Remember when big hair ruled the world? The 1980s brought us some seriously bold hairstyles that made statements louder than a boombox. Surprisingly, many of these rad looks have been reimagined for today’s fashion scene. Let’s check out 15 iconic 80s hairstyles that are making major comebacks in modern salons.
1. The Permed Curls
Bouncy, voluminous curls defined the 80s era and continue to enchant today’s fashion world. Modern perms offer softer, more natural-looking results than their crunchy predecessors.
The secret? Updated techniques and better products that protect hair health while creating those coveted spirals.
2. Flequillo de lado
Madonna rocked these dramatic bangs, and they’ve never truly disappeared from the style scene. Cutting bangs at an angle creates instant face-framing drama without the commitment of straight-across fringe.
Pro tip: Style with a round brush for that perfect swoop!
3. The Mullet Revival
Business in front, party in back! This once-mocked style has returned with surprising sophistication. Today’s salmonete features softer transitions and texturized layers rather than the stark contrast of its 80s predecessor.
Celebrities like Miley Cyrus have embraced modern mullets, proving their edgy appeal.
4. High Ponytails
Scrunchie-secured high ponytails were workout staples in aerobics classes everywhere. Now they’ve bounced back as chic everyday options. The 2023 version sits higher on the crown with face-framing tendrils for softness.
Add texture spray for that perfect messy-but-intentional finish.
5. Ondas onduladas
Remember those zigzag patterns created by crimping irons? They’re back, but with a gentler approach. Modern crimping focuses on adding texture to select sections rather than entire heads.
The effect creates dimension and volume without looking dated or overdone.
6. The Asymmetrical Bob
Salt-N-Pepa made this edgy cut famous with one side dramatically longer than the other. Today’s version maintains the attitude but with subtler length differences and softer lines.
A slight asymmetry adds interest while remaining office-appropriate, making this rebellious style surprisingly versatile.
7. Capas de plumas
Farrah Fawcett’s feathered locks inspired millions of women to reach for layered cuts. The modern version features more piece-y definition rather than uniform wings.
Lightweight styling products have replaced heavy hairsprays, allowing for movement while maintaining that signature softness around the face.
8. The Whale Spout
Half-up styles with height at the crown (think Demi Moore in St. Elmo’s Fire) are experiencing a stylish renaissance. The fountain-like gathering of hair created instant drama and framed the face beautifully.
Modern versions use texturizing powder for height without excessive teasing.
9. The Shaggy Pixie
Madonna’s platinum shag defined early 80s rebellion and androgynous appeal. Today’s version features softer layers with more versatile styling options than its spiky predecessor.
Textured pixies work beautifully on all face shapes when customized properly, making this bold cut surprisingly accessible.
10. Teased Roots
Volume at the crown was non-negotiable in the 80s. Today’s approach focuses on strategic root lifting rather than all-over teasing. Backcombing just the crown creates height without damaging the entire hair shaft.
Dry shampoo has become the modern alternative to traditional teasing techniques.
11. The Faux Hawk
Punk-inspired mohawks went mainstream in the 80s through softer interpretations. The contemporary faux hawk features tapered sides with textured length on top, creating an edgy yet wearable look.
Flexible-hold products allow for versatility – wear it up for nights out or down for daytime.
12. The Blunt Bob
Precision-cut bobs with razor-sharp lines captivated the 80s power-dressing era. The 2023 version maintains those clean lines but adds internal texturing for movement and versatility.
Blunt ends create the illusion of thicker hair – perfect for fine-haired clients seeking visual density.
13. Flequillo de cortina
Center-parted, face-framing bangs were quintessentially 80s (think Brooke Shields). Today’s curtain bangs are longer and more graduated, blending seamlessly into the rest of the hair.
They’re incredibly flattering because they highlight cheekbones while softening the forehead – a winning combination!
14. Spiral Curls
Whitney Houston’s defined spiral curls inspired countless women to reach for small-barrel curling irons. Modern spiral techniques create defined curls without the crunchy, separated look of the original era.
Curl creams have replaced heavy gels, allowing for definition with natural movement.
15. The Bi-Level Cut
Remember the bi-level (or step cut) popularized by bands like A Flock of Seagulls? Short on top, long in back, this dramatic style has evolved into today’s disconnected undercuts.
The modern version maintains length disparities while incorporating more blending for a cohesive look.