Iconic Hairstyles of the 1980s
The 1980s did nothing by halves — and its hair was no exception. Big, bold and unapologetically expressive, 80s hairstyles were about volume, attitude and standing out. Here’s a look back at five of the decade’s most iconic women’s styles and the famous faces who defined them.
The Perm — Madonna
The perm was everywhere in the 80s, and Madonna wore it best — voluminous, textured curls that matched her bold, era-defining image. Perms use chemicals to set long-lasting curl or wave into the hair, adding the volume and movement the decade adored. Interestingly, the perm has had a real modern revival — today’s version is far softer than the 80s original. Our guide to the modern perm shows how it’s changed.
Big, Teased Hair — Dolly Parton
If one style captured 80s extravagance, it was big teased hair — and Dolly Parton remains its most famous champion. Built with backcombing and plenty of hairspray, these were towering, gravity-defying hairdos that made glamour and volume the whole point. Unmistakably of its era.
The Punk Mohawk — Cyndi Lauper
For the other side of the 80s — the rebellious, anti-establishment side — there was the Mohawk, and Cyndi Lauper brought it into the mainstream with her eclectic, vibrant style. Shaved at the sides with a central strip styled upright, it was a statement of individuality and non-conformity rooted in punk culture.
The Power Bob — Princess Diana
Not all 80s hair was about excess. Princess Diana popularised the sleek, structured “power bob” — a shorter, layered cut with subtle volume that suited the decade’s power-dressing era perfectly. Elegant, confident and polished, it was the refined counterpoint to the era’s bigger styles, and a layered bob remains a classic today. Our guide to the bob covers the modern version.
80s Hair Today
The 80s were bold, experimental and full of personality — and while few of us are backcombing to those heights now, the decade’s influence lingers. Soft perms, layered bobs and a bit of volume and attitude all trace back here. If an 80s-inspired look appeals, our stylists can take the spirit of it and adapt it into something wearable today. Have a browse of our ladies’ haircuts for ideas, or book a consultation.
Enjoyed this trip back? Take a look at our other decades too — 90s, 70s and 60s hairstyles.
