Taper Mullet Haircut for Men

Trendy Taper Mullet Haircuts for Men That Stand Out

Last updated: By Brianna N | November 13, 2026

The taper mullet haircut for men is the cut which made the mullet a wearable cut. This is not the chopped off 80s style - the length is kept at the tail, the sides and nape are tapered into a clean end, or faded. It's the attitude of a mullet and the polish of a modern barbershop cut; it's a perfect fit for the office or any night out.

It is that balance that's making the style keep growing. A taper mullet is more easily customized than nearly any trend cut. You may fade it low and subtle, or high and sharp, short or long, still textured and messy, or sleek and swept back, and leave the back short or long, to form a proper tail. Straight, wavy, curly, coily, straight takes to it, so do wavy, curly and coily hair, it goes with more face shapes than most men would expect.

But, the catch is that the details matter. If the mullet begins at an excessively high point, it will appear disjointed; if the mullet's back is too full, it will weigh down the entire shape. It's all about knowing what to ask for, and how to style it up after.

Here's everything you need to get a modern mullet fade right, from what is it, how did it get here, which mullet fade works best for your face shape and hair type, a copy/paste script for your barber, step-by-step styling, how to maintain it, common pitfalls, and the trends that will be dominating 2026. Have a look through the photo galleries for inspiration, then use the sections below to create a saved image that will match you!

What is a Modern Mullet Fade?

Modern mullet fade is a mullet haircut which is blended down around the sides and nape with a taper or fade (low, mid, high or skin) while the top of the mullet remains longer and back of the mullet has visible length. It's the more pure and regulated version of the traditional mullet, which can be described as "business in the front, party in the back.

The main difference between the old school-cut and the new school-cut is the transition. The mullet is a traditional fish that has a short front and a long rear, with a sudden transition. The modern mullet fade is a gradual transition from length to length, making it look like a planned rather than random appearance.

Core features of a modern mullet fade:

Faded sides: hair is gradually cut shorter around temples and ears.

Longer top: often has texture, layers or fringes and space for styling.

Tail: may be short and neat or reach the shoulder.

Blended nape: the nape is tapered so that the back doesn't appear heavy or shaggy.

Taper vs. fade: what's the difference?

These terms are frequently used in the same way, but they are not synonymous. A tape is a slow and gradual decrease in length and generally preserves some hair at the shortest area and conforms to the natural hair line on the sides of the head and neck. A fade fades shorter, sometimes right down to the skin, and produces a more dramatic fade. A taper mullet will therefore be softer and easier to grow out, and a mullet fade will be sharper and require more frequent maintenance.

Common variations:

Low taper mullet: easy to look after, quiet and suitable for the office.

Mid fade mullet: a medium level of fade with a strong but not too strong contrast.

Bold and high contrast with a good silhouette.

Skin fade mullet: The most intense fade, going all the way to bare skin.

Textured or curly mullet fade: created with the natural wave, curl or coil.

Each element can be altered separately which means that the same haircut can come across as relaxed, edgy or formal depending on the way that the barber cuts it and how you style it.

Dark Wavy Flow

Dark Wavy Flow

The style in this look is extremely thick with waves going down the back of the neck. The sides are cut off short, so that the wavy hair on top stands out.

Perfect for those with dark and thick hair. A little of the cream will keep the waves soft.

Messy Curly Top

Messy Curly Top

This style features abundant springy curls in place. The sides taper off beautifully to enhance the size of the curls.

Very relaxed and ideal for an informal day out. It's not like you have to spend a lot of time perfecting it.

Wispy Tail Mullet

Wispy Tail Mullet

Back hair is kept short, thin and light to provide a light feeling. It perfectly complements it with the sharp tapering of the side close to the ear.

It's a good option for someone who prefers a lighter mullet. It appears to be very contemporary and chic.

Tight Side Taper

Tight Side Taper

In this version sides are faded extremely close to the skin. This causes the wavy hair on top and hair on the back to appear quite tall.

It makes a sharp statement that's widely in fashion these days. It's best done to people with tightly curled and springy hair.

Big Volume Back

Big Volume Back

This is a haircut all about having loads of hair at the base. The back is full and extends to below the collar.

