23 Iconic ’80s Hairstyles You Need To See
Over the past few seasons, we’ve been turning our attention more and more to days gone by for hairstyle inspiration. Yet while we love the retro looks of past decades, none have captured our hearts quite like that of ’80s hairstyles.
Donned by the likes of Jessica Biel and Chrissy Teigen, updated ’80s hair looks have also been seen on the red carpets and runways, seriously tempting us to try them out for ourselves. So if, like us, you’ve also been persuaded to try a hot 1980s hairstyle, but don’t know where to begin, you’re in luck as we have 23 hairstyles from the 1980s that will make you want to update your look.
Brooke Shields
The bigger, the better rule certainly applies when it comes to ’80s hair and voluminous tresses like Brooke Shield’s are an iconic staple. For the ultimate ’80s look, team your vintage ‘do with a power blazer – shoulder pads optional.
Editor’s tip: A key trait of 1980s hairstyles is that they have loads of volume and body! So if you don’t have naturally full locks, you’ll need a little extra help from a body-boosting styling product like the VO5 Big Volume Mousse.
Squirt a tennis ball-sized amount of mousse into your palm and evenly distribute it through damp hair. Then blowdry and curl your strands to activate the mousse, and watch as your ’80s hair comes to life!
Kim Basinger
Whether you turn to your blowdryer and large barrel brush or a set or trusty rollers to create this high-impact look, there is no denying that the effort will be worth it. Wear this look for a special occasion and just watch all the admiring looks you’ll get.
Grace Jones
Thought having short hair would stop you living out your ’80s dreams? Think again. As Grace Jones’ cropped high top is not only one of the most stand out looks from the ’80s but it’s totally on trend too.
Madonna
For anyone looking for an iconic hairstyle that is instantly recognisable, all you need simply do is turn to Madonna’s punk-esque updo. Now, this wasn’t Madonna’s only standout style from the decade, the queen of pop also sported a platinum blonde Marilyn Monroe cropped ‘do.
Demi Moore
Demi Moore may be more recognisable with her long flowing straight locks but with her fluffy curls, bold lips and strong brow, we think this ’80s style might be one of her best looks ever.
Whitney Houston
While we might not be able to have Whitney’s singing talents, we can at least attempt to have her ’80s curls. Not blessed with naturally curly hair? Fear not as even those with straight hair can get in on this look with a modern day perm.
Michelle Pfeiffer
Who can forget Michelle Pfeiffer’s girl boss hair in the ’80s hit movie Scarface? The glossy blonde bob and bangs combination was and still is iconic – just ask Bella Hadid. But that’s not Michelle’s only ’80s hairstyle we adore.
Wearing her blonde shoulder-length tresses with feathered layers, Michelle adds extra oomph to her look by sweeping her tresses over to a side-parting.
Editor’s tip: Still struggling to get the volume you desire? Reach for a plumping powder like TONI&GUY Root Lift Sculpting Powder and dust lightly through your roots and scrunch through with your fingers.
Sade
When it comes to 1980s women’s hairstyles, it doesn’t get more timeless than Sade’s signature style. Keeping it oh so simple, Sade would often wear her dark brown tresses in a smooth low ponytail braid.
If that wasn’t enough ’80s style inspiration for you, see how you can wear the styles today by simply scrolling.
High side ponytail
If you love Gossip girl and all the preppy hairstyles the characters wore on the show, the ’80s equivalent (Sweet Valley High – FYI!), brought to life the most iconic of all ’80s hairstyles: the high side ponytail.
While this throwback hairstyle was once reserved for cool cheerleaders, the modern, grown-up version features playful crimps and is absolutely perfect for a night out. So, which side will you choose? Credit: @rominagrieger
Corkscrew curls
You can’t talk about 1980s hairstyles without mentioning big, spiralled corkscrew curls. But if you think classic ’80s curls are too tight and poodle-esque, know that the modern-day variation is anything but!
This fresh take on the classic (spotted on the Topshop Unique runway) features loose spiral curls and are full of volume, being swept to the side in true ’80s style. Now, what did we do with our shoulder pads?
Half-up high pony with scrunchie
Looking for modern half-up, half-down 1980s women’s hairstyles? Then prepare to fall in love with this playful ponytail. This easy-peasy style is perfect for lazy girls who still want to look like they’ve tried (oh, we know who you are!), but have barely had to lift a finger.
While this look features a scrunchie (AKA an ’80s staple!), it has been given a cool-girl refresh with some beachy waves and a few face-framing tendrils – anyone else thinking of rocking this hairstyle to work? Credit: @debbron_comenta
Crimped hair
Over the past few seasons, major fashion houses like Stella McCartney and Maison Margiela have sent models down the runway with crimped hairstyles, giving this late ’80s hair look the fashionable seal of approval.
