The 80s were a time of bold fashion, and the hairstyles of that era were no exception. From voluminous curls to wild spikes, celebrities weren’t afraid to make a statement with their hair. The bigger, the better seemed to be the rule, and it wasn’t just the stars on stage that embraced these eye-catching styles—every corner of pop culture was buzzing with iconic hair trends that still influence today’s looks.
In this list, we’ve rounded up 23 signature 80s hairstyles that defined an entire decade. From the unforgettable waves of Madonna to the perfectly styled curls of Whitney Houston, these iconic looks became as much a part of their personas as their music. Whether you lived through the 80s or just love the nostalgic vibe, these hairstyles are fun to look back on, and some are even making a comeback today!
The Classic Mullet
The mullet, a hallmark of the 1980s, was famously worn by celebrities like Billy Ray Cyrus. This hairstyle was business in the front and a party in the back, offering a perfect blend of sophistication and fun.
It was versatile enough to be worn in various lengths and textures, making it popular among both men and women.
Celebrities added their personal touch by incorporating highlights or unique styling products. The mullet’s appeal was its ability to stand out in a crowd, and it remains a nostalgic symbol of the decade’s daring fashion choices.
Feathered Layers
Feathered layers became a defining hairstyle for many A-list stars, such as Farrah Fawcett. The style involved voluminous, layered cuts that flipped outwards, creating a feathered effect around the face.
This look was both glamorous and effortlessly chic, enhancing facial features and creating a soft, feminine silhouette. Ideal for medium to long hair, feathered layers were often paired with bright accessories like headbands and clips.
The style’s popularity was cemented by its frequent appearance on magazine covers and in blockbuster films, symbolizing the free-spirited nature of the 80s.
Permed Curls
The 80s saw the rise of permed curls, a hairstyle embraced by stars like Julia Roberts. This look was characterized by tight, voluminous curls that bounced with every move.
The perm process involved chemically curling the hair, resulting in long-lasting, care-free curls that required minimal daily styling. Permed curls were often seen cascading over the shoulders, adding a playful and dynamic touch to any outfit.
This bold look was perfect for those wanting to add extra volume and texture, making it a go-to choice for special events and daily wear alike.
The Glam Rock Shag
The glam rock shag, worn by icons like David Bowie, was an edgy and rebellious style that captured the essence of 80s rock music. The cut featured choppy layers and uneven lengths, creating a wild and untamed appearance.
Often paired with bold colors and dramatic makeup, the glam rock shag was a symbol of self-expression and defiance. This look suited those with a penchant for adventure, as it required confidence to pull off.
It was not just a hairstyle but a lifestyle statement, resonating with fans of rock and roll across the globe.
Voluminous Blowout
Voluminous blowouts were a staple in the 80s, with stars like Cindy Crawford leading the trend. This hairstyle involved blow-drying the hair to achieve maximum volume and bounce, resulting in a glamorous and polished look.
Typically styled with large round brushes and a generous amount of hairspray, the voluminous blowout was ideal for making a dramatic entrance. It exuded confidence and elegance, perfect for red carpet events or upscale gatherings.
This style remains an inspiration for those seeking to recreate the unmistakable allure and glamour of 80s fashion.
The Asymmetrical Cut
The asymmetrical cut became a daring choice for fashion-forward celebrities like Cyndi Lauper. This hairstyle featured uneven lengths and sharp angles, creating a striking and avant-garde look.
Often complemented by bright colors and bold accessories, the asymmetrical cut was perfect for those looking to make a statement. It challenged traditional beauty norms by embracing imperfections and celebrating individuality.
This style was both edgy and sophisticated, appealing to those with a creative spirit. Its bold nature continues to inspire hairstylists and fashion enthusiasts around the world.
The High Ponytail
The high ponytail was a favorite among pop stars like Madonna, known for its playful and youthful energy. This style involved pulling the hair up high on the crown and securing it with a scrunchie or ribbon.
Often accompanied by teased roots and crimped ends, the high ponytail was both fun and functional. It kept hair off the face while allowing for dramatic movement and flair.
This look was ideal for concerts, dance floors, and casual outings, capturing the exuberance and spontaneity of 80s pop culture. The high ponytail remains a popular choice for those seeking an energetic and carefree vibe.
