The mullet hairstyle, characterized by short hair on the top and sides, and long hair in the back, has seen a resurgence recently. From rock stars to fashion icons, the mullet, once considered a fashion faux pas, is now a bold and stylish statement. If you’re considering joining the mullet revolution, it’s important to approach the cut with precision and know-how. This guide will provide you with the step-by-step instructions you need to achieve a flawless mullet at home
Before you start cutting, gather your tools. You’ll need a sharp pair of scissors, a comb, and a mirror. It’s also helpful to have a spray bottle filled with water to keep your hair damp. Damp hair is easier to cut and style, and it will help you avoid creating uneven or choppy layers. Once you have your tools assembled, it’s time to start cutting.
Begin by dividing your hair into three sections: the top, sides, and back. The top section should be about 2-3 inches thick and start at the crown of your head. The side sections should be about 1-2 inches thick and start at the temples. The back section should include all of the remaining hair. Once you have your hair divided, it’s time to start cutting the top and side sections. Use the scissors to cut the hair on the top and sides to the desired length. Be sure to cut in layers to add volume and texture to the hair. once you have cut the top and sides, it’s time to cut the back. The back section is where the mullet really takes shape. Use the scissors to cut the hair on the back to the desired length. Be sure to leave some length in the back, as this is what will create the mullet effect.
Defining the Mullet Hairstyle
The mullet hairstyle is an iconic and unmistakable style that has been popular throughout history. It is characterized by short, layered hair on the top of the head, combined with long, flowing hair at the back. The contrast between the short front and long back creates a distinctive silhouette that has made the mullet a popular choice for both men and women.
The mullet has been around for centuries, with early depictions of the hairstyle found in ancient sculptures and paintings. It became especially popular in the 1970s and 1980s, when it was worn by rock stars and other celebrities. In the 1990s, the mullet fell out of fashion, but it has recently made a comeback in both mainstream and alternative cultures.
There are many different variations of the mullet hairstyle, including the classic “business in the front, party in the back” style, as well as more modern interpretations with shorter or longer layers. The mullet can be styled in a variety of ways, including with curls, waves, or spikes. It is a versatile hairstyle that can be adapted to suit any face shape or hair type.
Characteristics of the Mullet Hairstyle
The mullet hairstyle is defined by the following characteristics:
Characteristic | Description |
---|---|
Short, layered hair on top | The top of the head is typically short and layered, with the hair cut shorter in the front and longer in the back. |
Long, flowing hair at the back | The back of the head is typically long and flowing, with the hair reaching the shoulders or longer. |
Contrast between short front and long back | The contrast between the short front and long back is what gives the mullet its distinctive silhouette. |
Measuring and Sectioning the Hair
Before you start cutting, it’s essential to measure and section the hair accurately to ensure a precise and even cut. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you do it right:
1. Measure the Hair Length
Determine the desired length of the mullet by measuring from the top of the head to the point where you want the longest layer to end. Use a ruler or measuring tape for accuracy.
2. Divide the Hair into Sections
Divide the hair into three sections: top, middle, and bottom. Use a comb to create clean partings. The top section should extend from the forehead to the crown of the head, the middle section from the crown to the nape of the neck, and the bottom section from the nape to the desired length of the mullet.
Within each section, further divide the hair into smaller subsections to make it easier to cut. Use hair clips or elastics to secure each subsection and keep it out of the way as you work.
Refer to the table below for a visual representation of the hair sectioning:
Section | Description |
---|---|
Top | From forehead to crown |
Middle | From crown to nape |
Bottom | From nape to desired length |
Cutting the Back and Sides
To cut the back and sides of a mullet hairstyle, follow these steps:
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Determine the desired length of the back and sides. This can vary depending on personal preference, but typically the back and sides are cut shorter than the top of the head.
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Comb the hair back and divide it into two sections. One section should be the hair on the top of the head, and the other section should be the hair on the back and sides.
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Trim the hair on the back and sides to the desired length. Use sharp scissors and cut the hair in a downward motion. Be careful not to overcut the hair, as it can be difficult to fix mistakes.
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Tips for Cutting the Back and Sides
- Hold the scissors parallel to the head and cut at a slight angle.
- Use a comb to guide the scissors and help create an even cut.
- If you are unsure of the desired length, start by cutting the hair a little longer and then gradually trim it shorter until it reaches the desired length.
- If you are cutting the back and sides of a mullet hairstyle for the first time, it is best to get a professional haircut.
Layering the Top
Once you’ve established the overall length of the mullet, it’s time to add some layers to the top. Here’s how to do it:
1. Section Off the Top
Divide the top of the hair into three sections: a front section, two side sections, and a back section.
