If you’ve been toying with the idea of getting a bold new haircut but have no idea where to start, we’re here to put the shullet on your radar. A shullet haircut is a daring fusion of two iconic styles: the shag and the mullet. It makes for a hybrid hairstyle that strikes the perfect balance between retro flair and contemporary cool. The most compelling aspect of this style, however, is how it rarely requires more than a quick tousle with texturizing spray to make it camera-ready. Below, watch an easy curly shullet transformation (courtesy of a pro stylist) and discover a few tricks for styling one of the season’s hottest looks.
What Is a Shullet?
A shullet is a haircut that combines the edginess of a mullet with the soft layers of a shag. The throwback-inspired look typically features choppy, layered bangs at the front and longer, textured hair at the back. But unlike a traditional mullet—which often involves a stark jump from short to long—the shullet’s layers are meant to blend together more seamlessly. This gives the style a softer, more approachable silhouette, perfect for those wanting the punk-rock vibe of a mullet sans the extreme structure.
Who Can Wear a Shullet?
Anyone can wear a shullet as long as the style is tailored to their face shape, hair type, and personal preferences. However, it’s particularly flattering on those with wavy and curly hair. That’s because when hair has any sort of curl pattern, the shullet cut helps it take on a carefree, undone look that's incredibly easy to style—just apply a bit of your favorite product, and you're good to go. Plus, the layers help remove excess weight from your mane, making textured hair look effortlessly styled and full of body. If you’re in the market for a low-maintenance ‘do, a curly shullet may be your next signature look.
How To Cut a Curly Shullet
For the best results, you’ll want to visit a hairdresser who’s well-versed in curly cuts; they’ll likely create your curly shullet using the point-cutting technique. Point-cutting is a method that involves your stylist using the tips (or points) of their scissors to cut the hair at an angle rather than straight across. This approach is particularly effective for curls because it minimizes harsh lines, reduces bulk, and enhances hair’s bounce and definition. Think of it as a way to help your curls fall more naturally and prevent the dreaded "helmet head" effect, giving your mane a more lived-in look with plenty of volume and shape.
The Shullet Haircut: 3 Styling Tips
Try a wash-and-go
As mentioned, a key allure of the shullet is how easy it is to style. A classic wash-and-go can help you coax out maximum texture from your strands, but first, you’ll have to select the right shampoo and conditioner. Consider adding the following wash day systems to your cart:
- For fine hair: Redken Volume Injection Duo
- For wavy hair: Matrix A Curl Can Dream Weightless Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner
- For curly hair: L’Oréal Professionnel Curl Expression Moisturizing Shampoo and Moisturizing Mask
After washing, scrunch your strands with a texturizer like Redken’s Beach Spray and allow them to air-dry to complete the tousled look.
Slick it back
You can quickly take your shullet haircut from grungy to elevated by simply slicking it back. First, wash your hair as usual, then apply a shine-enhancing heat protectant (our pick: Kérastase Elixir Ultime Refillable Hydrating Hair Oil) from the roots to ends of damp hair. Next, blow-dry your hair while brushing it back with a paddle brush. Once your strands are fully dry, work a dime-size amount of Matrix Controller Gel through your hair for a strong hold and glossy finish without any stiffness or crunch.
Plan for trims
As with any high-fashion haircut, you’ll have to pencil in regular trims to ensure a defined silhouette. You should typically trim a shullet every 4-6 weeks to maintain its structure, but this can vary based on how quickly your hair grows and how closely you want to stick to the original style. If you're growing out your shullet haircut, you can space trims out a bit longer. But if you like the definition of the layered, choppy look, more frequent trims will keep it looking fresh and free of split ends. When in doubt, consult your stylist to determine the best schedule for your needs.
So, what are you waiting for? Use our salon locator to try a shullet haircut with a pro near you.
Next Up: Modern Mullet Haircut: Inspiration and Styling Tips
Header photo credits: SalonCentric
