"Empire Records' Iconic Haircut: The Ultimate '90s Style Guide"

In the vibrant world of hairstyling, the Empire Records haircut has carved a niche for itself, becoming a symbol of edgy, modern style. This bold cut has been a favorite among those who dare to express their individuality through their hair. Let's delve into the details of this iconic haircut, its history, how to achieve it, and who can rock it best.

What is an Empire Records Haircut?

The Empire Records haircut, also known as the "modern mullet" or "business in the front, party in the back," is a unique blend of classic and contemporary styles. It features short hair at the front and sides, often buzzed or faded, with longer hair at the back, typically left layered or textured. The contrast between the short and long sections creates a striking, eye-catching look.

History of the Empire Records Haircut

The Empire Records haircut gained popularity in the late 1980s and early 1990s, thanks to the film "Empire Records" (1995). The movie's character Joe, played by Johnny Whitworth, sported this distinctive haircut, which became a symbol of the film's anti-establishment theme. Since then, the cut has been associated with youth culture, rebellion, and individuality.

Renee zellweger is Gina from Empire Records
Renee zellweger is Gina from Empire Records

Evolution of the Empire Records Haircut

Over the years, the Empire Records haircut has evolved to cater to different tastes and trends. While the classic version maintains the stark contrast between short and long sections, modern interpretations may blend these sections more gradually. Some variations also incorporate undercuts, fades, or unique partings to add personal flair.

How to Get an Empire Records Haircut

If you're considering this bold look, here's a step-by-step guide to achieving the Empire Records haircut:

  • Consult a Professional: This cut requires skill and precision. Find a hairstylist experienced in creating Empire Records haircuts.
  • Discuss Your Vision: Bring pictures to your consultation to ensure you and your stylist are on the same page.
  • Prepare Your Hair: If your hair is long, it may need to be trimmed first. Ensure your hair is clean and dry before the cut.
  • The Cut: Your stylist will start by clipping or buzzing the hair at the front and sides to your desired length. They'll then blend this into the longer hair at the back, creating the signature contrast.
  • Style and Maintain: After the cut, your stylist may use products to style your hair. Regular trims every 4-6 weeks will help maintain the shape of your cut.

Who Can Rock an Empire Records Haircut?

This haircut suits those with an adventurous spirit and a desire to stand out. It's particularly flattering on those with oval or square face shapes, as the contrast can help balance facial features. However, anyone can rock this cut with the right styling and confidence. It's all about expressing your personal style.

a woman with long hair smiling at someone
a woman with long hair smiling at someone

Inspiration and Variations

For inspiration, look no further than the original "Empire Records" cast, or modern celebrities like Zayn Malik and Jared Leto who have sported variations of this cut. From subtle to bold, there's an Empire Records haircut for everyone. So, why not express your individuality and make a statement with this iconic style?

Debra
Debra
Mark empire records
Mark empire records
Dove Cameron Is Ready to F*ck Around and Find Out
Dove Cameron Is Ready to F*ck Around and Find Out
Empire Records (1995)
Empire Records (1995)
11 Ways 'Empire Records' Would Be Different If Deb Was The Main Character
11 Ways 'Empire Records' Would Be Different If Deb Was The Main Character
Empire Records (1995)
Empire Records (1995)
a woman with long hair wearing a gray sweater
a woman with long hair wearing a gray sweater
Italian Cut, Surfer Cut For Men, Haircut Men Fade, Unique Mens Hair, Guy Hair Reference, European Flow, Aesthetic Haircut For Men, 70s Men Hair, Italian Actor
Italian Cut, Surfer Cut For Men, Haircut Men Fade, Unique Mens Hair, Guy Hair Reference, European Flow, Aesthetic Haircut For Men, 70s Men Hair, Italian Actor
Empire Records (1995)
Empire Records (1995)
Empire Records (1995)
Empire Records (1995)
Mod Cut 2b Hair, Mend Haircuts, Mens Haircuts 90s, Hair Cuts Short Men, Thick Haircut Men, Choppy Haircuts Men, Mens Haircut Bangs, Layered Short Hair Men, Mens Haircuts For Flat Hair
Mod Cut 2b Hair, Mend Haircuts, Mens Haircuts 90s, Hair Cuts Short Men, Thick Haircut Men, Choppy Haircuts Men, Mens Haircut Bangs, Layered Short Hair Men, Mens Haircuts For Flat Hair
Curly Curtain Mullet, Long Hair Styles Men Wavy, 90s Grunge Hair Men, Long Haircut For Men Wavy, Jeff Buckley Haircut, Wavy Long Hairstyles Men, Mens Curly Layered Haircut, Men Long Hair Cuts, Long Hair Fringe Men
Curly Curtain Mullet, Long Hair Styles Men Wavy, 90s Grunge Hair Men, Long Haircut For Men Wavy, Jeff Buckley Haircut, Wavy Long Hairstyles Men, Mens Curly Layered Haircut, Men Long Hair Cuts, Long Hair Fringe Men
Cortes De Pelo Largo Para Hombres, Hair Lengths, Short Hair Styles Easy, Medium Length Hair Men, Easy Hairstyles For Medium Hair, Wavy Hair Men, Long Hair Styles Men, Medium Hair Cuts, Mens Hairstyles Medium, Men Haircut Styles
Cortes De Pelo Largo Para Hombres, Hair Lengths, Short Hair Styles Easy, Medium Length Hair Men, Easy Hairstyles For Medium Hair, Wavy Hair Men, Long Hair Styles Men, Medium Hair Cuts, Mens Hairstyles Medium, Men Haircut Styles
a young man wearing a black turtle neck sweater with an animal print scarf around his waist
a young man wearing a black turtle neck sweater with an animal print scarf around his waist
90s Edgar Haircut, Spikey Hair Boys, 2000 Men Haircut, 90s Edgar Cut, Spiky Guy Hair, Boy With Spiky Hair, 2007 Haircut Men, 90s Hairstyles Man, 2000s White Boy Hair
90s Edgar Haircut, Spikey Hair Boys, 2000 Men Haircut, 90s Edgar Cut, Spiky Guy Hair, Boy With Spiky Hair, 2007 Haircut Men, 90s Hairstyles Man, 2000s White Boy Hair
a woman holding a cell phone in her right hand and looking at the camera with an intense look on her face
a woman holding a cell phone in her right hand and looking at the camera with an intense look on her face
Liv Tyler
Liv Tyler
NIKITA
NIKITA
a woman with long brown hair wearing a blue and white dress is posing for the camera
a woman with long brown hair wearing a blue and white dress is posing for the camera
a close up of a person smiling and looking at the camera with an intense look on her face
a close up of a person smiling and looking at the camera with an intense look on her face
a young man standing against a white wall with his hands in his pockets and wearing a green sweatshirt
a young man standing against a white wall with his hands in his pockets and wearing a green sweatshirt
No Fade Mullet, Men Hairstyle Wavy Hair, Man Wavy Haircut, Warrior Cut Fade, Modern Mullet Cut, Modern Shag Haircut Men, Straight Haircuts For Men, Low Taper Fade Long Hair, Man Long Haircut
No Fade Mullet, Men Hairstyle Wavy Hair, Man Wavy Haircut, Warrior Cut Fade, Modern Mullet Cut, Modern Shag Haircut Men, Straight Haircuts For Men, Low Taper Fade Long Hair, Man Long Haircut