28 Bold Haircuts From The 80S For Women: Vintage Glam

Step into the vibrant 1980s where hairstyles like the shag and pixie cut challenged norms with bold femininity. The blunt bob embodied minimalist elegance, while the bowl cut dared conventional beauty with its rounded silhouette.

Tapered afro styles celebrated cultural identity amid social change. Influences from Princess Diana’s layers to Madonna’s defiant curls redefined elegance.

Stevie Nicks’ wolf cut and Jessica Lange’s curled bob illustrated the decade’s penchant for volume and texture. These hairstyles weren’t just about aesthetics; they symbolized bold self-expression and cultural shifts.

There’s more to explore about how these trends have resurfaced today.

28 Bold Haircuts From The 80s For Women Vintage Glam

Table of Contents

1. The Shag Haircut

In the domain of iconic 80s hairstyles, the shag haircut stands out as a bold tribute to individuality and rebellion. Originating in 1970s New York, this style gained momentum through rock icons like Joan Jett.

Its hallmark features—layers, volume, and a prominent fringe—encapsulate a carefree, yet daring persona.

The shag’s adaptability makes it a timeless choice, appealing to both men and women across generations.

Fast forward to 2024, and the shag haircut is experiencing a renaissance. It’s perfect for those seeking a low-maintenance, innovative style that resonates with past and present trends.

Modern iterations, like the modern shag or shaggy bob, blend vintage flair with contemporary sophistication, ensuring the shag remains a staple in cutting-edge fashion.

2. The Pixie Cut

As the shag haircut’s bold layers and rebellious spirit dominated the 80s, another daring style quietly captured the imagination of women seeking a fresh, edgy look—the pixie cut.

Defined by its short sides and back, with slightly longer top layers, the pixie cut became a symbol of bold femininity and versatility. Its wispy bangs and textured edges allowed for a voluminous yet sleek appearance.

You could effortlessly switch between a messy, carefree vibe or a polished, neat look with the help of pomade. Iconic figures like Madonna and Princess Diana showcased its allure, cementing the pixie cut’s place in fashion history.

Its continuous evolution and timeless appeal guarantee it remains a go-to choice for those craving innovation.

3. The Blunt Bob

The blunt bob, a quintessential 80s hairstyle, became an emblem of straightforward elegance and bold expression. Characterized by its straight cut around the jawline or below, often with bangs, this style reflected a desire for minimalism with impact.

Princess Diana’s adoption of the blunt bob cemented its status, while icons like Madonna and Cindy Crawford added creative flair. The style’s presence in TV, film, and music videos highlighted its versatility and appeal, influenced by European trends.

Today, the blunt bob continues to captivate, embracing modern elements like subtle layers and sleek finishes. It pairs effortlessly with contemporary fashion, allowing for personalization through varied lengths and bangs.

Whether styled with bold makeup or statement accessories, the blunt bob remains a canvas for innovation.

4. The Bowl Cut

While the blunt bob offered sleek sophistication, the bowl cut emerged as a daring statement of uniformity and bold design in the 80s. Characterized by its rounded cut and short bangs, this style defied conventional beauty standards.

It embraced a futuristic vibe, appealing to those seeking a departure from traditional femininity. The bowl cut’s adaptability allowed it to evolve, featuring variations like the mullet bowl cut and the colorful undercut.

Styling involved sleek blowouts or textured choppy cuts, offering versatility. Popular in the ’70s and ’80s, the bowl cut’s resurgence in modern fashion showcases its enduring appeal.

It’s a nod to vintage glam, adaptable to diverse textures and colors, making it a timeless choice for the bold and innovative.

5. Tapered Afro Style

Evolving through the vibrant 1980s, the tapered Afro style became a defining symbol of both fashion and cultural identity. It merged traditional Afro aesthetics with innovative techniques, reflecting a period rich in expression and resistance to Eurocentric norms.

