Hairstyle comparison
Compare the Long Waves and Modern Mullet by length, shape, finish, maintenance, salon wording, and how each changes your overall outline.
Published 10 September 2026
The short version
The Long Waves is defined by long length shaped by loose, continuous bends, while the Modern Mullet uses short textured sections around the face with retained length behind.
Both are rated medium for maintenance in this guide, so the stronger distinction is flowing and elongated versus contrasting and elongated.
| Feature | Long Waves | Modern Mullet |
|---|---|---|
| Signature | long length shaped by loose, continuous bends | short textured sections around the face with retained length behind |
| Length | long | mixed |
| Shape | flowing and elongated | contrasting and elongated |
| Finish | wavy | textured |
| Maintenance | medium | medium |
Long Waves
You prefer a flowing and elongated outline with a wavy finish and the defining feature of long length shaped by loose, continuous bends.
Salon wording: Ask to preserve the overall length while adding enough long layering to stop the waves from forming one heavy block.
Modern Mullet
You prefer a contrasting and elongated outline with a textured finish and the defining feature of short textured sections around the face with retained length behind.
Salon wording: Ask for clear short-to-long contrast, then agree on how disconnected or blended the sides should feel against the back.
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