The 1980s was an era defined by bold self-expression and gravity-defying hair. Nothing captures that spirit quite like the iconic mullet, a style that ruled the decade with unmatched confidence.
Today, these retro looks are making a massive comeback. Modern updates have blended classic silhouettes with contemporary textures, creating a look that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
Whether you are seeking a rebellious punk vibe or a polished rock-star finish, these 23 styles offer the ultimate inspiration. Let’s dive into the best of 80s hair.
1. The Classic Business in the Front Mullet
This style epitomizes the “business in the front, party in the back” mantra. It features a neatly trimmed top and sides that look professional from a straight-on perspective.
The magic happens at the nape of the neck, where the hair grows out into a long, straight mane. It is the perfect entry point for anyone exploring retro aesthetics.
Maintaining this look requires frequent trims on the top to keep the contrast sharp. Use a light pomade to keep the front looking sleek while letting the back flow naturally.
2. The Permed Power Mullet
The 80s were synonymous with the perm, and applying this to a mullet creates maximum volume. This look features tight, chemical curls that add texture and height throughout the head.
It provides a rugged, high-energy appearance that was popularized by rock stars of the decade. The curls help the back of the hair appear even thicker and more substantial.
Styling involves using a diffuser when drying to maintain the curl integrity. A touch of curl-enhancing cream will keep the frizz away and ensure the shape remains defined.
3. The Feathered Rocker
Feathering was a hallmark technique of the 1980s, involving layering hair to look like the overlapping feathers of a bird. This mullet uses that technique to create a soft, airy texture.
The hair is swept back away from the face, creating a wind-blown effect that looks effortless. It is a lighter alternative to the more rigid, gelled styles of the era.
To achieve this, use a round brush while blow-drying to flick the ends of the hair outward. A light-hold hairspray is essential to keep the layers from falling flat throughout the day.
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A “shullet” is a cross between a shag and a mullet, offering a more blended transition between the lengths. This version leans heavily into natural curls for a messy, lived-in vibe.
It avoids the harsh lines of a traditional mullet, making it easier to wear for various occasions. The curls provide a soft frame for the face while maintaining length at the back.
Natural moisture is key for this look, so avoid over-washing the hair. Use a leave-in conditioner to keep the curls bouncy and to prevent the back from becoming tangled.
5. The Spike-Top Mullet
This aggressive style features hair on top that is gelled into sharp, vertical spikes. It represents the transition from the disco era into the more rebellious punk and new wave scenes.
The contrast between the vertical spikes and the long, flowing back creates a striking silhouette. It is a high-impact look that demands attention and regular styling effort.
You will need a high-hold gel or wax to ensure the spikes remain upright. Focus the product on the roots of the top section and pull upward to achieve the desired height.
6. The Slick-Back Statement
For a more polished take on the 80s aesthetic, the slick-back mullet offers a sophisticated edge. The top and sides are combed back using a high-shine pomade for a “wet” look.
This emphasizes the length at the back, allowing it to cascade down the neck without distraction. It is a great way to wear a mullet for formal events or professional settings.
Apply the product to damp hair and use a fine-toothed comb to distribute it evenly. This ensures a smooth surface that reflects light and highlights the precision of the cut.
7. The Bleached Beach Mullet
Channeling the surf culture of the 80s, this mullet features sun-kissed, bleached blonde tones. The color adds a layer of visual interest and makes the layers of the cut pop.
The hair is usually kept a bit more textured and messy, mimicking the effect of salt water and wind. It is a relaxed, casual version of the mullet that feels very summer-appropriate.
Maintenance involves using purple shampoo to keep the blonde from turning brassy. A sea salt spray can be used on the ends to enhance the “beach” texture and provide light hold.
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This variation features a thick, straight-across bang that covers the forehead. It creates a heavy, geometric look that balances the length at the back of the head.
The fringe can be worn blunt for a more modern feel or slightly wispy for a true retro vibe. It draws significant attention to the eyes and the cheekbones.
Keep the fringe trimmed regularly to ensure it doesn’t obstruct your vision. When styling, blow-dry the bangs downward with a flat brush to ensure they lie perfectly against the forehead.