You could see its influence across various domains, and here’s why it was so impactful:

Cultural Expression: Represented black pride and individuality amidst a backdrop of social change.
Influence from Hip-Hop: Inspired by the burgeoning hip-hop scene and street culture.
Celebrity Endorsement: Icons like Janet Jackson elevated its popularity, making it mainstream.
Versatile Styling: Offered a chic silhouette with its shorter sides and longer top, perfect for maintaining volume.

This style continues to inspire modern adaptations, celebrating natural textures.

6. Backcombed Ponytail

Backcombing took the 80s hairstyles to new heights, literally and figuratively. This technique, essential for the backcombed ponytail, defined the decade’s bold statement.

Inspired by 70s feathered layers, it offered a fresh lift with teasing and heavy hairspray, famously worn by icons like Madonna.

Its influence wasn’t just historical; recent Super Bowl commercials echo its resurgence, signaling its lasting appeal.

To craft your own, start with a mousse-applied dry base, backcomb at the roots with a round brush, and secure a high ponytail with bobby pins.

This style isn’t just nostalgia; it’s evolving. Modern interpretations soften the volume, adapting to various hair types, spotted on runways and celebrities like Kim Kardashian.

The backcombed ponytail remains a timeless tribute to innovation.

7. Voluminous Curls

As the bold backcombed ponytail claimed its spot as a symbol of 80s hair innovation, voluminous curls emerged as an equally iconic hairstyle, showcasing the decade’s love for volume and texture.

This style wasn’t merely about aesthetics; it was a declaration of individuality and liberation. Influenced by figures like Madonna and Cher, it became a cultural phenomenon, reflecting the era’s dynamic spirit.

To achieve this look, consider these key elements:

Layered cuts: Essential for creating depth and movement.
Hairspray: A must for maintaining those gravity-defying curls all day.
Perms: Ideal for adding long-lasting texture to naturally straight hair.
Large rollers: Vital for setting and amplifying volume.

Voluminous curls encapsulate the innovative essence of 80s fashion, blending style with bold self-expression.

8. Teased Bangs

Teased bangs burst onto the 80s scene, capturing the rebellious spirit of the decade with their gravity-defying height and dramatic flair. This style, marked by its voluminous front strands, required meticulous backcombing and strong-hold hairspray, essential tools in achieving its signature look.

Influenced by pop icons like Madonna and Cyndi Lauper, teased bangs became synonymous with boldness and individuality. They were often paired with longer hair, creating a striking contrast that emphasized the audacity of the style.

To recreate this iconic look, start with dry hair and gently backcomb the front strands using a fine-tooth comb. Apply a generous amount of strong-hold hairspray to maintain the lift.

For those craving a statement-making hairstyle, teased bangs offer an innovative, nostalgic charm.

9. High Ponytail

A high ponytail wasn’t just a hairstyle in the ’80s—it was a cultural emblem of confidence and energy.

This iconic look was a favorite among pop stars like Madonna and Whitney Houston, symbolizing the era’s bold fashion statements.

The high ponytail’s appeal lay in its versatility, effortlessly shifting from aerobics workouts to glamorous events.

To recreate this style, consider these essentials:

Volume at the Roots: Achieved with blow-drying and hairspray for that signature lift.
Sleek Finish: Use hair gel or mousse to smooth strands and add volume.
Accessories: Scrunchies and hair bows for an authentic ’80s vibe.
Modern Twist: Sleeker finishes with clear elastics for a contemporary update.

Embrace this timeless trend with innovative flair.

10. Brushed-Back Curls

Embracing the spirit of the 1980s, brushed-back curls epitomize the decade’s penchant for bold and voluminous hairstyles. This look perfectly captures the era’s love for “big hair” and flamboyance, with icons like Barbra Streisand and Madonna leading the trend.

To achieve this vintage glam, use a hydrating conditioner to retain moisture, then create loose curls with a large barrel curling iron. Gently backcomb the curls for added texture, and use a wide-tooth comb for minimal breakage.

The secret to keeping the style intact is light hold hairspray, complemented by dry shampoo for a matte finish. This hairstyle, a symbol of self-expression, showcases the innovative styling tools and techniques that defined the 80s’ bold fashion statements.

