The curly mullet is a modern interpretation of a classic silhouette, blending the signature short-on-the-sides structure with the organic texture of natural curls. This style is characterized by a distinct contrast, maintaining a shorter, often tighter shape around the face and ears while allowing the length to cascade down the neck. The revival of this look appeals to those seeking a bold, low-maintenance aesthetic that celebrates natural hair texture. This shape works by utilizing the spring and volume of curls to create a dynamic profile that is both rebellious and refined.
Consulting the Stylist: Achieving the Cut
A successful curly mullet begins with a stylist who understands the geometry of natural texture, as curls shrink significantly when dry. You should seek a professional experienced in dry-cutting techniques, which allows them to observe the curl pattern’s natural fall and remove weight precisely where needed. This initial consultation should clearly establish the desired degree of contrast between the sections of the haircut.
The defining feature of this style is the stark contrast in length between the tight sides and the flowing back. Communicate a preference for significant tapering on the sides and around the ears to achieve the “business” aspect. Ensuring the transition from short to long is deliberate and not overly blended gives the mullet its signature silhouette.
For the top and crown, specific internal layering is necessary to control the volume and shape. This technique helps to remove bulk, preventing the top section from appearing too round or boxy. The goal is strategic weight removal, particularly on the sides, which allows the curls in the back to hang freely and maintain their desired length.
Mastering the Curl Definition
Achieving maximum curl definition starts immediately after cleansing with the application of a high-slip leave-in conditioner on soaking wet hair. This step establishes the moisture barrier necessary to combat frizz and prepares the hair shaft to accept the styler. The moisture content at this stage determines the final spring and integrity of the curl pattern.
A strong-hold styler, such as a gel or mousse, should be applied next to lock the curl structure into place. Use the “praying hands” technique to smooth the product over the surface of the hair shaft, followed by gentle raking to ensure even distribution and separation of curl clumps. This ensures every strand is coated and encouraged to coil correctly.
After the product is applied, vigorously scrunch the hair upward toward the scalp, using an old t-shirt or microfiber towel to absorb excess water. This action encourages the natural coiling process, activating the curl pattern for maximum bounce and spring throughout the cut. Minimizing the amount of water remaining on the hair allows the styler to form a solid, defined cast.
Diffusing is the preferred drying method to maximize volume and maintain the shape of the cut without disrupting the product application. Attach a diffuser to a hairdryer set to medium heat and low speed, gently cupping sections of hair and lifting them toward the scalp. Focus initially on drying the roots, as this sets the volume at the crown and prevents the style from falling flat prematurely.
Once the hair is approximately 80% dry, you can allow the ends to air dry or continue diffusing until the hair is fully dry and encased in a hard “cast” from the styler. This hard shell indicates that the curl pattern has been successfully locked into its defined shape. After the hair is completely dry, gently “scrunch out the crunch” by lightly massaging the hardened gel cast. This process softens the hair, revealing the defined, touchable curls beneath while preserving the style’s hold and shape.
Daily Refresh and Maintenance
Nighttime protection is paramount for extending the life of the style between wash days and maintaining the curly mullet’s definition. Before sleeping, gather the hair into a loose, high ponytail or bun, often called “pineappling,” to protect the length from friction and compression. Sleeping on a satin or silk pillowcase provides a smoother surface than cotton, which significantly reduces the mechanical friction that causes frizz and disrupts the curl pattern overnight.
In the morning, address any flatness or frizz by using a fine-mist spray bottle filled with water, concentrating on the areas that need reshaping, particularly the shorter top section. Lightly dampen the curls without soaking them completely, as too much water will necessitate a full restyle. Follow the misting with a pea-sized amount of a light curl cream or refreshing spray, gently scrunching the product into the damp areas.
Avoid raking the product through the hair during a refresh, as this will break up the existing curl clumps and lead to unwanted fluffiness. To regain volume, gently lift the roots with your fingertips, or use the diffuser on a low setting for a few minutes to reactivate the curl memory. Focus on spot-treating the specific areas that have lost their spring, rather than restyling the entire head, to save time and prevent product buildup.