The 1980s was a decade of bold styles, bright colors, and unforgettable fashion. This was especially true when it came to hair. With an array of iconic hairstyles that have stood the test of time, the 80s are still influencing today’s hair trends.
Whether you’re feeling nostalgic or simply seeking inspiration for your next hairdo, this comprehensive guide will take you on a journey through the most popular and well-known 80s hairstyles.
1. The Perm
One of the most iconic hairstyles of the 80s, the perm was all the rage during this time. Popularized by celebrities and everyday people alike, permed hair became synonymous with the decade.
To achieve the perfect perm, it was essential to visit a skilled stylist who could work with your hair type and use the right combination of chemicals and hair care products. Today, perms have made a comeback, but with a modern twist, often featuring looser curls and more natural-looking waves.
Celebrities with Permed Hair
Many famous faces embraced the permed hair trend during the 80s, with some of the most notable examples being Whitney Houston, Julia Roberts, and Sarah Jessica Parker. These celebrities helped to popularize the look and inspire countless others to try it out for themselves.
Modern Interpretations
Perms are now making a resurgence in the hair scene, with many people opting for a more relaxed and natural-looking version of the classic 80s perm. This updated style is perfect for those who want to add some volume and texture to their hair without going overboard with tight curls.
2. The Mullet
The mullet is another hairstyle that gained immense popularity during the 80s. Typically characterized by short hair at the front and sides, and longer hair at the back, the mullet was sported by both men and women.
Notable celebrities who rocked the mullet include Billy Ray Cyrus, David Bowie, and Ellen DeGeneres. More recently, stars like Kristen Stewart and Rihanna have given the mullet a modern and edgy update.
The Fe-Mullet
The fe-mullet, a female version of the classic mullet, was also a popular style during the 80s. This look combined the traditional mullet with softer, more blended layers, making it a flattering option for various face shapes. Today, the fe-mullet has been updated with a more sophisticated and shorter disconnect between layers, making it a chic and trendy hairstyle choice.
Modern Mullet Variations
As the mullet makes a comeback in the hair world, modern variations of this iconic hairstyle are emerging. These new takes on the mullet often feature a softer and more subtle appearance, with updated styling techniques and a focus on blending the layers for a more seamless look.
3. Crimped Hair
Crimped hair was another popular hairstyle during the 80s. Achieved by using a crimping iron to create zig-zag waves in the hair, crimping was sported by both men and women, including celebrities like Demi Moore and Barbra Streisand.
Today, crimped hair is often used as an accent or incorporated into more modern hairstyles.
How to Crimp Hair
To achieve the perfect 80s-inspired crimped hair, you’ll need a crimping iron and some heat protectant spray. Start by applying the heat protectant to your hair and dividing it into sections. Then, use the crimping iron to create the desired zig-zag waves. Finish off by using a light-hold hairspray to lock in the style.
Modern Crimped Hair Styles
Crimped hair has made a stylish comeback in recent years, with many people opting to incorporate crimped sections into their hairstyles or using crimping as a way to add texture and volume to their hair. Modern crimped hairstyles often feature skinnier and shinier crimps, giving a more polished and updated appearance to this 80s classic.
4. The Whale Spout Ponytail
The whale spout ponytail was a popular 80s hairstyle, particularly among young girls. Made famous by singer Debbie Gibson, this style involved gathering the hair into a high ponytail and securing it with a scrunchie, allowing the hair to cascade out like a whale’s spout.
The modern-day update to this style involves a looser ponytail, perfect for maintaining volume as you sleep.
How to Create a Whale Spout Ponytail
To create a whale spout ponytail, start by brushing your hair and gathering it high on your head. Secure the hair using a scrunchie or hair tie, ensuring it’s tight enough to keep the style in place but loose enough to allow for volume. For a modern twist, consider using a silk scrunchie, which is gentler on the hair.
Celebrity Inspiration
Aside from Debbie Gibson, other celebrities who have been known to rock the whale spout ponytail include Madonna, who often paired the style with a thick, fabric headband, and actress Alyssa Milano, who sported the style as her character Samantha Micelli on the TV show “Who’s the Boss?”
5. Feathered Hair
Feathered hair was a quintessential 80s hairstyle, popularized by actress Farrah Fawcett. This look involved parting the hair down the middle and curling the bangs and short side layers back, creating a feathered effect.
Feathered hair was a versatile style, worn by celebrities such as Jenilee Harrison of “Three’s Company” and adopted by women of all ages.
Modern Feathered Hair
Feathered hair has made a comeback in recent years, with many people opting for a more modern and updated version of this classic style. Today’s feathered hair often features softer layers and a more relaxed appearance, making it a versatile and flattering option for a wide range of hair types and face shapes.
Celebrities with Feathered Hair
In addition to Farrah Fawcett, other celebrities who have sported feathered hair include Goldie Hawn, Olivia Newton-John, and Meg Ryan. These stars helped to popularize the look and inspire countless others to try it out for themselves.
