From his breakout role in Normal People to his red carpet appearances, Paul Mescal’s hair has become a defining element of his effortlessly cool style.
Whether he’s sporting a clean French crop or a bold mini mullet, Mescal’s grooming choices consistently make headlines and influence salon chairs across the country.
In this article, we take a closer look at Paul Mescal’s most talked-about haircuts, how to achieve them, and why they continue to inspire a new wave of men’s grooming trends.
The French Crop: Laid-Back, Low Maintenance
One of Mescal’s most recognisable looks came during his portrayal of Connell Waldron in Normal People. His wavy French crop quickly became synonymous with the character—sparking copycat styles from Dublin to Dalston.
This haircut features a short, textured top with a soft fringe, complemented by tapered sides and a natural finish. It’s a highly wearable style that suits most face shapes and is ideal for those who want something simple but sharp.
How to Style It:
- Ask your barber for a French crop with a textured fringe
- Use a sea salt spray to boost natural waves
- Finish with a matte clay or paste to keep things light and defined
- Maintenance: Trim every 4–6 weeks to keep the shape clean
The Modern Mullet: Edgy But Accessible
More recently, Mescal has embraced a mini mullet—a modern reworking of the divisive ’80s staple. While the term might still evoke images of outdated excess, Mescal’s version is softer, more structured, and surprisingly wearable.
The mini mullet balances short, tapered sides with slightly longer length at the back. It adds movement and personality without sacrificing polish. It’s become increasingly popular among fashion-forward men, with many stylists noting a resurgence in requests for this modern mullet style.
How to Style It:
- Let the back grow slightly longer than the top and sides
- Keep the sides clean and blended to avoid a harsh contrast
- Use a texturising product like sea salt spray for a tousled finish
- For curlier textures, a diffuser can help keep the waves soft and natural
Paul Mescal’s Hair: A Trend Without Trying Too Hard
What makes Paul Mescal’s haircut choices so appealing isn’t just the styles themselves—it’s his approach. His hair always looks lived-in, never overdone. Whether it’s brushed forward with a casual edge or left slightly messy, there’s a sense of authenticity that resonates with modern men.
It’s also refreshing to see a male celebrity lean into natural texture. While many grooming trends focus on ultra-slick fades and high-shine finishes, Mescal proves that waves, curls, and movement can be stylish without being high-maintenance.
What to Ask for at the Barber
If you’re heading to the barber and want to channel Paul Mescal’s look, try these phrases:
- For the French crop:
“I’d like a textured French crop with a soft fringe and low taper on the sides. Keep it natural-looking on top.” - For the mini mullet:
“Keep the top and fringe short and neat, but let the back grow out just past the neckline. Blend the sides into the length at the back for a subtle mullet effect.”
Bringing a reference photo is always a good idea—Paul Mescal’s red carpet moments or editorial shoots provide plenty of inspiration.
Final Thoughts
From Connell’s clean cut to red carpet mullets, Paul Mescal’s haircut has quietly shaped a new era of men’s grooming—one that values texture, individuality, and just the right amount of rebellion. His haircuts are a masterclass in blending classic silhouettes with modern twists, and his relaxed approach to styling only adds to the appeal.
If you’re looking to refresh your haircut with something current but timeless, Mescal’s evolving hairstyles are a great place to start.