12 Bold & Beautiful 80s Short Hairstyles Women Are Bringing Back

The 80s were loud, proud, and filled with unforgettable fashion—especially when it came to hair. Big volume, bold cuts, and fearless styles ruled the decade.

Today, those 80s short hairstyles are making a stylish return, but with a modern twist. From fierce pixies to fluffy curls, here are 12 iconic looks that prove short hair really does have more fun.

1. Feathered Pixie

Soft, layered, and full of texture—the feathered pixie was a feminine take on boyish charm. Inspired by stars like Princess Diana, it featured wispy layers that framed the face beautifully. This cut gave off both elegance and confidence, making it perfect for women who wanted low-maintenance style with a touch of glamour.

2. Voluminous Curly Crop

Big curls, don’t care! The 80s curly crop was all about showing off natural texture. Whether you had tight coils or loose spirals, this short haircut used layers to boost volume and movement. A little mousse and a diffuser were all you needed to keep it bouncing all day long. Flirty, fun, and totally free-spirited.

3. Side-Swept Bangs Bob

A shoulder-brushing bob with exaggerated side-swept bangs? Totally 80s. This cut combined clean lines with dramatic flair, perfect for office days or dance floors. With a little teasing at the roots and a spritz of hairspray, it created instant attitude. Bonus: it worked with both straight and wavy textures.

4. Punk-Inspired Shaved Side Cut

If you were bold in the 80s, this was your go-to. One side shaved, the other full of volume or color—this rebellious look was all about edge. Paired with a leather jacket and loud eyeliner, it screamed punk-rock queen. Today, it’s making a modern comeback among women who love to stand out.

5. Short Shag with Layers

A little messy, a little magical—the short shag was effortless cool. With choppy layers, tousled texture, and plenty of personality, it suited women who didn’t take themselves too seriously. Rock it with bangs or without, the look was versatile and full of energy, capturing that carefree 80s vibe.

6. Tight Perm Pixie

The 80s loved a good perm, and this short version was no exception. The tight perm pixie turned short hair into a voluminous, textured dream. It framed the face in tiny curls and made every angle look bold. Great for women who wanted full-bodied style without the length.

7. Mohawk Fade

The mohawk wasn’t just for men. Women in the 80s rocked it too—with fierce confidence. Short sides, a strip of longer hair down the center, and wild styling gave it major punk power. Add color or glitter if you dared. This style was made for those who refused to blend in.

8. Wedge Cut

The wedge cut was a geometric masterpiece. With stacked layers at the back and a rounded silhouette, it looked sharp yet soft. Perfect for women who wanted a structured cut with a playful edge. Whether sleek or voluminous, this style turned heads with its perfect shape and easy upkeep.

9. Short Bowl Cut

While controversial, the bowl cut had a major moment in the 80s—especially the ultra-short version. It created a bold, clean line around the head, and when paired with funky makeup or accessories, it looked like high fashion. It’s back now, reimagined with texture and confidence.

10. Slicked-Back Short Hair

Power suits? Check. Power hair? Double check. The slicked-back short style oozed confidence and control. Using gel or mousse, hair was combed straight back for a wet-look finish. It was popular among businesswomen and trendsetters alike, proving that femininity and fierceness could go hand in hand.

11. Fluffed-Out Crop

Volume was queen in the 80s—and the fluffed crop was a crown. This style featured short layers fluffed up at the roots, giving the illusion of thickness and height. A bit of backcombing and hairspray gave it lift that lasted all day. Think glam, bold, and ready for anything.

12. Short Crimped Hair

Who said crimping was only for long hair? Short crimped styles gave major attitude with minimal length. Whether crimped all over or just in sections, it added texture and edge to bobs and pixies alike. This was the ultimate party style—quirky, cool, and unforgettable.

Conclusion

The 80s were anything but boring—and these 80s short hairstyles prove it. Whether you’re all about volume, edge, or elegance, there’s a short style from the era that still fits today’s fashion-forward woman. Embrace the throwback vibes and find the cut that lets your bold side shine. After all, short hair doesn’t mean less—it means more attitude.