Modern Curly Mullet with Textured Fringe and Short Tapered Sides

About This Style

Key Features

• Defined Type 3 curls that provide natural, bouncy texture and dimension throughout the top and back sections.
• Noticeable length transition from the closely cropped 6-20mm sides to the voluminous, cascading back.
• Forward-flowing top section that drops into a relaxed, piecey fringe across the upper forehead.
• Elongated nape section featuring heavy, layered ringlets that create the signature mullet silhouette.
• Softly tapered sideburns and temple areas that keep the profile looking clean without a severe skin fade.
• Rounded overall shape that utilizes medium hair thickness to maintain structural volume without looking overly dense or heavy.

Getting the Cut

1. Ask for a modern curly mullet with a seamless taper on the sides, keeping the length between a #2 and #6 clipper guard (6-20mm).
2. Request point-cutting with scissors on the top section to leave about 1 to 2 inches (2-5cm) of length, ensuring the curls can form fully.
3. Instruct the barber to leave the back significantly longer, layering the curls with shears to reduce bulk while maintaining the signature mullet drape.
4. Ask for a textured, forward-swept fringe that falls naturally onto the forehead, cutting curl-by-curl to prevent shrinkage surprises.
5. Request a soft blend between the shorter sides and the longer top/back sections using the scissor-over-comb technique to avoid harsh disconnection lines.
6. Specify that the hairline around the ears and neck should be kept relatively natural and soft, rather than edged up with a harsh razor line.
7. Remind them to texturize the interior of the longer sections if your hair is thick, allowing the Type 3 curls to breathe and spiral properly.

Daily Routine

1. Start your morning routine by thoroughly wetting your hair in the shower, as Type 3 curls style best from a soaking wet or very damp state.
2. Gently squeeze out excess water with a microfiber towel or an old cotton t-shirt to prevent frizz and protect the delicate curl cuticle.
3. Dispense a dime-sized amount of a lightweight curl cream or leave-in conditioner into your palms and rub them together to emulsify.
4. Use your fingers to rake the product evenly through the top and back sections, ensuring the longer curls at the nape are fully coated.
5. Scrunch the hair upward toward the scalp using your hands to encourage the natural curl pattern and bounce to form.
6. Allow the hair to air dry naturally for the lowest maintenance approach (taking only 1-5 minutes of active styling time).
7. Once the hair is completely dry, gently shake out the roots with your fingertips to break any product cast and achieve a soft, bouncy finish.

Products & Tools

• Lightweight curl defining cream offering a light to medium hold with a natural, matte to low-shine finish.
• Hydrating leave-in conditioner spray to provide essential moisture and slip for medium-thick curly hair.
• Sea salt spray (optional) for added grit and texture on days when you want a messier, more voluminous look.
• Microfiber towel or soft cotton t-shirt to gently dry the hair without causing friction-induced frizz.
• Wide-tooth comb or detangling shower brush to safely remove knots while the hair is saturated with conditioner.
• Hair dryer equipped with a high-quality diffuser attachment for days you want to dry the curls quickly without blowing out the structure.

Maintenance

• Schedule barber visits every 5 to 8 weeks to keep the short sides tidy and to reshape the layers in the longer back section.
• Limit shampooing to 1-2 times per week using a sulfate-free cleanser to prevent stripping natural oils from your Type 3 curls.
• Co-wash (conditioner wash) on non-shampoo days to refresh the scalp and rehydrate the hair without overdrying.
• Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to drastically reduce overnight friction, preventing frizz, tangles, and curl breakage.
• Avoid running fine-tooth combs or dry brushes through the hair when it is dry, as this will instantly destroy the curl pattern.

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