If you’re here, you’re probably thinking about getting a short mullet haircut but don’t want to end up looking like you walked straight out of an ’80s rock concert. No worries, I got you.
The modern short mullet is bold, stylish, and insanely versatile. It’s not just for country boys or edgy rockstars anymore—guys everywhere are rocking it with fades, textures, and even curls.
Whether you want something subtle and professional or edgy and rebellious, there’s a version of the short mullet that’s gonna make you look.
So, if you’re ready to ditch the basic haircuts and upgrade to something with character, stick around.
I’m about to break down the 15+ best short mullet haircuts for men trending in 2025, plus how to style them, what to ask your barber, and how to keep your cut looking sharp. Let’s dive in!
What is a Short Mullet Haircut for Men?
A short mullet haircut is a modern take on the classic mullet, where the hair is kept relatively short on the sides and front while maintaining a slightly longer length in the back.
Unlike the extreme, exaggerated mullets of the past, today’s short mullet is all about balance—offering a stylish, edgy look without being too over-the-top.
The key difference between a traditional mullet and a short mullet is in the proportions. Instead of dramatic length in the back, the short mullet keeps things cleaner and more structured, making it easier to style and maintain.
1. Classic Short Mullet for Men
The classic short mullet is a perfect blend of old-school and modern style, keeping the back slightly longer while maintaining a structured, shorter top.
This haircut is ideal for guys who want a subtle yet stylish look that works in both professional and casual settings.
It’s easy to maintain and looks great with a little pomade to enhance the shape without making it stiff.
Styling Tip: Use a light matte pomade for a natural finish and brush the back slightly for a relaxed, effortless vibe.
2. Textured Short Mullet for Men
The textured short mullet is all about adding movement and volume to your hair, making it a great choice if you have fine or straight hair.
With choppy layers and a tousled back, this cut gives you that laid-back, effortlessly cool look. It’s perfect if you want a haircut that requires minimal styling but still looks sharp.
Styling Tip: Apply a sea salt spray or a texture powder to enhance the messy, voluminous effect.
3. Faux Hawk Mullet for Men
The faux hawk mullet combines the boldness of a mohawk with the classic mullet shape, making it a great choice if you want something edgy but not too extreme.
It keeps the top spiked and styled upward while the back is left slightly longer, creating a striking contrast.
This is perfect for guys who want a rebellious, high-energy style that stands out.
Styling Tip: Use a strong-hold gel or wax to keep the faux hawk shape in place while letting the back have a natural flow.
4. Undercut Mullet for Men
The undercut mullet features shaved or extremely short sides, creating a bold contrast with the longer top and back.
This style works well if you like high-contrast haircuts that are easy to maintain while still making a strong statement. It’s a perfect choice for guys who want something sharp, modern, and versatile.
Styling Tip: Apply a matte clay to add volume to the top while keeping the back slightly textured for a natural finish.
5. Curly Short Mullet for Men
If you have curly or wavy hair, the curly short mullet is a perfect way to embrace your natural texture while keeping it structured.
The cut enhances your curls while maintaining a clean and modern shape, making it a great option for guys who want something stylish but easy to manage.
It adds volume and personality without looking unkempt.
Styling Tip: Use a curl-enhancing cream or leave-in conditioner to define your curls and keep them frizz-free.
6. Bowl Cut Mullet for Men
The bowl cut mullet is a bold and unique twist on the traditional mullet, featuring a rounded, bowl-like shape in the front with a short mullet in the back.
This hairstyle blends retro and modern styles, making it an eye-catching choice for those who like unconventional looks. It works best for guys who enjoy experimenting with their hair and want something that stands out.
Styling Tip: Keep the bowl cut structured with a bit of styling cream while letting the back flow naturally for contrast.
7. Shaggy Short Mullet for Men
The shaggy short mullet is perfect if you like a relaxed, effortlessly cool look with lots of texture. Featuring choppy layers and a slightly longer back, this haircut gives off a carefree, rockstar vibe without being too wild.
It’s great for guys who want a low-maintenance cut that still has plenty of personality.
Styling Tip: Use a lightweight styling cream or mousse to enhance the natural movement without making it stiff.
8. High Fade Mullet for Men
A high fade mullet features a dramatic fade that starts high on the sides, blending into a longer top and back for a clean, modern look.