It is a daring style and flaunts your thick strands of hair. The clean sides prevent it from getting too cluttered.

Neat Curly Fade

Neat Curly Fade

This type style maintains very neat and tidy curls. There's a very smooth taper on the side that blends in nicely with the skin.

A good ‘business’ version of the ‘mullet'. Is clean enough for school but still has that fun back part.

Slick Wavy Style

Slick Wavy Style

A little shine to the hair gives it the look of being wet and sleek. Waves are slightly set back to reveal forehead.

A more sophisticated version of the taper mullet. A great party or special event look!

Sharp Spiky Points

Sharp Spiky Points

The top with layers of hair can be styled into a spiky look. The taper on the side is extremely steep and sharp. It exudes an extremely dynamic and athletic aura. It can be easily styled with some hair wax.

Wet Wave Look

Wet Wave Look

In this style, the hair is used to effect a "just come out of the water" appearance through the use of gel.

The waves in the back are well-defined. A very cool and refreshing look to wear in summer. The short sides help to keep your head cool in hot weather.

High Curly Crown

High Curly Crown

The top curls are left extremely long, giving the top a crown-like look. The sides are cut down quite low to show the height of the side.

This will make you appear slightly taller. This is an entertaining method of dealing with very curly hair.

Classic Taper Mullet

Classic Taper Mullet

This is the usual appearance that people have in mind. It has a good front length and a medium length tail.

The sides are slightly tapered to appear tidy. It's a safe and chic option for anybody.

Pointy Neck Trim

Pointy Neck Trim

The very bottom of the hair is trimmed into a bit of a point. This gives the haircut an original style to the back.

The sides are cut short so as to accentuate the shape of the back. A small detail, but can make a huge difference.

Smooth Skin Taper

Smooth Skin Taper

The side fades are done all the way to the skin. This creates a dramatic look to the long hair transition.

Very sharp and clean style. The barber will need to be called for a lot to maintain this freshness.

Long Flowy Front

Long Flowy Front

The hair at the front is trimmed so as to tie up to the side. Adds well to long back sections.

If you have soft, straight hair, this is a good style to go for. Very smooth and natural looking.

Dark Spiky Layers

Dark Spiky Layers

A number of short layers are shaved on top of the hair. They may be ruffled to give a spiky texture.

The back is longer and straighter than the spikes to distinguish it. It's a very edgy and cool look.

Glossy Curls Style

Glossy Curls Style

The curls are treated with a product that renders them very shiny. Separate each curl and it is very bouncy.

This style appears very healthy and well maintained. Ideal for displaying natural hair texture.

Swept Back Volume

Swept Back Volume

The hair is combed back from the face rather than forward. This makes very little space to the top and a lot of volume.

Sides have a slight taper. It is a handsome and classic appearance.

Spiky Fade Mix

Spiky Fade Mix

The sides are shaved very close with a fade. The top is left long enough to spike up towards the ceiling.

The back is just a little longer than the top. It's a very common style for younger children.

Simple Side Part

Simple Side Part

Some structure has been provided to the hair by slightly parting it to the side. The back continues to flow down like a traditional mullet.

A very easy trend to follow all the time. It is not complicated and can be resolved in a timely manner with the use of a few tools.

Short Chunky Texture

Short Chunky Texture

The hair is shorn in sections, creating a very thick and textures appearance. Although it is a mullet, back is not too long.

This makes it a very easy style. It is ideal for some with very thick hair.

Blonde Messy Mullet

Blonde Messy Mullet

Light blonde hair is somewhat wavy and disheveled on top. The dark roots enabled through make the taper even cooler.

The back curves out in gentle waves. A really bright and entertaining summer style.

Hero Style Mullet

Hero Style Mullet

This style has a very definite jawline accent and short sides. Top of head haired and curled back in waves.

Back is long but very neat. This is the sort of haircut that the movie star would get.

Red Skin Taper

Red Skin Taper

The taper is very short, exposing the skin. Hair on top is dark, wavy and contrasts with sides.

This is a very fashionable style, emphasizing the form of the head. Rather neat and purposeful.

