How to Cut a Soft Mullet by Tom Warr
In this tutorial, Tom walks us through his step-by-step process for creating a modern, soft mullet – a look that’s effortlessly cool and full of texture. It’s split into three key cutting areas: major section, fringe and sides, and layers throughout.
Let’s get into it.
Key area 1: the major divide (crown to behind the ears)
What you’re doing:
Create a clean section from the middle of the head just behind the ears. This sectioning is a great one to use when cutting mullet and shag styles.
Why it matters:
This is the part you’ll cut shorter to create separation from the longer back – essential for that classic mullet silhouette.
Stylist tip:
This sectioning gives you creative freedom when you want this section to be the shortest part, disconnecting the front without pulling in all the length from the back.
Key area 2: fringe & sides
Fringe – use two-layered cutting points
What you’re doing:
First angle: Remove bulk and add texture.
Second angle: Pull the section to 90° and cut the fringe tighter for shape and structure.
Technique: following these two guides in this area, use a square cutting shape, overdirecting each new section back to the previous.
Why it matters:
A soft mullet shouldn’t have sharpness, this builds soft corners and gives you a flow from short to long – great for a lived-in, shaggy finish.
Side panels
What you’re doing:
These are cut disconnected from both the fringe and the back.
Cutting method: use forward graduation, over directing to keep the front shorter.
Why it matters:
Maintain a graduated angle to avoid it looking too wispy.
For more information on graduation, Stylist Mads Ruus takes you through his top tips here:
Key area 3: layers through the back
What you’re doing:
Flow of the cut: Start by blending the fringe into the rest of the length.
Work around the head to reduce bulk and keep layers snug to the shape of the head.
Technique tweaks: Unlike the square shape used in the fringe, here you follow the head’s natural shape.
Use a flat cutting angle that still respects the shape of the skull.
Why it matters:
It keeps the layers light but lets the soft mullet sit slightly longer.
Finishing touch:
Tom pivots the cutting angle around the head so it hugs and connects clean into the top layers – it slims everything down beautifully.
Product finish: Oway Shabby Mud
Great for bleached or dry hair.
Adds shine + hold – ideal for scrunching in a curl or wave.
Apply, comb through, scrunch with fingers, and dry fully.
What is a soft mullet?
A soft mullet is a haircut that has movement and no sharp edges. It has blended longer layered hair at the back and shorter layers in the front. It particularly suits wavy or curly hair and can be easily tailored. It’s a newer/longer take on the traditional mullet.
Final thoughts
This particular soft mullet has structure, texture, and the freedom to move. It’s a versatile, wearable version of a rebellious classic – think 70s attitude with a 2025 finish.
If you thought this tutorial was helpful, check out our YouTube Channel and our Academy for courses.
Hair Stylist Tom Warr is part of the Creative Team here at Blue Tit London. Find him at Blue Tit Forest Hill.
