14 Hairstyles From The 80s We All Regret (But Secretly Miss)
Ah, the 80s! A decade defined by bold fashion, unforgettable music, and larger-than-life hairstyles. From towering mullets to crimped curls, these iconic looks were a testament to a time when bigger was definitely better.
We saw rock stars and everyday folks alike embracing voluminous hair, teasing it to the heavens with an attitude that said, “The bigger, the bolder, the better.” While some of these audacious styles may now make us cringe, they hold a special place in our hearts.
Today, as we look back, we can’t help but secretly long for the carefree spirit of those unforgettable 80s hairstyles.
1. The Rat Tail
The rat tail was a peculiar trend that gained unexpected popularity during the 80s. Typically sported by younger individuals, this style involved growing a long strip of hair at the nape of the neck while the rest of the hair remained short.
Despite its unconventional appearance, the rat tail was a quirky expression of individuality. Many look back on it with a mix of embarrassment and nostalgia.
It was one of those unique trends that made the 80s so memorable, reflecting the decade’s embrace of eccentricity and personal expression.
2. The Mullet
Business in the front, party in the back—the mullet was a hairstyle that perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the 80s. It was versatile yet controversial, loved by some and mocked by others. This haircut transcended gender, with both men and women sporting the look.
The mullet became a cultural icon, seen on rock stars and actors alike. Although it’s often ridiculed today, there’s an undeniable charm to its rebellious nature.
People miss the carefree attitude that came with wearing a mullet. It was a time for breaking norms and embracing who you were.
3. Crimped Hair
Crimped hair was all about texture and volume, making it a go-to style for party-goers and pop stars. Achieved using a crimping iron, this look added a zigzag pattern to the hair, creating a distinctly 80s vibe.
Crimped hair was perfect for those who wanted to stand out in a crowd, and it complemented the vibrant fashion choices of the time.
Although it required a lot of heat styling, many fondly remember the unique texture it provided. It’s a hairstyle that evokes memories of wild nights and unforgettable music.
4. The Feathered Look
The feathered hairstyle was synonymous with 80s heartthrobs. Made famous by celebrities, it involved layering the hair to create a soft, feathered effect, often parted in the middle.
This style was both glamorous and carefree, a perfect match for the era’s rock-and-roll lifestyle. Many remember it as the quintessential cool look, reminiscent of movie stars and musicians.
While it may seem outdated now, the feathered hairstyle holds a special place in the hearts of those who lived through the 80s, embodying a spirit of effortless charm.
5. Big Hair
Who could forget the colossal hairstyles of the 80s? Big hair was more than a trend – it was a cultural phenomenon. Achieving this look involved a combination of teasing, mousse, and hairspray to reach sky-high volume.
Big hair was a symbol of boldness and confidence, allowing individuals to express their personalities loudly and proudly.
While it might raise eyebrows today, many yearn for the unapologetic audacity of such styles. It was an era where more was more, and expressing oneself was at the forefront of fashion.
6. Side Ponytail
The side ponytail was a playful and youthful hairstyle that captured the essence of 80s fun. Often accessorized with vibrant scrunchies, this look was both easy to achieve and maintain.
It was the perfect match for the energetic fashion and lively spirit of the decade.
While today’s styles may favor more sophistication, the side ponytail reminds many of carefree days filled with laughter and adventure. Its charm lies in its simplicity and the joy it brought to those who wore it.
7. The Perm
The epitome of big hair, the perm was a defining feature of the 80s. Women and men everywhere embraced this frizz-inducing trend, often resulting in hair that defied gravity. With curls as tight as a corkscrew, the perm required a lot of maintenance.
Despite the damage it inflicted on hair, the perm’s popularity was undeniable. It was the go-to choice for anyone wanting to make a bold statement.
Many secretly miss the confidence that a larger-than-life hairstyle brought with it. It was a time when hair was truly a statement piece, not just an accessory.
8. The Jheri Curl
The Jheri curl was a glossy, curly hairstyle popularized by entertainment icons of the 80s. Known for its shine and bounce, it required a unique haircare regimen to maintain its distinct look.
This style was synonymous with glamour and flair, often seen on stage and screen. While maintaining a Jheri curl was no easy task, many fondly remember the confidence it brought.
Today, it’s looked back on as a symbol of the 80s’ vibrant energy and the decade’s love for all things bold and beautiful.
9. The Hi-Top Fade
The hi-top fade was a defining hairstyle among 80s hip-hop culture. Characterized by its tall, flat top and closely shaved sides, it was both stylish and practical.
This look was embraced by musicians and athletes alike, symbolizing creativity and self-expression. Many miss the sense of identity and pride that came with wearing a hi-top fade.
It was a statement of belonging to a vibrant community, and its legacy continues to influence modern styles.
10. Teased Bangs
Teased bangs were a staple of 80s fashion, adding drama and flair to any hairstyle. Achieved by backcombing and spraying, these bangs stood tall and proud.
They were often paired with voluminous hair, creating a look that was both daring and stylish. Teased bangs offered a way to experiment with texture and height, and many remember them as a fun way to express individuality.
Despite their complexity, they remain a beloved memory for those who embraced the trend.
11. The Bowl Cut
The bowl cut was a simple yet distinctive hairstyle that many children of the 80s sported. Characterized by its even length and rounded shape, it was both practical and easy to maintain.
Though often joked about, the bowl cut has a nostalgic charm that many secretly miss.
It was a rite of passage for many, a reminder of childhood innocence and carefree days. While it might not make a comeback, those who wore it look back with a smile.
12. The Shag
The shag haircut was a layered style that offered volume and movement, making it a popular choice in the 80s. Known for its versatility, it could be adapted to suit various lengths and textures.
This style was both edgy and feminine, appealing to those who wanted a look that was both stylish and manageable.
Many miss the carefree vibe that the shag embodied, a perfect reflection of the 80s’ dynamic spirit. It’s a hairstyle that continues to inspire modern adaptations, proving its timeless appeal.
13. Spiky Hair
Spiky hair was synonymous with the punk movement of the 80s, characterized by its rebellious spirit and distinctive look. Achieving this style involved copious amounts of gel and hairspray to create sharp, defined spikes.
This hairstyle was more than just a fashion statement; it was an expression of individuality and defiance. Many who embraced it fondly remember the sense of freedom it provided.
While it may not be as popular today, spiky hair remains a symbol of a time when pushing boundaries and challenging norms was celebrated.
14. The Mohawk
The mohawk was the ultimate symbol of rebellion in the 80s, characterized by its shaved sides and tall, often colorful crest. This hairstyle was not for the faint-hearted; it required confidence and a daring spirit.
Worn by punks and non-conformists, the mohawk was a bold statement against societal norms. Many remember it as a time of self-expression and individuality.
While it may not be as shocking today, the mohawk continues to inspire those who march to the beat of their own drum, embodying the spirit of the 80s.