What is a Mullet?
The History of the mullet; this distinctive hairstyle, known for its shorter cut at the front and voluminous length at the back. It defies the ordinary and embraces the extraordinary.
Dispelling the common misconception of the ‘skullet’, a style marked by a bald front akin to historical figures like Benjamin Franklin. The mullet instead commands attention with its flowing locks cascading down the back. It is often down to shoulder length, ensuring a dramatic silhouette that captivates all onlookers.
With its recent surge in popularity, the mullet has reclaimed its position as a hairstyle that offers both a playful and edgy look. It captures the essence of individuality. It’s not just a cut; it’s a declaration of uniqueness. It is a blend of retro charm and modern boldness that continues to enchant and inspire.
Where did the Mullet come from?
The first suggested indication of Mullets come from antiquity, coming from Britain’s natives during the roman occupation, its styling appears intentional. Later, according to an article on History.com, the first Mullet mention may have come from the ancient Greek poet Homer—in The Iliad from 1488 AD. Historians believe that this could have been out of necessity, to ensure hair was out of the warrior’s faces during battle(think Brad Pitt in Troy).
The New York Hip-Hop Trio, The Beastie Boys, brought the term “Mullet” into the limelight of pop culture in 1994, particularly with their song “Mullet Head.” It was then that the Oxford dictionary recognized the term, marking the official entry of “Mullet” into the mainstream lexicon.
When was the Mullet in style?
“Always” is not the answer you’re looking for, as we mentioned previously in this article, its use goes back to roman times and through grecian empires out of necessity. Every decade, it appears that the mullet haircut makes a comeback, becoming cyclical like many trends.
1960s
Rockers such as Tom Jones and megastars like Paul McCartney of the Beatles frequently sported mullets. It marked the era when rock superstars first captivated the world. This likely solidified its place as a style that only the most famous or cool people could handle.
1970s
Still in the realm of rockers and musicians, David Bowie and Rod Stewart, both are high points in their careers.
1980s
The 80s was the decade of the Mullet, according to some sources “everyone had one”. You can see that across music and films, from George Michael, with this frosted tips in WHAM! Patrick Swayz in his mega hits FlashDance & Roadhouse. Billy Ray Cyrus and Bono kept it flowing past the shoulders. It really was everywhere, now on shows like “That 80s Show”, it is the hairstyle of choice.
1990s
When you think of 90s Mullets, go no further than American sitcoms. In “Full House,” Uncle Jessie, portrayed by John Stamos, became famous for his curly mullet. Meanwhile in Saved by the Bell, A.C. Slater, played by Mario Lopez, made waves in class, showcasing his locks near the lockers.
2000s
The early 2000s was the time of the accidental Mullet. Stars like Scarlet Johansen, unintentionally ending up with a Mullet, during awards season. In 2000 the book “The Mullet: Hairstyles of the gods”, written by Mark Larsen & Barney Hoskyns was released. It helped bring light to the history, peak and subsequent decline of this free flowing style.
2010s
The sidecut Mullet, think actors; Natalie Dormer of Game of Thrones fame, Jada Pinkett Smith. Think musicians Skrillex & Avril Avril Lavigne. This new spin was all the rage. It had a sharp fade one side of the head and still business in the front party in the back. Unsurprisingly this was when hipsters were at their peak, so looking cool and edgy was the way to go.
2020s
The pandemic has sparked a renaissance of the classic mullet, reviving it as a trendy style no longer viewed as outdated. This resurgence may be credited to Gen Z, born in the late ’90s and early 2000s, who didn’t grow up with ’80s and ’90s music and television. However, the mullet’s comeback isn’t limited to Gen Z; Millennials have also wholeheartedly embraced the trend.
Why would I want a Mullet?
If you want to be edgy, if you want to be retro, if you want to be lady, if you want to go to battle! All the reasons, at the end of the day, it’s up to you, so if you want to get one, now, during the 2020s it’s back in style so it’s a perfect time to embrace it again, or wait 5 years and be a rebel.
Where can I read more?
You can find out sources linked throughout the article but check these out:
- https://www.history.com/news/mullet-hair-style-rebels-history-ancient-rome-ben-franklin
- https://www.mulletchamp.com/the-mullet-story/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mullet_(haircut)
- https://www.readersdigest.co.uk/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/the-history-of-the-mullet
- https://www.theguardian.com/notesandqueries/query/0,,-6465,00.html
- https://lifestyle.howstuffworks.com/style/hairstyles/history-mullet.htm
- The Mullet: Hairstyles of the gods