Step back in time and imagine a period when hair was, quite simply, enormous. The 1980s ushered in an era of big, statement hair, and really, some of those styles are now making a comeback. If you're a fan of cool, unforgettable looks, then you've come to the right place. We are so obsessed with the makeup and style from that decade, but this piece is all about 80s female hairstyles and the inspirational women who fearlessly tried these rather crazy hair trends.
The 1980s, you know, were a bold and daring decade for fashion, and hairstyles were no exception. Women's hairstyles in the 1980s were influenced by a variety of trends, including power suits, primetime dramas, and musical culture. The majority of hairstyles during this era emphasized volume, texture, and personality with the idea that bigger translated to better. It was, in a way, a time of real expression, from backcombing to mullets, perms, and even half-up styles.
Today, many of these iconic styles are making a comeback, and fashion enthusiasts are rediscovering their charm. Whether your hair is short or long, we have the best 80s hairstyles for women to give you all the big hair inspiration that you need. Hairstylists, too, are sharing the best 80s hairstyles for women that are trending now, including the 80s mullet, the high ponytail, and the modern bowl cut, among others. There’s just something special about this decade’s hairstyles that you just can't quite forget.
Table of Contents
- The Spirit of 80s Hair: Volume, Texture, and Personality
- Iconic 80s Hairstyles for Women Making a Comeback
- Why 80s Hair Still Charms Us: A Nod to Nostalgia and Expression
- Bringing Retro Flair to Your Look Today: Modern Interpretations
- Finding Your Perfect 80s Look: For Every Hair Type and Length
- Frequently Asked Questions About 80s Hairstyles
The Spirit of 80s Hair: Volume, Texture, and Personality
The 1980s, truly, was a time of mega music, wild fashion, and what many consider the best hairdos. When it comes to style trends, these ’80s hairstyles were the most iconic looks of the decade. The driving force behind an 80s hairstyle for women was, you know, to have bigger, fluffier hair with a ton of style and character. It was about making a statement, clearly, and letting your hair do some of the talking for you. This era saw hair as an extension of one's persona, reflecting the vibrant energy of the times.
This period, in a way, broke free from the more subdued styles of previous decades. Hair became a canvas for bold experimentation. We saw people using every tool available, from rollers to crimpers, to achieve truly impressive heights and widths. The idea that "bigger translated to better" wasn't just a saying; it was a guiding principle for many hair choices, particularly for 80s female hairstyles. This commitment to dramatic hair meant that even everyday looks had a certain theatrical quality, which is pretty fun to think about now.
Moreover, the influence of pop culture was rather significant. Music videos, primetime dramas, and celebrity styles showed everyone what was possible. Women's hairstyles in the 1980s were influenced by a variety of trends, including power suits, primetime dramas, and musical culture. Celebrities weren’t afraid to make a statement, showcasing everything from voluminous curls to wild spikes. This constant visual inspiration meant that hair trends spread quickly, and everyone, it seemed, wanted a piece of that expressive hair action. It was a time when individuality truly shone through one's locks, giving us a lot to look back on.
Iconic 80s Hairstyles for Women Making a Comeback
The 1980s, as a matter of fact, left us with a treasure trove of memorable hair looks. These styles, once seen as purely retro, are now enjoying a fresh moment in the spotlight. Modern interpretations bring a new wearability to these classic looks, making them accessible for today's fashion enthusiasts. It’s pretty amazing how styles can cycle back into popularity, proving that good design, even in hair, truly stands the test of time. We’re seeing these iconic 80s female hairstyles everywhere, from runways to everyday street style.
The High Side Ponytail: A Playful Classic
This particular look, you know, is a quintessential 80s female hairstyle, and it's making a big splash again. Save the placement of this ponytail is what makes it a popular 80s hairstyle for women. It’s a high ponytail secured close to the hairline and off to the side, often with a bright pink scrunchie. The scrunchie, by the way, was a key accessory, adding a touch of playful color and softness to the overall look. It was more than just a hair tie; it was a fashion statement in itself, pretty much like a little crown for your hair.
What makes this style so distinctive is its texture play. Its perfectly swirled curls contrast nicely with the straightened bottom half of the hair. This blend of textures creates a dynamic and interesting silhouette, giving the ponytail a lot of character and movement. It wasn't just about pulling your hair back; it was about shaping it into something truly eye-catching. You know, this look really embodied the fun and slightly quirky spirit of the decade, making it a favorite for many, and still quite charming today.
The Enduring Perm: Waves of Rebellion
When you think of 80s hair, the perm, or permanent wave, probably comes to mind almost immediately. This chemical treatment gave hair an incredible amount of curl and volume, which was precisely what everyone wanted at the time. From perms to mullets, you could find your perfect retro hair look with this style. It was a way to achieve that "bigger is better" aesthetic without daily effort, offering a consistent wave pattern that lasted for months. For many, it was the ultimate hair transformation, giving a pretty dramatic change to one's appearance.