Long Wave Flow

Long Wave Flow

Hair falls down quite far in the back. It has natural waves which appear very soft and move with walking.

The top is also left long to fit with the back. It's a very laid-back and creative look.

Cool Side Design

Cool Side Design

A cool shape or line is shaved to the short side of the hair. This brings an additional level of detail to the taper mullet.

In this version, Cross shape is used. Choose any design you may want to make it yours.

Side Swept Bangs

Side Swept Bangs

The front of the hair falls down over the forehead like bangs. They are swept to one side to prevent them from getting in the eyes.

The hindpart is long and stocky. For boys, it's a very cute and stylish appearance.

Short Ear Length

Short Ear Length

The mullet part in the back only goes down to the bottom of the ears. This is a 'mini' version of the mullet.

Sides are very cleanly tapered. It's a wonderful alternative to being very messy with your hair.

Beard Blend Mullet

Beard Blend Mullet

The side taper nicely with a short beard. This will result in a very connected, and well groomed appearance.

The top of the head has a bunny pelt hair. It's definitely a very manly and contemporary look.

Bleached Spiky Tips

Bleached Spiky Tips

Very tips of the hair are tinted a lighter shade. This accentuates the spiky top texture a lot.

Light tips are also found on the back. If you want to stand out from the crowd, it's a very cool look.

Loose Layered Look

Loose Layered Look

A variety of different hairstyles are cut. This will make it appear plump and healthy without being overweight.

Softly tapered sides. This is a very easy-to-style and comfortable haircut.

Deep Curly Texture

Deep Curly Texture

The curls are extremely tight and have a great deal of lift. The cuts are made very close to the sides, emphasizing the curls.

For natural ringlets it will be an excellent choice. It definitely sounds great and cool.

Long Back Curls

Long Back Curls

The hair in the back is left long enough to form big, loose curls. The top is more subdued, and more manageable.

A good contrast between the tidy front and the untamed rear. Quite a distinctive appearance.

Tall Curly Top

Tall Curly Top

Top of the head is shaved, the hair is combed up into a high style. It's quite voluminous and bouncy thanks to the curls.

Sides have a very steep taper. This will make your face appear longer and thinner.

Triangle Back Cut

Triangle Back Cut

Hair in the back is cut back so that it resembles a broad triangle. Very smooth fade on the sides that are quite close to skin color.

A very precise geometric style. It demonstrates that your barber has extremely stable hands!

Shaggy Brown Curls

Shaggy Brown Curls

The length of the hair is slightly increased overall for a shaggy effect. The curls are not tight, but soft and messy.

A very friendly and approachable style. Perfect for those with naturally brown hair.

Forward Fringe Cut

Forward Fringe Cut

The hair on the crown is combed over the forehead. Back is medium length for a classic mullet feel.

Side tapers are extremely clean. Teens are very likely to wear this look.

Clean Wavy Back

Clean Wavy Back

The waves at the back are pleated down to be very neat. No frizz - all smooth. Sides are nicely tapered starting at the temples. A highly refined form of the mullet.

Tight Top Curls

Tight Top Curls

Tops have very fine and tight curls. Very close to the head, but still has some texture.

The back is also curly, but runs down. It's a very unique and refreshing style.

Golden Curly Mullet

Golden Curly Mullet

The hair is beautiful with golden highlights all throughout. The curls reflect light and are extremely luminous.

Both sides taper to medium length. It's a really warm and sunny cut.

Long Shaggy Tail

Long Shaggy Tail

The rear of this mullet is very long and shaggy. It's a super cool and a bit like a rock star.

The top is shorter for it not to get in your eyes. It is a style that is a lot of fun and adventurous.

Beard and Mullet

Beard and Mullet

It's a style that combines a full beard with a wavy taper mullet. The sides of the hair are joined to the beard at the ears.

It's a very grown-up and robust outfit. The top with the waves has a nice soft texture.

Light Brown Waves

Light Brown Waves

The overall appearance of the hair is a soft light brown color with gentle waves. Back should just extend to the neck.

Very light tapering of sides. It's a very natural and easy appearance to keep up.

