When clients sit in my chair and ask for something bold yet versatile, one of the first styles that comes to mind is the undercut mullet. This haircut perfectly blends the sharpness of a clean undercut with the laid-back flow of a classic mullet. It’s rebellious, stylish, and surprisingly easy to maintain once you understand how to wear it.
As a barber with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen trends cycle back again and again, but the mullet with undercut is one of those rare combinations that has secured a spot in modern men’s grooming culture. Let’s break down everything you need to know.
What Is an Undercut Mullet?
At its core, the undercut mullet haircut is defined by two contrasting sections:
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Short, buzzed, or faded sides and back near the ears (that’s the undercut).
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Longer hair at the back that extends down toward the neck (that’s the mullet).
This style keeps the hair above the ears sharp, while leaving the back free. Think of it as business in the front, edgy on the sides, and party at the back.
Why the Undercut Mullet Works So Well?
From my personal experience in the shop, men choose this style because it:
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Creates a strong contrast between the sides and the back.
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Works on straight, wavy, and curly hair textures.
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Looks equally good in casual streetwear or with a formal outfit.
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Adds a touch of retro 80s rock star vibes while still maintaining a modern look.
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Can be adapted with a fade undercut, skin taper, or even a disconnected undercut for extra edge.
It’s not just a throwback—it’s a statement haircut that fits today’s fashion scene.
Variations of the Undercut With Mullet
One of the things I love about this haircut is its flexibility. Here are the most requested variations I’ve styled in my barbershop:
1. Skin Fade
The skin fade blends into bare skin around the sides, creating a high-contrast look. Perfect for guys who want maximum sharpness.
2. Taper Fade
A low taper fade or mid taper fade adds subtle transitions rather than a harsh disconnect. This makes it office-friendly while still being trendy.
3. Textured Fade
For men with thick hair, adding choppy layers or textured ends gives the mullet movement and volume. Styling with matte pomade or sea salt spray brings out the definition.
4. Curly Hair
I’ve cut plenty of mullets for guys with curls. Leaving natural curls flowing in the back while keeping the sides undercut makes this style stand out.
5. with Fringe
Adding a blunt fringe or curtain bangs in the front balances the cut for men with oval or long face shapes.
6. With Short Bangs
One of the most unique takes I’ve styled in the shop is the undercut mullet with short bangs. Instead of letting the front hair grow long, the bangs are cut short and blunt, creating a strong contrast between the sharp fringe, tight sides, and flowing back.
This style works especially well for men with straight or slightly wavy hair, as the short bangs stay defined without heavy styling. Pairing this cut with a skin fade undercut or low taper fade makes the look even more eye-catching.
From my barber chair, I’ve noticed this variation is often chosen by clients who want a modern streetwear vibe—think of it as the bold cousin of the classic mullet. A touch of matte clay or styling cream helps keep the bangs in place while allowing the back to move naturally.
How to Style it?
From behind the chair, here are the exact styling tips I give clients:
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For a sleek finish: Use a pomade or gel to slick the top backwards, keeping the undercut clean and the mullet flowing.
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For natural volume, apply a matte clay or texturising powder to the crown, letting the back fall naturally.
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For curly or wavy hair: Use a curl cream or leave-in conditioner to enhance definition.
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For an extra edge: Add a hard part, a hair design, or experiment with bleached blonde tips at the back.
Who Does this Suit Best?
In my barbering experience, this style works best for:
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Men with oval, square, or diamond face shapes.
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Guys with medium to thick hair density.
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Anyone willing to stand out and embrace a bold haircut.
That said, I’ve cut mullets for men in their early 20s seeking street style inspiration, as well as clients in their 40s who wanted a refreshed, classic look. It’s a universal style when done right.
FAQs
1. Is the undercut mullet high-maintenance?
Not really. Keep the sides trimmed every 3–4 weeks; however, the back can grow longer without losing its shape.
2. Does it work for thin hair?
Yes, though I recommend keeping more volume on top to balance the look. Adding layers can help.
3. Can I combine it with a beard?
Absolutely. A beard with an undercut mullet creates balance and masculinity, especially if you go for a faded beard.
4. Is it a professional hairstyle?
It depends on your industry. With a taper undercut mullet, you can maintain a neat appearance suitable for professional settings.
5. How do I ask my barber for one?
Be specific: ask for a short undercut on the sides and leave length at the back. Bring a reference photo if possible.
Final Thoughts
The undercut mullet is more than just a trend—it’s a haircut that reflects confidence, individuality, and a mix of old-school meets new-school. From cutting this style on young guys chasing the retro revival to professionals who want an edgy yet clean cut, I can say firsthand that it’s one of the most versatile and expressive hairstyles available.
If you’re ready to stand out while keeping things fresh, this hairstyle might just be the perfect move for you.
Alax, the mind behind hairecho.com, has spent 13+ years perfecting the art of hairstyling for both men and women. As a skilled barber and stylist, he crafts precise fades, clean cuts, and textured styles for men while creating flattering, versatile women’s cuts that enhance natural hair texture. Alax’s commitment to staying ahead of trends while delivering timeless, confidence-boosting results has made him a trusted figure in the modern grooming and hair community.