The mullet, a hairstyle characterized by its contrasting lengths—short in the front and long at the back—has sparked polarized reactions worldwide. Despite divisive opinions, this iconic cut continues to thrive, largely due to endorsements from high-profile celebrities. Originally popularized in the '70s and '80s by figures like Dolly Parton and David Bowie, the style has evolved through modern interpretations by today's stars such as Florence Pugh and Kristen Stewart. This article explores how celebrities have kept the mullet relevant, blending it with contemporary aesthetics and subcultural influences.
From its roots in punk culture to its resurgence on red carpets, the mullet embodies both rebellion and adaptability. Its staying power is attributed not only to its edgy appeal but also to its versatility across different looks. For instance, Scarlett Johansson fondly recalls her early 2000s version, while Rihanna has embraced multiple iterations of the style throughout her career. Similarly, Zendaya’s daring blonde mullet at the 2016 Grammys sparked discussions about beauty standards and trendsetting in Hollywood.
Billie Eilish added an unexpected twist when she accidentally created one during a dye mishap, turning what could have been a disaster into a memorable moment. Meanwhile, Miley Cyrus brought new life to the mullet with her platinum blonde rendition tied to her "Plastic Hearts" era. Other notable adopters include Charlize Theron, whose sleek black mullet stunned audiences in 2022, and Winnie Harlow, who showcased a wavy interpretation at the 2023 Fashion Awards.
Cardi B further exemplifies the mullet's reinvention potential, pairing a brunette variation with glamorous attire at a pre-Grammy event. Kristen Stewart, known for her effortless chic, wore a tousled mullet alongside a Chanel suit at the Met Gala. Florence Pugh's shaggy take complements her bold fashion choices, reinforcing the haircut's place among avant-garde styles. Rita Ora even pushed boundaries by sporting a spiky blond wig combined with bleached eyebrows at the 2024 Fashion Awards.
Jodie Turner-Smith recently introduced another hybrid form—a peroxided pixie-mullet—at the 2024 Met Gala, signaling emerging trends for the upcoming year. Through these diverse examples, it becomes clear that the mullet remains far from obsolete; instead, it thrives as a canvas for artistic expression within celebrity circles.
As demonstrated by countless celebrities, the mullet transcends mere nostalgia. It serves as a testament to personal style evolution and cultural shifts. Whether viewed positively or negatively, its persistent presence ensures ongoing conversations around hairstyling innovation and individuality in the world of fashion.