The 'Mixie' Haircut Is the New Edgier Pixie—Here's How to Get the Look

When the pixie and the mullet join forces, the result is a "mixie"—a versatile hairstyle that can be worn loose and layered or straight and sleeked back for a classic vintage aesthetic. This haircut is usually paired with some bangs and a bit of an attitude. We spoke with an expert hairstylist to see what it takes to maintain a mixie haircut and how to determine if it’s the right cut for you.

What Is a Mixie Haircut?

The mixie has several variations, ranging from ultra-short to shaggy. “A mixie haircut is a blend of a pixie cut and a mullet,” says salon owner Nunzio Saviano. The cut has “short bangs, choppy layers at the front and top, short sides, and longer length with longer layers in the back.”

“The mixie cut is flattering on all face shapes and works well with most hair textures including curly hair,” says Saviano. “The only hair texture that I won’t suggest is thin or fine hair.” Fine hair won’t have the natural volume to accentuate the shaggy layers, so the finished product might look a little flat.

How to Ask Your Stylist for This Cut

For the mixie, select a stylist you trust who has experience with this type of cut. If the cut is off, styling won’t do much to save it. “Ask the hairstylist if the mixie will suit your face shape and what length is best,” adds Saviano.  You want to determine with your stylist how short the layers are going to be and ask them how they plan to create texture and fluidity. 

Another key customization of this haircut is the type of bangs you choose. You can pair the mixie with micro, side-swept, wispy, or curtain bangs—all of which add a different element to the look. When you get a cut technique nailed down, Saviano says to ask the stylist ultimately how much time to expect for everyday styling with your hair texture.

How to Maintain and Style a Mixie Haircut

The mixie is considered a high-maintenance cut that requires regular trims about every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on your hair growth cycle. An alternative is to let the hair grow out for a shaggier, more relaxed appearance, in which case, cuts every 8 to 12 weeks would be fine. 

If you have the right hair type, styling is significantly lower maintenance than the trimming aspect. For thin and straight hair textures, more product and styling may be needed to hold the piece-y, tousled layers in place. For people with thicker hair, daily styling is a breeze that shouldn’t take more than 20 minutes and a little product.

Saviano suggests applying a mousse to damp hair and letting it air dry. For curly and wavy hair, you can tousle the hair and use a diffuser to speed up the process. Use a texture spray or pomade to add texture and shine. The most time-consuming part will be styling your bangs with hot tools if needed.