The perm, in some respects, was revolutionary for its time. It allowed women with naturally straight hair to experience the joys of bouncy, voluminous curls. While the 80s perm was often tight and uniform, today's versions are a bit softer and more natural-looking, offering loose waves rather than tight coils. This modern take makes the perm a wearable option for those looking to add texture and body without going full retro. It's a great example of how these styles are evolving, still capturing the essence but with a new feel.
The Mullet for Women: Business in the Front, Party in the Back
Yes, the mullet, that iconic and often debated hairstyle, was not just for men in the 80s; it was also a daring choice for women. The 80s mullet, as stylists share, is trending now, but with a modern and more wearable interpretation. This style, characterized by shorter hair at the front and sides and longer hair at the back, truly embodied the era's rebellious spirit. It was a statement of individuality, a way to show you weren't afraid to break traditional hair norms. It’s a look that, for some, still brings a smile to their face when they remember it.
For women, the mullet could be styled in various ways, from choppy and punk-inspired to softer and more feathered versions. It offered a kind of versatility, allowing for both a professional appearance when needed and a wilder side for evenings out. Today's female mullets are often softer, with more blended layers and a less extreme contrast between lengths. They often incorporate textured bangs or face-framing pieces, making them feel fresh and stylish rather than just a throwback. It's honestly pretty cool how a style can get a complete makeover like that.
Voluminous Curls and Waves: Bigger is Better
The concept of volume was, arguably, the cornerstone of almost every 80s female hairstyle. Whether natural or achieved with styling products, big curls and waves were everywhere. From voluminous curls to wild spikes, celebrities weren’t afraid to make a statement. This meant a lot of teasing, hairspray, and maybe even a crimping iron or two. The goal was to create a halo of hair that framed the face and exuded confidence, making a pretty big impact wherever you went.
Achieving this look often involved techniques like backcombing, setting hair in large rollers, and then brushing it out for maximum fluffiness. The hair was often layered to enhance movement and bounce. Today, you can get this volume with less damage, thanks to modern tools and products. Think blowouts with round brushes, texturizing sprays, and curling irons with larger barrels. It’s about creating that same impressive volume but with a softer, more polished finish, which is actually a really nice update to a classic idea.
Edgy Pixie Cuts and Wild Spikes: Daring and Distinct
While big hair dominated, the 80s also saw a rise in edgy, shorter styles that still packed a punch. Edgy pixie cuts, often styled with spikes or dramatic asymmetry, were a popular choice for women who wanted to stand out. These looks were bold and daring, reflecting a growing punk and new wave influence in fashion. They showed that you didn't need long hair to make a statement; a short, sharp cut could be just as impactful, if not more so. It was a clear sign of self-expression, too, which was a very important theme of the decade.
These shorter styles often featured a lot of texture, achieved through choppy layers and styling products that gave hair hold and definition. Spikes, in particular, were a common element, created by using strong gels or mousses to lift sections of hair upwards. Today, modern bowl cuts and other short, structured styles draw inspiration from these 80s looks, but with a softer edge. They might incorporate subtle highlights or a more natural finish, making them suitable for a contemporary setting. It's fascinating how these strong looks can be softened just a little for today's tastes.
The Power of Backcombing: Building the Foundation
Backcombing, or teasing, was, in a way, the secret weapon behind much of the 80s' legendary volume. This technique involved pushing hair down towards the scalp with a comb, creating a dense, tangled base that lifted the outer layers. More specifically, the best 80s hairstyles saw everything from backcombing to mullets, perms, and half-up styles. It was a fundamental step for almost any voluminous look, from a big bouffant to a high side ponytail. Without it, achieving that truly enormous hair would have been nearly impossible, so it was a rather essential skill.
While some might remember backcombing as damaging, modern techniques and products make it much gentler on the hair. Today, stylists use softer brushes and lighter sprays to create lift without causing too much stress to the strands. It’s still a valid technique for adding volume, especially at the crown, and can give a quick boost to any hairstyle. Learning just a little bit about this method can help you recreate that iconic 80s height, even if you just want a touch of it for a special occasion. It's pretty much a timeless trick for big hair.
Why 80s Hair Still Charms Us: A Nod to Nostalgia and Expression
The 80s hairstyles are always going to be a time to remember and look back to. There's just something special about this decade's hairstyles that you just can't quite shake off. Perhaps it's the unapologetic boldness, the sheer joy of self-expression that defined the era. When it comes to hair and makeup, the 80s were a time of real expression, allowing individuals to truly show off their personality through their appearance. This era celebrated individuality, and hair was a primary way to showcase that unique spirit, which is very appealing.
For many, these styles evoke a sense of nostalgia, bringing back memories of childhood or a vibrant period in history. If you have an 80s party coming up or simply just want to relive your childhood, these common, popular hairstyles of the 80s offer a fantastic way to do so. They are a tangible link to a time of exciting music, fashion, and cultural shifts. It's a way to connect with a past that felt so full of life and possibility, and that feeling, honestly, is pretty powerful.
