80s fashion style coming back isn’t a new phenomenon, however, 80s hair style absolutely is the king – this is so iconic that make us hard to ignore. It is an iconic decade with high ponytails, bright colors, big curls,… making a statement about who I am. If you need some inspiration for your new look, check out our top hairstyles for all lengths below.
How would you describe 80s hair styles?
1980 is known as a golden age of fashion and entertainment. The vibrant culture of this era was reflected by the bold and diverse hairstyles. Let’s take a look at some famous celebrities for their iconic 1980 hairstyles and then you will have an overall about this trend.
- Farrah Fawcett: She rose to fame in the 1970s with “Charlie’s Angels”. Her influence gradually extended to fashion and still remained popular in the 1980s. Farrah Fawcett’s signature hairstyle is feathered layer which became a phenomenon and standard for many celebrities over the years.
- Madonna: The synonymous Madonna in the 1980s characterized by layered accessories, crucifix jewelry and mesh top. This look was blended between punk and femininity affecting her hairstyles. That’s why when we look back at Madonna’s 80s hairstyles, it includes messy bangs, wild curls, layered hair. These aren’t all about fashion, more than that, these are statements about independence and self-expression.
- Whitney Houston: While the hit “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” and “How Will I Know” bring us to heaven, Whitney Houston has shown her iconic big and voluminous curls for those who love fashion in the world. She really leaned on volume in the 80s. It’s so cool, even with bangs.
These celebrities shaped the hairstyles of the decade. You can say the 1980s was a really distinctive period for hair fashion. If you are ready to return to the 80s, keep scrolling for top 80s hair styles that became trendy in 2025!
80s hair styles for long hair
Crimping hair originally is zigzag shape, however, nowadays, it becomes S-shaped waves. The pop-stars, celebrities, fashion stars are starting to use it to express themself fearlessly. Not only appears on runway, crimping hair also gradually becomes a new trend in stress style.
Ah, the curly bangs with long curls. Make it a bit morden by rocking it with bangs which can actually create a flattering look, especially for those with square and round or triangle-shape faces. Moreover, this kind of curls are all about big, messy hair. They aren’t complicated as they look and easy to manage. So, long curls usually be the first on the list of modern girl.
What is more 80s than teased hair? This kind of style actually takes much time to execute, but don’t worry, the result always turns out flawless. Just pick up your curling iron, blow dryer brush or wand with confidence. This look feels wild, messy giving the wearer a rockstar and sweet vibe.
80s hair styles for medium hair
The first-generation of “The Rachel” can be considered feather layer. This kind of style was all about layers, flattered all face shapes and made the look always sophisticated and elegant. A busy girl needs this 80s hair styles – feather layer because it requires litte product, easy to maintain and a plus point is it can be both wavy hair or straight hair.
80s mullet is on the way! Compared to origin, this mullet gets renewed by fuller, softer fringe and more blended layers. However, no matter which way you did mullet, all of them still have rock’n’roll vibe which is the iconic of this 80s hair styles.
Who says bubble ponytail is just for kids? This style is always trendy because they look so unique and there are so many ways to style them. High or low, it depends on your choice, these ways both show off the shine and softness. Besides, it is a perfect way to keep your hair out of your face. And all you need? Just some elastics.
80s hair styles for short hair
Perm played a huge part of 80s’s culture and can’t talk about short permed hair. But first, ask your hairstylist to cut a chin-length bob, then curled or permed, it’ll shrink. You can customize your curls from size to texture to look more polished with small effort.
After a decade, the bowl cut is still here! With a mushroom looking shape, these 80s hair styles create youthful, fun and playful look. However, it is unique and very eye-catching, so make sure you want it that bad because you have to live with it for a few months or at least a few weeks. Don’t think so much, just have fun! Your hair always grows back after time!
Shag haircuts can work with any length of hair, even short hair. In case you have more fine hair, this can optimize the volume and bring an edgy flare look. If you have thin hair, shag haircuts can create lots of layers to reveal the rockstar or cool-girl vibe. Anh you know what? Go big or go home!
FAQ
Q: What hairstyle was popular in the 80s hair styles?
When talking about 80s hair styles, “the bigger is better” is an attitude. That’s why you’ll see hair volume reach a new height. Big hair became the keyword for this hairstyle era. Besides, hairstyles from the 80s are usually inspired by punk movements which created some popular styles like perms, mullets, feathered hair, bangs, spikes hair, crimped hair,…
Q: How to achieve 80s hair styles?
As we said above, the major factor in 80s hair styling was volume. Big hair is what all people talk about! To achieve this, you need to spend time on washing and drying by hot air, then add lots of hairspray to make the curls more stunning. There are other 80s outstanding hair styles but it depends a lot on hair extensions, straighteners, curling irons, hairspray,… helps create these gorgeous looks.
Q: What hair accessory ideas for 80s hair styles?
Speaking about 80s hair accessories, you can’t reference the iconic headband which was worn by Blair Waldorf – the main character of Gossip Girl. To make it more special, you can choose different fabrics like leather or velvet that completely transform your look. Moreover, there are still other options when you want to elevate casual hairstyle. There are some hair accessories that can make a cool outfit and “glam up” your feed like a giant bow, scrunchie, bandana, headband, hair clip,…
Conclusion
The 80s hairstyles are still here for it decades later! No matter how much time passes, it always comes back in the cycle of fashion. If you are planning to try this in 2025, make a statement with your favourite look. From curls to messy waves, cool cuts, long bob or rocker style, you can try whatever 80s hair styles you want. And remember to prepare hair care and restoration products to protect your natural hair. If you have difficulty in styling, you can choose hair extensions from Jenhair to make your nights more enjoyable!