Crimped Hair
Crimped hair was a go-to style for many 80s celebrities, characterized by its zigzag texture and voluminous look. This hairstyle was achieved using crimping irons that created uniform waves and added texture to the hair.
Stars like Demi Moore embraced crimped hair for its quirky and bold appearance. Often paired with colorful headbands and accessories, it was a playful way to express individuality.
Crimped hair provided a unique alternative to traditional curls and straight styles, making it a favorite for those wanting to stand out. It remains a fun and nostalgic nod to 80s fashion.
The Mohawk
The mohawk, worn by punk rock legends like Billy Idol, was a symbol of rebellion and non-conformity. This hairstyle involved shaving the sides of the head and leaving a strip of longer hair in the center, often styled into spikes with gel or hairspray.
The mohawk was not just a hairstyle but a statement of individuality and defiance against mainstream norms. It required boldness to wear and was often seen in vibrant colors, adding to its striking appearance.
The mohawk continues to inspire those seeking a daring and unapologetic look, reflecting the audacious spirit of the 80s punk scene.
The Big Hair
Big hair was synonymous with the 80s, embraced by celebrities like Cher for its dramatic and attention-grabbing volume. Achieved through teasing, backcombing, and generous amounts of hairspray, big hair was all about making a bold statement.
This style was often complemented by eye-catching accessories such as bows and ribbons. Big hair worked well with both curly and straight textures, providing versatility and flair.
It was a declaration of confidence and individuality, perfect for those wanting to stand out in any setting. Big hair remains a nostalgic icon of the decade’s bold fashion sense.
The Pixie Cut
The pixie cut made waves in the 80s, with stars like Annie Lennox showcasing its chic and sophisticated appeal. This short hairstyle was characterized by its close-cropped layers that framed the face, highlighting facial features and exuding elegance.
The pixie cut was both practical and stylish, requiring minimal maintenance while offering a polished look. It was a favorite among women seeking a modern and empowered appearance, breaking away from conventional long hairstyles.
The pixie cut continues to be celebrated for its timeless charm and versatility, appealing to those who appreciate bold and confident looks.
The Jheri Curl
The Jheri curl, popularized by Michael Jackson, was a glossy, curled hairstyle that became a hallmark of 80s pop culture. This look involved soft, loose curls maintained with a distinctive shine, achieved through special styling products.
The Jheri curl was both stylish and manageable, offering a sleek and wet appearance that was easy to maintain. It was embraced by musicians and actors alike for its unique texture and eye-catching appeal.
This hairstyle remains an iconic representation of the 80s music scene, capturing the essence of a vibrant and trendsetting era. Its enduring legacy continues to influence modern styling techniques.
The Rat Tail
The rat tail was a playful and unconventional hairstyle that gained popularity in the 80s. It featured a small section of hair left long at the nape of the neck, while the rest of the hair was cut short.
This quirky look was often sported by adventurous individuals who embraced its unique character. The rat tail could be braided or left loose, adding an element of surprise and fun to everyday styles.
It was a simple yet bold choice for those wanting to experiment with their look, reflecting the creativity and freedom of expression that defined 80s fashion.
The Chignon
The chignon, worn by elegant stars like Princess Diana, was a timeless choice that brought sophistication to the 80s fashion scene. This updo involved gathering the hair into a knot or bun at the nape of the neck, creating a polished and refined appearance.
Often accessorized with jeweled pins or ribbons, the chignon was ideal for formal occasions and red carpet events. It added a touch of grace and elegance, perfect for complementing evening gowns and cocktail dresses.
The chignon remains a classic hairstyle for those seeking timeless beauty and sophistication.
The Side Ponytail
The side ponytail was a fun and flirty hairstyle widely embraced in the 80s. Celebrities like Debbie Gibson made it a trend by pulling the hair to one side and securing it with a scrunchie or bow.
The side ponytail added a playful twist to any look, offering a youthful and carefree vibe. It was easy to achieve and perfect for both casual outings and energetic performances.
Often paired with bright accessories and bold makeup, the side ponytail captured the lighthearted spirit of the decade, continuing to inspire those who love a whimsical touch in their style.