6. The Side Ponytail
The side ponytail was another iconic 80s hairstyle, often seen on young girls and TV characters like DJ Tanner from “Full House.” This style involved gathering the hair to one side of the head and securing it with a hair tie or scrunchie, creating a playful and fun look.
The side ponytail has remained popular over the years and is often worn by celebrities and fashionistas alike.
How to Create a Side Ponytail
To achieve the perfect 80s-inspired side ponytail, start by brushing your hair to one side of your head. Secure the hair with a hair tie or scrunchie, positioning it slightly above your ear. For added nostalgia, consider using a brightly colored or patterned scrunchie to complete the look.
Modern Side Ponytail Styles
Today’s side ponytails often feature a more relaxed and updated appearance, with looser ponytails and more natural-looking waves. This modern take on the classic side ponytail is perfect for a casual day out or a fun night on the town.
7. Hair Accessories and Embellishments
No discussion of 80s hairstyles would be complete without mentioning the wide variety of hair accessories and embellishments that were popular during the decade.
From scrunchies and headbands to bows, ribbons, and barrettes, the 80s were all about making a statement with your hair.
Scrunchies
Colorful, vibrant, and oversized, scrunchies were a big deal in the 80s. Often used to secure ponytails, buns, and other hairstyles, scrunchies added a fun and playful touch to any look. Today, scrunchies have made a comeback, with many people opting for silk scrunchies, which are gentler on the hair.
Bows and Ribbons
Large bows and ribbons were another popular hair accessory during the 80s, worn by celebrities like Madonna and the characters on “Saved by the Bell.” Bows and ribbons added a touch of whimsy and femininity to any hairstyle and could be worn in a variety of ways, including as a headband, wrapped around a ponytail, or used to accent a half-up, half-down style.
Headbands
Headbands were a staple of 80s fashion, worn by both men and women to keep hair out of the face and make a style statement. Available in a wide range of materials, colors, and patterns, headbands could be worn with virtually any hairstyle, making them a versatile and popular choice during the decade. Today, headbands continue to be a popular accessory, with many modern styles taking inspiration from 80s designs.
8. Half-Up, Half-Down Styles
Half-up, half-down hairstyles were a popular choice during the 80s, often seen on celebrities like Lisa Turtle from “Saved by the Bell” and Cyndi Lauper. These styles combined the best of both worlds, allowing for a polished and put-together appearance while still showing off the hair’s natural volume and texture.
How to Create a Half-Up, Half-Down Style
To achieve a classic 80s-inspired half-up, half-down hairstyle, start by gathering the top section of your hair and securing it with a hair tie or clip. Allow the bottom section of your hair to flow freely, creating a voluminous and glamorous look. For added flair, consider incorporating a bow, ribbon, or other hair accessory into the style.
Modern Half-Up, Half-Down Styles
Today’s half-up, half-down hairstyles often feature a more relaxed and updated appearance, with looser ponytails and more natural-looking waves. These modern takes on the classic 80s style are perfect for a casual day out or a special occasion.
9. Braided Hairstyles
Braids were another popular hairstyle during the 80s, with many people incorporating braids into their looks in various ways. From French braids and fishtail braids to simple three-strand braids, there were countless ways to wear braids during this time.
French Braids
French braids were a popular choice during the 80s, often worn as a simple and elegant hairstyle for both day and night. To create a French braid, start by dividing your hair into three sections at the crown of your head. Begin braiding by crossing the right section over the middle section, then the left section over the new middle section. Continue this pattern, adding hair from the sides as you go, until you reach the nape of your neck. Secure the braid with a hair tie.
Fishtail Braids
Fishtail braids were another popular 80s hairstyle, characterized by their intricate and detailed appearance. To create a fishtail braid, divide your hair into two even sections. Take a small piece of hair from the outer edge of one section and cross it over to the other section. Repeat this process, alternating between the two sections, until you reach the ends of your hair. Secure the braid with a hair tie.
10. Updos and Elegant Styles
The 80s were also known for their elegant and sophisticated updos, often worn for special occasions or formal events. From sleek chignons and elegant twists to intricate braided updos, there were countless ways to create a stunning and polished look during this time.
The Chignon
The chignon was a popular choice for formal events during the 80s, often seen on celebrities like Madonna and Princess Diana. This elegant updo involved gathering the hair at the nape of the neck, twisting it into a bun, and securing it with pins or a hair accessory. The modern chignon often features a more relaxed and updated appearance, with looser twists and more natural-looking texture.
The Beehive
The beehive, a classic retro hairstyle, also made a comeback during the 80s. This voluminous updo was created by teasing the hair at the crown of the head, then smoothing it over and securing it into a high bun or twist. The beehive was often adorned with a headband or ribbon, adding a touch of glamour and sophistication to the look.
The Most Memorable Looks from the 80s
In conclusion, the 80s were a decade filled with iconic hairstyles that continue to inspire and influence today’s hair trends. From perms and mullets to feathered hair and crimped styles, the bold and daring looks of the 80s have made a lasting impact on the world of hair and fashion.
Whether you’re looking to experiment with a new style or simply pay homage to this unforgettable era, the hairstyles of the 80s offer endless inspiration and possibilities.
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