Is This the Return of the Rat-Tail Haircut?

There's a new polarizing haircut trend making the rounds right now, and when you hear it, it's likely you'll either want to run to the salon ASAP to get it or find yourself saying, "WTF?" Like the mullet haircut did a few years ago, it seems the rat-tail is primed for a comeback.

You have pop culture to thank. Despite the rampant criticism for HBO's now-cancelled show "The Idol," The Weeknd's character does wear the style in the series, putting it back into the zeitgeist. Further proof of its rising popularity: on TikTok, #Rattail has amassed over 37 million views and counting. Similar to the mullet, rat-tails are not a new trend, but it has been a while since we've seen them in droves.

"Back in the glorious '80s and early '90s, the rat-tail hairstyle was particularly popular and characterized by having short hair on the front and sides of the head, while leaving a long, and daringly defiant tail cascading down the back," Andrew Zumbo, American Crew brand ambassador and hairstylist, tells POPSUGAR. "The rat-tail was often seen as a trendy or rebellious style during that time period." Its reign ended, however, almost as quickly as it came. "Like many passing trends, it lost its lustrous appeal as the '90s unfolded, fading away from the mainstream fashion and hair scene." Now, though, it's getting a second chance at life.

Ahead, Zumbo breaks down everything you need to know about the comeback of the rat-tail haircut.

If you spotted a rat-tail hairstyle in real life, you'd recognize it instantly. "[It's] characterized by a strand of hair extending from the back of the head," says Zumbo. "The hair on the rest of the head is typically shorter or shaved, while the rattail portion is left longer and usually braided or tied with a hair elastic."

Though it's traditionally seen on men, hair has no gender and anyone can rock this look. Take Kristen Stewarts's "rat-tail" haircut from 2018, for example. To modernize it and bring it into the 21st century, Zumbo recommends playing with the color and length of your hair. "For example, incorporate the rat-tail into an undercut, fade, or layered hairstyle, blending it seamlessly with current trends," he says.

Traditionally, rat-tails are much longer than the rest of the hair, providing a stark contrast between the two lengths. If that's not for you, "You could opt for a shorter and more subtle tail if you're seeking a more subdued look." Updated takes on the look also occasionally feature two rat-tails, almost like pigtails," peaking out from under your hair.

Customizing your rat-tail doesn't have to end with the color and cut. "Be bold and brave," is Zumbo's advice for wearing this controversial look. "This could involve braiding the 'rat-tail,' adding colorful accessories, or incorporating unique textures to suit different tastes." As previous old-made-new trends have taught us, it's never just about the look, but how you style it and make it your own.