Straight Messy Top

Straight Messy Top

No matter how straight your hair is, you can still get a mullet! There are some product on top which make the top voluminous.

The back stays straight and points downwards. This is a quite contemporary and modern appearance.

Easy Going Waves

Easy Going Waves

This type of look doesn't require too much hair product really. The waves simply fall in place over the ears and down the back.

It's a very subtle taper and blends in. It's ideal for a low maintenance cut.

Fast Forward Spikes

Fast Forward Spikes

The hair on top is combed forward. This makes the entire haircut appear to be moving.

It's back is thin and thinly layered. A very sporty look that doesn't overpower.

Thick Dark Mullet

Thick Dark Mullet

For those who have very thick, dark-colored hair. Mullet appears to be quite substantial in the rear.

The sides are sloped upwards at the top to prevent overheating. It is quite a daring and crisp attire.

Sunny Highlighted Look

Sunny Highlighted Look

The topmost hair is bright blonde highlighted. This way, it appears that you're spending a lot of time in the sun.

A sharp taper is on the side. This is a very energetic and happy haircut.

Choppy Layered Style

Choppy Layered Style

The hair is cut by scissors chopping. This generates a lot of small points and layers everywhere.

The back is a messy but fun place. If you want your hair to have a lot of 'action', it's a great look.

Soft Wave Tail

Soft Wave Tail

The hair behind is very soft and has one or two large waves. The top is kept neat and tidy.

Very smooth taper on the side. A very mild version of mullet.

Bright Summer Curls

Bright Summer Curls

The curls are light and airy, ideal for warm weather. Both sides of the garment are cut extremely short to keep cool.

Rear is bouncing and lively. It's a lot of fun to wear to the beach or pool.

Long Messy Back

Long Messy Back

The hair in the back is rather long and unruly. Has a super cool and gunky feel to it.

Sides are tapered so as to highlight the back. It's a popular and casual style.

Sharp Spiky Edge

Sharp Spiky Edge

The sides of the cut are extremely straight and sharp. The hair on top is spiked up into little points.

The back is also trimmed very neatly. Very precise and clean style.

Golden Ringlet Style

Golden Ringlet Style

The curls are so neat and tidy that they resemble ringlets! They are very special and bright due to their golden colour.

The taper on the side is very low. It's a fairly ornate and trendy style of wearing curly hair.

Short Spiky Top

Short Spiky Top

Top hair is shaved very short but must be long enough to spike. The back is only a little bit longer.

This is a very subtle mullet. If you're beginning to start lengthening your locks, it's a great option.

Curly Glasses Look

Curly Glasses Look

This style is ideal for wearing with glasses! The sides of the taper create space for your glasses' frames.

The top with the curls and the tail in the back make for a lot of personality. It's a really cool and intelligent outfit.

Neat Groomed Style

Neat Groomed Style

This version has each hair in the right place. Back is very straight and taper is perfect.

A very professional looking mullet! Demonstrates care for hair.

Small Hoop Style

Small Hoop Style

The small earring is a great addition to the short sides of the taper. The top is adorned with messy curls for a visually pleasing contrast.

The back is left at a medium length. It's a very cool and contemporary design for boys.

Curly Forward Flow

Curly Forward Flow

The curls are combed towards face and then combed to the sides. The rear is in heavy wavelets.

A very steep taper on the side. Very full and textured appearance.

Double Messy Back

Double Messy Back

This appears to be two frizzy hair layers in the back. It adds a great deal of texture and body to the mullet.

Sides are very nicely tapered. It's really cool and unique hair layering technique.

Dark Simple Mullet

Dark Simple Mullet

A very simple and easy to wear mullet. The hair is dark and has a little bit of wave. The sides are tapered just a little bit.

It's a cool every day hairstyle that works for all people.

Low Skin Fade

Low Skin Fade

The fade begins very low at the ears. The rest of the hair is left thick and long.

It gives a very heavy and full appearance to the hair. It is a really cool and spectacular style.

Cool Heartthrob Curls

Cool Heartthrob Curls

Hair in the front is divided in the center and falls down as if 'curtains'. The tail on the back is a classic mullet tail.

