7 Popular Haircuts That Are Losing Favor—and 7 Modern Styles Everyone Loves

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Some haircuts hold on for too long—and it’s time to let them go. Styles that once felt fresh can start to feel outdated fast, especially when new looks are changing the game.

Knowing what’s fading and what’s trending can help you pick a haircut that feels current and flattering. Whether you’re ready for a big change or just want to freshen things up, it’s all about finding the look that works for you.

The Mullet

The Mullet
© Real Simple

Once the epitome of ‘business in the front, party in the back,’ the mullet ruled the 1980s.

This iconic style, while making occasional comebacks for its quirky appeal, is largely seen as outdated today.

With its contrasting lengths and stark shape, many find it clashes with modern sensibilities.

Most people now prefer more balanced styles that offer both flair and function.

Yet, for those seeking an edgy, retro look, the mullet can still make a bold statement.

Just be prepared for mixed reactions. It remains a symbol of an era rather than a versatile choice.

The Bowl Cut

The Bowl Cut
© Chatelaine Magazine

Remember the days when the bowl cut was all the rage?

This simple, rounded style was often seen on children during the 1990s, offering a no-fuss grooming solution.

Today, however, it’s mostly relegated to nostalgic past.

While some avant-garde fashionistas might embrace its retro charm, the bowl cut tends to lack the sophistication sought in modern hairstyles.

It often conveys a childlike appearance, which doesn’t suit everyone’s style.

Thus, it has largely faded from both children’s and adults’ hair trends, remaining a memory of simpler times.

The Rat Tail

The Rat Tail
© TheTease.com

The rat tail, a slim strand of hair extending from the nape, had its moment in the sun during the late 80s and early 90s.

Although it offered a unique flair, it never truly gained widespread acceptance.

Today, this style is rarely seen, considered more of a curiosity than a fashion statement.

Its niche appeal doesn’t resonate with contemporary aesthetics that favor more polished and cohesive looks.

For those who dare to sport it, the rat tail is a nod to nostalgia but often met with bemusement. It’s a quirky relic from a vibrant era.

The Perm

The Perm
© Byrdie

Perms, with their tight curls and voluminous shapes, were once a staple of the 1980s beauty scene.

However, the chemical-intensive process and distinctive style have seen a decline in popularity. Modern preferences lean towards more natural, less structured looks.

While some embrace the perm for its bold texture and drama, many opt for relaxed waves or straight styles that offer versatility and ease.

Despite its decline, the perm occasionally resurfaces in updated forms, capturing nostalgia for the bold hairstyles of the past, but with a contemporary twist.

The Beehive

The Beehive
© Byrdie

Ah, the beehive—a towering testament to 1960s style!

This sky-high hairstyle was once synonymous with glamour and sophistication.

However, its complex construction and maintenance demands have relegated it to special occasions or costume parties in today’s world.

Modern hair enthusiasts lean towards styles that offer both elegance and ease.

Despite this, the beehive occasionally appears on runways, celebrated for its bold statement. As a relic of a chic era, it remains an iconic, but impractical, choice for everyday wear.

The Flat Top

The Flat Top
© menshairtips

Known for its perfectly horizontal top, the flat top was a hit in the 1980s, particularly among men seeking a clean-cut look.

Yet, its rigid form and precise maintenance have led to its decline in everyday styles.

While some subcultures still embrace its sharp silhouette, the flat top is often deemed too structured for contemporary tastes.

Most prefer more relaxed and versatile cuts that accommodate busy modern lifestyles.

Although it stands as a symbol of a spirited decade, it’s seldom seen outside of nostalgic revivals.

The Liberty Spikes

The Liberty Spikes
© theartistschair

Liberty spikes once screamed rebellion and punk rock in the late 70s and early 80s.

These tall, pointed spikes were attention-grabbing and unapologetically bold.

Today, while still sported by die-hard punk enthusiasts, they’re not common in mainstream fashion.

The effort required to perfect the spikes, along with their standout appearance, makes them a rare sight.

While they continue to symbolize the punk movement’s spirit, modern hairstyles typically favor less dramatic and more versatile looks.

Liberty spikes remain a vivid reminder of a rebellious era.

The Bob

The Bob
© Kenra Professional

The bob is back and more stylish than ever!

This timeless cut, known for its chic simplicity, has been reimagined with sleek lines and glossy finishes.

Perfect for those seeking a look that’s both sophisticated and easy to maintain, the bob is a favorite among fashion-forward individuals.

Modern iterations play with length and texture, offering a fresh take on a classic.

It’s versatile enough for any occasion, making it a popular choice today. The bob’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to blend elegance with modern flair.

The Shag

The Shag
© Real Simple

With its layered, carefree vibe, the shag is making a triumphant return.

This style offers volume and texture, perfect for those who love a relaxed yet polished look.

The shag suits various hair types, adding movement and dynamism.

Its versatility allows for playful experimentation with length and layers, making it a beloved choice among trendsetters.

The modern shag has evolved to incorporate softer, more natural waves, ensuring it remains current.

It’s a go-to for anyone seeking a blend of retro charm and contemporary style.

The Pixie Cut

The Pixie Cut
© Cosmopolitan

Bold and daring, the pixie cut is the epitome of modern elegance.

With its short layers and minimal maintenance, it offers a fresh and sophisticated look. This cut is perfect for those wanting to showcase their facial features.

The pixie exudes confidence and style, making it a favorite among fashion-forward individuals.

Modern variations allow for texture and asymmetry, providing a playful yet refined finish.

Whether it’s sleek or tousled, the pixie remains a powerful statement of individuality and flair in today’s hair trends.

The Undercut

The Undercut
© Glam

The undercut has become a staple in modern hair fashion, known for its edgy yet polished appearance.

With shaved sides and a longer top, it offers versatility and creativity.

This style can be adapted for both formal and casual settings, making it a popular choice among trendsetters.

The undercut allows for personalization, from sleek pompadours to tousled waves.

Its adaptability makes it a go-to for those seeking a contemporary edge without sacrificing style.

The undercut continues to be a dynamic and beloved haircut in the fashion world.

The Lob

The Lob
© Viva La Blonde

The lob, or long bob, is a modern twist on the classic bob.

With its shoulder-length appeal, it offers the perfect balance between short and long hair.

This style suits various face shapes and hair textures, making it universally flattering.

The lob’s versatility allows for straight, wavy, or curly finishes, adapting to different occasions. Its effortless chic makes it a favorite among celebrities and influencers.

The lob continues to reign as a must-have style, providing both elegance and practicality for the modern individual.

The Curtain Bangs

The Curtain Bangs
© Haiirology

Curtain bangs are all the rage, offering a soft and face-framing touch to any hairstyle.

These long, parted bangs enhance facial features and add a hint of retro flair.

Perfect for those looking to change their look without a drastic cut, curtain bangs provide versatility and elegance.

They blend seamlessly with both long and short styles, adding dimension and interest.

This chic addition is popular for its adaptability and low maintenance.

Curtain bangs continue to captivate, combining vintage charm with modern sophistication in hair fashion.

The Natural Texture

The Natural Texture
© Bangstyle

Embracing natural texture has become a celebrated trend, championing individuality and authenticity.

This movement encourages people to love their hair’s natural curls, waves, or straightness.

Minimal styling and products emphasize the beauty of natural hair. It’s about letting your true self shine, free from constant heat and chemicals.

This trend resonates with those seeking an effortless and personal style statement.

Celebrating diverse hair textures, it continues to grow, inspiring confidence and self-acceptance.

The natural texture trend remains a powerful and liberating choice in modern hair fashion.