Bigger was better, and subtlety was nowhere in sight—welcome to ’80s hair! This was the decade of sky-high volume, gravity-defying bangs, and enough hairspray to hold a skyscraper in place. It wasn’t just about looking good; it was about making a statement.
From the rebellious mullet to the ultra-glam perm, these styles weren’t for the faint of heart. Whether you rocked a side ponytail with scrunchies or channeled rockstar energy with feathered layers, there was a look for everyone. And guess what? These bold cuts are making a comeback.
So tease it, crimp it, curl it—whatever speaks to your inner ’80s icon. These 18 retro hairstyles aren’t just relics of the past; they’re back, bolder than ever, and ready to turn heads.
The Glam Rock Mullet
The glam rock mullet is a quintessential ’80s hairstyle that combines business with party flair.
The front is kept short and sleek, while the back flows with voluminous curls.
This style is perfect for those who want to make a statement without losing practicality.
Pair it with bold makeup or accessories to truly embrace the rockstar vibe.
Ideal for those with naturally curly hair, the glam rock mullet can also be achieved with curling tools. Confidence is key, so wear it like you mean it!
Feathered Layers
Feathered layers were the epitome of elegance in the ’80s, offering a soft, flowing look that frames the face beautifully.
This haircut works wonders on both short and long hair, lending a sense of movement and volume.
The key lies in the precision of the layers, which should be styled to perfection.
Whether you’re heading to a business meeting or a casual outing, feathered layers can be dressed up or down effortlessly. Keep them in place with a light hold spray for all-day wear.
The Curly Shag
The curly shag combines the spirited texture of curls with the playful structure of a shag cut.
This ’80s classic is all about layers, creating a lively, carefree appearance. Perfect for those with naturally curly or wavy hair, it adds volume and personality.
Maintaining this style is a breeze with the right products to enhance your natural curl pattern.
It’s a look that delights in its messiness, embracing imperfection as perfection. For extra flair, consider adding some highlights or funky colors.
Permed Curls
Permed curls were a staple of the ’80s, offering volume and bounce like no other. This hairstyle can transform even the straightest hair into a cascade of curls.
The perming process requires some commitment, but the results are worth it for those seeking dramatic change.
With proper care, permed curls can last several months, providing a frizz-free, defined curl pattern.
It’s a playful and fun look, perfect for adding some zest to your everyday style. Embrace the retro vibe and let those curls do the talking!
The High Top Fade
The high top fade is one of the most iconic ’80s hairstyles, particularly popular in urban fashion circles.
Characterized by its tall, flat top and closely shaved sides, this cut demands attention. It’s a bold and edgy style that exudes confidence and charisma.
Perfect for those who want to stand out, the high top fade suits various face shapes and adds length to the appearance.
Regular maintenance keeps the lines sharp and the top looking fresh. Pair it with a modern twist, such as patterns or colors, for a contemporary take.
Voluminous Blowout
The voluminous blowout was a must-have look in the ’80s, characterized by big, bouncy hair full of life.
Achieving this style requires a round brush and a good blow dryer to create lift and volume at the roots.
It’s a versatile style that can be worn to any occasion, from casual to formal.
The secret lies in the blow-drying technique, ensuring the hair is lifted and fluffed for maximum impact.
Finish with a generous amount of hairspray to maintain the volume throughout the day. Shine on with this fabulous look!
The Pixie Cut
The pixie cut is a timeless classic that saw a resurgence in the ’80s, offering a chic and bold statement.
This short hairstyle is perfect for those who want a low-maintenance yet stylish look.
The pixie cut frames the face beautifully, highlighting your features with grace.
It’s adaptable, suiting various hair textures and face shapes. With minimal styling required, this cut is ideal for busy lifestyles.
Add some flair with texturizing products or accessories, making it unique to you. Embrace the freedom of short hair and enjoy the ease it brings!
The Side Ponytail
The side ponytail was a playful and trendy ’80s hairstyle that brought a touch of youthful fun to any look.
This style is all about height and fluff, best achieved with a tight elastic or scrunchie.
Great for casual outings or themed parties, the side ponytail exudes energy and joy.
It’s a style that requires minimal effort but offers maximum impact. Add some curls or crimp the ponytail for an extra dose of ’80s flair.
Whether you’re dancing the night away or enjoying a day out, this look keeps your hair in check while adding a fun twist.
Crimped Hair
Crimped hair was one of the wildest trends of the ’80s, known for its zigzag texture and voluminous finish.
This hairstyle is an adventurous choice for those willing to experiment with their look.
Using a crimping iron, you can transform straight hair into a textured masterpiece.