11. Modern Mullet

The modern mullet is a tribute to the enduring appeal of hairstyles that defy convention and embrace individuality. This iconic cut has evolved beyond its 1980s rock roots, integrating international trends and sustainability.

Salons now offer eco-friendly options using plant-derived colors. Social media platforms amplify its appeal, showcasing diverse styles and tutorials.

Cultural Diversity: Modern mullets incorporate global influences, offering diverse styling options.
Celebrity Influence: Endorsed by stars like Miley Cyrus, the mullet remains in the spotlight.
Adaptability: Can be customized for any face shape, hair type, or length.
Historical Roots: Originated in the 1970s-80s rock scene, now revived with variations like the wolf cut.

The mullet continues to captivate with its dynamic adaptability and unisex appeal.

12. High 1980s Bangs

While the 1980s may be remembered for its bold fashion choices, high bangs undeniably stood out as a defining hairstyle of the decade. Achieving this iconic look required strategic styling, with aerosol hairspray and teasing combs as your essential tools.

Bangs were typically cut straight across or slightly angled, often rising above the eyebrows. This style wasn’t just about volume—it was a statement of power and glamour, popularized by celebrities like Michelle Pfeiffer and Cher.

High bangs became synonymous with the “big hair” trend permeating TV and movies, capturing the era’s essence.

Today, modern techniques like texturizing spray and heatless curls recreate this look, melding vintage flair with contemporary sensibilities, making it relevant once again.

13. 80s Blowouts

High bangs weren’t the only bold statement in 1980s hairstyles—blowouts also played a significant role in defining the era’s hair trends.

You’d find that creating the iconic 80s blowout was all about volume and drama. The technique relied heavily on a few key elements:

Tools of the Trade: A hair dryer with high heat and a cool setting, paired with a large round brush, was essential for smoothing and shaping.
Volume Techniques: Teasing at the roots and using extensions were common to achieve that big hair look.
Product Essentials: Heat protectants and strong hold hairspray were vital for maintaining the style’s structure and preventing damage.
Styling Tips: Starting with damp hair, finish with a cool setting to lock in those voluminous waves.

14. Bubble Ponytail

Ever wondered what made the bubble ponytail a standout hairstyle in the 1980s? It was the decade’s flair for boldness that catapulted this unique style, where hair elastics wrapped around ponytails, into the limelight.

Originating with colorful scrunchies, the bubble ponytail embodied the playful spirit of the era. Its versatility allowed for different placements on the head, making it suitable for any occasion.

Today, the bubble ponytail is reimagined with sleek, clear elastics, offering a modern twist on a nostalgic classic.

Creating the look involves evenly spaced elastics that define the bubbles, while accessories like headbands or hair clips enhance its retro charm.

As fashion cycles, the bubble ponytail stands as a representation of the innovative spirit of ’80s hair trends.

15. Half-Up Ponytail

As the bubble ponytail captured the playful essence of the ’80s, the half-up ponytail emerged as an iconic symbol of youthful energy and effortless elegance during the same era.

It found favor in aerobics and workout videos, showcasing its versatility and charm. The style’s popularity was fueled by celebrities and the general public, thanks to its playful yet sophisticated vibe.

In analyzing its appeal, consider the following:

Styling Versatility: It worked well with various hair textures and lengths.
Accessories: Scrunchies and colorful hair ties were essential.
Modern Revival: The look has been updated with sleek elastics.
Cultural Impact: It bridged elegance with the casual spirit of the ’80s.

This evolution continues, shaping modern trends with a nod to its roots.

16. Jheri Curls

In the vibrant tapestry of 80s hairstyles, few were as revolutionary and culturally resonant as the Jheri Curl.

Invented by Jheri Redding and popularized by Comer Cottrell, the Jheri Curl was a symbol of innovation in African-American hair culture. It transformed the market with its loose, shiny curls, famously worn by Michael Jackson on the “Thriller” album.

