The mullet – it’s the iconic “business in the front, party in the back” hairstyle that’s back in full force. But this time, it’s getting a fresh, modern makeover with the mullet fade. This updated take on the classic mullet blends the signature short-to-long cut with a stylish fade on the sides and back, creating a look that’s cool, edgy, and surprisingly versatile.
If you’re looking for a bold new haircut that will make you stand out from the crowd, the mullet fade might just be your perfect match. Here’s everything you need to know about this hot trend, along with plenty of inspiration to find your ideal style.
Why the Mullet Fade?
- Trendy Yet Timeless: The mullet fade perfectly balances current trends with a nod to retro cool.
- Customization: With various fade styles and the iconic mullet length contrast, you can truly make it your own.
- Flattering: The fade can be tailored to complement any face shape or hair texture.
Celebrity Inspiration: Who’s Rocking the Look
The mullet fade’s resurgence is undeniable, and its popularity has been fueled by numerous celebrities rocking the look. Here are some of the hottest stars who are redefining the mullet fade with their own unique styles:
Zendaya: Feminine and Fierce
Zendaya has become known for her fashion-forward choices, and her take on the mullet fade is no exception. She effortlessly blends the edginess of the cut with soft, feminine styling. Her mullet fade often features textured layers and face-framing pieces, proving the hairstyle can be both bold and incredibly chic.
Miley Cyrus: Edgy with Attitude
As a champion of bold self-expression, Miley Cyrus’s mullet fade perfectly embodies her rebellious spirit. Her version is often dramatically short on the sides with a longer, textured back. She embraces the rock-n-roll vibe of the style, frequently adding choppy layers and bold highlights for a truly fearless look.
Finn Wolfhard (“Stranger Things”): Youthful and Retro
Finn Wolfhard’s mullet fade taps into the style’s vintage 80s charm. His interpretation often features a softer, less dramatic fade with longer layers reminiscent of iconic 80s musicians. This nostalgic style showcases the mullet fade’s potential to be both playful and fashion-forward, even for the younger generation.
Types of Mullet Fades
High Fade Mullet: Maximum Drama
If you want a mullet fade that makes a statement, the high fade delivers. The hair on the sides and back transitions very quickly to extremely short, even shaved, sections as it moves up the head. This emphasizes the contrast between the short fade and the longer length characteristic of the mullet.
Low Fade Mullet: Subtler Style
The low fade mullet offers a more gradual transition. The fade starts lower down the head, creating a softer and less dramatic shift in hair length. This works well for those who want the mullet attitude with a slightly more polished look.
Temple Fade Mullet: Focused Fade
The temple fade mullet zeros in on fading the hair around the temples and sideburns. The style can still incorporate the classic mullet length at the back, but the main emphasis is on creating that sleek, clean fade near the front of the face.
Curly Mullet Fade: Embrace the Texture
Curly hair and the mullet fade are a match made in heaven! The key here is finding a fade that works with your natural curl pattern. A skilled stylist can shape a fade that enhances your curls while maintaining the signature mullet style.
Tips for Finding Your Perfect Mullet Fade
Consider Your Face Shape
A mullet fade can be super flattering for any face shape, but the key lies in the right customization.
- Round Faces: Opt for a high fade which helps elongate the face.
- Square Faces: A temple fade can soften the angles of a strong jawline.
- Oval Faces: Lucky you! Most mullet fade styles tend to complement oval face shapes nicely.
Hair Texture Matters
Don’t let your hair texture hold you back from the trend!
- Thick, Wavy Hair: You’re ideal for a bold mullet fade that shows off your volume.
- Finer Hair: Subtler fades with less contrast between the front and back lengths often work well. Your stylist can also layer strategically for extra dimension.
Styling Preferences
Think about your lifestyle and how much effort you want to put in daily:
- Low-Maintenance: Opt for a shorter mullet with a simple fade for a look that’s easy to manage.
- High-Impact: A longer mullet with bolder fades will work if you’re ready to use texturizing products and embrace more styling time for maximum volume.
How to Style a Mullet Fade
The great thing about the mullet fade is that it can be styled in a variety of ways:
- Slicked Back: Embrace Sophistication
Transform your mullet fade into a sleek and sophisticated style with the slicked-back look. Use pomade, gel, or wax with a stronger hold to smooth your hair back and away from your face. This emphasizes the clean lines of the fade and showcases the contrast between the longer back of the mullet and the shorter sides.
- Messy and Textured: Effortless Cool
For a laid-back, effortlessly cool vibe, embrace a messy and textured mullet fade. Products like sea salt spray, texturizing powder, or a light-hold mousse will add definition and a bit of grit. Scrunch or tousle your hair to enhance natural volume and give your mullet fade that perfectly imperfect, lived-in look.
- Spiky: Add Some Edge
Channel your inner punk rocker with a spiky mullet fade. This works particularly well with shorter mullets. Use hair gel, pomade, or wax to sculpt individual spikes, adding a touch of rebellion to the style. You can spike up just the front section for a fun twist, or create spikes throughout for an all-around edgy vibe.
- Accessorize! Embrace Your Style
Take your mullet fade to the next level with playful accessories. Headbands, clips, or even a temporary pop of bold hair color can add a unique touch that reflects your personality. A subtle side braid can add a feminine element, while strategic clips can play with the volume and texture of your style. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Where to Get a Mullet Fade
While it’s tempting to try this cut at home, finding a skilled hairstylist who’s familiar with this trend is crucial. Look for a stylist who:
- Understands Fades: Experience with different fade techniques is key.
- Embraces Modern Trends: Their portfolio should showcase up-to-date styles.
- Listens to You: They should work with you to personalize the mullet fade for your preferences.
Ready to Rock the Mullet Fade?
The mullet fade is a bold and expressive hairstyle that’s all about confidence and individuality. With its endless customization options, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone ready to shake up their look and tap into the hottest hair trend of 2024.
