The skullet takes the mullet’s party-at-the-back idea to its extreme: the top and sides are buzzed very short or shaved completely, while the hair at the nape is left long. It is unapologetically loud, and this gallery shows thirteen ways to wear it, from a classic bald skullet with a neck-length cascade and full beard to a buzzed mullet, a crew-cut version, a faded skullet with natural texture, a curly cut diffused for definition and an afro skullet with a crisp line-up.
Because the top is so short, head shape and hairline are fully on display. Men with a receding or thinning crown often find the skullet surprisingly practical, since it embraces the short top instead of trying to hide it. A beard helps balance the long back and gives the face more structure.
Think about how far you want to go. A buzzed top with a short tail is relatively easy to wear and can be cut back to a neat crop in one appointment, while a fully shaved head with shoulder-length hair is a commitment that needs frequent shaving.
1. Mullet Fade
Skin-faded sides and a spiked mohawk strip give this mullet a rebellious edge. The front is kept closely cropped so the shape flows without a sharp jump in length. A moustache curled with styling wax completes the alternative, slightly retro attitude.
Inspiration: @poolethebarber
2. Skullet with Line Up
A crisp line-up at the front meets mullet-style length at the back, giving a fun, unexpected combination. One advantage is flexibility: cut off the longer section and you are left with a tidy one-length crop suitable for more formal settings.
Inspiration: @_nicolerenae
3. Clean-Shaven Cut
Here is the classic skullet in full: the sides and top are shaved completely while thick, neck-length hair cascades down the nape. A bushy beard balances the long back. Staying sharp requires regular trims or learning to shave your own head at home.
Inspiration: @little_rebel_barbershop
4. Layered Half Mullet
Tapering gives a soft gradual transition through the length, which makes it easy to grow out and experiment. Leaving the crown and back longer turns the taper into a half mullet that shows off natural texture. A sensible starting point if you are unsure about going fully shaved.
Inspiration: @wildsidebarbers
5. Skullet with Beard
Shaved from the hairline to the crown with the back left long, this punk-inspired cut makes a strong statement. A neatly shaped beard with a clean jawline outline keeps the look polished while staying far from conservative.
Inspiration: @cassepasdetetes
6. Buzzed Mullet
One of the most common skullet variations pairs a buzz cut on top and at the sides with textured length at the back. Whenever you want something simpler, the tail can be cut off to leave a classic short crop.
Inspiration: @jennyeijkelenberg
7. Crew Cut and Mullet
A crew cut leaves only a little hair on top, offering plenty of styling options. For a neat look, keep the back at neck length rather than letting it rest on the shoulders, which can look scruffy. A defined finish makes the contrast feel intentional.
Inspiration: @c_cbarber
8. Faded Skullet
Fades pair well with many styles, including this edgy skullet that keeps the front short while letting natural texture grow at the back. A temple or mid fade is especially flattering here, adding a sharp, modern outline to the sides.
Inspiration: @barberboi_ricky
9. Long Hair with Buzz Cut
Combining long and short in one cut, this skullet suits men with lengthy hair. A buzz cut with a subtle fade on the sides contrasts with strands that fall to the shoulder blades. The dramatic difference in length is what makes the style so striking.
Inspiration: @therattlesnakebarbershop
10. Curly Skullet
Curls get a daring update with a short top and longer back. A little paste worked through the back section and a gentle diffuse bring out the ringlets and keep the texture lasting throughout the day.
Inspiration: @haircutterjosh
11. Afro Skullet
A clean line-up at the front adds structure to fluffy natural curls, giving the skullet a balanced, almost elegant feel with a hint of rebellion. Generous curl cream keeps the texture smooth, defined and free from frizz.
Inspiration: @lws.hair
12. Short Buzzed Mullet
Keeping the tail short avoids a dramatic jump between lengths while still delivering mullet attitude and texture. Faded sides create contrast between the short and longer sections, making the overall look clean and low-key. It is an easy entry point if you are new to the style.
Inspiration: @goodfortunebarbers
13. Textured Skullet
Salt-and-pepper hair adds depth and dimension to a textured skullet, making it flattering for older men. Ask for a cut that plays with length to show off the natural colour. Scrunch in a little mousse or light gel for a relaxed, messy finish.
Inspiration: @wildsidebarbers
Booking a skullet: what to say to your barber
Be specific about three zones. For the top, choose between a clipper length (for example a number one or two) or a full shave. For the sides, decide on a skin, mid or temple fade, or simply the same length as the top. For the back, say exactly where the long section should start and stop; a tail at neck length looks deliberate, while hair past the shoulders reads much wilder.
Living with a shaved-top mullet
- A shaved scalp needs touching up every few days; a quality head shaver or trimmer at home saves frequent barber visits.
- Apply sunscreen to an exposed scalp whenever you are outside.
- Keep the long section healthy with conditioner and occasional trims, otherwise the ends look straggly.
- Curly or coily backs stay defined with curl cream and a diffuser rather than a brush.
- If the look stops feeling right, a barber can remove the tail and leave you with a clean buzz cut in minutes.