Hair was louder.
Spray cans were practically weapons.
And volume? Non-negotiable.
The ’80s didn’t whisper trends—they shouted them through sky-high bangs, teased roots, and curls that defied gravity.
This was the decade where your hair entered the room before you did.
Drama? Required.
Subtlety? Never heard of her.
We’re talking crimped waves, side ponytails with scrunchies, and that irresistible blend of rockstar rebellion and pop princess polish.
So if your soul craves a blast of retro glam, these 14 glorious ’80s-inspired hair looks are your ticket to time travel.
Big hair didn’t die.
It just needed a comeback.
The Voluminous Perm
Nothing screams the ’80s like a voluminous perm. Full of bouncy curls and body, this look epitomized the decade’s love for larger-than-life styles.
Imagine walking into a room with hair that adds a touch of drama and flair to your presence.
Perfect for anyone looking to make a statement, the perm was a favorite among celebrities and fashion icons of the time.
Whether for a night out or a special event, this hairstyle was all about embracing the bold and the beautiful, embodying a sense of confidence and charm.
Experiment with different curl sizes to find the perfect look for you.
Feathered Layers
Feathered layers brought a sophisticated flair to ’80s hairstyles. Elegantly structured, these layers framed the face beautifully and added depth to any look.
The soft, feathered edges were iconic, bringing out an effortless vibe while maintaining a touch of elegance. Many women found this hairstyle ideal for both professional settings and casual gatherings.
With layers that caught the wind just right, it offered a sense of motion and liveliness. Whether you were heading to the office or a dinner party, feathered layers were always in vogue, capturing a timeless charm.
The Mullet
Famous for its unique “business in the front, party in the back” style, the mullet became a cultural phenomenon in the ’80s. It was daring, unconventional, and definitely an attention-grabber.
Worn by rock stars and actors alike, this hairstyle had an edgy appeal that was hard to ignore. The mullet was versatile, allowing for a mix of short and long hair that could be styled in various ways.
While it might have been polarizing, the mullet remains an iconic symbol of rebellious spirit. Embrace the daring side of hair fashion with this unforgettable look.
Crimped Hair
Crimped hair was a fun and playful hairstyle that took the ’80s by storm. With its zig-zag texture and lively appearance, crimping was about experimenting with new textures.
Achieving this look was as easy as using a crimping iron, allowing for creativity and personal expression. It added a whimsical touch to everyday style, making it a popular choice among teenagers and young adults.
Whether worn loose or in a ponytail, crimped hair brought an element of excitement to the everyday. It’s the perfect way to add some retro flair to modern hairstyles today.
Punk Mohawk
The punk Mohawk was more than just a hairstyle; it was a statement of rebellion and nonconformity. With its striking, upright spikes and vibrant colors, the Mohawk was a staple in the punk rock movement.
This look was about pushing boundaries and making a bold statement. It required confidence to pull off and was often accompanied by dramatic makeup and bold accessories.
Whether you went for the classic tall spikes or a more subdued version, the Mohawk was all about expressing individuality. It remains a powerful symbol of personal freedom and creativity.
Bowl Cut
The bowl cut was a popular choice for many during the ’80s, especially among younger boys. This hairstyle offered a simple and clean look, characterized by its round shape and even length.
Although often associated with a youthful appearance, the bowl cut had a quirky charm that appealed to various age groups. Its straightforwardness made it easy to maintain and style.
Whether for school pictures or a family outing, the bowl cut was a practical yet fashionable choice. It’s a hairstyle that carries a sense of nostalgia and simplicity from days past.
The Flirty Flip
The flirty flip is all about creating movement and bounce. With its roots in the 1980s, this playful hairstyle offers a refreshing twist to modern looks. It’s perfect for anyone who wants their hair to have a life of its own.
Start by blow-drying your hair with a round brush, flipping the ends outward to create that signature bounce.
A touch of hairspray keeps everything in place while allowing you to dance the night away with confidence.
Ideal for both daytime adventures and night-time escapades, the flirty flip is more than just a hairstyle—it’s an invitation to let loose and enjoy every moment.
High Ponytail
The high ponytail, often adorned with a scrunchie, was a fun and energetic hairstyle favored by teens and young adults in the ’80s.
This look was both practical and stylish, offering a way to keep hair off the face while maintaining a lively appearance.
Perfect for sports events or casual outings, the high ponytail added a touch of playful charm to any outfit. It was versatile enough to be worn with various accessories, making it a go-to style for many.
Embrace the youthful spirit and ease of this classic ’80s look, perfect for adding retro flair to your wardrobe today.
The Shag
The shag was a versatile hairstyle that offered both volume and movement. With its layers and texture, the shag added a dynamic flair to everyday looks.
Popular among both men and women, this style could be customized to suit different face shapes and personal preferences.
The shag was all about embracing natural texture, providing a carefree and unique appearance.
Whether you preferred it short or long, the shag was adaptable and stylish, making it a timeless choice. It’s a look that still resonates today, offering a nod to its iconic ’80s roots.
Big Hair
Big hair was the defining hairstyle of the ’80s, symbolizing the decade’s mantra: bigger is better. With voluminous curls and layers, big hair was all about making a bold statement.
This style required plenty of hairspray and teasing, but the result was worth the effort. Big hair exuded confidence and charisma, capturing the essence of ’80s fashion.
Whether attending a party or simply embracing everyday glam, big hair was a versatile and striking choice. It’s a look that continues to inspire, reminding us of a time when individuality reigned supreme.
Side Ponytail
The side ponytail added a playful twist to the traditional ponytail, capturing the fun-loving spirit of the ’80s. Easily styled with a colorful scrunchie, this look was favored by young girls and teenagers alike.
It was an easy way to add personality to any outfit, providing a sense of whimsy and charm. With a simple shift to the side, the ponytail became a statement of youthful creativity.
Perfect for school or a day out with friends, the side ponytail offered a relaxed yet fashionable style. It’s a nod to the carefree and vibrant nature of the decade.
Teased Bangs
Teased bangs were a staple of the ’80s, adding height and drama to any hairstyle. This bold look was all about creating volume and texture right at the front.
Paired with various hairstyles, teased bangs became a defining feature for many women during the decade. They offered a way to experiment with new styles and add a touch of rebellious flair.
Whether worn with long locks or a short bob, teased bangs captured the essence of ’80s fashion. They reflected a daring attitude and love for experimentation, making them a timeless favorite.
Slicked Back Hair
Slicked back hair brought a touch of sleek sophistication to the ’80s fashion scene. This style was about creating a polished and refined appearance, perfect for formal occasions.
Achieved with the help of gel or mousse, slicked back hair was both stylish and practical. It offered a way to keep hair neat while exuding a sense of control and confidence.
Popular among both men and women, this look transcended gender norms, becoming a versatile choice for anyone wanting to make a statement. It’s a classic style that continues to inspire modern fashion.
The Rat Tail
The rat tail was a quirky and distinctive hairstyle of the ’80s, characterized by a small section of hair left long at the nape of the neck. Despite its unusual appearance, the rat tail was embraced by those seeking individuality.
Often combined with other styles, it added a unique twist to traditional haircuts. The rat tail was a fun way to express personal style, reflecting the creative and experimental spirit of the decade.
Whether you loved it or hated it, the rat tail was undeniably memorable. It’s a hairstyle that continues to intrigue, reminding us of a time of bold fashion choices.