20 Iconic ‘80s Hairstyles | Rush Hair & Beauty

The 1980s were an era characterised by bold and daring fashion choices, particularly when it came to hairstyles. This decade showcased looks defined by volume, perms, and unforgettable texture. The hairstyles of the time offered great versatility, adaptable to various lengths, textures, and face shapes. Today, these styles can be modernised or kept retro to capture that authentic 80s vibe.

The 80s celebrated individuality, featuring everything from punk-inspired spikes to voluminous curls. This makes 80s-inspired hairstyles an excellent choice for anyone looking to stand out.

Why 80s Hairstyles Are Popular Again

The hairstyles of the 1980s are characterised by boldness and volume, packed with texture, and focused on self-expression and individuality. In this blog, we will explore modern interpretations of iconic retro styles that have contributed to the resurgence of these looks.

The cultural revival of 1980s aesthetics is evident not only in hairstyles but also in fashion and pop culture. Celebrities and influencers are embracing these styles, blending nostalgia with contemporary charm.

There is a significant appeal in 1980s hairstyles for those looking to make a bold statement, whether through punk-inspired spikes or soft, voluminous curls.

Key Considerations for 80s Hairstyles

Hair Texture

When it comes to 80s hairstyles, different hair textures played a significant role in achieving the desired look. Curly hair, often permed or styled with crimpers, was a defining characteristic of the decade, providing lots of volume and exaggerated shapes. Wavy hair was achieved through techniques such as pin curls, which offered a softer style variation. Although less common, straight hair was styled for volume, often featuring feathered cuts or teasing to create a bouffant effect.

Face Shape

Different face shapes can influence how 80s hairstyles look, as certain trends may be more flattering for specific face types. By adjusting the volume, angles, and length of a hairstyle, it can be tailored to complement individual face shapes. Here are some recommendations for different face shapes:

Oval Face: This face shape is very versatile and can pull off a variety of styles, from voluminous waves to layered cuts.

Round Face: Opt for styles that create height, such as a high ponytail, to elongate the appearance of the face.

Square Face: Choose hairstyles that are soft and flowing or those that add volume on top, as these can help soften the sharp angles of a square face.

Heart Face: Styles that feature a side fringe or added volume can help balance out the proportions of heart-shaped faces.

Lifestyle and Maintenance

The maintenance of 80s hairstyles differs significantly based on the specific style and techniques used. For example, voluminous perms or backcombed looks usually require more styling and product application, while other styles, like a textured bob, generally need less maintenance.

Top 20 80s Hairstyles

1. Feathered Hair

In the 1980s, feathered hair was a popular style characterised by multiple, finely cut layers that created a wispy, feather-like appearance. This hairstyle was typically styled away from the face to emphasise the layers and enhance volume. Seen on celebrities in the 80s, such as Heather Locklear.
Suitable hair types: Feathered hairstyles are extremely versatile and work well on various hair types, including straight, curly or wavy hair. It can be a particularly flattering style for fine hair as it can add volume and dimension.
Styling tips: To style feathered hair, focus on adding texture, volume and a slightly tousled look.

2. Crimped Hair

The crimped hair trend of the 1980s was a defining style of the decade. This look involved using a special crimping iron to create a crinkled, zigzag effect in the hair. Crimped hair was popular for adding volume and texture, resulting in a distinctive and striking appearance. Seen on celebrities in the 80s, such as Dolly Parton.
Suitable hair types: Crimped hair can be created on nearly all hair types, though the results and ease of styling may differ. Crimping is an excellent method for adding volume and texture to fine or straight hair, but it can also be tailored to naturally curly or textured hair to enhance the existing texture.
Styling tips: To style crimped hair, start by detangling any knots with a smoothing brush and apply a heat protectant.

3. Spiky Layers

In the 1980s, spiky layers became a highly popular hairstyle characterised by short, textured layers, often styled with spiky ends for a punk-inspired look. This style could be achieved by incorporating ‘point cut’ layers throughout. Seen on celebrities in the 80s such as Blondie.
Suitable hair types: Spiky layers can work well on various hair types, including straight, wavy, curly or even fine hair. They are a great option for adding texture and volume to hair that may be lacking natural fullness.
Styling tips: To style spiky layers, start with damp hair and apply hair products such as gel, wax or a pomade to create the desired shape and hold.

4. The Quiff

The quiff hairstyle is characterised by short sides and back, with longer hair on top that is styled upwards and toward the back. This hairstyle gained popularity in the 1980s, but its origins trace back to the 1950s, when icons like Elvis Presley and James Dean helped popularise it. The quiff saw a resurgence in the 1980s alongside the teddy boy movement.
Suitable hair types: The quiff is best suited for medium-length hair that is straight or slightly wavy
Styling tips: Start with clean, damp hair and apply a pre-styling product such as mousse or sea-salt spray for volume and lift.