This style required dedication, with salon visits and daily use of curl activators to maintain its glossy look. It wasn’t just a hairstyle—it was a cultural phenomenon that boomed salon businesses.

However, the high maintenance and oily aftermath led to its decline in the 90s.

Today, modern adaptations like the Gina Curl embrace healthier practices, reviving its legacy innovatively.

17. Farrah Fawcett Layers

When it comes to iconic hairstyles, few can match the enduring allure of Farrah Fawcett’s layered look.

Originating in the 1970s and 1980s, this style remains a symbol of vintage glam, characterized by its feathered layers and voluminous curls.

Embracing innovation while respecting tradition, you can achieve this look by focusing on a few key techniques:

Layering Technique: Use notching to create volume and flow.
Texturizing: Incorporate texturizing scissors for movement and lightness.
Face Framing: Start layers at the chin for a flattering effect.
Cascading Layers: Lower layers should cascade for a full-bodied appearance.

Farrah Fawcett’s hairstyle isn’t just retro flair; it’s a transformative, versatile look that continues to inspire modern trends.

18. Curly Shag Cut

The curly shag cut, with its origins rooted firmly in the 1970s, has experienced a vibrant revival by blending past inspirations with modern adaptations.

This cut is a demonstration of innovation, taking cues from icons like Joan Jett and Farrah Fawcett. Its 80s influence is unmistakable, focusing on volume and bold statements.

Modern techniques, like razoring, have evolved it to include denser perimeters and balanced lengths. It’s versatile, suiting curly, wavy, and permed hair, allowing natural texture to shine.

The addition of curtain bangs frames the face with a nostalgic touch. For the trend-conscious, it offers low-maintenance styling with minimal products.

This cut is perfect if you want to manage volume while embracing the edgy vibe of big hair.

19. Pfeiffer’s Curls

Pfeiffer’s curls epitomize the glamorous excess of 80s hairstyles, capturing an era when volume and bold textures reigned supreme.

These iconic curls, notable for their voluminous allure and soft waves, became a staple in films like “Married to the Mob.” They encapsulated the “big hair” trend that defined the decade, inspiring many to embrace similar styles.

Here’s why they dominated the era:

Volume & Soft Waves: Large rollers created unparalleled volume, while soft side fringes added a signature touch.
Styling Techniques: Hairspray was essential for holding those curls in place, highlighting natural texture.
Enduring Influence: Pfeiffer’s look remains influential, inspiring modern twists and adaptations.
Cultural Impact: Her style is frequently cited in beauty articles, reflecting its lasting appeal in fashion circles.

20. Houston’s Curly Hair

Capturing the essence of 80s glam, Houston’s curly hair became a defining feature of her image, perfectly aligning with the decade’s love for volume and exuberance.

Volume was key in this era, and her iconic look in the “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” music video showcases her voluminous curls.

These curls weren’t just a fashion statement; they embodied an era that celebrated boldness and individuality. Achieving such volume required strategic layering and styling techniques, like perms and rollers, which were essential for maintaining this look.

Houston’s style wasn’t just a fleeting trend; it left a lasting impact, inspiring future generations to emulate her bold and expressive hair. Her curls remain a tribute to the innovative spirit of the 80s.

21. Volumised Updo

Volumised updos, a quintessential element of 80s hairstyles, captured the decade’s penchant for big, bold statements.

These styles weren’t just about height; they embodied the era’s love for drama and self-expression.

Celebrities like Iman and Salma Hayek turned heads with their elegant yet towering coiffures, achieved through meticulous techniques.

Here’s how they did it:

Teasing and Backcombing: Essential for adding texture and volume.
Rollers: Set the foundation for that iconic lift.
Gels and Hairspray: Slicked down sides and secured the style.
Hairpieces and Chemical Enhancements: Enhanced volume and impact.

In today’s fashion landscape, these retro styles are making a comeback, inspiring innovative twists and modern interpretations that speak to a bold, nostalgic audience.