The Shaggy Bob
The shaggy bob was a popular choice for many 80s celebrities, offering a modern twist on the classic bob haircut. This style featured choppy layers and a relaxed, tousled look, providing a casual yet chic appearance.
Stars like Pat Benatar embraced the shaggy bob for its effortless charm and versatility, making it suitable for both day and night events. The shaggy bob was easy to maintain and style, perfect for those seeking a laid-back yet fashionable look.
Its timeless appeal continues to influence contemporary hairstyles, reflecting the enduring legacy of 80s fashion.
The Beehive
The beehive, associated with the glamour of the 80s, was a towering, sculpted hairstyle that exuded elegance and drama. This iconic look involved backcombing the hair and pinning it into a high, rounded shape, often adorned with ribbons or flowers.
Celebrities like Bette Midler showcased the beehive for its regal and sophisticated qualities, perfect for formal occasions and stage performances. The beehive’s dramatic height and structure captured attention, making it a favorite for those seeking a bold and unforgettable style.
Its influence is still felt in modern fashion, inspiring creative updos and avant-garde designs.
The Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid became a stylish alternative to traditional braids, popularized by fashion-forward celebrities in the 80s. This intricate style involved weaving small sections of hair together to create a textured and eye-catching braid.
The fishtail braid was often worn over one shoulder, adding elegance and sophistication to casual and formal looks alike. It was perfect for beach outings, music festivals, and garden parties, offering a bohemian flair.
This hairstyle’s versatility and charm continue to inspire modern interpretations, embodying the creative spirit and elegance of 80s fashion.
The Slicked-Back Look
The slicked-back look was a sleek and suave hairstyle embraced by Hollywood actors like Patrick Swayze. This style involved combing the hair back with gel or pomade, creating a polished and sophisticated appearance.
The slicked-back look was perfect for formal events and business settings, offering a timeless elegance that complemented tailored suits and tuxedos. It was easy to achieve and maintain, making it a popular choice for those seeking a refined and professional image.
This classic style continues to be a staple in men’s fashion, reflecting the enduring appeal of 80s sophistication.
The Spiky Hair
Spiky hair was a bold and edgy hairstyle that defined the 80s punk and rock scenes. Sported by stars like Rod Stewart, this look involved styling the hair into sharp, pointed spikes using gel or hairspray.
Spiky hair was a form of self-expression, reflecting the rebellious and adventurous spirit of the decade. It was often seen in vibrant colors, adding to its daring appeal.
This hairstyle was perfect for concerts, parties, and casual outings, making a strong statement against conformity. Its influence continues to inspire those seeking a unique and rebellious style.
The Headband Look
The headband look was a simple yet effective way to accessorize hairstyles in the 80s. Celebrities like Olivia Newton-John popularized this trend by pairing colorful headbands with various hair textures and styles.
The headband was versatile, working with both updos and loose hair, adding a pop of color and flair. It was perfect for workouts, casual outings, and fashion events, offering a practical and stylish solution to keep hair in place.
This look captured the fun and playful essence of the 80s, continuing to inspire accessory trends in the fashion world.
The Bouffant
The bouffant was a voluminous and elegant hairstyle that dominated the 80s fashion scene. Worn by stars like Dolly Parton, this look involved backcombing the hair to create height and fullness, often adorned with bows or pins.
The bouffant exuded glamour and sophistication, making it a popular choice for formal events and television appearances. It was perfect for those seeking a dramatic and regal look, embodying the luxurious spirit of the 80s.
The bouffant’s timeless elegance continues to inspire contemporary hairstyles, reflecting the enduring allure of classic Hollywood glamour.
The Shaved Head
The shaved head was a bold and empowering hairstyle choice that challenged traditional beauty norms in the 80s. Worn by daring celebrities like Sinéad O’Connor, this look was a statement of independence and individuality.
The shaved head required confidence and a willingness to defy conventional standards, making it a symbol of strength and self-expression. It was often embraced by those in the music and fashion industries, reflecting the decade’s innovative and rebellious spirit.
This hairstyle remains a powerful representation of personal freedom and continues to inspire those seeking to break away from societal expectations.