Rattail (haircut)

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A rattail is a haircut that is characterized by a long "tail" of hair growing from the back of the head. It saw a notable phase of popularity during the 1980s but can still be seen today, albeit in a rarer form. While the rattail has been worn by both genders, this haircut is observed most commonly in males under the age of 15 or middle-aged men attempting to appear fashionable. The individual with a rattail typically has his or her hair cut short all over their head except for a few strands in the back that are left to grow out.

The rattail usually curls naturally; however, it can be braided, treated as a dread, permed, straightened, or curled with an iron. In some instances, an individual might choose to grow several tails or grow a single tail very long.

It appears that Jedi Knight apprentices or "padawans" in the Star Wars films (particularly the prequel trilogy") are required or allowed to wear braided rats-tails during the period of their apprenticeship, but then shave these off when the Council admits them to the full rank of Jedi Knight.

This hairstyle seems to be rather commonly seen on manga characters. For example, Miroku, a monk from InuYasha and Dr. Tofu (a character in Ranma 1/2) both have small ponytails resembling rattails. Tenchi Masaki also is seen with a rattail.

As the hairstyle has become less popular, it has been increasingly associated with redneck culture and is a common characteristic found in stereotypes of lower class North Americans.^{[citation needed]}

Some punks have been known to support them also, although in a much more punky style, totally shaven head, except for a tuft of hair at the back, usually dyed in various luminous colours.

Former junior welterweight boxing champion Kostya Tszyu sported a rather famous rattail throughout his career.