Why the mullet could actually be a surprisingly flattering new hairstyle to try

Actress Kristen Stewart has reignited interest in what was once deemed the most unwearable haircut in history.

Say the word mullet and several variations come to mind.

On the one hand you have the iconic: David Bowie, Stevie Nicks, Blondie and Joan Jett. On the other end of the spectrum there’s the often-mocked 80s rock band hair satirised in films such as Wayne’s World and endless comedy sketches.

Kristen Stewart, and Miley Cyrus before her, however, have ended the mullet’s tainted reputation by proving that the disconnected hairstyle can be both cool and flattering, despite its chequered past.

Hairstylist Andreas Wild at Larry King’s Notting Hill salon says there’s been a noticeable increase in clients asking for more layers, a sign that shaggy hairstyles are on the up. “I’m getting the sense that women are bored of one-length hairstyles and are looking for something more playful,” he says, suggesting a variation of the mullet – or wolf cut as it’s sometimes called – is surprisingly suitable for all hair types and ages.

“Kristen Stewart’s cut is extreme but there are ways to adapt it by closing the gap between the top and bottom,” says Wild.

The trick, he says, is not to cut the top too short or bring up the length on the neck, especially if you have naturally voluminous hair. “Thick hair, if it’s cut too short on top, will start to take on a mushroom shape,” he warns, adding: “it’s best to cut the hair dry with a razor so you can create the shape freehand, working with the person’s hair texture.”

Razor cutting, explains Wild, softens the edges, while the dry cutting allows for kinks and waves to dictate the shape, which he says is the secret to its versatility.

“We’re not trying to manipulate the client’s natural texture like we did in the past: it’s all about working with, not against, the imperfections – that’s what makes it work on everyone,” explains Wild, who says “perfectly blow-dried hair” is the antithesis to a contemporary haircut. The pro-texture hair movement is evident on models such as Mica Argañaraz, whose curls work beautifully within the framework of the traditional mullet shape.

“It’s the face framing that makes this cut so wearable,” Wild adds. “It’s a case of taking out volume in certain places and thinning out the hair in other areas to create the shape that suits you – you can be as soft or edgy as you like.” And yet, it’s not for the faint hearted. “This is not a cut for ladies who lunch: it’s for someone who wants a cool update, but it will also soften facial features,” he insists.

Styling is all important. “You can be really playful with this haircut. Add a styling cream to separate the layers when the fringe is worn forward, or apply a light mousse and brush it away from the face, tucking the sides behind the ears for an elegant twist,” Wild says.

Whether you’re brave enough to follow Stewart’s image, what’s clear is that layers are key to this season’s hairstyles – so long as they’re cut to fit. “What’s different about haircuts now is the tailored approach. It’s all about freehand hair cutting that is designed to suit the individual, taking into consideration their facial features and the natural finish of the hair,” Wild explains.

Given Stewart is currently also making headlines for striding out in her knickers, the mullet might, against the odds, be the most practical of her style suggestions.

Three styling products for the modern mullet

For shine: Hair by Larry King Social Life for Your Hair, from £12

For hold: L’Oreal Hairspray by Elnett, £7.50

For texture: Hair by Sam McKnight Cool Girl Barely There Texture Spray, £27

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