This style is perfect if you want a sharp and polished mullet that looks sleek yet bold. It’s ideal for men who want something trendy but still suitable for professional settings.
Styling Tip: Keep the fade fresh with regular barber visits and style the top with a small amount of pomade for a neat finish.
9. Skater Mullet for Men
The skater mullet is all about a laid-back, effortlessly cool style that looks great with little to no styling.
With longer, messier layers on top and a natural flow in the back, this cut is perfect if you want that carefree, rebellious aesthetic. It’s ideal for guys who prefer a more casual, undone look that works with any hair type.
Styling Tip: Use a texture spray or dry shampoo to add volume and enhance the effortless, messy finish.
10. Layered Mullet for Men
A layered mullet adds extra depth and movement by incorporating different lengths throughout the hair, giving it a fuller and more dynamic look.
This is a great option if you have fine hair and want to create more volume without relying on heavy styling products. It’s perfect for men who want a stylish, textured cut that stands out.
Styling Tip: Apply a volumizing mousse before blow-drying to enhance the layers and create a lightweight, airy feel.
11. Euro Mullet for Men
The Euro mullet is a refined version of the mullet, featuring a sleek, slightly longer back with a well-groomed top.
This style blends sophistication with a touch of edge, making it a great option for guys who want a high-fashion, European-inspired look.
It works well with straight or slightly wavy hair and looks great with a clean shave or a sharp beard.
Styling Tip: Use a styling cream to keep the top polished while allowing the back to have a natural flow.
12. Buzz Top Mullet for Men
If you prefer a minimalistic yet bold style, the buzz top mullet is a great choice. It features a closely cropped or buzzed top with a subtle mullet in the back, creating a strong contrast while keeping things low-maintenance.
It’s perfect for guys who want a sharp, masculine look that requires little styling effort.
Styling Tip: Keep the buzzed top looking sharp with regular trims while letting the back grow out slightly for definition.
13. Short Spiky Mullet for Men
The short spiky mullet adds an edgy, modern twist to the classic mullet with textured spikes on top and a defined back.
It’s a great option if you want a bold, statement haircut that adds extra personality to your style. This haircut is perfect for guys who love high-energy looks with a bit of a rebellious edge.
Styling Tip: Use a strong-hold wax or gel to keep the spikes in place while allowing the back to remain naturally styled.
14. Burst Fade Mullet for Men
A burst fade mullet features a smooth fade around the ears, creating a rounded, blended effect that transitions into the longer back.
This haircut is great for men who want a stylish, structured mullet with a clean, modern fade. It’s perfect if you want a unique take on the mullet that feels fresh and updated.
Styling Tip: Use a medium-hold pomade to define the shape while keeping the fade clean with regular trims.
15. Slicked-Back Short Mullet for Men
If you prefer a more polished and refined take on the mullet, the slicked-back short mullet is a great option.
The top is neatly combed back while the back retains a smooth, controlled shape, creating a sophisticated yet edgy look. It’s ideal for men who want a mullet that looks professional and stylish at the same time.
Styling Tip: Use a lightweight styling gel or pomade to keep the top slicked back while maintaining a sleek finish in the back.
Why is the Short Mullet Trending in 2025?
It’s simple—this haircut blends retro vibes with modern styling. It’s rebellious but not unprofessional, stylish but low-maintenance.
More men are looking for haircuts that help them stand out while still working in everyday life, and the short mullet does exactly that.
Another reason for its rising popularity is how adaptable it is. Whether you prefer a sleek, tapered fade or a messy, textured crop, the short mullet can be customized to suit different face shapes, hair types, and personal styles.
Social media and celebrity influences have also played a big role, with musicians, athletes, and influencers embracing the look and making it mainstream again.
5 Tips To Maintain a Short Mullet for Men
Getting a short mullet is one thing, but keeping it looking sharp and stylish takes a little effort.
The good news is that maintenance is fairly simple compared to longer hairstyles.
With the right routine, your mullet will stay fresh without needing constant trips to the barber. Here’s how to take care of it.
1. Regular Trims Keep It Sharp
A short mullet needs regular upkeep to maintain its shape. The sides and fade, if you have one, will grow out quickly, so a trim every two to three weeks is ideal.