A great style and very popular. Works well with people who have wavy hair.

Two Stripe Design

Two Stripe Design

Two shaves are made on the sides of the head to make the sideways hair look clean. This results into the taper appearing very sporty and cool.

The top part of the hair is left in a messy curls. It's a lot of fun and your friends will know you're wearing it.

Light Messy Layers

Light Messy Layers

Hair is light brown and is made up of many soft layers. It is very lightweight and portable.

There is a very light taper on the side. A very soft and elegant style for every single time.

Quick Picks: Best Taper Mullet by Face Shape and Hair Type.

By Face Shape

Oval: any kind of fade, almost; depending on lifestyle.

Round: height and volume on top with high taper.

Square: Low taper with a textured and softer top.

Oblong: low taper, side volume and a fringe.

Heart: low taper and side-swept fringe.

By Hair Type

Straight: Layered textured mullet, mid taper.

Wavy: low taper allowing the natural wave to be visible.

Curly: medium taper and defined curls on top.

Coily: high or skin fade that is shaped and rounded at the crown.

Taper Mullet Styles Compared: Which Fade Level Suits You?

When choosing a mullet, the most important choice you'll have to make is the level of fade. Even if the length is the same on top and at the back, a low taper, a mid fade and a skin fade can be three different haircuts. You can see how much contrast, maintenance and styling there will be on each of the most popular versions below, so you will not have to buy them blind.

Style Contrast level Best for Barber visit
Low taper mullet Subtle Office-friendly looks, first-timers, thick hair Every 4–6 weeks
Mid fade mullet Moderate Most face shapes, a balanced everyday cut Every 3–4 weeks
High fade mullet Strong Round faces, bold and modern looks Every 2–3 weeks
Skin fade mullet Sharpest Clean, high-definition styles, curls and coils Every 2–3 weeks
Drop fade mullet Moderate, curved Adding shape behind the ear and at the nape Every 3–4 weeks

Best Mullet Fade by Face Shape

The right taper mullet complements your face, does not combat it. The fade level determines the width that you will see at the sides, the top adjusts the height, and the length at the back adjusts the proportions around your jaw and neck. The best way to determine the shape of your face is to pull back your hair and examine yourself in a mirror: determine if your forehead, cheekbone or jaw are widest, and if your face is longer than wide.

Oval Face

The oval face is the most balanced, and is the best canvas for a mullet. A mid fade is a safe and flattering hairstyle; you may also try a skin fade, a longer tail or a heavy fringe. The most important thing to stay away from is a natural balance that is overshadowed by a style that is too extreme.

Round Face

Round faces are enhanced by added height and sharp angles. Request a high or mid-taper with tight sides and textured, full top (a quiff or messy crown) to lengthen the face. A wide mullet should be avoided as it may give the back a larger, bulkier look than is desired; keep the back neat and tapered.

Square Face

When a square jaw is already strong, it's typically to tone it down or make it stand out. It softens any angles with a low taper and a layered, tousled top and loose fringe. For a more dramatic effect, a skin fade paired with a short structured hairline accentuates the jawline and creates a more defined silhouette.

Oblong or Long Face

Long faces require width and shorter verticals. Use a low taper to retain some volume on the sides, and no height on top. A fringe that covers the forehead will give a shorter look to the face, and a longer, fuller back will balance the look at the nape and jawline.

Heart-Shaped Face

Heart shaped faces are broader at the forehead, and narrower at the chin. The low taper has a side swept fringe, which softens the top of the face, and the medium-to-long back length gives weight towards the jaw to balance the proportions, creating a mullet. Do not use a really loud volume on top - this will emphasize the width at forehead.

When your face is between two shapes, use the fade level and the fringe. They are the simplest parts to alter, and a great barber can make these alterations in a couple of minutes.

Best Mullet Fade by Hair Type and Texture

Texture determines the fall, volume and growth of a mullet. The same cut can appear stunning on straight, soft on waves, springy on curls and sculpted on coils. Follow these guidelines for a taper that fits into your natural pattern, rather than against it.

