Popular 80’s Hairstyles for Men

I still remember flipping through my dad’s old photo albums one lazy afternoon and laughing at the hair. Big. Bold. Slightly wild. But honestly? Kinda cool too. That’s what pulled me into 80’s Hairstyles for Men in the first place. There’s something about that era that didn’t care about playing it safe. Guys went all in—volume, texture, attitude, the whole thing.

If you’ve ever stood in front of the mirror thinking your hair feels boring or too “same-same,” yeah, I’ve been there. We all have. And sometimes you just want a look that actually says something, you know? Not perfect. Just confident.

That’s why this guide exists. I’ll walk you through the most iconic 80s looks, what made them work, and how you can pull them off today without looking like you’re in a costume. Whether you’re curious, nostalgic, or just ready for a change—stick with me. It’ll be worth it.

80’s Hairstyles for Men

80’s hairstyles for men were bold, loud, and full of personality, with lots of volume, texture, and attitude. From mullets to feathered layers, these iconic styles were all about standing out and expressing confidence.

Mullet Haircut

Honestly, the mullet is the one 80’s haircut clients still whisper about before finally saying, “Okay… but can it look modern?” And to be fair, when it’s done right, it really can. I’ve cut plenty of mullets where the front stayed clean and wearable while the back kept that rebellious edge. That contrast is the whole point. The mistake I see is going too extreme without balance.
In my opinion, a good mullet needs smart layering and confidence. I usually tell guys to keep the sides neat and let the back grow gradually instead of all at once. Style-wise, a bit of texture cream goes a long way. You want movement, not stiffness. If you wear it like you own it, the mullet stops being a joke and starts being a statement.

Feathered Layered Hair

Feathered layered hair always takes me back to clients who wanted that soft, wind-swept look straight out of an 80’s movie. I’ve found this style works best when the layers are light and airy, not chunky. It’s all about flow and softness, especially around the face.
To get this right, I usually recommend medium-length hair with subtle layering and a round brush while blow-drying. A little mousse at the roots helps lift everything without making it crunchy. To be honest, this hairstyle looks its best when it’s slightly imperfect. Too neat, and it loses that relaxed 80’s charm.

Curly Perm Hairstyle

The curly perm was huge in the 80’s, and I’ve seen it make a serious comeback with younger guys lately. Back then, it was all about volume and tight curls, and honestly, it still is. The key difference now is control.
When I talk clients through this look, I remind them that a perm needs commitment. Moisture is everything. I always suggest curl creams instead of heavy gels to keep curls soft. In my experience, the best perms are shaped properly after curling, not before. That’s what keeps it bold but wearable instead of overwhelming.

Slicked-Back Pompadour

The slicked-back pompadour in the 80’s had drama, height, and attitude. I’ve always loved how powerful this style feels the moment it’s finished. It’s not shy, and that’s exactly why it works.
I usually advise growing the top longer than you think you need. Volume comes from length and proper blow-drying, not just product. A pomade with medium hold is my go-to. Too strong, and it looks stiff. To be fair, this style demands confidence, but once you get used to it, it becomes addictive.

shaggy layered cut

The shaggy layered cut is one of those styles that looks effortless but actually needs a trained hand. I’ve cut many of these for guys who wanted that messy, lived-in 80’s rock vibe. It’s loose, textured, and full of personality.
What I’ve learned is that this haircut thrives on movement. I usually style it with light wax or texture spray and let the hair fall naturally. Don’t overthink it. Honestly, the best shaggy cuts are the ones that look like you didn’t try too hard, even though you absolutely did.

Spiked Hair Look

Spiked hair in the 80’s was all about rebellion and fun, and I still enjoy recreating it. I’ve had clients laugh halfway through styling because it instantly changes how they feel about themselves. It’s playful, bold, and unapologetic.
To get it right, start with shorter hair on the sides and slightly longer on top. I always say: build spikes gradually. Use a matte product so it doesn’t look greasy. In my opinion, uneven spikes actually look better. Perfect spikes feel forced, and the 80’s were never about perfection.

Long Rocker Hairstyle

The long rocker hairstyle is close to my heart because it requires patience, not shortcuts. I’ve worked with plenty of men growing their hair out, and the awkward stages are real. But once it reaches the right length, it’s magic.
Layering is essential here. Without it, long hair just hangs. I usually suggest minimal heat styling and good conditioning. Let the hair move. To be honest, this style works best when it looks slightly wild. That’s the rocker spirit—controlled chaos.

Tapered Side Cut

The tapered side cut was a quieter 80’s trend, but a powerful one. I’ve always liked how clean it keeps the sides while allowing freedom on top. It’s a great entry point for guys new to retro styles.
When I cut this, I focus on smooth blending rather than sharp fades. The top can be styled in multiple ways—slicked back, parted, or voluminous. I’ve found this flexibility is why clients stick with it. It adapts to both casual and polished looks easily.

Blow-Dried Volume Style

Big hair wasn’t just for women in the 80’s, and I remind clients of that all the time. Blow-dried volume was everywhere, and honestly, it still looks fantastic when done right.
I always teach guys how to use a round brush and dryer properly. Lift at the roots, airflow in the right direction, and a light volumizing spray. Don’t overload with product. In my experience, volume comes from technique, not layers of styling cream.

Classic Side-Part with Volume

The classic side-part with volume is the most wearable 80’s hairstyle, in my opinion. I’ve recommended this to men who want retro vibes without going full throwback. It’s clean, structured, and timeless.
The trick is not flattening the top. I usually blow-dry first, then add a touch of pomade just to define the part. Keep it soft, not shellacked. Honestly, when this style is done right, it makes you stand taller without even trying.

Maintenance & Hair Care Tips

80’s-inspired hairstyles are all about volume and texture, but they do need a little extra care to keep them looking good and not damaged. With the right trimming schedule, smart product use, and gentle styling habits, you can enjoy that bold 80’s vibe without hurting your hair.

• How often to trim 80’s-inspired cuts:
  Trim your hair every 4–6 weeks to maintain the shape, especially for mullets, layered cuts, and feathered styles. Regular trims stop the style from looking messy and keep layers sharp and defined.

• Preventing dryness from heavy styling products:
  Since gels, sprays, and mousses are often used for 80’s looks, use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Try not to apply products daily, and wash your hair properly to avoid buildup and dryness.

• Keeping volume without hair damage:
  Use a lightweight mousse instead of heavy gel for lift, and avoid excessive heat styling. Blow-dry on medium heat and let your hair air-dry sometimes to protect it while still keeping that classic 80’s volume.