Some hairstyles age like fine wine—others like milk.
Trends from decades past are strutting back into the spotlight, and hair is no exception. The shag is back. Curtain bangs are everywhere. And yes, even the mullet is getting love again (don’t panic—this time it’s cooler).
But let’s be real—not every throwback deserves a round two.
Some styles had their moment and should stay buried in yearbooks and retro music videos.
In this post, we’re diving into 12 nostalgic hairstyles making a stylish return—and dragging along 7 others that probably should’ve stayed retired.
Spoiler: not everything from the ‘80s needs a comeback tour.
Strap in for a mix of glam, cringe, and pure “I used to wear that?” energy.
The Iconic Bob
The bob, with its origins tracing back to the 1920s, remains a timeless classic. Known for its sharp lines and chic appeal, the bob has been donned by icons like Coco Chanel and Louise Brooks. Today, it returns with modern variations and textures.
Stylists have reinvented the bob with asymmetrical cuts and layered ends, adding a contemporary flair. Its adaptability makes it suitable for virtually any face shape.
Whether straight and sleek or wavy and tousled, the bob is a versatile choice for those seeking a stylish yet easy-to-manage look.
Perm Curls
Perms, synonymous with 1980s fashion, have made a surprising return. Once known for their tight, frizzy curls, today’s perms offer softer, more natural waves. Popular among those seeking body and movement, modern perms emphasize a more relaxed elegance.
Advancements in hair technology have ensured that these curls are less damaging and more customizable than their predecessors. Stylists can now create beachy waves or full-bodied curls, catering to all preferences.
This resurgence taps into the nostalgia for bold, expressive hairdos while accommodating contemporary tastes.
Bowl Cut
Once a source of childhood embarrassment, the bowl cut is seeing a quirky revival. Popularized by celebrities and fashion-forward teens, this hairstyle is reimagined with updated techniques.
The modern bowl cut features textured layers and undercuts, making it edgy and stylish. It challenges traditional norms and embraces individuality, appealing to those unafraid to stand out.
While not for everyone, its bold nature makes it a statement choice for the daring. This reinvention proves that even the most ridiculed styles can find their place in modern fashion.
Feathered Hair
Feathered hair, a hallmark of 1970s style, is making a graceful return. Known for its soft, layered texture, this hairstyle exudes effortless glamour. Popularized by icons like Farrah Fawcett, it remains a symbol of retro chic.
Today’s feathered styles are more refined, with smoother transitions and subtle layers. They offer a contemporary twist on a nostalgic favorite.
This hairstyle suits various lengths and textures, making it a versatile option for those longing for a touch of vintage elegance in their daily look.
Mullet
The mullet, notorious for its “business in the front, party in the back” look, has made a daring comeback. Once a staple of 1980s rock bands, it’s now sported by trendsetters looking for an edge.
Modern mullets are sleeker and more sophisticated, blending contemporary styling with retro vibes. They are a bold choice for those wanting to challenge conventional aesthetics.
Despite its polarizing nature, the mullet’s return highlights the fashion world’s cyclical nature, where even the most divisive trends can be reimagined.
Pixie Cut
The pixie cut, with its origins in the 1950s, remains a symbol of liberation and self-expression. Made famous by actresses like Audrey Hepburn, it exudes confidence and sophistication.
Today’s pixie cuts feature more diversity in styling, with textured layers and asymmetrical fringes. They cater to various personal styles, from edgy to elegant.
This haircut is ideal for those seeking a low-maintenance yet striking look, offering a refreshing change from longer hairstyles. It continues to empower individuals to embrace their unique style.
Shag Haircut
The shag haircut, celebrated in the 1970s for its rebellious charm, is back with a modern twist. Known for its choppy layers and casual appeal, it has been updated to suit contemporary tastes.
Today’s shag is more polished, offering versatility and texture. It can be tailored to fit various hair types and lengths, making it a popular choice for those seeking a laid-back yet stylish look.
This revitalized version maintains the original’s carefree spirit while integrating new styling techniques, appealing to a new generation of trendsetters.
Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs, a beloved trend from the 1970s, are experiencing a fashionable resurgence. Known for their face-framing elegance, they offer a soft, romantic look.
These bangs are versatile, suiting various face shapes and hair types. They transition seamlessly between different hairstyles, adding a touch of effortless glam.
The appeal of curtain bangs lies in their ability to refresh one’s look without drastic changes. They blend nostalgia with modernity, offering a subtle yet impactful update to any hairstyle.
Crimped Hair
Crimped hair, a staple of 1980s fashion, is making a playful return. Known for its zigzag waves, this style adds texture and volume.
