Hairstyles.
Hair Care.
Hair Products.
Men.
It seems everyone has got perm fever!
Before you switch off at the very mention of perm hairstyles, hear us out, because ’80s-inspired hair has seen a huge revival as of late. First of all, rest assured that this hair trend has nothing to do with the frizzy perms of yesteryear. In fact, this look has taken the best aspects of the retro perms and given them a modern day shake-up!
From Karlie Kloss’s retro spirals to Chrissy Teigen’s big throwback curls, the evolution of perms has been given the A-list seal of approval – and we can see why. Don’t believe us? Then check out our gallery for the best modern takes on perm hair, and prepare for a bucket load of #hairspiration.
Modern perm hairstyles you need to know about
1. Pink curls
There is a misconception that the ombre hair trend is limited to straight tresses, but this Instagram pic proves that you can show off any ombre style just as brilliantly on curly locks! Come on, pink and a perm, what’s not to love? Credit: @hairbypaulahouston
2. Vary your curl size
Stuck on which curls are for you? Well, why not get them all? Create a series of tight coils throughout your mane, and pepper in some medium and large-sized curls for good measure.
This will add plenty of height and incredible bounce to your mane, as well as keeping things looking natural! Credit: @hairbypaulahouston
3. Tame thick hair
At your wits end with your unmanageable thick mane? Then try getting a perm with loose curls, like the picture above, and rest easy with your new stunning style. Credit: @hairbypaulahouston
4. Cropped perms
Despite common belief, short hair is suitable for curling; and getting a perm is the ideal solution to all your hair styling woes! Michelle Pfieffer, is that you? Credit: @damiansantiago
5. Bob and bangs
Not only is this perm, bob and bangs combo totally on trend, the addition of a deep red hue works to add even more depth, too. Credit: @alyssaweinzap
Editor’s tip: Maintain your colour vibrancy by switching to a wash and care system formulated especially for coloured tresses, like Dove Colour Care Shampoo and Conditioner.
6. Up limp locks
Tightly permed curls add great fullness to all hair types and can still look effortlessly natural. It’s a win-win situation all around really! Credit: @hey_cabeleireiro
7. Bronde perm
Bronde (somewhere between brown and blonde) is the perfect colour for those wanting to give there newfound curls a delicate sun-kissed touch. Credit: @hiukxenne
8. Go wild
Feel it’s time to let loose? Then have your curls created in different directions, and ensure you have small curls underneath and large curls on top. See? Creating a wild ‘n’ ready look has never been easier! Â Credit:Â @jasakane
9. Be retro
Earn yourself some extra style points this season and ooze some ’80s sex appeal with a mid-length perm.Va va va voom! Credit:Â @styledbyevelina
10. Loose waves
Don’t want a blast from the past? Then keep your perm ultra modern by working loose, undone curls that provide texture and lift in equal measure. Credit: @damiansantiago
11. The time-saving perm
Tired of creating waves in your hair each and every morning? Then it’s time to get a perm. These retro-inspired hairstyles aren’t all about tight coils, as the technique can also be used to create soft waves, too! Credit: @damiansantiago
12. Half-up perm
Now, just because you’ve had a perm that doesn’t mean you’re restricted with styling. Just take a leaf out of this Instagrammer’s book and work a half-up, half-down look. Credit: @kkcmst
13. Glossy perm
This long permed hairstyle is giving us all major mane envy – come on, just look at how shiny it is! Credit: @eddie.eidde
14. Neat perm
To elevate your cropped ‘do, we suggest opting for a perm that curls the under-layers of hair more tightly than the ones on top. As you can see from the image above, it keeps the look neat, while proving plenty of room for experimentation. Credit: @hairandmakeupheidi
15. Wet-look perm
We’ve come over all nostalgic looking at this ‘do. Not only does it draw from the iconic ’80s perm, but also the throwback ’90s wet-look. Kim Kardashian West, eat your heart out! Credit: @tiffygotsthishair
Editor’s tip: Recreate the look by scrunching some of the VO5 Mega Hold Gel Spray through your waves. With no stickiness or flaking, this product helps prevent fluff for up to 24 hours.
16. Pixie perms
The hottest cut of the moment, pixie crops have officially been given a wavy perm update; proving coils can work on short hair just as great as long tresses. Credit: @evolve_salon
17. Be playful
Get creative with your perm hairstyle and make anything and everything your accessory. Be it glitter, hair stickers or even a headscarf, there’s no end to the possibilities. Credit: @tiffygotsthishair
18. Shaggy perm
Let’s be honest, fringes can be a bit problematic regardless of the look your going for. But the great thing is, with perms, bangs look stunning in any style.
Choose to keep your fringe straight, go wavy, or even get tight coils; whatever you choose, you’ll look bangin’! Credit: @jasakane
Editor’s tip: To create big, bodylicious hair, like the one above, we recommend investing in a mousse. Try the VO5 Smoothly Does It Curl Defining Mousse, to build volume and make every coil pop.
Fallen in love with perm hairstyles? Then don’t forget to head over to our Vintage Hairstyles and Curly Hairstyles pages, for even more incredible hair looks to try out.
