Planning a Modern Mullet Without Guessing at the Shape
Choose the side contrast, back length and texture of a modern mullet. Bring a clear shape reference to your City Barbers haircut consultation.
By City Barbers2 min read4 sections
In this article
In brief
A modern mullet keeps more length at the back while making the sides shorter or visually lighter. Some versions are subtle; others use strong disconnection, a close fade or a pronounced tail. The style is defined by that front-to-back relationship rather than one required clipper setting.
Start with the amount of contrast you want. A haircut that looks restrained from the front can look much more dramatic in profile.
Choose the back length first
Decide where the back should finish relative to the collar and neck. Then consider whether you want it full, tapered or separated into lighter pieces. A short, rounded back and a narrow long tail create very different mullets.
At the chair
Bring a side and rear reference. If you only show the fringe, your barber has little information about the section that defines the haircut.
Decide how the sides should connect
A soft connection retains some continuity between the top, sides and back. A disconnected version creates a deliberate break. A burst-style fade can concentrate the shorter area around the ear, while other side finishes change the outline differently.
Explain whether you want visible skin or simply less bulk. A mullet does not require a skin fade, and choosing the shortest possible sides can increase the contrast more than expected.
Account for curls and waves
Wavy or curly hair can make the back appear shorter when dry. Straight hair may show the perimeter more clearly. Ask how the reference will translate to your texture instead of judging the required length from a stretched section.
A longer back also has its own styling needs. The front may sit correctly while the nape flares or turns outward, so evaluate both before calling the cut finished.
Related guideHow to Grow Out Your Hair Without Losing the ShapeRead the guide
Know what changes between appointments
The sides can lose their defined contrast before the back needs shortening. Tell your barber if you want to preserve growth at the back during a maintenance visit. “Same again” can otherwise mean taking length from every section.
If you later want a more uniform shape, the short sides will need time to catch up. Discuss that commitment before making the initial contrast especially strong.
A modern mullet can be adjusted to your preference without copying every detail of a trend photograph. Contact City Barbers in Salt Lake City with your reference, then book the appropriate haircut appointment once the shape and service are clear.
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Men’s Haircuts
A full 55 minutes in the chair: your cut, a straight-razor finish, hot and cold towels, a deep tissue massage and a relaxing hair wash.
241 E 300 S, downtown Salt Lake City · Tuesday to Sunday, 8 AM to 8 PM · (801) 243-6915
