In general, the more texture one’s hair has, the more definition it enjoys (though it’s often harder earned in terms of upkeep). “You can add definition by using a gel or mousse into wet hair. This will provide hold while leaving hair touchable and maintaining movement.”
Marc Anthony curl lotion, $7
Coils and Tighter Curls Pack the Most Potential of All
Again, following the rule of texture and definition: People with tighter curls and coils might enjoy those same high-definition styles with a broader range of short and long styles. Alvarez enthusiastically endorses the mullet afro, for starters. “It’s very scarcely seen but I’m always in awe of those who can rock it,” she says. “The key to marrying this (tight-curl) texture and style is to maintain the health of the curls. You want to keep your curls shiny, healthy, and moisturized by using products specifically formulated for ‘type 4’ curls. I recommend a combination of leave-in creams and oils to lock in moisture and put frizz at bay for as long as possible.”
Curlsmith curl conditioning oil-in-cream, $26
Carol’s Daughter coil-enhancing butter, $10
Soften It With Bangs—Or Don’t
Here’s one rule of bangs and mullets: “The longer the bangs, the softer your mullet will look,” Alvarez says. “Cropped bangs are edgier while wispy curtain bangs add a feminine flair to an otherwise edgy cut.” So, act accordingly; we’re not promoting one over the other, since we are an equal opportunity endorser when it comes to mullets.
Thinning Hair Requires Modification
Everyone can rock a mullet, even guys with thinning or fine hair. That said, you’ll want to add as much texture and fullness to the top of your head, to maximize fullness (as is the case with any haircut for thin hair). “The key is to cut the mullet bluntly,” Alvarez says. “This will give the illusion of thicker, fuller hair.” We’d suggest using a texturizing styler for the top, too—like clay.
Firsthand Supply texturizing clay, $24
Pair It with Facial Hair
Never underestimate how your facial hair helps sell a hairstyle, and vice versa. And never forget that a lack of facial hair, or a grown-from-scratch/unstyled beard is just as much an intentional style as one that you customize and clean up with precision. “This is all a matter of personal preference, and my personal opinion is that a full beard makes the mullet infinitely cooler,” Alvarez says. Especially when you see that beard fade cleanly into the shorter, buzzed sides of the mullet; it’s like two very intentional styles pulling their weight, rather than one continuous mane of caveman shag.
Short-Haired Guys Can Try It, Too
Don’t be discouraged if you have short hair but want to rock a mullet. In fact, you can start with a short one, and continuously clean up the faded sides, enjoying the mullet every step of the way as it grows. If you’re starting with a very closed buzz cut, then let it grow out a centimeter or two. Then let your barber have at it with their clippers: “The key here is to leave the back a bit longer, even just a smidge. If you can do that, you’re in with the cool kids!” Alvarez says.
Confidence Is Key
Bottom line: A pair of identical twins could both wear the same mullet, and yet you’d probably be able to pick out the one whose mullet looks better—and it’s the guy who wears it with more assurance. “There’s an ‘IDGAF’ attitude about the mullet,” Alvarez says. “There’s a defiance to it! A freedom to push the boundaries.” Embrace that, and the mullet will never wear y
