12 Iconic 1980s 80s Hairstyles That Still Turn Heads Today

The 1980s were wild, bold, and unapologetically loud—and the hair followed suit. Big volume, strong shapes, and fearless flair ruled the era.

Whether you’re looking to recreate retro glam or just appreciate its influence, these 12 unforgettable 1980s 80s hairstyles will take you on a trip down memory lane with flair and fun.

1. The Feathered Flip

Popularized by Farrah Fawcett, this airy, voluminous style became the decade’s sweetheart. Feathered layers flipped away from the face and flowed like wings, making every head toss a moment. It framed the face softly while keeping a structured shape—perfect for both casual and glam days. With a round brush and some hot rollers, this look was the ultimate 80s dream.

2. Crimped Curls

Crimped hair screamed “fun” in the 80s. With zigzag textures and electrifying volume, this look added instant edge. Created using a crimping iron, it worked on long or short hair and was often combined with wild colors or teased roots. Crimped curls were youthful, rebellious, and perfect for dance floors and mall strolls alike.

3. The Mall Bangs

Every teenage girl in the 80s had “mall bangs”—a wall of teased, sprayed, gravity-defying fringe. They were high-maintenance and high-impact. These bangs were often paired with ponytails or half-up styles and held in place with half a can of hairspray. They symbolized peak 80s fashion and remain one of its most unforgettable statements.

4. The Side Ponytail

Asymmetry was everything, and the side ponytail nailed that vibe. Pulled high to one side and secured with neon scrunchies, this style had a playful, cheerleader energy. Often worn with teased roots or crimped texture, it was both easy and expressive. Whether heading to school or the skating rink, the side ponytail was a favorite.

5. Rocker Shag

Inspired by rock legends like Joan Jett, the rocker shag was edgy, layered, and perfectly imperfect. It had choppy bangs, sharp layers, and a tousled finish that screamed rebellion. Women wore it with black eyeliner and leather jackets, embracing the grunge-before-grunge aesthetic. It was cool, it was tough, and it totally rocked.

6. Permed Curls

Big, bouncy perms ruled the 1980s. Whether you had straight or wavy hair, the perm added major drama. Tight curls added body and flair, often styled with mousse or gel for extra hold. Women loved how it gave life to limp locks. It was high-volume, high-maintenance, and totally worth it.

7. The Rat Tail

Though more unisex, women rocked the rat tail too—usually paired with a pixie or short cut. It featured a skinny strand of long hair at the nape, often braided or dyed. This quirky, rebellious touch gave short hairstyles a punk edge. It wasn’t for everyone—but those who wore it, owned it.

8. Headband Tuck

This elegant-meets-casual look involved using a thick fabric headband to pull the hair back, then tucking the ends into it for a faux-bob or rolled style. It worked great on long hair and gave a romantic, Grecian feel. Women paired it with shoulder pads and silk blouses, mixing soft hair with sharp fashion.

9. The Banana Clip Updo

The banana clip was the MVP of 80s hair accessories. It helped pull long hair up into a fan-like cascade—part ponytail, part updo. It created instant volume and drama without much effort. Women used it for everyday looks or formal settings, proving that even accessories had attitude in the 80s.

10. Punk Pixie Cut

Inspired by punk icons, the 80s pixie cut was bold and razor-sharp. Short, edgy layers and often bright colors like platinum, red, or jet black gave this cut attitude. It was low-maintenance yet high-style, especially when paired with dramatic eyeliner and ripped jeans. A statement hairstyle that never blended in.

11. Big Teased Hair

Teasing was practically a sport in the 80s. Hair was lifted at the roots with a comb and sprayed stiff to defy gravity. Whether in a bouffant, half-up style, or all-over lion’s mane, teased hair meant power. This style wasn’t about subtlety—it was about owning the room with every strand.

12. The Glam Wave

For a more refined 80s vibe, the glam wave was all about elegance with volume. Think soft, brushed-out curls, side parts, and smooth finishes. Often seen on red carpets or in soap operas, it channeled old Hollywood glam with a modern twist. A timeless style that gave sophistication a signature 80s flair.

Conclusion

From teased bangs to rocker shags, 1980s 80s hairstyles weren’t just trends—they were statements. Each style reflected the spirit of an era that dared to be different. Whether you’re revisiting these looks for nostalgia or fresh inspiration, one thing’s clear: the 80s never go out of style.