17 of the Most Iconic Hairstyles of the 1980s

The 1980s were a time of cool fashion trends, from bold clothing styles to statement-making makeup looks. Whether worn short or long, sleek or textured, tousled or teased, the 1980s were defined by an endless array of eye-catching and unforgettable hair trends. Perhaps no other style element was as notorious during this decade as the many iconic hairstyles that emerged during this period. Let’s learn about some of the most iconic 80s hairstyles.

1. The Perm:

One of the most popular hairstyles of the 1980s, the perm involved chemically treating the hair to achieve long-lasting curls or waves. This style was often worn with bangs and could be styled in various ways, making it a versatile option for those looking to change their look.

2. The Mullet:

This now-infamous hairstyle was characterized by short hair on the sides and back, with long hair in the front. Often considered a asymmetrical cut of the 1980s, the mullet could be styled in many different ways and was worn by both men and women.

3. Big Hair:

Big hair was all the rage in the 1980s, with women pulling out all the stops to achieve voluminous styles with plenty of teased layers. This style was often paired with bold makeup looks and bright clothing, making it a true 1980s fashion staple.

4. The Bowl Cut:

Another popular 1980s hairstyle, the bowl cut, involved cutting short bangs that framed the face and then progressively shortening the hair in length towards the back. This look was typically worn by both men and women, though it is perhaps best remembered for its association with 1980s-era pop icon Madonna.

5. The Side Ponytail:

A fun and flirty 1980s hairstyle option, the side pony involves gathering all of your hair to one side and securing it into a high or low ponytail. You could wear this style with various accessories, ranging from scrunchies to ribbons and bows, making it a versatile choice for 1980s fashion lovers.

6. Crimped Hair:

Crimped hair was achieved by using a special crimping iron to create small, tight waves all over the head. This 1980s hairstyle was a popular choice for casual and formal occasions and could be worn loose or in a high ponytail.

7. Fluffy Hair:

Another iconic 1980s hairstyle, fluffy hair, involved teasing the hair to create a voluminous and textured look. This style could be worn straight or curled and was often paired with bright makeup looks and colorful clothing for an instantly recognizable 1980s aesthetic. Whether you were a fan of big hair or prefer more understated styles, there is no denying that the 1980s were a decade of unforgettable and trendsetting hairstyles.

8. Teased Bangs:

This 1980s hairstyle involved teasing the hair on the top of the head to create a voluminous, puffy look. Bangs were often worn short and straight or long and side-swept, and worn could wear this style with or without glasses for a variety of different looks.

9. The Jheri Curl:

This 1980s hairstyle was achieved using a special chemical treatment to create long-lasting curls. The Jheri curl was a popular choice for African American men and women and could be worn in various styles.

10. The Farrah Fawcett:

This 1980s hairstyle featured long, feathered layers that framed the face. The Farrah Fawcett was a popular choice for casual and formal occasions and could be worn with or without bangs. And it was huge thanks to this actress Farrah Fawcett wearing it in many of her movies.

11. Ducktail Hairstyle:

Men often wore this 1980s hairstyle and involved combing the hair back and sides to create a “ducktail” shape. This look could be achieved with or without product, making it a versatile choice for those looking to change up their style.

12. Poodle Curls:

This 1980s hairstyle was curling the hair into tight, small ringlets. Poodle curls were often worn with bangs and could be styled in various ways, making them popular for those looking to change their look.

13. The Rat Tail:

This 1980s hairstyle involved growing the hair on the back of the head and then braiding it or combing it into a long, thin tail. The rat tail was often considered a rebellious hairstyle choice and worn by punk rockers and metalheads.

14. 1980s Mohawk:

This 1980s hairstyle was often associated with the punk rock subculture and involved shaving the sides of the head while leaving a strip of longer hair down the middle. This 1980s hairstyle could be worn in different ways for various looks and was one of the decade’s most popular trends. Whether you were a fan of big hair or prefer more understated styles, there is no denying that the 1980s were a decade of unforgettable and trendsetting hairstyles.

15. long hair with bangs:

This 1980s hairstyle involved girls growing the hair long and then curling it or straightening it for a sleek look.

16. Hair bands hair:

Hairbands were a popular trend in the 1980s and often featured men with long, teased hair paired with heavy metal makeup. This 1980s hairstyle was closely associated with the 1980s hard rock music scene and remains iconic today.

17. Hair spray hair:

Hairspray was a 1980s hairstyling staple and was often used to achieve big volume and voluminous hair. This 1980s hairstyle could be worn in various styles and was often paired with bright makeup and colorful clothing for an instantly recognizable 1980s look.

My top four 1980s styles