When you hear “wavy mullet,” your brain probably flashes back to your uncle’s 80s yearbook photo, complete with reflective sunglasses and questionable life choices.
But guess what? The mullet is back, baby and this time, it’s had a glow-up. Think beachy waves, cool texture, and just enough edge to say, “Yeah, I’ve got a personality.”
As someone who writes for a living and has tried to cut their own hair during quarantine (spoiler: it was not a success), I can tell you this look isn’t just a vibe, it’s a movement.
So what exactly is a wavy mullet? It’s that magical mashup of business-in-the-front and party in-the-back, but with softer, more modern texture.
You’re not going full Billy Ray here this is about layering, shaping, and letting those natural waves do their thing. Whether you’ve got thick, curly hair or fine, loose waves, there’s a version that’ll make you look effortlessly cool.
And trust me, after optimizing about a million hairstyle articles and running countless NLP models to track trends—this one’s definitely on the rise.
1. Textured Wavy Mullet
This is the mullet that looks like it woke up on a beach in Malibu and somehow still made it to your morning Zoom meeting.
I tried this cut after a stylist told me I needed “more movement,” and wow game changer.
It works best on medium to thick hair with natural waves, but even fine hair can fake it with the right mousse.
Pro tip: dry your hair with a diffuser, then scrunch in some texturizing spray for max volume.
Also, this style gives off major shag mullet vibes—in the best way.
2. Short Wavy Mullet
Not ready for full commitment? Go short. This one keeps the waves tight and low-maintenance ideal for summer or if you’ve got a habit of sleeping through your alarm.
I rocked this version during a heatwave and it was chef’s kiss for airflow.
Just keep the back slightly longer than the front to keep the mullet shape alive.
3. Medium Wavy Mullet
Goldilocks would approve this one’s just right. Not too dramatic, not too basic.
I find this length gives you the freedom to play with styles (hello, mini ponytail) without feeling like you’re in a costume.
Bonus: it grows out super well, so it’s low risk if you’re new to mullets.
For more looks like this, peek at these medium mullet styles.
4. Curtain Bangs Wavy Mullet
Okay, this combo is giving main character energy.
I added curtain bangs last fall and suddenly people started asking me if I was in a band.
It’s great for softening the look and balancing out the longer back.
Style the bangs with a round brush, then let your waves do their thing behind them.
5. Tapered Wavy Mullet
This one’s for the detail lovers. A clean taper around the ears and nape gives structure without killing the vibe.
I tried this before a wedding and it looked polished and fun basically the hairstyle version of a tailored suit with Vans.
Great for anyone who wants to edge up a classic wavy mullet without going full punk.
6. Shaggy Wavy Mullet
Think rockstar meets surfer vibes messy, effortless, and totally cool.
I went shaggy during a month-long “I need a change” phase, and honestly, I never got more compliments from strangers.
This cut works best if you love texture and aren’t afraid of a little chaos.
Just use a curl-enhancing cream and let it air dry—perfection lives in the imperfections here.
7. Layered Wavy Mullet
Layers are the secret sauce to making a wavy mullet pop.
I asked my stylist for “volume without the poof” and this is what she gave me—thankfully.
It suits almost all face shapes and adds tons of movement.
If you’ve got flat hair, layers will give it life without needing ten products.
8. Undercut Wavy Mullet
Now this one is a statement. The undercut adds edge while the waves on top keep it soft.
I went bold with this style for a music festival, and it made me feel like a rebel with really good hair.
Use a bit of pomade on the sides to keep the contrast crisp.
9. Side-Parted Wavy Mullet
A little parting goes a long way. I discovered this one by accident (aka my cowlick forced it), and it ended up being a happy hair mishap.
A deep side part gives the wavy mullet some drama and works especially well if you have a wider forehead or just want something asymmetrical.
Just flip and go—no fuss required.
10. Choppy Wavy Mullet
Rough around the edges—in the best way. I rocked this look during my “don’t mess with me” era and it gave off major punk energy.
The uneven lengths create a lived-in, edgy vibe that’s perfect if you hate perfectly styled hair.
Add some matte texturizer and mess it up—done.
11. Loose Wave Mullet
Soft, romantic, and super wearable, this version is basically the introvert of mullets.
I love it for days when I want something low-key but still cool. Works best if you have naturally loose waves (or a good curling wand).
A light mousse gives enough hold without making it crunchy.
12. High Fade Wavy Mullet
Sharp, clean, and modern—this one is all about contrast. I tried a high fade once and instantly looked like I had my life together (I didn’t, but hey).
The fade keeps it fresh around the sides, while the waves up top do their thing.
Perfect if you want low-maintenance sides with high-style impact.
13. Asymmetrical Wavy Mullet
For the bold and the brave. I wore this during my artsy phase, and let’s just say… heads turned.
One side’s longer than the other, which adds instant cool without trying too hard.
It’s a great option if you love the unexpected—just make sure your stylist knows how to balance the length so it doesn’t look accidental.
14. Razored Wavy Mullet
A little razor goes a long way when it comes to texture. This cut gave my fine hair some serious bite and volume.
I asked for “less poofy, more edgy” and got a perfectly razored shape that made styling super easy.
A bit of dry shampoo adds even more grit and volume.
15. Voluminous Wavy Mullet
Big hair, don’t care. This one’s all about that full-bodied glam I wore it on a date once and got a “wow” before I even said hi.
Great for thicker hair types, or anyone willing to put in some mousse and a diffuser.
I usually flip my head upside down to dry it for max lift.
16. Soft Fringe Wavy Mullet
A soft fringe is the gateway bang to mullet land. I added this when I wanted a change but didn’t want to lose all my length.
It works wonders to frame the face and pairs beautifully with loose waves.
Just style with a little heat protectant and a round brush it’s subtle but stunning.
17. Low Taper Wavy Mullet
A gentle fade that doesn’t scream for attention.
I got this version when I started working in a more “professional” setting and needed something that looked clean but not boring.
It’s tidy around the ears and neck but lets the waves shine up top. A great blend of polished and playful.
18. Blended Fade Wavy Mullet
This is the mullet for people who don’t want it to look like a mullet.
Everything flows seamlessly, thanks to a gradual fade that keeps things smooth.
I tried this after seeing a celeb rock it and was shocked at how wearable it was for everyday life.
It’s ideal if you want something trendy but not too loud.
19. Long Wavy Mullet
For the bold and the breezy. I grew my hair out for months just to try this one, and it gave me major surfer-energy.
The longer length in the back keeps things dramatic, while the layers in the front make it wearable.
Definitely invest in a good leave-in conditioner to keep the ends from drying out.
20. Beachy Wavy Mullet
Effortless and sunkissed—this style looks like it came with ocean air and a free concert ticket.
I wear this all summer long, especially after a few days at the beach (aka nature’s salt spray).
It’s best for wavy or textured hair and needs minimal styling—just scrunch and go.
Bonus points if you let it air dry in a convertible.
Amazon Finds That Changed My Hair Game
Suavecito Pomade Firme (Strong) Hold – Strong Hold Hair Pomade
Hanz de Fuko Claymation – Premium Men’s Hair Styling Clay
