20 Hairstyles from the 80s and 90s We Still Try to Recreate
The iconic hairstyles of the 80s and 90s continue to inspire us with their bold, quirky, and unforgettable charm.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 5 min read
The 80s and 90s were the golden era of fearless hair experiments, from voluminous curls to sleek ponytails. These hairstyles were cultural statements that defined generations. Today, we still draw inspiration from these 20 iconic hairstyles, which add modern twists to timeless classics.
1. Big Hair Explosion
Fernando Gomez Cortes on Pexels
Voluminous, teased-up hair ruled in the 80s. This style screamed confidence and elegance, achieved with layers of hairspray and backcombing. Today, it’s a staple for themed parties and anyone feeling bold.
2. The Mullet
Abhishek Shekhawat on Pexels
“Business in the front, party in the back” was the mantra of the mullet. Love it or laugh at it; this style blurs the casual and professional lines. Modern versions tone down the extremes for a sleeker look.
3. Feathered Layers
ABC Television on Wikimedia Commons
Made famous by Farrah Fawcett, feathered hair was all about light, bouncy layers. It required precision styling and a lot of hairspray to keep the shape intact. Today, it’s revised as soft waves with less drama.
4. The Bowl Cut
Anonuser4545 on Wikimedia Commons
The bowl cut made waves equal parts endearing and cringe-worthy for its simplicity. Popular among kids and adventurous adults, it’s oddly charming. The current takes involve adding texture and asymmetry for a fresher vibe.
5. Crimped Hair
its outsider on Unsplash
Crimping irons were every girl’s best friend in the 90s, turning straight hair into zigzag. It was playful and youthful, perfect for sleepovers and school dances. Modern stylists incorporate crimping subtly for textured sections.
6. The Rachel Cut
Angela George on Wikimedia Commons
Named after Jennifer Aniston’s character in Friends, this layered, face-framing style was a cultural phenomenon. It suited almost everyone and became the haircut of the decade. Today, it remains an inspiration for effortless elegance.
7. Permed Curls
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Perms were the go-to for achieving luscious, dramatic curls in the 80s. They exuded glamor but required high maintenance. Modern perms focus on softer, natural-looking curls.
8. High Ponytails
Vogue Taiwan on Wikimedia Commons
Ariana Grande may own the high ponytail now, but its roots are in the 90s. Pulled tight and paired with scrunchies, it was a chic and sporty look. Updated versions use sleek finishes or loose strands for versatility.
9. Frosted Hair
Toglenn on Wikimedia Commons
This edgy style had men lightening just the ends of their hair for a “frosty” effect. Boy bands like NSYNC made it the ultimate cool look. Today, it’s back with subtler balayage techniques.
10. Shag Haircut
Taymaz Valley on Wikimedia Commons
With choppy layers and a messy finish, the shag was a rocker’s dream hairstyle. It blended rebellion with low-key maintenance. Contemporary shags pair the edgy cut with soft waves for a trendy update.
11. Cornrows
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Braided tightly to the scalp, cornrows symbolized cultural pride and creativity. Stars like Brandy popularized them in the 90s. Today, they remain a strong expression of heritage and style.
12. Space Buns
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Two buns sitting high on either side of the head were quirky and fun. Spice Girls fans wore them with glitter and confidence. Now, they’re a favorite for festivals and playful looks.
13. The Slick-Back
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Greased-back hair was the epitome of fabulous, often paired with leather jackets. It transitioned from the 80s rocker look to 90s minimalism. Modern variations add a wet look for high-fashion appeal.
14. The Half-Up, Half-Down
Angelo Pantazis on Unsplash
This hybrid style was the answer to indecisive hair days. Easy to do and effortlessly chic, it worked for casual and formal settings. Its timeless appeal keeps it a go-to for modern hairstyling.
15. The Beehive
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The beehive was bold and sophisticated, a towering updo. Though more prevalent in earlier decades, it saw a resurgence in 80s glam. Today’s beehives are toned down for elegance at events.
16. Spiky Hair
Quercusrobur on Wikimedia Commons
Gel was the hero of spiky hair, turning strands into gravity-defying points. It was especially popular among teens experimenting with bold styles. Now, softer spikes are making a comeback for a textured, edgy vibe.
17. Chunky Highlights
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Thick, contrasting streaks of color were all the rage in the 90s. They added drama and personality to any hairstyle. These days, chunkier highlights are replaced by balayage for a softer gradient effect.
18. The Butterfly Clips Look
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Every 90s kid remembers accessorizing their hair with colorful butterfly clips. These tiny decorations added whimsy to braids, twists, or loose hair. They’re making a nostalgic comeback in playful styling trends.
19. The Flat Top
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Popularized in the 80s by hip-hop culture, the flat top was all about clean, geometric lines. It was a statement of individuality and boldness. Modern barbers keep this classic alive with a contemporary twist.
20. Pixie Cuts
Sharon Mitchell on Wikimedia Commons
Short, chic, and daring, pixie cuts became a symbol of empowerment. Stars like Winona Ryder and Halle Berry redefined feminine beauty with this look. Today, the fairy is more versatile, offering textured and soft variations.