It’s a style that can be worn in its entirety or combined with braids and updos for a unique twist. Embrace bold hair colors to amplify the retro vibe.
Whether you’re headed to a party or just feeling bold, crimped hair makes a statement like no other.
The Jheri Curl
The Jheri curl was a defining hairstyle of the ’80s, known for its glossy, loose curls that exuded a laid-back, cool vibe.
This style requires specific curling products to maintain the signature wet look.
Perfect for those who want to embrace the ’80s in all its glory, the Jheri curl works well on various hair types.
With regular care and moisture, the curls remain soft and bouncy.
It’s a hairstyle that celebrates individuality and self-expression, making it a beloved choice for music and fashion enthusiasts alike.
The Mohawk
The Mohawk is an edgy, rebellious hairstyle that gained massive popularity in the ’80s punk scene.
Characterized by shaved sides and a strip of hair running from the forehead to the nape, it’s a look that demands attention.
This style can be customized with various colors and lengths, allowing for personal expression.
Perfect for those wanting to make a bold statement, the Mohawk is about confidence and attitude.
Regular maintenance keeps the look sharp, while styling products help achieve the desired height and texture.
Stand out and embrace the punk spirit with this daring cut!
Spiky Hair
Spiky hair was a defining look of the ’80s, characterized by its bold, stick-up spikes.
This style is achieved using strong-hold gel or mousse to create texture and volume.
Ideal for those who prefer a playful, rebellious look, spiky hair works on various hair lengths.
It’s a versatile style that can be tailored to suit personal tastes, whether subtle or extreme. Pair it with vibrant highlights for added flair.
With the right products, maintaining spiky hair is a breeze, allowing you to express your personality with ease and confidence.
The Bouffant
The bouffant is a stylish ’80s hairstyle known for its height and volume, often seen at formal events.
This look is achieved by backcombing the hair and setting it with hairspray to hold the shape.
The bouffant can be worn with both long and short hair, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. It’s a classic style that suits various occasions and outfits.
To keep the bouffant looking fresh, regular touch-ups and strong hold products are recommended.
Embrace the glamour of the ’80s with this timeless hairstyle!
The Rat Tail
The rat tail was a quirky ’80s hairstyle that featured a long, narrow section of hair at the nape, resembling a rat’s tail.
This style was popular among those looking for a unique twist on traditional haircuts.
It’s a low-maintenance option that allows for creativity and individuality.
The rat tail can be braided or adorned with beads for added flair. Though unconventional, it was a fun way to express personal style.
Embrace your playful side with this nostalgic look, perfect for those who dare to be different and enjoy standing out from the crowd.
The Wedge
The wedge is an iconic ’80s hairstyle known for its geometric lines and sharp angles, creating a structured yet stylish look.
This cut is perfect for straight hair, offering a sleek and polished appearance.
With its distinctive shape, the wedge adds dimension and interest, framing the face beautifully.
It’s a versatile choice that works well for professional settings and casual outings. Regular trims are essential to maintain the shape, ensuring the style remains sharp and fresh.
The wedge is a classic choice for those seeking elegance with a modern twist.
The Quiff
The quiff is a classic, versatile hairstyle that gained popularity in the ’80s, characterized by its voluminous front section.
This style combines elements of pompadour and flat top, offering a balance of sophistication and edge.
Achieving the perfect quiff requires a strong hold product and a bit of patience to style. It’s a great choice for both formal and casual occasions, suiting various face shapes. The quiff remains a timeless favorite for those seeking a look that’s both trendy and timeless, making it a go-to for fashion-forward individuals.
Layered Bangs
Layered bangs were a popular ’80s hairstyle that added softness and dimension to any look.
This style works well with various hair lengths and textures, offering a versatile option for those looking to frame their face.
Whether worn straight or styled with a wave, layered bangs can transform your appearance, adding a youthful, fresh vibe.
They’re easy to maintain with regular trims to keep the shape. Pair them with a classic ’80s outfit for a complete retro look.
Embrace the charm of the ’80s with this flattering and fun hairstyle!
The Half-Up, Half-Down
The half-up, half-down hairstyle is a versatile ’80s classic that offers the best of both worlds.
This style combines the elegance of an updo with the freedom of flowing hair.
It’s perfect for formal events or casual outings, allowing for creativity with accessories like headbands and clips. The half-up, half-down look adds volume and interest, suitable for all hair types.
With minimal effort, you can achieve a polished yet relaxed look that’s both trendy and timeless.
This style remains a favorite for those seeking effortless elegance in their everyday hair routine.