22. Ponytail With Bangs

The ponytail with bangs stands as a defining emblem of 80s hairstyling, capturing the era’s boldness and flair for dramatic expressions. This combination of high ponytails and cheekbone-length bangs encapsulated the decade’s trend of voluminous, statement-making hair.

Embraced by icons like Madonna and Cyndi Lauper, it became a staple on red carpets, reinforcing its cultural significance and versatility across various hair textures.

Analyzing its resurgence, modern interpretations favor subtlety, utilizing lighter products and softer teasing techniques. This adaptation speaks to contemporary desires for innovation while honoring its vintage roots.

The enduring appeal of this style lies in its ability to adapt to evolving tastes, maintaining its iconic status as a symbol of the 80s’ audacious spirit and continuing to inspire today’s fashion-forward audience.

23. Charo’s High Ponytail

While ponytails with bangs defined the 80s with their dramatic flair, Charo’s high ponytail carved its own niche in the era’s hairstyling landscape. This iconic style was a representation of the decade’s love for volume and height.

Charo’s signature look, showcased at the 1980 American Music Awards, reflected her flamboyant persona and became a staple in her public appearances.

Analyzing its impact, consider these elements:

Teased Volume: It required significant teasing at the roots for that sky-high effect.
Combination of Trends: Merging high ponytails with teased-up top knot inspiration, it embodied 80s boldness.
Styling Essentials: Hairspray and extensions were key for maintaining its dramatic shape.
Legacy: It remains a classic, influencing modern voluminous styles.

24. Bubble Ponytail Style

In the domain of iconic 80s hairstyles, the Bubble Ponytail Style stands out with its playful and whimsical charm. This quirky creation involves segmenting your hair into bubbles with elastics, offering endless personalization.

Born from the bold and experimental spirit of the 80s, it gained popularity with colorful scrunchies that added a distinctive flair.

Fast forward to today, the Bubble Ponytail has made a triumphant return on runways, appreciated for its unique nostalgia and adaptability. Modern updates use sleek, clear elastics, and the style complements both short and long hair.

25. Princess Diana’s Layers

Embracing a layered hairstyle became a defining element of Princess Diana’s iconic look in the 1980s, setting a standard for elegance and adaptability.

Her layers evolved dramatically, reflecting both personal growth and shifting fashion trends. Exploring Diana’s hairstyles reveals her groundbreaking influence:

Engagement Announcement (1981): The shaggy cut introduced a relaxed, approachable royal image.
Wedding Day (1981): Defined bangs with her tiara exemplified regal sophistication.
Charity Event (1982): A well-coiffed, side-swept style signaled a polished, public persona.
Official Portrait (1983): Perfectly swept layers fused tradition with modernity.

Diana’s hairstyles showcased innovation, inspiring countless women to experiment with their own looks.

Her feathered shag and voluminous crop remain timeless, illustrating the enduring impact of her fashion-forward choices.

26. Madonna’s Vintage Curls

Madonna’s vintage curls encapsulate the rebellious spirit and transformative power of 1980s fashion.

Her early days featured messy punk chic, with choppy, unkempt locks and bleached streaks, embodying the gritty punk subculture. This style was a striking departure from the polished looks of other pop stars, resonating with young fans seeking rebellion.

As she evolved, Madonna embraced platinum blonde bombshell appeal, with perfectly coiffed, voluminous curls that commanded attention both on and off stage. These curls symbolized sexy, empowered femininity, elevating her status as a style icon.

By rejecting conformity, her hairstyles inspired individuality, becoming cultural touchpoints.

Examining Madonna’s vintage curls reveals an innovative blend of raw rebellion and glamorous allure, setting trends that continue to influence fashion today.

27. Stevie Nicks’ Wolf Cut

The wolf cut, a hairstyle that epitomizes vintage glam, surged into the spotlight thanks to Stevie Nicks during her iconic time with Fleetwood Mac.

This bold look combines layers and texture, effortlessly blending a mix of straight and curly hair. It’s an ideal choice for those with thick, wavy, or curly locks, particularly flattering on oval, heart-shaped, and square faces.

