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The 1980s were all about expressing personality through bold fashion and dramatic hair statements. It was an era defined by big hair, tight curls, feathered styles, and vibrant colors.
Whether seen on music video sets, red carpets, or TV shows, the decade brimmed with creativity and confidence. From bouncy waves to sleek lines, rat tails, and even the occasional bowl cut, ’80s hairstyles for long hair offer timeless looks that continue to inspire modern styles today.
Featuring a distinct retro vibe and requiring minimal effort, these hairstyles are a great way to infuse personal style into your current routine.
Why do these styles still captivate us today? The answer lies in their versatility, larger-than-life appeal, and unique ability to transform any look into something theatrical and expressive. Whether you’re getting ready for a themed party, a photo shoot, or simply want to refresh your everyday style, mastering 1980s hairstyles is the perfect way to do it.
Let’s dive into the best ’80s-inspired looks, techniques, tools, and accessories to help you revive these iconic trends with flair.
Key Takeaways
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The 1980s were all about bold, expressive hairstyles—from big volume to tight curls—making hair a powerful tool for individuality and creativity.
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Popular long hairstyles like big hair, Jheri curls, feathered layers, and ponytails defined the era and continue to influence modern trends.
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Accessories and styling tools played a major role, with scrunchies, bobby pins, and round brushes helping to shape and personalize every look.
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Today’s revivals of ’80s hairstyles mix vintage flair with modern techniques, offering fun, low-effort ways to experiment with dramatic, stylish hair.
Why 80s Hairstyles for Long Hair?
The ’80s showcased some of the most iconic styles in fashion history, especially in hair. The decade embraced a “more is more” philosophy. Volume, texture, and vivid hues weren’t just accepted—they were celebrated.
The era’s influence on hair stylists remains powerful even in the 21st century. Long hair in the 1980s wasn’t merely about hair length; it was about drama, expression, and embracing your inner rock star.
The tools of the trade like the round brush and fine-toothed comb allowed people with all hair types—from curly to straight hair and everything in between—to find a style that suited their face shape and lifestyle.
Techniques like crimping, teasing, and blowouts became standard. The incorporation of accessories like bobby pins, scrunchies, and elastic bands further diversified styling options. And while the ’80s are behind us, their hair legacy lives on with fresh takes and modern twists popping up on runways, in editorials, and on social media.
Moreover, these hairstyles were not limited to a single social class or setting. Whether on school campuses, in corporate offices, or at glam rock concerts, ’80s hairstyles are adapted to fit any occasion.
This universal appeal made it easy for individuals to express themselves in different ways, using their hair as an extension of their personality. The cultural impact was significant, influencing not just trends but also shaping identity and self-expression for an entire generation.
Top 80s Hairstyles for Long Hair
Big Hair
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The quintessential ’80s look, big hair dominated every aspect of the decade’s fashion landscape. It was all about big volume, height, and drama. Achieved through backcombing, excessive use of hairspray, and thermal styling tools, this look screamed attitude.
Women (and even some men) would spend hours perfecting their hair with the help of round brushes, fine-toothed combs, and bobby pins. Often paired with leather jackets and bold makeup, big hair wasn’t just a trend—it was a lifestyle. It’s still considered a perfect way to express bold confidence.
In social settings, having big hair was often a conversation starter. It conveyed a sense of boldness and charisma. For many, it was an empowering experience that gave them confidence in both public and private spaces. It wasn’t just about looking good—it was about feeling good, too.
Jheri Curls
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Popularized by Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, Jheri curls were a staple among African American communities and represented a revolution in Black hair care. These tight curls were soft, shiny, and voluminous, giving wearers an effortlessly glamorous look.
Ideal for longer hair and curly hair textures, this style did require upkeep—moisturizers and curl activators were must-haves. Despite the maintenance, Jheri curls stood as one of the most recognizable and iconic styles of the 1980s, celebrated in both pop culture and everyday street fashion.
One of the key advantages of the Jheri curl was its versatility. It could be worn loose, styled with accessories, or even tied back for a sleek finish. This flexibility made it a popular option for both casual outings and formal events. Plus, the high-gloss finish of the curls made it a favorite for music stars and performers.
Feathered Hairstyle
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The feathered hairstyle, characterized by feathery layers that fanned out from the face, exuded elegance and movement. Inspired by stars like Farrah Fawcett and Brooke Shields, this style was perfect for those with long hair or medium-length hair.
The layered texture worked well with both straight hair and wavy hair, making it a popular option for various hair types. Feathering added volume and dimension without appearing too over-the-top, making it an enduring classic look that’s often mimicked today.
Many chose to pair the feathered look with light waves or subtle highlights, enhancing the natural flow of the hair. It’s especially flattering for those with oval or heart-shaped faces, adding softness and symmetry. Hair sprayed to perfection, it became a great way to elevate both casual and formal styles.
Popular 80s Hairstyles for Long Hair
Big Curls
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Nothing says ’80s like big curls. These curls weren’t just large—they were loud. With the help of hot rollers or curling irons, individuals achieved dramatic, bouncy hair that held up throughout the day (and night), thanks to generous amounts of hairspray. These voluminous curls represented freedom, fun, and feminine power. Seen everywhere from TV shows to red carpets, big curls remain a go-to for themed events and modern twists on retro glam.
High Ponytail
The high ponytail was a staple in casual and athletic styles, made famous by pop stars and teen idols. Teased at the crown and secured with a colorful scrunchie or elastic band, this style elevated a simple ponytail into a fashion statement.
A high ponytail works well with all hair types and can be worn slicked back for a sleek look or teased and voluminous for added drama. It’s still a great way to turn heads with minimal effort.
