The taper mullet is one of the biggest men’s hairstyle trends of the last few years a modern twist on the classic 80s mullet, updated with the clean, blended fade that barbers use in a taper cut. Instead of the blunt, choppy edges of the old-school mullet, the taper mullet keeps the sides and back neatly tapered while leaving length on top and at the back for that signature “business at the sides, party at the back” look.
What Exactly Is a Taper Mullet?
A taper mullet combines two distinct barbering techniques:
- The taper hair is gradually shortened from the top down to the skin or a very short length near the ears and neckline, creating a smooth, blended transition instead of a hard line.
- The mullet hair is left noticeably longer at the back of the head and crown, creating contrast between the short sides and the longer back.
The result is a hairstyle that looks sharp and groomed from the front and sides, while still carrying that rebellious, longer silhouette at the back.
Types of Taper Mullets
Not all taper mullets look the same. Here are the most popular variations:
1. Low Taper Mullet
The fade starts very close to the ears and hairline, keeping most of the length on top. This is the most subtle version and works well for professional or conservative settings.
2. Mid Taper Mullet
The taper starts around the middle of the head, offering a balanced look between the short sides and the longer back the most common and versatile version.
3. High Taper Mullet
The fade starts higher up, closer to the crown, creating more contrast and a bolder, edgier appearance.
4. Curly Taper Mullet
Designed for curly or coily hair textures, this version uses the natural curl pattern to add volume and texture on top and at the back, while keeping the sides neatly tapered.
5. Wavy Taper Mullet
Similar to the curly version but suited for wavy hair, giving natural movement and texture without much styling effort.
6. Shaggy Taper Mullet
Adds layers and a slightly messy, textured finish to the top and back for a more casual, effortless look.
7. Modern/Editorial Taper Mullet
A fashion-forward take often seen on runways and in editorial shoots, combining sharp tapering with dramatic length and styling at the back.
Benefits of a Taper Mullet
- Low maintenance between cuts the tapered sides grow out more gracefully than a hard-line fade, so you don’t need to visit the barber as often.
- Versatile styling the longer back and top can be styled slick, textured, or natural depending on the occasion.
- Works with most hair types from straight to curly, the cut can be adapted to suit different textures.
- Balances short and long hair trends you get the clean, professional look of short sides with the freedom and personality of longer hair.
- Face-framing flexibility the taper can be adjusted (low, mid, high) to complement different face shapes and head shapes.
- Stands out it’s a distinctive style that separates you from the common buzz cut or standard fade.
Final Thoughts
The taper mullet is a versatile, modern hairstyle that blends the clean, professional edge of a taper fade with the bold personality of a mullet. Whether you go low-key with a subtle low taper or bold with a high-contrast high taper, there’s a version of this cut for nearly every hair type, face shape, and lifestyle.
