The 1980s was a decade filled with bold fashion choices, and nowhere was this more evident than in the hairstyles that defined the era. From voluminous curls to sleek mullets, these styles continue to hold a special place in the hearts of many Baby Boomers. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore 29 iconic hairstyles from the ’80s that are still beloved today. Whether you sported one of these looks back in the day or you’re just curious about the trends that defined a generation, you’re in for a treat!
1. El Perm
The perm was a quintessential ’80s hairstyle, characterized by tight curls and lots of volume. People often spent hours in salons to achieve this look. It was all about making a statement with big, bold hair. Even today, many Boomers fondly remember their perm days.
2. El Salmonete
Ah, the mullet—short in the front, long in the back. This style knew no gender boundaries, gracing both men and women. Its unconventional shape made it iconic. Love it or hate it, the mullet remains a nostalgic symbol of ’80s rebellion for many.
3. Pelo emplumado
Feathered hair, with its layers and soft waves, was popularized by celebrities and became a mainstream hit. It was about achieving a natural yet styled look. This hairstyle framed the face beautifully. Those feathered layers brought a touch of elegance to everyday appearances.
4. The High Top Fade
The high top fade was a staple in ’80s hip-hop culture, characterized by its geometric shape and height. It was more than a hairstyle; it was a cultural statement. Many still appreciate the artistry involved in crafting the perfect fade.
5. Cabello ondulado
Crimped hair added texture and flair to any look. Using a special crimping iron, people created zigzag patterns that stood out. It was playful and fun, perfect for parties and everyday wear. Despite its quirky nature, crimped hair left a lasting impression on ’80s fashion.
6. Pelo grande
Big hair truly captured the essence of the ’80s—bold and daring. The trick was in the teasing and generous use of hairspray. This hairstyle was all about going big or going home. Its dramatic volume embodied the extravagance of the era.
7. Jheri Curl
The Jheri curl offered a glossy, loose curl look popularized by numerous celebrities. It required special products to maintain its shine and bounce. Despite its high maintenance, the style exuded coolness and confidence, making it a cherished memory for those who wore it.
8. Mohawk
The Mohawk was all about individuality and rebellion, often dyed in various colors. It challenged societal norms and was a bold statement of self-expression. Rockers and rebels alike embraced this daring style, which still resonates with those who lived through the punk movement.
9. Side Ponytail
The side ponytail added a playful twist to the classic ponytail. Positioned to one side, it was both stylish and practical. Perfect for dance routines and casual outings, this hairstyle captured youthful exuberance and remains a fond memory for those who sported it.
10. Corte asimétrico
Asymmetrical cuts were edgy and avant-garde, offering uneven lengths for a modern look. This hairstyle challenged traditional norms, embodying a sense of adventure. It was a favorite among fashion-forward individuals who wanted to stand out with their unique sense of style.
11. El Shag
The shag was all about layers and texture, offering a relaxed, messy look that exuded charisma. It suited various hair types and was both versatile and effortlessly chic. This hairstyle became a go-to for those seeking an easygoing, yet stylish appearance.
12. The Bowl Cut
The bowl cut was a simple, straightforward hairstyle resembling an inverted bowl. Easy to maintain, it was a popular choice for children. While it drew mixed reactions, many Boomers nostalgically recall their childhood days sporting this uniquely ’80s look.
13. Teased Bangs
Teased bangs added height and drama to any hairstyle, complementing the era’s penchant for volume. Achieved through backcombing and hairspray, these bangs were a statement in themselves. For many Boomers, teased bangs were the epitome of ’80s glam.
14. La cola de rata
The rat tail featured a long, narrow section of hair at the nape, setting it apart from other styles. It was a subtle rebellion against conventional hair norms. While not everyone’s cup of tea, the rat tail holds a nostalgic place among those who dared to sport it.
15. La cima plana
The flat top combined precision cutting with bold style, creating a level surface atop the head. Often associated with military precision, it projected a clean, confident image. Many still admire the craftsmanship required to achieve the perfect flat top.
16. Spiky Hair
Spiky hair was all about attitude, achieved through gels and sprays that defied gravity. It was a youthful, energetic style that matched the era’s rebellious spirit. This look remains a fun throwback for those who embraced it during their teenage years.
17. El Pompadour
The pompadour boasted high volume at the front, creating a dramatic silhouette. It required meticulous styling to maintain its grandeur. This hairstyle was synonymous with rock ‘n’ roll culture, leaving an indelible mark on the ’80s and those who rocked it.
18. Punk Spikes
Punk spikes were an extreme form of self-expression, often crafted with vibrant colors and sharp angles. These spikes defied gravity and societal norms, embodying the punk movement’s spirit. For many, they represent the radical, unapologetic energy of the ’80s.
19. Permed Mullet
The permed mullet combined two iconic ’80s styles for a unique look. This hairstyle offered the best of both worlds—curls and length. It defied traditional styling rules and remains a nostalgic favorite for those who embraced its boldness.
20. Afro corto
The short Afro was a celebration of natural texture, offering a neat, rounded silhouette. It was both stylish and easy to maintain, making it a popular choice. Many Boomers fondly recall their own Afro days, cherishing the sense of cultural pride it symbolized.
21. The Wet Look
The wet look was all about shine and slickness, achieved with gels for a just-out-of-the-water effect. This style was bold and daring, perfect for making a statement at parties and events. Many still appreciate the edgy, glossy aesthetic it brought to the ’80s.
22. Buzz Cut
The buzz cut was a no-nonsense hairstyle, emphasizing simplicity and ease. It offered a clean, uniform look that required minimal upkeep. This style was favored by those seeking practicality without sacrificing style, and it remains a fond memory for many Boomers.
23. The Shaved Head
The shaved head was a bold statement of confidence and liberation. It challenged traditional beauty standards and was embraced by those seeking to make a powerful statement. This hairstyle remains a symbol of strength and individuality for those who dared to go bald.
24. Ondas suaves
Soft waves offered a relaxed, natural look that was both elegant and easygoing. This style was about embracing natural texture while maintaining a polished appearance. Many who wore soft waves remember the effortless beauty it brought to their everyday lives.
25. Capas largas
Long layers added dimension and movement to any hairstyle, creating a sense of flow and grace. This style was versatile, suiting various occasions. Those who opted for long layers fondly recall the sophistication and freedom it offered during the ’80s.
26. The Flattop
The flattop was about precision and height, creating a structured, angular silhouette. This style was popular among musicians and athletes, representing discipline and flair. For many, the flattop remains a defining element of their ’80s identity.
27. Pixie Cut
The pixie cut offered a bold, feminine alternative to longer styles, with its short length and textured layers. It was about embracing a carefree, modern look that challenged traditional norms. Many Boomers cherish the pixie cut for its empowering simplicity.
28. The Pageboy
The pageboy was characterized by its sleek, even length and curled-under ends. This hairstyle was both practical and stylish, offering a polished appearance for various occasions. It remains a nostalgic favorite for those who wore it during their formative years.
29. Long Curls
Long curls were synonymous with glamour, offering a cascade of waves that turned heads. This style required careful styling to maintain its voluminous shape. Many who sported long curls in the ’80s fondly remember the elegance and drama it brought to their look.