We're throwing it back to the era when perms, mullets, and hair accessories were all the rage — a time when our beloved beauty icons were Madonna, Princess Diana, and Whitney Houston, among others. There are so many things to say about '80s hair, but the one word that encompasses it all is BIG. If you're trying to dress up with wild '80s hair for Halloween or just like to remember your good ol' days, never forget that bigger was better. A few trends continue to return, like clips and bows, but we'd like to leave a few of these in the past (crimping is best kept in the 1980s, don't ya think?).
We're so obsessed with the makeup and style, but this roundup is all about '80s hairstyles and the inspirational women who fearlessly tried these crazy hair trends. From legends in music to stars-on-the-rise Candace Cameron Bure and Alyssa Milano, everyone was putting their individual spin on the best '80s hairstyles. After you see these, you might have found everything you need for October 31, or you may want to buy some scrunchies for everyday use. Whatever your M.O., we can't wait for you to check out our favorite '80s ladies' over-the-top hair.
1
Madonna
The queen of pop rocked so many '80s hairstyles, but this has to be our favorite. With voluminous, wavy bangs and a statement red headband, it doesn't get more decade-appropriate than this.
RELATED: What 15 Celebrities Would Look Like With Wild '80s Hair
2
Princess Diana
The people's princess typically kept her hair above the shoulders, but it was the perfectly coiffed shorter cut that had everyone talking.
3
Jane Fonda
With layers similar to Princess Diana's, actress and former fitness star Jane Fonda sported the ultimate long '80s hair during a photo shoot.
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4
Cher
Once known for her elegant and sleek long hair, Cher transformed into a rock goddess when she cut her hair into this epic mullet. With those strings of pearls, lace, and a white vest, and we truly can't get enough of this entire look.
5
Meg Ryan
Ah, Sally! In a promo for the classic When Harry Met Sally, Meg Ryan showed off her curly, layered shoulder-length 'do in 1989.
6
Whitney Houston
The late, great Whitney Houston was always evolving her hairstyle, but this choppy, voluminous pixie cut was beyond '80s. This photo was taken in 1989, the same year she turned 26 and collaborated with fellow music legend Aretha Franklin on the song, "It Isn't, It Wasn't, It Ain't Never Gonna Be."
RELATED: This Was Most Popular Wedding Song the Year You Got Married
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7
Taylor Dayne
In 1987, all eyes were on Taylor Dayne when she released her debut single "Tell It to My Heart." And while everyone was eager to listen to the singer-songwriter's voice, we're still talking about her big, crimped '80s hair.
8
Iman
The model has always been stunning, but she reached new heights when she showed up to a benefit event in 1987 with the most voluminous and glossy blowout we've ever seen.
9
Dolly Parton
Hello, Dolly! If you look closely, you can see that the country music idol's bouncy blonde curls are adorned with a large floral hair accessory.
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10
Candace Cameron Bure
From 1987 to now, we still want to call her DJ Tanner. But before she got married and had her adorable kids, Candace Cameron Bure rocked the red carpet with her brother Kirk in 1989. The half-up hairstyle, complete with those crunchy curls, is one of our go-to '80s hair looks.
RELATED: Meet 'Fuller House' Star Candace Cameron Bure's Husband and Three Kids
11
Olivia Newton-John
The high pony trend has never died, but it probably continued thanks to Olivia Newton-John. Though you might consider it a casual daytime option, she wore this ponytail while presenting the Oscar for Best Original Song in 1980.
12
Christina Applegate
The much-talked-about date between the Dead to Me star and Brad Pitt brought us an amazing '80s hair look. Her air-dried waves were anything but flat, and her 1989 MTV Video Music Awards outing stills lives on during her talk show appearances.
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13
Alyssa Milano
She's had countless acting credits since, but in 1988 she was known as Jennifer Mancini on Melrose Place. We dare you to try and count how many bows are in her curly updo. (Don't worry, we couldn't either...)
Blake Bakkila
Freelance Writer
Blake Bakkila has been writing about everything from pop culture to lifestyle products for more than eight years. Her work has appeared on GoodHousekeeping.com, WhattoExpect.com, Health.com, and in the print and digital versions of Real Simple and People.