9. The Euro-Pop Mullet
Inspired by the synth-pop bands of the mid-80s, this look is all about sleek lines and intentional asymmetry. It often features very short sides that are almost buzzed.
The top is kept medium length and swept to one side, while the back remains long and straight. It is a clean, minimalist approach to a historically maximalist hairstyle.
Use a lightweight serum to add shine without weighing the hair down. This style works best on straight hair, so a flat iron might be necessary for those with natural waves.
10. The Punk-Rock Rat Tail
The rat tail is a specific subset of the mullet family where the back section is narrowed into a thin strip of hair. It was a symbol of rebellion and subculture identity.
The rest of the hair is usually kept very short, making the “tail” the absolute focal point. It can be braided, beaded, or left to grow long and thin.
This is a low-maintenance look for the most part, as only the tail requires length management. However, the sides and top will need frequent buzzing to maintain the contrast.
11. The Textured Crop Mullet
This is a more modern interpretation that uses heavy texturizing shears to create a “choppy” look. It avoids the flat, heavy appearance of some traditional 80s styles.
The choppy layers on top provide a lot of movement and make it easy to style with just your fingers. The back is kept moderately long but also heavily layered to match.
A matte clay or paste is the best product for this look, as it provides hold without the shine. Rub a small amount between your palms and scrunch it into the hair for a messy finish.
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Combining two iconic styles, the pompadour mullet features a high-volume “quiff” at the front. This adds a level of height and drama that is quintessentially 80s.
The sides are typically tapered or faded to make the top look even taller. The back then transitions into the signature mullet length, creating a very dynamic profile.
To get the height, blow-dry the front section upward and backward using a round brush. A strong-hold hairspray is non-negotiable to keep the pompadour from collapsing.
13. The Wispy Neck-Length Mullet
Not every mullet needs to reach the shoulder blades; this version keeps the back at neck length. The ends are cut with a razor to create a soft, wispy finish.
It is a more subtle version of the style that is easier for many people to pull off. It offers the “vibe” of a mullet without the extreme commitment to length.
This style looks great with natural texture, so air-drying is often the best approach. Use a tiny bit of hair oil on the ends to keep the wispy bits looking healthy and defined.
14. The Volume-Heavy Blowout
This look is all about the hair dryer and the round brush. It aims for the massive, airy volume seen in 80s music videos and movies, where every strand seems to have a life of its own.
The hair is lifted at the roots throughout the entire head, including the long back section. This creates a large, rounded silhouette that frames the face impressively.
Volumizing mousse is your best friend for this style; apply it to damp hair before blow-drying. Focus on lifting the hair away from the scalp to maximize the 80s “bigness.”
15. The Disconnected Undercut Mullet
This style features a sharp “disconnect” where the sides are shaved very short, while the top and back remain long. There is no gradual fade, creating a bold, graphic line.
It is a very edgy look that leans into the punk roots of the mullet. The shaved sides make the long hair on top and in the back stand out even more prominently.
Because the sides are so short, you will likely need to visit the barber every two weeks to keep the look clean. The contrast is what makes this style successful.
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This version brings a sense of traditional grooming to the mullet. It features a deep side part that gives the top of the hair a structured, classic appearance.
The back is kept long but is usually well-groomed and neatly trimmed. It bridges the gap between the wild 80s aesthetic and a more conservative, “preppy” look.
Use a comb to create a clean part while the hair is wet. A medium-hold pomade will help keep the hair on either side of the part in place throughout the day.
17. The Flat-Top Mullet Hybrid
The flat-top was a staple of 80s athletic and military-inspired fashion. Combining it with a mullet creates a unique silhouette that is very rigid on top and flowing at the back.
The top is cut perfectly flat, requiring a skilled barber with a steady hand. The back then drops down into a long, straight curtain of hair.
This style requires a lot of “stand-up” power, so a very stiff wax or “glue” style hair product is needed. It is a high-maintenance look that requires frequent professional shaping.
18. The Glam Metal Mane
Inspired by the “hair bands” of the Sunset Strip, this mullet is all about length, layers, and shine. It is the most “extreme” version, often featuring hair that reaches past the shoulders.