2. Cut the Front Section
Hold the front section at a 45-degree angle to the head. Cut the hair at a length that falls just below the chin. This will create the “curtains” that frame the face.
3. Cut the Side Sections
Angle the side sections at a 45-degree angle and cut them at a length that’s slightly shorter than the front section.
4. Cut the Back Section
This is where the “business” of the mullet begins. Cut the back section in layers, starting from the top and working your way down. Each layer should be about 1-2 inches shorter than the previous one.
Layer | Length |
---|---|
1 | 1 inch |
2 | 2 inches |
3 | 3 inches |
4 | 4 inches |
5 | 5 inches |
Continue layering until you reach the desired length for the mullet.
Blending the Layers
Once you’ve cut the hair to the desired length, blend the layers to create a smooth and cohesive look. Follow these steps carefully:
5. Blending Techniques
There are several blending techniques you can use to achieve a seamless transition between the layers. Choose the technique that works best for you and your hair texture:
Technique | Description |
---|---|
Point Cutting | Use the tips of the scissors to remove small sections of hair, creating a soft and feathered effect. |
Razor Cutting | Hold the razor parallel to the hair section and gently slide it down the hair, removing wispy strands for a precise and razored look. |
Scissor Over Comb | Place the comb under the hair section and hold the scissors parallel to the comb. Cut the hair as you pull the comb through, creating gradual layers. |
Chunking | Divide the hair into small sections and cut them independently to create a choppy and textured look. |
For a natural-looking mullet, blend the layers in a downwards motion, following the direction of hair growth. Use a light touch and blend gradually to avoid over-cutting.
Creating the Horseshoe Shape
To achieve the distinctive horseshoe shape of a mullet, follow these steps:
- Determine the Horseshoe Outline: Use a wide-tooth comb to separate the top section of hair (from the crown to the nape of the neck). This will create the “horseshoe” area where the longer hair will remain.
- Secure the Top Section: Tie or clip up the top section of hair to keep it out of the way while you cut the sides and back.
- Cut the Sides: Use a hair clipper or scissors to trim the sides of the hair short, blending from the longer back section to the shorter top section.
- Shape the Nape: Trim the hair at the nape of the neck to create a V-shape or a slightly rounded shape.
- Cut the Back: Cut the hair at the back to the desired length, ensuring that it is slightly longer than the sides and nape.
- Refine the Horseshoe: Use a pair of scissors to refine the horseshoe shape, blending and trimming any uneven or stray hairs. This step requires precision and attention to detail to achieve a clean and defined horseshoe outline.
Additional Tips:
- Use a guide to ensure an even cut on the sides and back.
- Trim the hair in small sections to avoid overcutting and mistakes.
- If desired, add texture or layers to the longer back section using thinning shears or a razor comb.
Shaping the Sideburns
The sideburns are an important part of the mullet hairstyle, and they should be shaped to complement the rest of the style. To shape the sideburns, follow these steps:
- Determine the length of the sideburns. The sideburns should be long enough to reach the bottom of the ears, but not so long that they extend past the jawline.
- Comb the sideburns forward. This will help you to see the natural shape of the sideburns.
- Use a pair of scissors to trim the sideburns to the desired length. Be sure to trim the sideburns evenly on both sides.
- Use a comb to shape the sideburns. The sideburns should be shaped so that they are tapered from the top to the bottom.
- Use a razor to shave the sideburns below the desired length. This will give the sideburns a clean, finished look.
- Apply some styling product to the sideburns. This will help to keep the sideburns in place and give them a polished look.
- Comb the sideburns back into place. The sideburns should now be shaped and styled to complement the rest of the mullet hairstyle.
Here is a table summarizing the steps for shaping the sideburns:
Step | Description |
---|---|
1 | Determine the length of the sideburns. |
2 | Comb the sideburns forward. |
3 | Use a pair of scissors to trim the sideburns to the desired length. |
4 | Use a comb to shape the sideburns. |
5 | Use a razor to shave the sideburns below the desired length. |
6 | Apply some styling product to the sideburns. |
7 | Comb the sideburns back into place. |
Styling and Finishing
Use Styling Products
Apply a pomade or hair cream to hold the top and sides in place. For extra volume, use a mousse or root lifter at the roots.
Blow-Dry
Use a blow dryer to shape and smooth the hair. Direct the airflow downwards on the top and sides to keep the hair flat and sleek.
Comb
Use a wide-toothed comb to detangle and style the hair. Comb the top and sides in a downward motion, and the back in an upward motion.
