25 Trending Taper Fade Mullet Hairstyles for Men

Trending Taper Fade Mullet Hairstyles for Men is no longer just a retro throwback—it’s a movement. By fusing the classic “business in the front, party in the back” structure with a sleek taper fade, modern mullets become wearable, fashion-forward, and packed with personality. The taper fade adds a refined edge, creating a fresh contrast to the flowing tail. Whether you’re aiming for grunge revival, street-style swagger, or minimalist cool, there’s a taper fade mullet that will speak directly to your style DNA.

1. Classic Taper Fade Mullet

The classic taper fade mullet gives you the best of both worlds: vintage vibes with contemporary neatness. The sides gradually taper down near the ears and neckline, while the top and back retain volume and shape. This cut is ideal for someone who wants to nod to the 80s but still look polished and modern. Add a light mousse or pomade to keep everything structured, and you’ve got a daily driver hairstyle that looks great in casual and professional environments alike.

Also Read: Short Hairstyles For Thin Hair

2. Low Taper Fade Mullet

The low taper fade begins subtly near the bottom of the sideburns, offering a discreet gradient that blends seamlessly into the neck area. It doesn’t scream for attention, but it still gives structure and cleanliness to the look. This cut works beautifully for men with wavy or thick hair, helping reduce bulk while emphasizing the mullet’s length. It’s also one of the most office-friendly mullet styles, particularly if paired with a conservative top style.

3. Mid Taper Fade Mullet

For a bit more presence, the mid taper fade raises the fading point to just above the ears. This gives more emphasis to the sides, creating a bold contrast between the taper and the longer hair in back. It’s a confident, slightly rebellious look that thrives when paired with some volume on top—whether styled with natural texture, a soft quiff, or even a fringe. This cut suits men with oval or diamond face shapes who want to add some angularity to their profile.

4. High Taper Fade Mullet

The high taper fade mullet is sharp, expressive, and ready for the spotlight. The fade starts high around the temples, often giving a disconnected look from the top down to the skin. It instantly adds a modern silhouette and works great with edgy styling—think spiked textures, hard parts, or dramatic contrast. For men who love standing out and don’t mind turning heads, this is a fashion-forward choice.

5. Curly Taper Fade Mullet

When curls meet a taper fade mullet, the result is nothing short of spectacular. The fade keeps the sides clean and tidy, while the curls add personality, texture, and a carefree spirit to the look. This is an especially powerful style for men with thick or afro-textured curls, as it balances volume and neatness perfectly. A curl cream or hydrating gel can help enhance the curls while maintaining definition in the mullet tail.

6. Textured Top Taper Mullet

If you like your hair messy in the most intentional way possible, this is your style. The textured top brings movement and life to the haircut, giving you a slightly rugged, lived-in aesthetic. Combine this with a clean taper fade and you’ve got a hairstyle that says, “I woke up like this—and meant to.” It’s perfect for men with medium-thick hair and works well with matte clays or styling powders to keep it tousled.

7. Taper Fade Mullet with Fringe

Adding a fringe to your taper mullet introduces structure to the front while keeping the back wild. It softens the face and draws attention to your eyes, making it a great option for guys with strong brows or sharp cheekbones. Whether you go for a blunt fringe, curtain bangs, or a wispy, shag-inspired front, this combo is youthful, trend-conscious, and flattering for most face shapes.

8. Straight Hair Taper Mullet

Men with naturally straight hair often benefit from the clean, uniform look this style delivers. The taper fade keeps the sides crisp, and the straight strands in the back can be cut into layers or left long for dramatic flow. For extra edge, add a sharp part or taper the nape into a V-shape. Use a styling serum to keep it sleek and shiny—especially if you want that polished, editorial finish.

9. Drop Taper Fade Mullet

The drop taper fade arches behind the ears and down the neckline in a curved drop, giving a rounded frame to the head. This detail adds a sleek visual line that complements a longer, thicker mullet tail. It’s a favorite among barbers who want to give clients a fade that hugs the natural shape of the skull. Ideal for men with dense hair who want a sculpted, dimensional look.