Modern crimping techniques offer more subtle variations, making it suitable for those wanting to experiment without overcommitting. It’s a fun way to add flair to any look.
This hairstyle’s comeback demonstrates the enduring appeal of playful, eclectic styles that offer a break from the ordinary. It’s perfect for those looking to embrace their creative side.
Slicked-Back Hair
Slicked-back hair, popularized in the 1930s, remains a hallmark of elegance and refinement. Known for its smooth, polished appearance, it conveys confidence and style.
Today’s slicked-back styles incorporate modern products for a firm hold without stiffness. They suit both formal and casual settings, offering versatility.
This hairstyle continues to be favored by those seeking a classic yet modern appearance, blending tradition with contemporary flair. Its timeless appeal ensures it remains a staple in fashion-forward circles.
Beehive
The beehive, synonymous with the 1960s, is occasionally spotted on retro-themed events and fashion runways. Known for its towering height and structured form, it’s a nod to a bygone era of bold styles.
While not practical for everyday wear, the beehive is celebrated for its statement-making impact. It’s a tribute to times when fashion was about volume and drama.
This hairstyle often surfaces in nostalgic revivals, where its unmistakable silhouette adds a touch of vintage glam to themed events and fashion shows.
Frosted Tips
Frosted tips, a defining trend of the late 1990s and early 2000s, are best left in the past. Known for their stark contrast and bold statement, they were once the pinnacle of youthful rebellion.
Today, fashion favors more subtle highlights and balayage techniques, which offer a seamless blend rather than a stark division.
While frosted tips evoke fond memories for some, they hardly fit into the refined aesthetics of modern hair trends, where naturalness and sophistication are prized.
Liberty Spikes
Liberty spikes, a bold emblem of punk culture, are best remembered rather than revived. Known for their defiant and rebellious nature, these towering spikes were a statement against conformity.
While they capture the spirit of a subculture that challenged norms, modern tastes lean towards more wearable and versatile styles.
Though an iconic symbol of punk rock protests, liberty spikes are rarely seen outside niche events and are often regarded as impractical in today’s diverse fashion landscape.
Rat Tail
The rat tail, a controversial trend from the 1980s, is better left in fashion history. Known for its solitary long strand trailing from a short hairstyle, it was once a quirky choice.
In the contemporary style scene, this look is considered outdated and lacks the versatility of more modern cuts.
While it occasionally resurfaces in retro-themed events, the rat tail’s limited appeal and practicality keep it from being widely adopted in today’s fashion-conscious environment.
Teased Bangs
Teased bangs, a hallmark of 1980s glamour, are often remembered with mixed feelings. Their over-the-top volume and dramatic flair made a statement, but today’s trends favor more subtlety.
Modern hairstyles embrace natural textures and softer profiles, making teased bangs a relic of a bygone era.
While nostalgic for some, this trend is less practical in today’s world, where understated elegance often takes precedence over extravagant styles.
Fauxhawk
The fauxhawk, a less extreme version of the mohawk, gained popularity in the early 2000s. Known for its subtle edge, it combines the daring nature of a mohawk with everyday wearability.
While it offered a way to express individuality without full commitment to a mohawk, today’s styles favor more polished and refined looks.
Often replaced by textured crops and undercuts, the fauxhawk’s appeal has waned, leaving it as a nostalgic nod rather than a current trendsetter.
The Rachel
‘The Rachel’ haircut, made famous by Jennifer Aniston in the 1990s, was once the go-to style for women worldwide. Known for its layers and face-framing volume, it defined an era of hair fashion.
While it remains iconic, today’s trends prefer more natural movement and less structured styles.
Though ‘The Rachel’ holds a cherished place in hair history, its specific cut and style are best appreciated in reruns of ‘Friends’ rather than on modern fashion runways.
Pageboy Cut
The pageboy cut, recognized for its straight lines and rounded ends, holds a place in mid-20th-century fashion. Originally a simple, practical style, it was popular among both genders.
In the contemporary era, it lacks the versatility and styling options offered by more fluid and adaptive haircuts.
Though perfect for a historically themed event, the pageboy cut’s rigid structure and simplicity often render it out of place in today’s diverse and dynamic fashion landscape.
The Pompadour
The pompadour, with its bold, voluminous sweep, remains an emblem of audacious style. First popularized by Madame de Pompadour, this look exudes confidence and flair.
Today, it captivates with a modern twist, blending classic elegance with contemporary edge.
Imagine a young James Dean, but with today’s cutting-edge styling products. Whether worn by rebellious rockers or suave businessmen, its versatility knows no bounds.
The trick lies in maintaining volume without sacrificing sleekness, creating a harmonious balance.
Its rich history and adaptability make it a timeless favorite, bridging generations with its iconic silhouette.