Remember when big hair ruled and hairspray was everyone’s best friend? Well, dust off those styling tools because ’80s hairstyles are making a spectacular comeback! These bold, voluminous looks that once graced MTV are now popping up on red carpets and social media feeds everywhere, proving that what goes around comes around in the world of hair fashion.
1. The Sky-High Teased Bangs
Teased bangs are back with modern control! For fine hair that needs oomph, backcomb at the roots and set with flexible-hold spray. Works beautifully on heart-shaped faces, creating balance while drawing attention to your eyes.
2. Crimped Hair Revival
Crimping irons are flying off shelves again! Perfect for adding texture to limp locks or creating festival-ready looks. Unlike the all-over crimp of yesteryear, try strategic sections for a contemporary twist that frames your face.
3. The Power Perm
Today’s perms aren’t your grandma’s tight curls! Modern techniques create loose, beachy waves that enhance natural movement. Ideal for straight-haired clients seeking volume without daily heat styling – a true wash-and-go solution.
4. Side-Swept Asymmetrical Bob
Madonna made this edgy cut iconic! The modern version features softer angles while maintaining that rebellious spirit. Fantastic for oval faces and those with fine hair seeking the illusion of thickness and movement.
5. The Scrunchie Revolution
These fabric-covered elastics aren’t just nostalgic – they’re gentler on strands than regular bands! Create a half-up style with a velvet scrunchie for instant ’80s vibes. Works on all hair types with zero damage.
6. Feathered Layers Like Farrah
Feathering creates movement without sacrificing length! This technique works wonders for thick hair that needs weight removed. Use a round brush while blow-drying to achieve that signature flip that frames cheekbones beautifully.
7. The Mullet Comeback
Business in front, party in back – but make it fashion! Today’s mullet is softer and more textured. Perfect for clients wanting edge without committing to a short cut. Suits square faces especially well!
8. Neon Hair Accessories
Bright clips and headbands instantly transport any style to the ’80s! Layer multiple neon accessories for maximum impact, or use a single statement piece. These work especially well against dark hair for eye-catching contrast.
9. The Side Ponytail Upgrade
The playful side pony has matured! Position it lower than the original ’80s version for sophistication. Adding waves or curls creates dimension. Ideal for heart-shaped faces, drawing attention away from wider foreheads.
10. The Wet Look Slick-Back
Channel your inner Gordon Gekko with this power look! Modern versions use lightweight gels instead of heavy products. Creates instant structure for fine hair and showcases facial features beautifully – especially high cheekbones.
11. Banana Clip Resurgence
These curved plastic clips create instant volume down the center of your head! Perfect for controlling thick curls while maintaining height. The modern approach uses them discreetly under layers for structure without visible hardware.
12. The Bi-Level Cut (The Step Cut)
This dramatic short-to-long silhouette is back! Modern versions blend the transition more subtly. Perfect for clients wanting to keep length while removing bulk around the face. Creates amazing texture for fine-haired people.
13. The High Ponytail With Volume
Madonna’s iconic high pony gets a modern refresh! Create volume at the crown before securing. Works beautifully on long faces, as the height balances proportions. Use a boar bristle brush for sleek sides without breakage.
14. Spiral Perms Reinvented
Those tight, uniform curls have evolved! Today’s spiral perms create varied curl patterns for natural-looking dimension. Ideal for fine hair seeking fullness. Modern formulations cause less damage while delivering amazing spring and bounce.
15. The Shaggy Layered Cut
The rock-inspired shag is everywhere again! Choppy layers create movement while curtain bangs frame the face. Perfect for clients with natural texture who want wash-and-wear styles. Enhances cheekbones on heart-shaped faces.
16. The Voluminous Blowout
Big, bouncy blowouts scream ’80s glamour! The updated version focuses volume at the crown rather than all over. Perfect for special occasions and photographs beautifully from all angles. Ideal for thin hair needing body.
17. The Topknot With Scrunchie
This high bun gets instant ’80s cred with a scrunchie! Leave face-framing tendrils for softness. Great for second-day hair and suits all face shapes. The height elongates round faces while adding fun to any outfit.