Use a Hairspray
To hold the style in place, spray a light mist of hairspray over the entire head. Avoid spraying too heavily, as this can make the hair look stiff.
Finish with a Touch of Shine
To add a touch of gloss to the hair, apply a small amount of hair oil or serum to the ends. This will help to smooth frizz and create a healthy-looking shine.
Variations on the Mullet
The mullet has evolved significantly over the years, giving rise to numerous variations that cater to different styles and preferences.
Modern Mullet
A modern take on the classic mullet, this version features a shorter, more blended top and sides, creating a more polished and contemporary look.
Short Mullet
A shorter version of the mullet, often worn by women, where the back is cut to shoulder length or shorter, while the sides and top remain shorter.
Long Mullet
At the opposite end of the spectrum, this variation features a long, flowing back that reaches the lower back or even longer, while the top and sides are kept short.
Asymmetrical Mullet
An edgy take on the mullet, this version is characterized by an asymmetrical back, where one side is significantly longer than the other.
Choppy Mullet
Featuring layers of varying lengths, this mullet creates a textured and choppy appearance, adding volume and movement to the hair.
Faded Mullet
This variation incorporates a fade along the sides and back, blending into the longer hair at the top and back, creating a gradual transition from short to long.
Undercut Mullet
Similar to the faded mullet, but with a more extreme undercut, this style creates a sharp contrast between the long hair at the back and the shaved or buzzed sides.
Pompadour Mullet
A fusion of the classic pompadour and mullet, this variation features a voluminous, styled top section that gradually transitions into a longer back.
Wolf Cut Mullet
Combining elements of the wolf cut with the mullet, this style features shaggy layers and a mullet-like back, creating a wild and untamed look.
Tips for Home Maintenance
Maintaining a mullet hairstyle at home can be challenging but rewarding. Here are some tips to help you keep your mullet looking its best.
1. Use the Right Tools
Invest in a pair of sharp barber scissors and a clipper with various guard attachments. A comb and a spray bottle filled with water are also essential.
2. Wet Your Hair
Wetting your hair before cutting makes it easier to see the strands you’re cutting.
3. Brush Your Hair
Use a brush to remove any tangles or knots that could interfere with the cutting process.
4. Section Your Hair
Divide your hair into sections, starting from the back and working your way forward.
5. Start with the Back
Trim the hair on the back of your head first, using the clippers with a shorter guard attachment.
6. Blend the Sides
Gradually blend the hair on the sides into the back, creating a seamless transition.
7. Cut the Top
Use the scissors to cut the hair on the top of your head, leaving it longer than the back and sides.
8. Trim the Layers
Create layers within the top by cutting the hair at an angle.
9. Use a Razor Comb
To add some texture and remove any unevenness, use a razor comb with a light touch.
10. Style Your Mullet
Use hairspray, pomade, or a styling cream to shape and hold your mullet in place. Here are some popular mullet-styling techniques:
Technique | Steps |
---|---|
Curling Iron | Use a curling iron to create soft curls or waves in the hair. |
Flat Iron | Straighten the hair with a flat iron to give it a sleek and edgy look. |
Texturizing Spray | Apply a texturizing spray to add volume and definition to the hair. |
Pomade | Use pomade to add shine and slickness to the hair, creating a more traditional mullet look. |
Hairspray | Use hairspray to hold your mullet in place and prevent it from getting frizzy or tangled. |
How To Cut Mullet Hairstyle
A mullet is a hairstyle that is short at the front and sides, and long at the back. It was popular in the 1980s, and has recently made a comeback. If you’re thinking about getting a mullet, here’s how to cut it yourself.
What you’ll need:
- A pair of scissors
- A comb
- A mirror
- A bowl of water
Instructions:
- Start by wetting your hair. This will make it easier to cut.
- Comb your hair back into a ponytail. This will help you to keep the length even.
- Cut the hair around the ponytail into a short, even length. This will be the length of your front and sides.
- Remove the ponytail and comb your hair forward. Cut the hair into a longer length, leaving the back the longest.
- Style your mullet as desired. You can leave it natural, or you can use hairspray or gel to create a more defined look.
People also ask:
What is the best way to style a mullet?
There are many different ways to style a mullet. You can leave it natural, or you can use hairspray or gel to create a more defined look. You can also add volume to the back by teasing it or using a volumizing spray.
How often should I cut my mullet?
You should cut your mullet every 4-6 weeks to keep it looking its best. If you have a curly or wavy mullet, you may need to cut it more often.
Can I cut my own mullet?
Yes, you can cut your own mullet. However, it’s important to be careful and to follow the instructions carefully. If you’re not sure how to cut your mullet, you can always go to a professional stylist.