Side Ponytail
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A fun and flirty option, the side ponytail became iconic thanks to artists like Cyndi Lauper. Whether high on the side of the head or hanging low near the shoulder, this style offered movement and attitude.
Often paired with bold colors, neon outfits, and statement accessories, the side ponytail was more than just a hairstyle—it was a fashion statement that screamed youth and individuality.
These ponytail variations were also seen in music videos and dance routines, providing a dynamic and expressive element to performances. Whether you wanted to feel girly, rebellious, or just different, a ponytail could be styled to reflect that energy.
Modern Twists on 80s Hairstyles
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With the resurgence of ’80s fashion, hairstyles from the decade are being reimagined with a fresh lens. Today’s modern takes focus on subtle reinterpretations and wearable versions of these once-exaggerated styles.
Modern Spin on Big Volume
While traditional big hair relied on intensive teasing and stiff sprays, the modern spin uses texturizing sprays and voluminous mousse. Instead of extreme lifts, hair is blown out for soft, beachy waves and gentle, big volume. This updated look maintains the essence of the ’80s while feeling chic and sophisticated.
Tight Curls for Contemporary Looks
For those who love tight curls but want a manageable version, the contemporary method involves curling damp hair with a curling wand and using light styling products. The outcome is more natural and less crunchy than the original style. This version is frequently seen on influencers and celebrities reviving iconic looks in recent years.
Shag Haircut and Modern Mullets
The shag haircut and modern mullets are making a big comeback. Stars like Miley Cyrus and Zendaya have been spotted with these edgy styles, which combine straight lines with short layers and texture. They nod to the past while feeling fresh, especially when accessorized with bobby pins and layered bangs.
What makes these cuts particularly appealing is their adaptability. They work well with both short and longer hair, and can be worn sleek or messy, depending on your mood. Plus, the low-maintenance nature of these styles makes them ideal for busy lifestyles.
Iconic Celebrities Who Defined 80s Hairstyles
Cyndi Lauper
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A queen of reinvention and color, Cyndi Lauper used her hair as a canvas. From asymmetric cuts to vibrant hues, she embraced every opportunity to make a statement. In her music videos, she often sported teased styles, side ponytails, and dramatic fringe. Her look captured the fearless spirit of the decade.
Michael Jackson & David Bowie
Both men used their hair as extensions of their art. Michael Jackson’s Jheri curls became legendary, contributing to his signature look. Meanwhile, David Bowie changed styles frequently, from mullets to sculpted shapes that defied gender norms. His influence extended into fashion and inspired countless fans.
Whitney Houston
Glamorous and elegant, Whitney Houston brought a refined touch to voluminous curls. She proved that curly hair could be red carpet-ready, often pairing her styles with dramatic gowns and glitzy earrings. Her iconic looks offered a contrast to the grunge and punk trends of the time.
Brooke Shields & Billy Ray Cyrus
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With her natural beauty and voluminous curly hair, Brooke Shields was a model and movie star who defined all-American glam. Billy Ray Cyrus made the mullet a household name, combining business up front with a party in the back. These celebrities helped cement these styles in pop culture history.
Joan Jett and Tina Turner
Joan Jett embraced the rocker aesthetic with her shag haircut, short fringe, and straight lines. Her hair symbolized rebellion and independence. Tina Turner, on the other hand, made big hair and volume part of her stage persona. Her energy and confidence onstage made her a hair icon.
Creating 80s Hairstyles with Accessories
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One cannot overstate the importance of accessories in defining a complete ’80s hairstyle.
Bobby Pins & Hair Ties
Bobby pins weren’t just tools—they were part of the fashion. Available in metallic, neon, or rhinestone-encrusted versions, they were often used visibly rather than hidden. Alongside hair ties, they were essential for updos, buns, and every iteration of the high ponytail. These accessories were functional and expressive.
Scrunchies and Elastic Bands
The colorful scrunchie remains a nostalgic symbol of the ’80s style. Whether worn on the wrist or in the hair, it adds personality and coordination to an outfit. The elastic band was more understated but equally crucial for achieving secure styles. Both options continue to be fashionable in the present day, offering a popular way to nod to the past.
Using the right accessory could also transform a daytime look into something suitable for a night out. It added flair to even the simplest styles, showing that hair was more than just strands—it was an art form.
Key Tools for 80s Hairstyles
No discussion of ’80s hair is complete without mentioning the tools that made it all possible.
Round Brush: Ideal for creating big volume, the round brush was a staple for blowouts and curls. Used while drying damp hair, it helped shape bouncy hair and gave the appearance of fullness.
Fine-Toothed Comb: A fine-toothed comb is crucial for parting hair, teasing at the roots, and refining details. It’s the unsung hero behind structured feathered hairstyles and tight curls.
Hair Bands and Pins: From creating updos to securing curls, hair bands, and bobby pins held everything in place. Together, these tools enabled even the most complicated classic 80s hairstyles to hold up throughout the day.
Conclusion
Revisiting ’80s hairstyles for long hair offers endless ways to express creativity. From the edgy aesthetics of Joan Jett to the glamorous elegance of Whitney Houston, the decade was filled with iconic styles that transcended gender, genre, and geography. With modern interpretations becoming more prevalent in pop culture and fashion, now is the time to explore these looks for yourself.
Whether you’re into big curls, feathered layers, or a rebellious shag haircut, these trends can be adapted to suit your personal style and lifestyle. Embrace your unique face shape, experiment with tools like a round brush or fine-toothed comb, and accessorize with bobby pins and a colorful scrunchie. It’s not just about revisiting the past—it’s about reviving the confidence, color, and creativity that made the ’80s such an unforgettable era.
So why wait? Embrace your inner rockstar, channel the legendary pop stars, and bring back the boldness of ’80s style with full flair and minimal effort. The hair revolution starts with you!