Moreover, the influence of 80s hair extends beyond just nostalgia. These styles continue to inspire designers and stylists, proving their lasting impact on fashion. The idea of hair as a statement, as something that can truly transform a look, remains relevant. Get ready to turn back time and embrace the vibrant spirit of the 1980s. From big, voluminous curls to edgy pixie cuts and colorful highlights, 80s hairstyles are all about self-expression, and that message, you know, never really goes out of style. It's about finding that inner confidence and letting it shine, literally, through your hair.
Bringing Retro Flair to Your Look Today: Modern Interpretations
The good news is that 1980s hairstyles are back but with a modern and more wearable interpretation. You don't need to commit to a full-on perm or a dramatically teased mane to embrace the 80s spirit. Today's stylists are taking the essence of these iconic looks and adapting them for contemporary life. This means softer lines, more natural textures, and a less rigid approach to styling. It's about drawing inspiration rather than a strict recreation, which is pretty clever, actually.
For example, instead of a super tight perm, you might opt for loose, beachy waves with a lot of body. The high side ponytail can be updated with a silk scrunchie and softer face-framing pieces, making it feel fresh and chic. Even the mullet, as we discussed, has been refined into a shaggier, more layered cut that's very on-trend right now. These modern takes allow you to infuse a bit of that 80s confidence into your daily look without feeling like you're wearing a costume. It's about subtle nods, you know, rather than a full-blown throwback.
Experimenting with accessories can also bring that retro flair. Brightly colored scrunchies, large bows, or even a bold headband can instantly add an 80s vibe to a simple hairstyle. Consider adding a touch of volume at the crown with a little backcombing for a hint of that signature height. It's about having fun with your hair and letting your personality shine through, much like the women of the 80s did. You can find many ways to get inspired here by the decade's most memorable looks and bring some retro flair to your style, which is pretty exciting for anyone who loves fashion.
Finding Your Perfect 80s Look: For Every Hair Type and Length
The beauty of 80s female hairstyles is that there's truly something for everyone, regardless of your hair type or length. Whether your hair is short or long, we have the best 80s hairstyles for women to give you all the big hair inspiration that you need. The decade celebrated diversity in hair, from super short cuts to incredibly long, voluminous styles. This inclusivity means you can find a retro look that complements your natural texture and personal aesthetic, which is a really great thing.
For those with shorter hair, the edgy pixie or a modern bowl cut with some added texture can capture that 80s spirit. If your hair is medium length, you might explore layered cuts that allow for maximum volume and bounce, or try a half-up style with plenty of lift. Long hair, of course, is perfect for the iconic high side ponytail, big curls, or even a subtle perm that adds body without sacrificing length. Discover the 50 popular 80s hairstyles for women of every hair type and length, and from perms to mullets, find your perfect retro hair look! You can find inspiration for any hair journey, which is pretty cool.
The key, you know, is to consider what works best with your hair's natural tendencies and your personal comfort level. You don't have to go to extremes to get the look; even a slight nod to the 80s can make a big impact. Perhaps it's just a touch more volume, a bolder accessory, or a new way to part your hair. The goal is to feel confident and stylish, much like the women who fearlessly tried these crazy hair trends back in the day. Have you rocked a memorable look yourself back in the day? If you’re a fan of cool, expressive hair, then there’s an 80s style waiting for you to try, honestly.
Frequently Asked Questions About 80s Hairstyles
What made 80s hairstyles so popular?
The 80s were a time of bold fashion, and the hairstyles of that era were no exception. What made them so popular was the emphasis on volume, texture, and personality. The idea that "bigger translated to better" was a driving force, allowing for real expression and statement-making looks. They truly reflected the vibrant music and cultural trends of the decade, making them incredibly memorable and, in a way, very much a part of the identity of the time. It was a period where hair was, you know, truly a form of art.
Are 80s hairstyles still in style today?
Yes, absolutely! Many 80s female hairstyles are making a significant comeback, but often with a modern and more wearable interpretation. Hairstylists share that looks like the 80s mullet, the high ponytail, and even updated bowl cuts are trending now. It’s about taking the core elements of volume and texture and adapting them for contemporary fashion, so you get the essence without feeling like you're stuck in a time warp. This fresh take makes them pretty appealing for today's styles, too.
How can I achieve 80s volume without damaging my hair?
Achieving that iconic 80s volume today is much gentler on your hair. Instead of harsh backcombing, you can use modern techniques like root-lifting sprays, volumizing mousses, and blow-drying with a round brush. Large velcro rollers can also create significant lift without heat. When backcombing, use a soft brush and be gentle. The key is to build volume gradually and use products designed to protect your hair, ensuring you get the look without any unnecessary stress. You can find more tips on hair care and styling by visiting a reputable hair and beauty resource, like
