The taper fade mullet is an iconic, yet edgy hairstyle that has seen a resurgence in recent years. While the mullet was once associated with the 80s and early 90s, it has now been reinterpreted in modern fashion, particularly for curly hair. The taper fade mullet combines two distinct elements: the classic mullet, which features a short front and long back, and the taper fade, which adds a contemporary touch by gradually shortening the sides and back. For curly-haired individuals, this style is a perfect way to showcase the natural texture while keeping the look sharp and manageable.
This article delves into 12 different taper fade mullet styles for curly hair, providing detailed descriptions and expert styling tips. Whether you’re looking for a bold, statement-making hairstyle or a more refined and subtle take, there’s a taper fade mullet to suit your preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the best curly hair taper fade mullet looks to try in 2025.
12 Taper Fade Mullet Curly Hairstyles That Will Turn Heads in 2025
1. Classic Taper Fade Mullet with Defined Curls
The classic taper fade mullet is a timeless look that highlights the contrast between short sides and a longer, curly back. This style focuses on a clean fade on the sides and back, with natural, well-defined curls on top and in the back.
Why It Works:
The defined curls on top offer texture and volume, which pairs perfectly with the tapered sides. The fade on the sides keeps the overall style sharp and controlled while giving the mullet an edgy feel. This look is ideal for curly hair because it adds shape without losing the natural bounce and movement of the curls.
Styling Tips:
To style this look, use a curl cream or gel to define the curls. Apply the product on damp hair and let it air dry, or use a diffuser to dry the curls gently. The fade on the sides can be maintained with regular trims to keep the lines sharp.
2. Curly Mullet with High Fade
For those who want a more daring look, the curly mullet with a high fade is a bold style that will make a statement. The high fade starts at the temples, tapering down into the nape, and leaves the curls in the back long and flowing.
Why It Works:
The high fade adds an extra level of contrast to the curly mullet, emphasizing the curls on top and in the back. The boldness of the fade complements the relaxed, longer curls, creating a striking juxtaposition between the two elements. It’s a great option for individuals looking to stand out with their curly hair.
Styling Tips:
Apply a curl-enhancing mousse or cream to damp hair and diffuse the curls to add volume and definition. The high fade requires maintenance to keep the lines crisp, and regular trims will help preserve the shape of the style.
3. Textured Taper Fade Mullet
The textured taper fade mullet is a more subtle take on the classic mullet, incorporating texture throughout the top and back of the hair. The fade on the sides is kept minimal, allowing the natural texture of the curly hair to take center stage.
Why It Works:
The texture on the top and back creates a lived-in, effortless vibe that contrasts well with the sharp fade on the sides. This style offers a more modern, relaxed take on the mullet while still showcasing the curls in a polished way.
Styling Tips:
Use a lightweight curl mousse or styling gel to add definition to the curls without weighing them down. Scrunch the product into damp hair and let it air dry for a natural finish. The tapered sides should be kept trimmed for a clean appearance, but the top can be styled with minimal effort.
4. Short Curly Mullet with Low Fade
A short curly mullet with a low fade is an excellent option for those who prefer a more contained look. The curls are kept relatively short and defined, while the low fade on the sides ensures a smooth transition from the hairline to the nape.
Why It Works:
The low fade provides a subtle contrast to the curls, highlighting their texture without overpowering the face. The short length on top is ideal for curly hair, as it’s easier to manage while still showcasing the natural curl pattern. This style works best for those who want a clean, professional take on the mullet.
Styling Tips:
To achieve this look, use a curl cream or gel to define the curls on the top. Blow-dry with a diffuser to add volume, or let the hair air dry for a more natural look. Keep the sides and back trimmed to maintain the low fade and ensure the style stays sharp.
5. Curly Mullet with Skin Fade
The curly mullet with a skin fade is a bold, edgy look that highlights the natural texture of curly hair. The skin fade gradually tapers down to the skin at the nape and sides, leaving the curls on top and in the back longer.
Why It Works:
The skin fade creates an extreme contrast between the sharp sides and the voluminous curls, making the curls appear even more prominent. This style adds dimension and shape to curly hair, making it a standout choice for those with an adventurous style.
Styling Tips:
For this look, use a strong-hold curl gel to define and shape the curls. Apply the product to damp hair, and either air dry or use a diffuser for added volume. The skin fade will need to be maintained regularly to keep the clean, sharp lines intact.
6. Curly Mullet with Medium Fade
The curly mullet with a medium fade strikes a balance between the high and low fades, offering a more gradual transition from the curls to the tapered sides. This versatile style is perfect for those who want a blend of boldness and subtlety.
Why It Works:
The medium fade offers a balanced contrast without being too extreme, while the curly top and back add texture and movement. This style is ideal for those who want to experiment with a mullet without going too over-the-top.