10. Afro Taper Mullet

With natural texture in full focus, the afro taper mullet is bold, culturally expressive, and incredibly stylish. The fade creates a clean border, allowing the afro to bloom at the crown and continue into the elongated back. This look honors tradition while embracing the creativity of modern grooming. A quality leave-in conditioner and twist sponge can help define shape and texture for day-to-day styling.

11. Shaggy Taper Fade Mullet

For men who prefer effortless cool over polished perfection, the shaggy taper fade mullet is a natural fit. With layered, feathered ends and a relaxed, unkempt texture, this style leans into its grunge-inspired roots. The taper fade adds just enough contrast to keep the look clean around the ears and neckline. It’s ideal for men with naturally wavy or thick hair, and it pairs beautifully with facial stubble or retro-inspired fashion. Styling is easy—just a bit of sea salt spray or mousse to amp up the volume and natural movement.

12. Burst Taper Fade Mullet

The burst taper fade flares out in a circular motion around the ears, creating a bold, graphic effect that frames the head beautifully. When paired with a mullet, the result is something that feels both sculptural and rebellious. This style thrives on precision—it’s often combined with shaved design elements or hard parts for added edge. It works particularly well on short to medium hair and complements rounder face shapes by giving a lifted, angular appearance.

13. Wavy Taper Fade Mullet

Natural waves bring fluidity and charm to this version of the taper fade mullet. The fade keeps the sides neat and the neckline shaped, while the waves tumble backward for a soft, stylish finish. It’s an ideal look for men with medium-length hair who want a style that doesn’t feel overly styled or rigid. You can let your waves flow freely or enhance them with curl-defining cream for extra bounce and separation.

14. Asian-Inspired Taper Mullet

This sharp, minimalist cut often draws inspiration from East Asian street fashion, particularly K-pop and Japanese runway trends. It features clean taper fades, sleek layers, and sometimes a dramatic fringe or side part. The back is usually smooth and straight, offering contrast to the short, structured top. It’s particularly flattering on men with fine to medium straight hair, and it works well in both casual and professional environments thanks to its precision and sleek finish.

15. Taper Fade Mullet with Hard Part

The hard part adds a clean, defined line shaved into one side of the scalp, usually between the taper and top section. This simple detail transforms the taper fade mullet into a precision style that oozes intent and personality. Great for structured or symmetrical face shapes, this look pairs well with slicked tops, side sweeps, or even disconnected pompadours. It’s bold without being loud—a favorite among style-conscious professionals.

16. Undercut Taper Mullet

This version amps up the contrast by adding a full undercut beneath the top layers, usually with a skin or razor fade. The top flows into the mullet tail while the sides are entirely disconnected, creating a dramatic, high-contrast shape. This look is particularly eye-catching on men with thicker or denser hair. It’s a high-maintenance but high-reward cut that screams individuality. Beard pairings or bold dye choices can take it even further.

17. Slicked Back Taper Mullet

Smooth and retro with a modern edge, the slicked-back taper fade mullet is ideal for guys who love a clean aesthetic with some old-school influence. Using pomade or wet gel, the top is combed back smoothly while the tail extends with subtle flair. The taper fade on the sides keeps it refined and red-carpet ready. This look works well for formal events, business professionals, or anyone who leans toward a dapper, structured vibe.

18. Long Tail Taper Mullet

This cut takes the “party in the back” part very seriously. With a significantly longer tail—sometimes reaching the shoulders—it channels retro rocker energy. The taper fade on the sides adds sharp contrast and prevents the cut from looking too heavy or outdated. It’s best suited for men who don’t mind regular upkeep and enjoy making a statement. When styled with texture or even tied back into a mini ponytail, it exudes creativity and boldness.

19. Colored Taper Fade Mullet

Color transforms this cut from standard to standout. Whether you’re adding subtle caramel highlights or going all-in with bold shades like silver, cobalt blue, or fire red, coloring the taper fade mullet elevates its artistic impact. The fade itself offers a natural canvas for gradient coloring or shadow roots. This version works for expressive personalities, fashion lovers, and anyone who treats hair as an extension of self-expression.

