The Tamesis
The 401k mullet is a natural and clever evolution of the long-lasting cut that is both polarizing and always fashionable. Inspired by this fad, I decided to try it out for myself: after all, what better time than early 2026 to start a new beauty journey? New year, new me.
After a quick consultation with stylist Bobby Michael, co-founder of the Maverick House salon in New York, he began tailoring my new look. The 401k mullet – also known as a mini mullet – may be a relatively recent development, but Michael says he’s been getting a lot of requests for the cut, besides me.
“Mini mullets have taken not only Hollywood by storm, but the streets of New York as well,” Tochtman said. “We’re in an era of nostalgia, so it makes sense that the mullet is making a comeback: it brings a modern feel to the rock stars of the 1970s and ’80s.”
Photo: Getty Images
To achieve this look yourself, Toctman recommends keeping the back and sides of the style tapered while cutting the front and top a bit more voluminous. “The length of this hairstyle is a little softer than its predecessors,” Michael said. “There’s a little texture on the sides, the length in the back is less choppy, and there’s more flow on top. It’s a natural evolution of the soft boy haircut.”
Once styled, I also found that mini mullets are incredibly easy to style at home: all you need is a quick blow-dry and some styling wax. Tochterman recommends “generally hand styling, by scrunching the hair and creating natural waves.” “My favorite product for this hair style is R+co Bleu’s Elastic Styling Pomade. This look calls for products that bring a refined shine—say goodbye to matte hair!”
Photo: Getty Images