Straight Hair

Straight hair will reveal each line of a haircut, so if the haircut is tapered, it will look very clean, whereas if it lacks the layers, a mullet can become flat or look stiff. Request that he does mid taper, long layers (wings) and point cutting at the rear for a soft rather than blunt tail. A texturising spray or sea salt spray will give straight hair the traction it requires.

Wavy Hair

A mullet is easiest on wavy or wavy/straight hair, as it provides a natural exaggerated bounce and volume with minimal styling work. A low or mid taper is good to have, and leave enough bangs at the top and at the back for waves to set into. Apply a light curl cream or mousse, allowing the hair to air dry or diffuse it for a relaxed and textured look.

Curly Hair

Curls will tighten up when they dry, so request a bit more length than you normally consider. A mid taper with definite curls on top and natural curly tail at the back will make a striking high texture mullet. Look for a barber with a good knowledge of curls, and do not brush your hair while it's dry because it will frizz and disrupt your curls.

Curls and kinky hair.

A high or skin fade will look great on coily hair. It can be worn with a round, full fit top and a natural left coiling with coils, twists or braids for an impressive look. Hair should always be moisturised, and regular edge-ups should be made to maintain crisp edges.

Fine or Thin Hair

With fine hair, the goal is to add volume, not weight. You can choose a low taper or a skin fade that won't be too high contrast, which may accentuate a thinning area. Short layers on top and a slightly shorter back prevent the shape from becoming stringy and a volumising powder gives it lift. Thick hair will do just that - get rid of the bulk and have your barber layer it, so the tail doesn't go heavy.

How to Style a Mullet Fade

Once you know how to do it, styling a taper mullet requires about five minutes. The objective is to provide the maximum amount of texture and direction, with clean sides and a natural fall at the back that doesn't look cluttered. This is the quick and easy step-by-step procedure.

Start with damp, towel-dried hair: Style on slightly damp (not soaked) hair. Use a towel to dry it and never rub as it will damage the cuticle and create frizz.

Apply a pre-styler: Apply a small amount of sea salt spray, mousse or leave-in cream to top and back. Sea salt spray is good for fine and straight hair, whereas a curl cream is best for wavy and curly hair.

Blow-dry for shape: Dry on medium heat and use your fingers or a round brush to lift the tops roots and push the hair forward or to the side depending on your fringe, to dry the roots: Dry back last, tail down so that it will sit nicely in place.

Add texture using the appropriate product: Clay, paste or fibre should be warmed in a small amount, about the size of a pea, in the palms. Finger all over the top, from roots to ends; scrunch for a messy texture or finger through for a neat texture.

Control the back: Smoothing a little product down the length at the back, or leave it dry for a looser, shaggier tail. If there are sides that need to be sharp and visible, tuck hair behind the ears.

Finish and set: A light mist of flexible hold hairspray sets the curl. Avoid using heavy gel or strong-hold spray unless you wish to achieve a slick, wet appearance as it can cause a mullet to appear stiff.

Maintenance and Trim Schedule

For a taper mullet, the sides are crisp, and the back is shaped; this is important more so than for a longer, more relaxed style. This schedule is based on the height of fade, as shorter fade sides fade quicker.

  • Mullet with low taper: 4-6 weeks.
  • Mullet: every 2-3 weeks.
  • Mullet (high or skin): every 2-3 weeks.
  • Neckline and edge clean up: every 2-3 weeks for a sharp neckline and edges.
  • Every 8-12 weeks, trimming the length of the back to prevent split ends and maintain the shape of the tail.

Between barber visits

  • Use a quality shampoo and conditioner for your hair type, and condition the back every wash, since it is the oldest hair on your head.
  • Use a small amount of leave-in conditioner or hair oil on the ends to prevent dryness.
  • Brush or comb gently to avoid tangles and breakage, especially with curly or coily hair.
  • Avoid trimming the sides yourself. A crooked blend is hard to fix and often needs a shorter cut to correct.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Most bad mullets come down to a handful of avoidable errors. Check this list before your next appointment.

