Wolf cut vs mullet cut: what's the difference between them?
The main difference between the wolf cut vs mullet cut lies in the structure and layering of each style. The wolf cut offers a modern, tousled finish with even layers, while the mullet cut leans into vintage appeal with sharp contrast. Knowing which cut complements your features and maintenance routine is key.
Source: UGC
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Key takeaways
- The wolf cut features blended, choppy layers,
- The mullet has a sharp contrast between short front and long back sections.
- Wolf cuts suit oval, round, and heart-shaped faces.
- Mullets work best for square or oval faces, especially when paired with volume at the crown.
- The Wolf cut gained global fame through K-beauty trends.
Wolf cut vs Mullet cut
Although the wolf cut and the mullet haircut share some visual similarities, they differ in key ways. Each style has a distinct origin, structure, and level of boldness. Below is a breakdown of their major differences to help you choose the style that suits your look.
| Wolf cut | Mullet cut |
| Features short layers on top that blend into longer, shaggy ends. | Has very short hair on top and sides with a sharp contrast to a long back. |
| Offers a messy, tousled look with heavy layering and flexible styling. | Shows a cleaner top with a longer back; more structured in shape and finish. |
| Needs regular trims and texturising products to keep volume and shape. | Requires frequent shaping to maintain length contrast and defined structure. |
| Soft, edgy, and modern with an effortless vibe. | Bold, retro-inspired, and attention-grabbing with a strong silhouette. |
| Popularised by K-pop and social media trends (especially TikTok). | Rooted in 1970s and 80s fashion; linked to rock culture and sports figures. |
Mullet cut examples
The mullet haircut is a style defined by its "business in the front, party in the back" ethos. Here are the various examples of the mullet that showcase its versatility across different hair types.
1. The modern razor mullet
Source: UGC
This striking mullet features sharply shaved sides that starkly contrast with the voluminous, textured top and longer back. The blonde colour and playful spikes on top give it an edgy, rebellious appeal, while the clean fade on the sides keeps it fresh and contemporary.
2. Patterned undercut mullet
This edgy mullet is one of the best hairstyles for women. It features a distinct patterned undercut on the side, adding a unique and artistic element to the style. The top is cut short with blunt bangs, creating a sharp contrast with the longer, wavy hair in the back.
3. Pink pixie mullet
Source: UGC
This bold and playful mullet features a vibrant pink hue with short, curly layers on top and a longer, textured back. The micro bangs add to its edgy charm, framing the face with a distinct, modern appeal.
4. Blonde textured mullet
This blonde mullet features choppy layers on top for added texture and volume, with a slightly longer back for that classic mullet silhouette. The bangs are cut short and wispy, framing the face softly.
5. Curly shag mullet
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This curly hairstyle embraces natural texture, offering a voluminous and playful look. The short, curly bangs and layers around the face create a soft frame, while the longer, curly back maintains the classic mullet silhouette.
Wolf cut examples
The wolf cut, a hybrid style that blends elements of the shag and the mullet, has emerged as a popular choice for those seeking a rebellious yet effortlessly cool aesthetic. Here are the various examples of the wolf cut that showcase its adaptability to different hair lengths, textures, and colour treatments.
1. Classic textured wolf cut
This trendy haistyle features distinct, face-framing layers that create a beautiful, natural flow. The cut emphasises texture and volume, giving a soft yet edgy look that's effortlessly chic.
2. Shaggy fringe
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This wolf cut features a prominent, full fringe that beautifully frames the face, adding a touch of softness to the otherwise edgy style. The shaggy layers create a lived-in, effortless look, perfect for those who want a low-maintenance yet stylish haircut.
3. Wispy layered
This wolf cut showcases delicate, wispy layers that create a soft and airy feel. The shorter layers around the face add volume and movement, giving the style a playful yet elegant appearance.
4. Blonde shaggy
Source: UGC
This bright and airy wolf cut features a voluminous, shaggy top with lighter, layered ends that create a striking contrast. The blonde colour enhances the texture and movement of the layers, giving it a playful and carefree vibe.
5. Layered flow
Source: UGC
This wolf cut features seamless, flowing layers that create a soft and natural silhouette. The layers are subtle yet effective, adding movement and volume without being overly dramatic.
How to style a Wolf cut
Styling a wolf cut adds definition, bounce, and personality to the layered look. Whether you wear it sleek or tousled, the wolf cut allows you to experiment with effortless flair. Follow these steps to bring out the best in your layers and texture.