5. Shag 80s Hair

The 80s shag hairstyle is characterised by messy layers and bangs. While it initially became popular in the 70s, it saw a resurgence in the 80s, adopting a more rock and roll vibe. This hairstyle features short, choppy layers and a fringe, typically with added volume and texture. Seen on celebrities in the 80s such as Joan Jett.
Suitable hair types: The 80s shag is a very versatile hairstyle that works well on most hair types, and it can be tailored to enhance the best features of different hair textures.
Styling tips: Concentrate on adding texture and utilising products like texturising or sea salt sprays. You can also tousle your hair for a messier look.

6. Big Waves

The big wave hairstyle of the 80s was defined by dramatic, voluminous curls often achieved through perming. This style emphasises height and fullness, particularly around the face. Seen on celebrities in the 80s, such as Madonna.
Suitable hair types: Big waves hair styles are particularly flattering on naturally wavy or curly hair types.
Styling tips: Use curling tongs to enhance the waves.

7. Barrel Curls

80s-style barrel waves are characterised by large, bouncy curls that emphasise volume and texture. This look can be achieved with a medium to large barrel curling tong, which creates loose, wave-like curls throughout the hair. Unlike tighter curls found in other styles, barrel waves offer a more relaxed, flowing curl while still maintaining a defined wave pattern. Seen on celebrities in the 80s, such as Farrah Fawcett.
Suitable hair types: The style works best on medium to long hair but can be adapted to suit different textures and lengths.
Styling tips: Consider pinning the curls for a longer hold.

8. Soft Blowout

The 80s soft blowout hairstyle is characterised by big, fluffy waves and teased roots, making it a fashionable choice during that decade. While it is a bit of a softer variation, it is still full of volume and often incorporates layers with strategic teasing. Seen on celebrities in the 80s, such as Cindy Crawford.
Suitable hair types: A soft blowout can be a great option for a variety of different hair types, but works particularly well on those with naturally wavy hair.
Styling tips: Apply both volumising and smoothing products to achieve the soft voluminous style.

9. Slicked-Back Style

The slicked-back hairstyle of the 80s is often linked to the ‘wet look.’ This style involves combing the hair straight back from the forehead to create a clean and polished appearance. It also emphasises a high degree of shine, which is achieved by using products that give the hair a sleek finish. Seen on celebrities in the 80s such as Richard Gere.
Suitable hair types: Short, straight hair is ideal for the slicked-back style.
Styling tips: To style, you need a strong-hold product, such as a gel or pomade, to really secure the look.

10. Afro

The 80s afro was a big, voluminous hairstyle characterised by abundant natural texture. This style often aimed to achieve maximum fullness, sometimes exceeding an individual’s natural hair volume. The 80s afro celebrated the beauty of natural hair texture. Seen on celebrities in the 80s, such as Nina Simone.
Suitable hair types: Best suited for naturally curly and textured hair.
Styling tips: Focus on hydration and using products that define curls

11. Tightly Curled Bob

The 80s tightly curled bob is a short hairstyle, cut to above shoulder length, characterised by a high volume of tight, defined curls. These curls are typically created using perms or heat styling methods. The overall style emphasises not only volume but also a strong and bouncy texture. Seen on celebrities in the 80s, such as Meg Ryan.
Suitable hair types: Works best on naturally curly hair and with a bob that is tapered or layered.
Styling tips: Adding layers can help to add more volume and movement.

12. The Hi-Top Fade

The 1980s high-top fade is a distinctive hairstyle with short hair on the sides and back, and then transitioning to a longer, often squared-off top. This style is often associated with hip-hop and urban culture. Seen on celebrities such as Will Smith
Suitable hair types: It is particularly well-suited for thick or curly hair.
Styling tips: When fading, work with the grain of the hair to achieve a smooth-looking fade.

13. Punk Spikes

80s punk spikes, commonly referred to as liberty spikes, are a hairstyle where the hair is styled into thick, often radiating spikes pointing upwards or outwards. Liberty spikes can vary in height and are often dyed in bold colours. Seen on celebrities in the 80s, such as Billy Idol.
Suitable hair types: they can work with any hair length and texture.
Styling tips: For the best results, use a combination of hair products and heat styling, including blow drying. Use a pomade or gel to firmly push the hair either upwards or outwards, then blow dry to set it in the style.

14. Side Pony

The 80s side ponytail is where the hair is pulled to one side of the head and then secured into a ponytail, often with a high placement and significant volume at the roots. Key features can also include a deep side part, teased roots, and voluminous, often curled ends. Seen on celebrities in the 80s, such as Cyndi Lauper.
Suitable hair types: Works well with a wide variety of hair types, especially those with medium to long hair.
Styling tips: Pull your hair to one side and secure it at the nape of the neck with hair grips.