  1. Choosing a fade that is too high. A very high fade can make the mullet look disconnected from the back. Start with a low or mid taper if you are unsure.
  2. Leaving the back too heavy. Too much weight at the nape makes the cut look bulky. Ask for layers or tapering at the neckline.
  3. Ignoring your hair type. A style that works on straight hair may not suit curls or coils. Pick a cut designed for your texture.
  4. Skipping the reference photo. "Mullet" means different things to different people. Always show a picture of what you want.
  5. Over-using heavy products. Too much gel or wax makes the style look greasy and flat. Use a pea-sized amount.
  6. Missing trim appointments. The sides lose their shape quickly, so stretching visits too far turns a taper into a shaggy grow-out.
  7. Cutting the fringe or top too short. The top needs enough length to style. Too short, and you lose the mullet shape entirely.

Taper Mullet Trends to Watch in 2026

The mullet remains the most iconic men's cut of 2026, but how barbers perform the cut has changed. These are the trends that will be defining the style of this year.

Mullets with a more textured feel: The "evolved" or "soft-tech" mullet is a more textured look, with a less precise finish that stylists are looking at.

Tapers over hard fades: High contrast, very short fade is giving way to softer tapers that fade out naturally.

Business-front Mullets: Shorter, less flamboyant mullets are appropriate for the office and everyday use, with the length ending at the nape, rather than at the tail.

Nature texture on display: Waves and curls remain and are shaped, not straightened or flattened and allowed to move.

Back shape is important, too: Barbers remind clients that length is not enough and suggest having a reference picture of the back as well as the front.

Healthier hair: Conditioning is now a part of the look, as are conditioning, lighter products and fewer harsh finishes for the health of the hair.

The fade, fringe and tail length will continue to personalise, each man will combine the fade, fringe and tail length which he likes.

Taper Mullet FAQs

A taper mullet haircut is a cut that gradually narrows towards the back of the head.

A mullet in which the hair tapers to a clean taper at the sides and nape, but is longer at the top and remains long at the back is a ‘taper mullet'. It is cleaner and more contemporary than the typical mullet and has a smooth transition rather than an abrupt change from short to long.

Does a taper mullet equal a mullet fade?

Not exactly. A taper is a gradual fade that is natural and will typically leave some hair at the shortest section, a fade is a fade that will taper all the way down to the skin. A mullet fade will require more frequent cuts, but will look sharper, whereas a taper mullet will appear softer and will grow out more easily.

A mullet fade is the most suitable haircut for which face shape?

Any oval face shape will look great in any version, but the cut can also be used on any face type with proper alterations. Round faces benefit from a high taper and volume, square faces benefit from a low taper and soft texture and long faces benefit from the angle of the side volume and fringe.

What's the ideal hair length to have for a mullet fade?

There is a good amount of top needed to style, about 3/4 to 1 inch (7-10 cm), and a few inches of the back to make the tail. Featuring curly hair means you can allow a bit more length if it shrinks when it's dry. You can check with your barber if your hair is ready or not.

When should I cut down a taper mullet?

Depends upon the fade level. You should consider a trim every 4-6 weeks, mid fade every 3-4 weeks, and a high fade or skin fade every 2-3 weeks if you have a low fade. The back can be left longer, and its shape can be trimmed every 8-12 weeks to maintain a healthy tail.

Will I be able to get curly, thin or thick hair on a taper mullet?

Yes. A mullet is ideal for curly and coily hair, because it provides the texture and shape, or for thin hair, for which a low taper and short layers will be the perfect choice to create volume. Thick hair - it is best to layer and thin hair at the back to help reduce weight so the tail doesn't sit heavy.

Should a taper mullet be an office professional?

Yes, when you select the right version. Low taper mullet with neat top and short, neat back is subtle and businesslike. If your dress code is conservative, be sure to keep the sides clean, style the top with light product and avoid overly high contrast fades.

Conclusion

The taper mullet for men is a successful haircut because it's a blend of two things: a loose, expressive style and a perfectly done, rounded off look. The key to making a trendy haircut idea a reality is selecting the appropriate fade level, ensuring the fade complements your face shape and hair characteristics, and maintaining regular trims.

To summarize, if you're not sure, you should go with a low or middle taper, carry a reference photo with both the front and back, and style the top with light and textured product. Don't fade too far or make the back too heavy, or ignore trims.

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