20. Razor Cut Taper Mullet

Razor cutting introduces softness and movement by using a razor instead of scissors to texturize the hair. The result is a light, airy feel, especially when combined with a taper fade. It’s an excellent option for men with fine or straight hair who want volume without bulk. The mullet tail becomes more feathered, and the fade balances out the floaty layers with a crisp edge. This cut exudes indie-rock charm and relaxed confidence.

21. K-Pop Taper Mullet

Channeling the flair of Korean pop idols, this style is polished, stylish, and loaded with character. The taper fade is subtle and often blends into soft, long layers with a glossy finish. The top might feature a side part, curtain bangs, or sweeping fringe, all designed to frame the face attractively. It’s ideal for younger guys or anyone wanting a trend-forward, camera-ready hairstyle. Use a lightweight styling cream to keep things flowing naturally without stiffness.

22. Beard-Matched Taper Mullet

When combined with a well-groomed beard, the taper fade mullet transforms into a fully coordinated statement of masculinity. The taper blends seamlessly into shaped sideburns or a tapered beard, creating a holistic, rugged aesthetic. This look suits mature men, those with strong jawlines, or anyone looking to balance long hair with facial features. Match the fade’s gradient to the beard fade for maximum symmetry.

23. Designer Taper Fade Mullet

This cut adds an artistic twist by incorporating shaved designs—like lines, symbols, or geometric shapes—within the fade. It’s a barbershop-favorite for creative expression and visual intrigue. The back and top remain mullet-like, but the fade becomes the star of the show. It’s best for younger men, barbershop trendsetters, or those in creative fields who want their hair to reflect their personal brand.

You can also learn about: Hairstyles For Older Women With Glasses

24. Short Taper Mullet

For those dipping their toes into the mullet world, this short version offers a gentle entry point. The top and back are only slightly longer than the sides, creating a soft mullet shape without overwhelming length. The taper fade adds neatness and form, making this ideal for men who work in professional settings but still want an edge. It’s easy to maintain and ideal for summer or active lifestyles.

25. Fashion Runway Taper Mullet

This avant-garde version of the taper fade mullet draws directly from fashion shows and editorial shoots. Expect bold asymmetry, unexpected textures, disconnected layers, or even sculptural shapes. The taper fade serves as a sharp backdrop, letting the experimental top and back do the talking. It’s a dramatic, unconventional choice for those who live and breathe style. Not for the faint of heart—but unforgettable in every room.

FAQs

Can any face shape pull off a taper fade mullet?

Yes, but customization is key. Round faces benefit from height and volume on top, while longer faces may look better with a fringe or shorter tail. A skilled barber can tailor the taper and length to suit your features.

How often should I get a taper fade mullet trimmed?

Every 3 to 4 weeks is ideal to maintain the fade’s clean lines and shape. The back can be trimmed less frequently if you’re growing it out, but the sides and neckline should stay fresh.

Is the taper fade mullet still trending in 2025?

Absolutely. With the rise of hybrid hairstyles, the taper fade mullet continues to dominate men’s fashion circles due to its versatility, attitude, and Instagram-worthy aesthetic.

Does this style require a lot of styling?

Not necessarily. Many variations thrive with minimal effort. A quick styling cream, wax, or mousse can go a long way. For more structured versions, expect a few minutes of daily grooming.

Can I wear a taper fade mullet in a formal setting?

Yes. Styles like the slicked-back, low taper, or Asian-inspired versions work beautifully in professional or formal environments, especially when paired with well-maintained facial hair and neat grooming.

Conclusion

The taper fade mullet isn’t just a revival—it’s a redefinition. With endless variations from edgy and wild to sleek and wearable, this hybrid hairstyle allows men to break free from boring cuts while still looking refined. Whether you’re diving into bold street-style or opting for subtle flair, there’s a taper fade mullet that fits your energy, your face, and your lifestyle. It’s more than a cut—it’s a vibe, a statement, and in many ways, a modern classic.