If you want to bring this throwback look up to date, either use a straightener to create the look or just avoid crimping all of your hair. Instead, crimp different sections of hair for a dual-texture effect that’s super chic, fresh and totally fit for the catwalk. #Slay!
Hot rolled hair
Ever wondered why 1980s hairstyles are so voluminous? Well, the answer lies in hot rollers! Heated rollers are renowned for their ability to provide you with big, bouncy and long-lasting curls, which is why they were heavily relied on back in the day.
Want to learn how to use hot rollers? Just follow our nifty hair tutorial, then brush out your beautiful curls to give your dance-floor look a modern edge! Credit: @lapetiterobemi
Editor’s tip: No one wants to put in all that hard work to create curls just to have them drop out as soon as a gust of wind hits them.
So, to ensure your curls stay just as you want them, generously spritz your final look with VO5 High Volume Hairspray. With 24-hour humidity protection and all day hold, this hairspray is a must-have product.
Angular afro with buzzed undercut
While many people think that the ’80s flat top hairstyle suits men better, this beautiful Grace Jones-inspired haircut proves otherwise.
As you can see, her edgy and high-angular afro seamlessly fades into a shaved buzzcut, providing her look with tonnes of bold contrast! And we’re sure you’ll agree, this lovely lady rocks the look way better than any man, right? Credit: @roncya
The modern mullet
When searching for 1980s hairstyles, it may seem daunting to come across the mullet. But fear not: modern versions of this style do exist and they’re utterly fierce! Don’t believe us? Just take a look at this fashionista’s denim-coloured choppy mullet and you’ll be totally convinced.
With it’s sophisticated and rounded ‘business’ bangs at the front, and choppy layered ‘party’ at the back, this modern-day spin on the vintage style is sexy, stylish and unique.
Muted neon hair
Tempted to pair your ’80s hair with a bright new hair colour? Well, this muted, pinkish-peach is a great ’80s-inspired choice for those who miss the days of neon everything.
For extra style points, pair your hue with undone waves, red lippie and get ready to channel your inner Cyndi Lauper! Credit: @wonderful_u
Disco-perfect natural curls
Put away the blow dryer, because air drying is where it’s at – especially if you’ve got natural curls. Yep, you heard us right, even natural curly-haired girls can give their locks an ’80s feel with the right products. Credit: @tylauren
Editor’s tip: Our favourite? The TIGI Bed Head On The Rebound Curl Recall Cream. This hero product will help to moisturise and define curls and also gives excellent hold.
’80s headband hair
When it comes to 1980s women’s hairstyles, we think N1kk1sSecr3t has got it spot on! Just take a look at this fantastic throwback hairstyle she came up with; featuring big and beautiful curls (topped off with glitzy bow headband), this party-perfect look is guaranteed to get you into the ’80s groove! Credit: @N1kk1sSecr3t
Tip: If you want to take this retro look a stylish step further, why not try your hand at our bow bun hair tutorial? You’ll totally make Madonna proud!
The faux curly mohawk
If you’re not quite ready to rock ’80s hairstyles in a permanent way, how about a faux mohawk instead? This is a fun way to embrace the trend without having to commit to the era wholeheartedly!
To recreate this look, clip most of your hair back, leaving out the front section. Tong the section of hair your left loose and then style it forwards, spritzing with some hairspray to keep your ’80s hair in place. A touch of blue eyeshadow wouldn’t go a miss either! Credit: @beckybassettlondon
The perm
What we learnt from 1980s hairstyles, is that they weren’t afraid to be big or bold – and the perm is certainly both.
Give your look a brand new makeover with an ’80s vibe and get your hair into tight curls. Throw in a micro fringe and you’ve just updated your hair look. Credit: @xiphiumaveda
Colourful mohawk
Some of the most famous looks that came from the late ’70s and early ’80s were the punk rocker hairstyles.
So if you want to fully embrace the ’80s hair trend, then jump on board with both hands and rock a brightly coloured mohawk! We love the pretty pink hue, which give this look a carefree and rebellious feel. Credit: @indigo_sky_dance
Curly ’80s bangs
1980s women’s hairstyles often featured bangs and if you’re looking for a modern take on the look, this image is the one to follow.
Curl your bangs then gently run your fingers through them to create texture. Braid the remaining hair to bring this style bang up to date (get it?!). Credit: @katiemhair
Front puff
‘Sex and the City 2’ with this 80s look. Credit: Rex by Shutterstock
If you’re going to look to anyone for ’80s hair inspiration, it has to be Sarah Jessica Parker dressed in her ’80s get up for Sex and the City 2.
We love that she’s created a front puff by pushing her voluminous, curly locks forwards with this giant bow. This is a fun look to recreate and definitely one to copy if you’ve got an ’80s party to go to!
