25 Trendy Ways to Wear The Modern Spiral Perm
Unique new twists on an iconic '80s texturized look.
Spiral perms were the trendiest style in the ’80s, so much so that you’re probably familiar with the shoulder-length, larger-than-life curls that women often sported during this time. So if you’re feeling a little lost on how to wear the spiral perm in a modern way, don’t worry; we’re here to help you out!
First things first: A spiral perm results from the process of vertically rolling shoulder-length or longer hair onto a perm rod. As the name suggests, this creates a spiral shape, which can also be used to create the super-tight S-shaped curls we’ve seen in the past.
If this style of perm makes you think about older generations, you’re definitely not alone. The spiral perm can often feel slightly outdated today, but with the popularity of textured looks on our feeds, this retro style is returning in a whole new way.
25 Spiral Perm Styles To Bring Your Curl Game Up a Notch
We’re giving you a ton of modern ways you can show off the spiral perm today! Do you think you have what it takes? Read on for some major inspiration:
1. Straight Edge Spiral Perm
Pair your spiral perm with a straight-edge haircut that steers you away from a round style and allows you all-over volume. If you hope to use your spiral perm to add volume to your strands, this haircut is a sure way to encourage that.
2. Yes to Frizz
Alternatively, consider going in on the layers for a rounder look and embrace the frizz that often comes with curly hair. Believe it or not, you’ll get in on one of this season’s biggest trends. The volume, paired with a halo of frizz, is super on-trend.
3. Long and Loose Spiral Perm
Not all perms were created equally! This particular style shows you a very on-trend way to wear a spiral perm. Consider a looser spiral that will feel much more relevant to 2021 trends with a long mermaid-like feel. This look also proves that perms aren’t just meant for short hair and can look equally amazing on longer strands.
4. Red Bob
Short bob-length curls will help you make a beautiful and eye-catching statement. This chin-length style is both edgy and sophisticated and will give a lightness to your curls that add major bounce and volume.
5. Ombré Volume
Mix color and texture by bleaching your curls for a slight ombré effect. By mixing color and texture in this style, you make the most of two of this season’s hottest trends.
6. Windblown
Comb out your spiral perm curls for a soft and easy windswept look. One of the great things about a perm hairstyle is the versatility it lends. You can wear your curls tighter for a more defined look or brush out for a windswept alternative.
7. Brushed-Through
The absolute easiest way to achieve a glam Old Hollywood look is by brushing through tighter large curls. Use your hairbrush to gently brush through your perm to give your hair this wave effect. Make sure to brush gently to ensure you aren’t causing any unnecessary tugging or strain on your hair, as this can lead to breakage.
8. Twist Spiral Perm
SheaMoisture
SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo
Grow your curls out and keep them nice and long. Switch out your usual shampoo and conditioner for a curl-strengthening duo like SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Shampoo and Conditioner to keep your strands healthy and strong.
9. Loose Curls
Highlight your striking color by opting for long loose curls. The subtle highlights threaded throughout the bottom half of this style will draw even more attention to your strands and help you show off your curls.
10. Soft and Easy
Soft curls that start immediately at the root of your strands are a great natural-looking option. If you’re concerned about your perm looking natural, speak to your stylist about this option. When it comes to women with naturally curly hair, the curls start right at the base of the hair at the root. By following that pattern, your stylist will give you a natural finish.
11. Alternate Sizes
On the other end of the spectrum is this more curated look. Mismatch slightly different-sized curls for all-over texture and interest. This results in a truly one-of-a-kind look that’s definitely magazine worthy.
12. Messy Curls
Embrace the messiness of a laidback look and ask your stylist for a super loose messy spiral. This undone look is one of our favorites for a modern perm, as it has a 2023-friendly vibe. This kind of perm allows you to wake up with a perfectly messy bedhead and go.
13. Eye-Catching Curls
Add a touch of glimmering highlights to your curls that are just a few shades lighter than your natural color. This will make your curls even more eye-catching and bold. If you’re looking for a real makeover moment, go for a color and texture shift in your strands.
14. Extra-Large Curls
You may also want to consider an extra-large spiral for an even more dramatic look. Not many people know this, but perms come in all shapes and sizes. A larger curl shape like this gives your strands a more natural look.
15. Understated Highlights
Subtle thicker highlights will make your curls pop even more. This look will give you a 90s-inspired style that’s all the rage nowadays. Throw it back to the 80s and 90s with thick highlights in your perm.
16. Curls for Days
Grow your hair until your tresses graze your elbows, and then get your spiral perm. These extra-long curls are beautiful and bold and give you access to a whole new range of curly hairstyles.
17. Loose Spiral Perm
A super loose spiral will give a very natural boost of extra texture in your strands. You may not have known this, but even those with a loose curl pattern will sometimes opt to get a perm in order to reinforce their curls and add even more definition.
18. Curly Bob
TRESemmé
TRESemmé Flawless Curls Shampoo
TRESemmé
TRESemmé Flawless Curls Conditioner
Keep your curls short and sweet by choosing a permed bob. To ensure your curls stay in the best condition, use a shampoo and conditioner set like TRESemmé Flawless Curls Shampoo and Conditioner.
19. Rooted Large Curls
Large curls paired with rooted color are the ultimate recipe for adding dimension to otherwise thin hair. This is one of the best ways to fake thicker strands.
20. Rooted Bob
Go for a flirty and fun style and rock a rooted bob. We promise you’ll be hitting two trends at once and feel super confident and bold.
21. Platinum Curls
Go all out by embracing curly hair and platinum locks boldly. While this combination is bold and daring, it can also compromise the integrity of your hair. Make sure to compensate with a deep hair treatment to keep your strands as strong as your style.
22. Tight Spiral
The ultimate spiral perm: the long and super-tight spiral. The end result is breathtaking and striking at the same time.
23. Let it Grow
Wearing spiral curls on long hair will mean that your curls will likely get a little weighed down by the length. This can work in your favor if you want a more natural option.
24. Dark, Dark Brown
TRESemmé
TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Shine Serum
Ask your stylist for a gloss to add an extra touch to your curls. This will make your dark hair extra bold and will draw more attention to your curls. Add even more shine by running TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Shine Serum through your strands.
25. Brushed-Out Curly Bangs
Don’t be afraid to add texture to your bangs. If you want a more relaxed look, brush out the curls for added dimension.
Thinking about trying a spiral perm? Take a picture and tag us @AllThingsHairUS!