15. Jheri Curl

The Jheri curl was a popular hairstyle in the 1980s, recognised for its glossy, loosely curled appearance. It was popularised by Michael Jackson, particularly during the era of his iconic “Thriller” album. The style was invented by hairdresser Jheri Redding and was achieved by chemically softening the hair, placing it in perm rods, applying a solution, and then rinsing it out.
Suitable hair types: The Jheri curl is most effective on curly, naturally textured hair.
Styling tips: Use a wide-tooth comb for detangling.

16. Feathered Layers and Bangs

The 80s feathered layers and bangs, often referred to as “feathered bangs” or “feathered layers,” feature wispy, layered bangs that seamlessly blend into the rest of the hair, creating a feathered appearance at the ends. These layers are designed to frame the face and provide a soft, airy look, emphasising natural movement. Seen on celebrities such as Goldie Hawn.
Suitable hair types: Feathered layers and bangs can work well on a variety of hair types. They can be particularly flattering for fine or straight hair, as they add both volume and movement.
Styling tips: The key is to tailor the layers and style of the bangs to suit the individual face shapes and hair texture, and it is highly customisable.

17. Sleek Flipped Out Long Bob

The sleek, flipped-out bob is a short, chin-length hairstyle characterised by a distinct outward flip at the ends. This style features a smooth, straight base, with a purposeful outward curl at the tips of the hair strands. Popular in the 1980s, the flipped-out bob was considered a chic and polished look. Seen on celebrities in the 80s, such as Jodie Foster.
Suitable hair types: A sleek, flipped-out bob works well with various hair types, especially wavy and slightly textured hair, as it can achieve and maintain a natural flip.
Styling tips: Start by prepping your hair with a styling product like a mousse or a cream for added lift and control. Then use a round brush to blow-dry to create volume and curl the hair upwards.

18. Shaggy Mullet

An 80s shaggy mullet combines the classic mullet’s “business at the front, party at the back” silhouette with the volume and texture of shaggy cuts. The front and sides are kept short, while the back is longer and features a cascade of layers, creating a messy, textured appearance. Seen on celebrities in the 80s, such as Tina Turner.
Suitable hair types: A shaggy mullet is an extremely versatile style that can be adapted to suit any hair texture.
Styling tips: To style a mullet, concentrate on adding texture and allowing the hair to flow naturally. Use a sea salt spray or a texturising spray to achieve a messy, tousled look. For shorter styles, a pomade can be used to shape the hair as desired.

19. Wolf Cut

The 80s wolf cut features a combination of short, choppy layers and longer, shaggy pieces, particularly at the back. It essentially blends elements of both a shag and a mullet, but it has a more untamed and somewhat wild appearance compared to both styles. Seen on celebrities in the 80s, such as David Bowie.
Suitable hair types: Works well on most hair types but is particularly well-suited for those with a natural wave, as it enhances texture well.
Styling tips: Use products such as a texturising or sea salt spray to enhance the tousled, lived-in look.

20. Feathered shag

The 80s feathered shag is a layered, choppy haircut recognised for its flowing and voluminous look, especially around the mid-lengths. It features a distinctive feathered texture, with layers that are often razor-cut or designed for a wispy and lightweight feel. Sean on celebrities such as Mick Jagger.
Suitable hair types: This style is known for its versatility, working well with a variety of textures.
Styling tips: Have your hair cut every 4-6 weeks to keep the style looking fresh.

Styling Your 80s Hairstyle

To achieve these iconic ’80s hairstyles, it’s essential to focus on volume, texture, and structure.
For voluminous styles: Use a volumising mousse or root-lifting spray to achieve maximum height. You can also use rollers or blow-dry your hair with a round brush at the roots for added volume.
For curly or permed hair: A curl-enhancing cream or gel will help define each curl without weighing them down.
For spiky textures: Apply a strong-hold wax or gel to maintain the shape and sharpness of your spikes.

Tips for Maintaining 80s Hairstyles

Regular Trims

To maintain your hair and style looking fresh and healthy, it is recommended to have your hair trimmed every 4 to 6 weeks. This will keep the layers fresh and the shape intact.

Hydration & Styling Products

Use deep-conditioning treatments to maintain hydration in your hair, especially for voluminous and curly 80s styles. You can also apply a leave-in conditioner or a lightweight mousse to control frizz while keeping the texture defined.

Maintain Volume

For styles like the Hi-Top Fade or Permed Bob, where volume needs to be maintained, use a volumising mousse at the roots and blow-dry with a round brush for added body.

Book Your 80s Hairstyle Appointment at Rush

Excited to discover and experiment with an 80s-inspired look? Schedule an appointment now at your nearest Rush salon and benefit from the expertise of our talented Rush stylists.