If you want to maintain a more natural, grown-in look, you can stretch it to four weeks, but anything beyond that can make the style lose its structure.
2. Wash and Condition for a Healthy Look
Since the short mullet involves different hair lengths, it’s important to keep everything looking fresh. Washing your hair two to three times a week with a good quality shampoo will prevent buildup while keeping natural oils intact.
Use a lightweight conditioner to keep the back soft and manageable without making it greasy.
3. Styling the Right Way
The way you style your mullet will depend on the specific look you’re going for. If you have a textured short mullet, using a matte pomade or clay will add volume and definition without making it look too stiff.
For a sleeker finish, a small amount of styling cream or gel can keep the hair in place. A quick blow-dry with a round brush can also help add shape to the back.
4. Keep the Fade or Undercut Fresh
If your short mullet includes a fade or an undercut, you’ll need to keep it fresh to maintain a clean look. You can either visit your barber every couple of weeks or use a trimmer at home to keep the sides and neckline neat.
This small effort goes a long way in keeping the style looking intentional rather than overgrown.
4. Avoid Split Ends and Frizz
If your mullet is prone to dryness, especially at the back, using a leave-in conditioner or a few drops of lightweight hair oil will help keep it smooth.
For guys with wavy or curly hair, a curl cream can enhance natural texture while preventing frizz.
5. Adjust for Different Occasions
One of the best things about a short mullet is its versatility. If you want a casual, tousled look, just run your fingers through it with some texture spray.
If you need a more polished style, using a small amount of pomade and a comb can create a structured appearance. Being able to switch up the style makes this haircut easy to wear in different settings.
Conclusion
The short mullet is more than just a haircut—it’s a statement. It’s bold, stylish, and surprisingly versatile, making it one of the top trends for men in 2025.
Whether you’re looking for a clean, modern take or something with a little more edge, there’s a short mullet style that fits your personality and lifestyle.
With the right cut, regular upkeep, and simple styling techniques, you can keep your mullet looking sharp without spending hours in front of the mirror.
If you’re ready to break free from basic haircuts and try something with more character, the short mullet is a great choice.
Just find a style that suits you, communicate it clearly to your barber, and take care of it with the right routine. You’ll be turning heads in no time.
Now, which short mullet style are you thinking of trying? Let us know in the comments.
FAQs About Short Mullet haircut
Q. Will a short mullet suit my face shape?
Yes, but the key is choosing the right variation. If you have a round face, go for a more angular mullet with layers to add structure. If you have a square face, a textured or curly mullet can soften your features. Oval faces can pull off almost any short mullet style, while longer face shapes should avoid too much height on top.
Q. How often should I get my short mullet trimmed?
To maintain a clean and stylish look, a trim every two to three weeks is ideal. The sides, fade, and back can start to look messy if left unmaintained for too long. If you prefer a more natural, grown-in look, you can stretch it to four weeks, but beyond that, the style may lose its shape.
Q. Is a short mullet high maintenance?
Not really. A short mullet is one of the easiest mullet variations to maintain. A quick wash a few times a week, some light styling with pomade or texture spray, and occasional trims are all you need.
Q. How do I ask my barber for a short mullet?
The best approach is to bring reference photos of the style you want. Be specific about the length you prefer on the top, sides, and back. If you want a fade, mention the type (skin fade, taper fade, or low fade). If you want more texture, ask for choppy layers. Communicating these details will help your barber create a look that suits you.
Q. Can a short mullet be worn in professional settings?
Absolutely. The modern short mullet is much more polished and structured than its traditional counterpart. If you’re in a professional environment, opt for a more subtle style with a clean fade and moderate length in the back. Keeping it well-groomed and styled can make it office-friendly while still showing off some personality.
Q. What’s the difference between a short mullet and a traditional mullet?
A traditional mullet typically has a dramatic contrast between the short front and long back, often with minimal blending. A short mullet, on the other hand, keeps the length in check, offering a more balanced and modern look with clean fades, layered textures, and tapered edges.
Q. Will a short mullet work on thin hair?
Yes, but it requires the right cut. Adding layers and texture can help give thin hair more volume. Using lightweight styling products like texture sprays or volumizing powders can also create a fuller appearance. Avoid heavy gels or waxes, as they can make thin hair look flat.