The layers are cut to allow for maximum “teasing” or backcombing to create height at the crown. It is a high-drama look that celebrates the excess of the 1980s.
Teasing the hair at the roots and then smoothing over the top layer is the secret to this volume. Use a lot of hairspray to ensure the structure holds up under stage lights or a night out.
19. The Tapered Fade Mullet
This is a modern-retro hybrid that incorporates a clean fade on the sides. The hair gradually gets shorter toward the ears, providing a very clean and contemporary finish.
The transition to the long back is handled more smoothly than in a disconnected undercut. It is a great way to wear a mullet if you want to keep your edges looking sharp and fresh.
The fade requires regular upkeep, but the top and back can be left to grow more naturally. This look works well with both straight and curly hair textures.
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This style focuses purely on the length at the back, allowing it to flow down the back in a “cascade.” The top is kept relatively simple to avoid distracting from the length.
It is a very traditional take on the mullet that emphasizes the “party” aspect. The hair is often kept healthy and shiny to make the long section look its best.
Regular conditioning treatments are essential to prevent split ends on the long back section. A shine spray can be used as a finishing touch to give it a healthy, vibrant glow.
21. The Soft-Wave Romantic Mullet
Not all 80s hair was aggressive; some looks were softer and more “romantic.” This mullet uses gentle waves instead of tight curls or sharp spikes.
The waves add a sense of movement and volume without looking overly styled. It is a very flattering look that softens the facial features and looks great in photos.
Use a large-barrel curling iron or hot rollers to create these soft waves. Brush through the curls afterward with a wide-tooth comb to turn them into gentle, flowing waves.
22. The Neon-Inspired Street Mullet
This style incorporates the vibrant color palette of the 80s, using “fashion colors” like neon pink, blue, or green. The color is often applied in streaks or to the entire back section.
It is a highly creative look that fits perfectly into the “new wave” or “club kid” aesthetics. The color highlights the unique shape of the mullet and makes it a true centerpiece.
Vivid colors require specific care, such as washing with cold water and using sulfate-free shampoos. Expect to touch up the color frequently to keep it from looking faded.
23. The Asymmetrical Edgy Mullet
This look breaks the rules by having different lengths on either side of the head. One side might be buzzed short, while the other features a long, feathered sweep.
The back remains long, completing the mullet silhouette but with a modern, artistic twist. It is a style for those who want to push the boundaries of traditional hair design.
This cut needs to be planned carefully by a stylist to ensure it looks intentional rather than accidental. Use a light styling cream to keep the different lengths looking cohesive.
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Maintenance depends on the specific style, but generally, you will need to trim the top and sides every 3 to 4 weeks to keep the “business” part looking sharp. The back can be trimmed less frequently, typically every 8 to 12 weeks, just to remove split ends and maintain the desired length.
What hair type works best for a mullet?
The mullet is surprisingly versatile and works with almost any hair type. Thick hair provides great natural volume for the 80s look, while curly hair adds texture and “bounce.” Even those with fine hair can achieve the look by using volumizing products and layers to create the illusion of thickness.
Is the mullet still in style today?
Yes, the mullet has seen a massive resurgence in recent years, often referred to as the “modern mullet.” Today’s versions tend to be a bit more blended and textured than the original 80s versions, but the classic retro “vibe” remains a popular choice for those wanting a bold, trendy look.
How long does hair need to be for a mullet?
To get a true mullet look, you generally need at least 3 to 4 inches of length at the nape of your neck to create the “tail.” The top can be as short as a buzz cut or as long as several inches. If you are growing one out, expect it to take a few months to get the necessary back length.
What products are best for 80s volume?
For authentic 80s volume, look for “root lift” sprays, volumizing mousses, and strong-hold hairsprays. If you are going for a textured or spiked look, a matte clay or a high-hold gel is essential. Don’t be afraid to use a blow dryer and a round brush, as heat is key to “setting” the height.
Can I customize a mullet for my face shape?
Absolutely. Those with rounder faces might prefer a mullet with more height on top to elongate the face. If you have a longer face, a mullet with a heavy fringe or more volume on the sides can help balance your proportions. A stylist can adjust the layers to highlight your best features.