- Wash your hair and towel-dry using a microfibre wrap until it is around 80% dry. Use a brush to remove tangles.
- Apply a heat protectant spray across your mid-lengths and ends to shield against heat damage.
- Work a palm-sized amount of volumising mousse through damp roots for added lift.
- Blow-dry using a round brush. Focus on lifting the roots and flicking out the ends to highlight the choppy layers.
- Use curling tongs or straighteners to create soft, irregular waves. Curl random sections in alternating directions for a textured finish.
- Scrunch your hair gently with your fingers to loosen the curls and increase volume.
- Apply a light texturising spray to boost the definition, then set the style with a mist of flexible hairspray.
Tips for maintaining a Wolf cut
To keep your wolf cut looking sharp, volume and texture must remain consistent. Here are practical tips to maintain the shape and feel of the style:
- Brush daily: Use a round brush to detangle and lift the hair. For knot-prone hair, try a detangling spray or consider a shorter version of the cut.
- Use a leave-in conditioner: For thick or curly hair, apply to damp ends to keep strands hydrated and healthy. Skip this step if your hair is fine to avoid flattening.
- Trim regularly: Schedule trims every 6–8 weeks for shortcuts and 8–10 weeks for longer versions. This helps maintain the shaggy shape and prevents split ends.
How to style a Mullet cut
The mullet cut combines vintage flair with a bold structure. Its contrasting lengths allow creative freedom when styling. A great mullet balances volume at the crown with flow at the back. Here is how to style it for a modern, edgy finish.
- Gently towel-dry your hair with a microfibre towel until it is roughly 80% dry. Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle.
- Spray a heat protectant evenly through your mid-lengths and ends to guard against heat tools.
- Rub a palmful of volumising mousse into the roots and lengths to create height and movement.
- Blow-dry with a round brush, lifting the roots and shaping the front layers forward and the back layers outward.
- Use a curling iron or straighteners to add loose curls around the crown and ends, alternating curl directions for a natural texture.
- Tousle the back section with your fingers, then add a small amount of texturising spray to separate and define.
- Finish with a light spray of firm-hold hairspray to lock in volume while maintaining flexibility.
Tips for maintaining a Mullet cut
A well-maintained mullet keeps its structure and flow with regular care. Use the tips below to preserve its bold silhouette:
- Trim: Tidy the sides and top every 4–6 weeks. Keep the back neat but allow controlled length growth.
- Wash and condition: Moisturise the longer back sections and prevent dryness with quality shampoo and conditioner.
- Use styling products: Apply pomade or wax for volume and hold at the crown. Finish the back with a light serum for a polished flow.
- Edge up regularly: Clean the hairline and around the ears with a razor or trimmer every couple of weeks to maintain a crisp outline.
Are Mullet and Wolf cut the same?
Although people often confuse the two, the wolf cut and the mullet are not the same. Both feature layers and varied lengths, but their structure and overall vibe differ.
The wolf cut has a more blended, shaggy appearance with textured layers throughout. In contrast, the mullet features sharper length contrast—short at the top and sides, long at the back—offering a bolder, more retro edge.
What face suits a Wolf cut?
Face shape plays a major role in choosing between a wolf cut and a mullet. The wolf cut flatters oval, heart-shaped, and round faces thanks to its face-framing layers. It also works well with thick, wavy, kinky, or curly hair.
The mullet suits square and oval faces by enhancing the cheekbones and jawline. It also adapts to both thick and fine hair, although finer hair types may need added styling to increase volume at the crown.
Is a Wolf cut a Korean haircut?
Although popularised by Korean celebrities and the K-beauty trend, the wolf cut did not originate in South Korea. It draws inspiration from 70s and 80s Western punk hairstyles. The Korean wave gave it a global spotlight, especially on TikTok and Instagram, making it a favourite among Gen Z audiences.
What is a reverse Mullet?
The reverse mullet, also known as a “frullet” or “tellum,” is a twist on the traditional mullet. It features longer hair at the front—often chin or cheek length—and shorter hair at the back. Some versions include spiky styling or a contrasting colour at the back.
The wolf cut suits those who prefer soft texture and natural volume, while the mullet leans into structure and contrast. Whether you opt for shaggy layers or retro edges, select a cut that suits your face shape, hair type, and personal style.
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