Hairstyles, like fashion, are ever-changing. What was once the epitome of cool can quickly fade into the archives of style history. Looking back, certain trends were everywhere—on TV, in magazines, and at every party—but now, they’ve taken a backseat to more modern looks.
From sky-high teased hair to chunky highlights, these once-popular styles tell a story of their time. Some might make you nostalgic, while others will have you wondering, What were we thinking? Here’s a roundup of 13 hairstyles that had their moment but have since slipped out of favor.
The Mullet
The mullet was a defining hairstyle of the 1980s, characterized by its “business in the front, party in the back” look. This dual-length cut was once the epitome of cool, worn by rock stars and athletes alike. However, its decline began as fashion leaned towards more uniform hairstyles.
Today, the mullet is often viewed as an outdated relic of the past. While it occasionally sees ironic revivals, it largely remains sidelined in contemporary style. If you want a modern twist, consider a more balanced cut that retains length without the drastic contrast.
Embrace layers or subtle fades for a fresh update.
Crimped Hair
Crimped hair was a staple of the 1990s, adding texture and volume to otherwise straight locks. Achieved with a special crimping iron, this style was perfect for making a bold statement. Yet, its popularity waned as sleek, straight hair came into vogue.
Today, crimped hair is rarely seen outside of themed parties or nostalgic events. For those seeking texture, soft waves or loose curls offer a more contemporary alternative. These styles provide movement and volume without the dated look that crimped hair often imparts.
Consider experimenting with different curling techniques for a modern flair.
Beehive
The beehive was an iconic symbol of the 1960s, exuding sophistication and elegance. Women would tease their hair into towering heights, creating an impressive silhouette. This style was often accessorized with ribbons or brooches to enhance its grandeur.
In contemporary fashion, the beehive is seen as over-the-top and impractical for daily wear. While it might make occasional appearances in retro-themed photoshoots, it’s unlikely to return mainstream. For a modern take, opt for a voluminous updo that maintains elegance without the excessive height.
Try gentle teasing and strategic pinning for a chic finish.
Feathered Hair
Made famous by celebrities, feathered hair was all the rage in the 1970s. This style, with its soft layers and face-framing fringes, offered a relaxed yet polished look. Despite its charm, the style fell out of favor as the 1980s approached with more structured cuts.
In modern times, feathered hair is often associated with vintage fashion, rarely seen in everyday hairstyles. If you cherish the layered appearance, consider a textured bob or a modern shag cut.
These options provide a similar effect while aligning with current trends, ensuring a fresh and stylish look.
The Rat Tail
The rat tail was a bold hairstyle that emerged in the late 1980s, characterized by a small section of longer hair at the base of the neck. It was a unique statement piece, often adorned with beads or colored ties. However, it quickly became divisive and fell out of favor.
Today, the rat tail is rarely seen and generally avoided in modern hairstyling. For those seeking individuality, consider asymmetrical cuts or undercuts with creative designs.
These approaches offer a similar sense of uniqueness while fitting into contemporary aesthetics, providing a fresh yet distinctive style.
Permed Curls
Permed curls were synonymous with the 1980s, providing volume and texture to hair of all lengths. This chemical process created lasting curls, effortlessly maintaining shape and body. However, the style’s rigid structure eventually led to its decline.
Today, softer and more natural curls are preferred, as they offer a more relaxed and organic look. Consider embracing your natural curl pattern or using modern curling techniques to achieve loose waves.
This approach provides volume and movement without the harshness of a perm, aligning with the current trend of effortless beauty.
Liberty Spikes
Liberty spikes were a prominent symbol of punk culture in the 1990s, characterized by stiffened hair formed into upright spikes. This defiant style was achieved using strong gels or even glue, making a bold statement against mainstream norms.
Although it epitomized rebellion, the style is now largely confined to specific subcultures and music festivals. For a modern edge, consider faux hawks or textured crops that maintain the spirit without the rigidity.
These alternatives offer versatility and ease of maintenance, allowing for creative expression without the commitment of liberty spikes.
The Bowl Cut
The bowl cut, a childhood staple, was a simple and practical hairstyle that gained popularity in the 1990s. Characterized by its rounded appearance, this cut was easy to achieve at home with a pair of scissors.
Today, the bowl cut is largely avoided, often associated with embarrassing childhood photos. For a similar low-maintenance style, consider a classic crew cut or a modern pixie.
These cuts offer ease and simplicity while providing a more flattering shape, making them suitable for both children and adults seeking a convenient yet stylish option.
Frosted Tips
Frosted tips were a hallmark of early 2000s fashion, adding a touch of bleach to the ends of spiked hair. This style was trendy among pop stars and teenagers, providing a playful, sun-kissed look.
However, as hair trends shifted towards more natural hues, frosted tips fell out of favor. Modern hair coloring techniques now favor subtle highlights and balayage for a more refined appearance.
These methods offer dimension and depth without the stark contrast of frosted tips, aligning with the contemporary preference for understated elegance.
The Shag
The shag haircut was a versatile style of the 1970s, featuring layers of varying lengths that created a tousled yet controlled look. This carefree style embodied the essence of the era’s bohemian spirit.
As fashion evolved towards more polished appearances, the shag became less prevalent. For those drawn to its layered charm, consider a modern iteration like the textured lob or layered pixie.
These cuts maintain the shag’s signature volume and movement while adapting to contemporary trends, ensuring a look that’s both nostalgic and current.
Cornrows with Beads
Cornrows adorned with beads were a popular style for children in the 1990s, offering a playful and practical option for managing hair. These intricate braids were often decorated with colorful beads, adding an element of fun.
While cornrows remain a cultural staple, the bead embellishments have become less common in everyday wear. For a similar look, consider sleek braids with subtle accents or metallic cuffs.
These alternatives provide a nod to the past while embracing a more understated elegance, suitable for both casual and formal settings.
The Side Ponytail
The side ponytail was a quintessential 1980s hairstyle, popularized by pop icons and fitness enthusiasts. This asymmetrical look added flair and fun, often accompanied by vibrant scrunchies.
Though charming in its time, the side ponytail has largely vanished from the fashion scene. For a fresh take, try a sleek low ponytail or a chic side braid.
These styles offer the same playful asymmetry while aligning with modern aesthetics, providing a versatile option for various occasions without the retro connotations.
Victory Rolls
Victory rolls were a signature style of the 1940s, representing both fashion and patriotism during wartime. These intricate rolls were styled at the front of the hair, creating an elegant and timeless look.
While they occasionally appear in vintage-themed events, victory rolls are not practical for modern daily wear.
For a nod to this classic style, consider loose pin curls or a modern twist on the classic roll.
These options retain the retro charm without the complexity, making them suitable for contemporary settings that require a touch of elegance.