featuring shaggy, heavily layered hair with lots of texture. It’s a mix between a mullet and a shag, giving a wild, lived-in look.

Pros:
– Bold, trendy, and attention-grabbing
– Versatile styling options
– Works for many hair types and face shapes
– Easy to maintain with regular trims

Cons:
– Not suitable for very conservative workplaces
– Needs frequent upkeep for faded sides
– The look isn’t for everyone—some may find it too edgy

Absolutely. The Modern Mullet: Edgy, Faded & Seriously On-Trend is one of the most popular cuts in Australia right now, seen everywhere from footy fields to fashion runways.

With the right maintenance, a Modern Mullet will look sharp for 3-5 weeks before needing a tidy-up. The longer hair at the back can be grown out or trimmed to suit your preference.

Grow the back while keeping the sides and top trimmed regularly

Use nourishing products to keep the length healthy

Ask your barber for shape-ups to avoid awkward growth stages

Going too short on top or too long at the back—balance is key

Not blending the fade properly

Overusing heavy products, which can weigh the style down

Neglecting regular trims, leading to a scruffy look

Yes! The Modern Mullet works with curly, wavy, or thin hair. Your barber can tailor the cut and recommend products to enhance your hair’s natural texture.

The Classic Mullet features more even length throughout and less blending, while the Modern Mullet uses fades and textured layers for a cleaner, more up-to-date look.

Not really. While the faded sides need trimming every few weeks, the back just needs regular conditioning and the occasional tidy-up.

Definitely. A well-groomed beard pairs perfectly with a Modern Mullet, especially if you blend the sideburns into the fade for a seamless look.

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