15 ’80s Celebrity Hairstyles That Feel Outdated Now
These 15 iconic '80s celebrity hairstyles once turned heads — now they just raise eyebrows.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
The 1980s were a bold time for fashion. It was even bolder for hair. Volume, mousse, and perms ruling the decade. Celebrities set the tone, and millions followed their wild trends without question. Today, many of these famous looks feel more like time capsules than timeless style.
1. Jon Bon Jovi’s Feathered Mane
Jonathan King on Wikimedia Commons
His teased, layered locks were the ultimate rock star statement. Equal parts lion and glam god, it defined ’80s hair metal. But now? That much Aquanet just feels excessive.
2. Cyndi Lauper’s Neon Punk Hair
Library of Congress Life on Wikimedia Commons
Lauper’s kaleidoscope of colors and mismatched textures were pure pop rebellion. A bold expression of individuality, no doubt. Still, the clashing shades and crimped sides look more costume than chic today.
3. David Hasselhoff’s Curly Blowout
Geoffrey Chandler on Flickr
The Knight Rider star rocked a bouncy, voluminous blowout with soft curls that felt almost cartoonishly perfect. It screamed leading-man energy back then.
4. Madonna’s Messy Perm with Bows
lovemaegan on Wikimedia Commons
Early Madonna paired frizzy curls with chunky bows and lace headbands. It was streetwise and girly, part punk, part pop. However, the overloaded accessories and fried texture haven’t aged well.
5. Lionel Richie’s Jheri Curl
Penni Gladstone on Wikimedia Commons
Slick, shiny, and dripping with soul, Richie’s curl was a signature ’80s look. At the time, it oozed style. Today, it’s mostly remembered for ruining pillowcases.
6. Tina Turner’s Teased Power Hair
AustinMini 1275 on Flickr
Tina’s massive, gravity-defying style was as fierce as her voice. It symbolized strength and drama, but the over-teasing now feels a bit like a helmet.
7. George Michael’s Highlighted Mullet
Bambrette on Flickr
The Faith singer’s mullet had volume on top, party in the back, and frosted tips for flair. It was iconic, no doubt. Still, no one’s asking for that cut at the salon anymore.
8. Whitney Houston’s Layered Curls
Egghead06 on Wikimedia Commons
Her short, layered curls framed her face like a halo. Stylish and elegant at the time, it worked with shoulder pads and sequins.
9. Boy George’s Braided Extensions and Hats
Andrew Hurley on Flickr
A mash-up of braids, ribbons, and oversized hats, his style defied norms and categories. It was more about message than fashion. While still legendary, it’s not something you’d see at brunch.
10. Molly Ringwald’s Soft Red Bob
Lauryn Brook Smith on Flickr
The Breakfast Club darling rocked a fluffy bob with a deep side part. Sweet and very “girl next door,” it was everywhere for a few years.
11. Billy Ray Cyrus’ Long Country Mullet
Jamie Fresh on Flickr
A pioneer of the “Achy Breaky” style, his mullet was a waterfall of southern charm. It matched his boots and denim perfectly. Now, it’s more of a meme than a movement.
12. Grace Jones’ Angular Flat Top
Piano Piano! on Flickr
Futuristic and edgy, her razor-sharp flat top made a powerful statement. It worked with her avant-garde style and androgynous vibe.
13. Olivia Newton-John’s Curled Flip
Peter Kelaher on Flickr
Post-Grease, Olivia’s soft blonde flip with curled ends was peak wholesome glam. It blended ’70s leftovers with ’80s optimism. These days, it reads more dinner theater than red carpet.
14. Mr. T’s Mohawk with Gold Chains
Mike Essl on Flickr
Paired with heavy bling and a serious attitude, Mr. T’s hairstyle was instantly recognizable. It symbolized toughness and swagger. However, it hasn’t transitioned well beyond Halloween costumes.
15. Joan Jett’s Shaggy Razor Cut
inthefight on Flickr
The rock rebel’s choppy black layers matched her raw energy and punk spirit. It was aggressive, fierce, and unapologetic. Still, in today’s polished hair era, it feels a bit wild and dated.