Styling Tips:
To style this look, apply a curl cream to damp hair to define the curls. Use a diffuser to dry the curls, creating a voluminous, natural look. Regular trims are important to keep the medium fade sharp and the curls well-defined.
7. Layered Curly Mullet with Tapered Sides
The layered curly mullet with tapered sides features layers on top that enhance the natural curl pattern. The fade on the sides is kept gradual, creating a soft transition from the top to the back.
Why It Works:
The layers on top add texture and movement to the curls, creating a more dynamic and voluminous look. The tapered sides ensure the overall style remains clean, preventing the layers from looking too heavy. This style works well for those with medium-length curly hair.
Styling Tips:
Apply a curl-enhancing mousse or gel to damp hair, then blow-dry with a diffuser to enhance the layers. Use a small amount of styling cream to add definition to the curls and maintain a natural, bouncy finish.
8. Curly Mullet with Textured Sides
The curly mullet with textured sides combines the sharpness of a fade with the relaxed texture of the curls. The sides are kept slightly longer than a typical fade, creating a textured look that complements the voluminous curls on top and in the back.
Why It Works:
The textured sides add a rugged, masculine feel to the style, while the curls on top and in the back offer softness and movement. This contrast creates an interesting balance between edgy and relaxed elements, making it a perfect choice for those who want something unique.
Styling Tips:
Use a lightweight styling gel or cream to define the curls, then use a diffuser to dry the hair for added volume. The textured sides can be shaped with a comb or fingers to create a more natural look, while the curls remain the focal point of the style.
9. Curly Mullet with Flat Top Fade
The curly mullet with a flat top fade is a striking style that adds height and structure to curly hair. The top of the hair is kept flat and short, while the fade on the sides creates a clean, sharp look.
Why It Works:
The flat top adds height, which is ideal for those with tall frames, while the fade ensures the look is structured and neat. The curls in the back flow naturally, offering a smooth transition from the flat top to the longer back. This style provides a bold, modern twist on the traditional mullet.
Styling Tips:
For this look, apply a lightweight curl cream to define the curls, and use a diffuser to dry the hair while maintaining the volume. The flat top will need to be trimmed regularly to keep its shape, while the back curls can be left natural.
10. Curly Mullet with Shaved Sides
For a more dramatic approach, the curly mullet with shaved sides features an ultra-clean fade, with the sides shaved down to the skin. The curls on top and in the back are left longer, creating a stark contrast with the shaved sides.
Why It Works:
The shaved sides emphasize the curls on top and in the back, giving the style a bold, eye-catching appearance. This style is perfect for individuals who want to make a statement while still showcasing their natural curls.
Styling Tips:
To achieve this look, apply a curl cream or gel to damp hair and use a diffuser to dry the curls. The shaved sides will require regular upkeep, so schedule frequent trips to the barber to maintain the clean lines.
11. Curly Mullet with Asymmetrical Fade
The curly mullet with an asymmetrical fade offers a modern twist on the classic style. The sides are faded unevenly, creating a dynamic, edgy look. The curls on top and in the back remain long, allowing the hair to flow naturally.
Why It Works:
The asymmetrical fade adds an element of surprise and unpredictability, giving the mullet a fresh, contemporary feel. This style is ideal for those who want to break away from traditional mullet shapes and try something bold and innovative.
Styling Tips:
Use a curl-enhancing gel or mousse to define the curls and add volume. Blow-dry the hair using a diffuser, or let it air dry for a more natural finish. The asymmetrical fade requires frequent touch-ups to keep the edges sharp.
12. Curly Mullet with Undercut Fade
The curly mullet with an undercut fade features a stark contrast between the short, shaved sides and the voluminous curls on top. The undercut fade leaves the sides of the head nearly shaved, while the top and back retain the long, flowing curls.
Why It Works:
The undercut fade emphasizes the curls, making them the focal point of the hairstyle. This high-contrast look is perfect for those who want a dramatic and fashionable take on the mullet, and it works well for all types of curly hair.
Styling Tips:
To achieve this style, apply a curl cream or gel to damp hair and use a diffuser to dry it. Regular trims are necessary to keep the undercut clean, while the top curls can be styled with minimal effort.
Conclusion
The 12 taper fade mullet curly hairstyles showcased in this article offer a range of options for those looking to update their curly hair game in 2025. From the classic taper fade mullet to more daring and contemporary styles, there’s a curly mullet that fits every personality and aesthetic. By experimenting with different fade levels and curl patterns, you can create a unique, head-turning look that’s sure to stand out. Whether you prefer a bold statement or a more refined take, these styles will help you embrace your curly hair with confidence and sty