Key Features:

Styling Tips: Use a round brush and blow dryer to add volume and smoothness.
Maintenance: Regular trims are essential to prevent split ends.
Celebrity Influence: Inspired artists like Lady Gaga and Miley Cyrus.
Timeless Appeal: Continues to inspire modern variations and fashion trends.

Embrace this fearless cut and make a statement with your style.

28. Lange’s Curled Bob

Jessica Lange’s curled bob encapsulates the quintessential style of the 80s, merging sophisticated glamour with a playful twist. Popularized by Lange, the “Italian bob” transformed into an iconic hairstyle, famed for its voluminous layers and natural curls.

A defining image of this style was captured in her 1981 Head & Shoulders campaign, which cemented its place in hairstyle history. This look embraces innovation through its adaptability to various hair textures, allowing for personal expression.

80s styling methods like perming or rollers were essential, but modern techniques make achieving the curled bob more accessible. The hairstyle’s versatility and nod to vintage elegance have sustained its popularity, inspiring contemporary trends with a nostalgic yet fresh appeal.

Embrace its legacy for a timeless, chic look.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Maintain Volume in 80S Hairstyles Throughout the Day?

To maintain volume in 80s-inspired hairstyles, embrace the era’s innovative spirit.

Start with root volumizers and backcombing for that essential lift. Use heat tools sparingly, protecting hair with sprays, and set volume with a cool shot.

Opt for historical favorites like dry shampoo to combat oil.

For ongoing maintenance, gently detangle and avoid touching your hair too much.

Silk pillowcases are a modern twist to reduce frizz.

Keep your style bold!

Which Hair Products Are Best for Achieving 80S Vintage Glam Looks?

Isn’t it fascinating how 80s hair trends, characterized by volume and boldness, align with today’s innovative desires?

Use mousse for volume, gel for sleekness, and hairspray to hold styles in place.

Curling irons create those iconic bouncy curls, while scrunchies add a vintage touch.

Texturizing sprays and thickening serums enhance dimension and fullness.

These products transform your look, marrying historical glam with modern innovation, perfect for achieving 80s-inspired styles.

Can Modern Tools Replicate the Texture of 80S Hairstyles?

You can absolutely replicate the texture of 80s hairstyles with modern tools. Curling irons and crimpers offer innovative ways to achieve that iconic volume and texture.

Considering the historical context, the 80s were all about bold statements, and today’s tools make it easier to reinterpret those trends with precision.

Analyzing current trends, you’ll find that the fusion of nostalgic styles with modern techniques is both a nod to the past and a push towards future creativity.

How Can I Adapt 80S Haircuts for Fine Hair?

To adapt 80s haircuts for fine hair, analyze how volume was achieved through layers and products.

Historically, 80s styles prioritized big looks; now, innovate by integrating modern, lightweight volumizers and advanced texturizing sprays.

Focus on trends like side-swept fringes and layered bobs, which offer volume without bulk.

Use a round brush and cool blow-drying techniques to set volume effectively.

Embrace subtle updates for a bold yet contemporary twist on vintage glam.

Are There Any Specific Face Shapes That Suit 80S Hairstyles Best?

Imagine your face as a canvas for 80s hairstyles—each shape telling a different story.

Round faces thrive with long layers and side-swept bangs, avoiding vertical volume.

Square faces soften with curls and side fringes, steering clear of blunt edges.

Oval faces embrace versatility, from high ponytails to layered bangs.

Heart-shaped faces balance with layers that add width below.

Analyze these iconic trends, and innovate a look that suits your unique face shape.

Conclusion

You’ve journeyed through the bold and unforgettable haircuts of the 80s, each style reflecting a unique blend of rebellion and glam. Surprisingly, a recent study shows that 30% of today’s fashion-forward individuals draw inspiration from vintage styles, showcasing their timeless allure.

As you consider experimenting with these iconic cuts, remember their historical context: each one was a statement of empowerment and individuality. Embrace the past to redefine your look, because trends, like history, tend to repeat themselves.