The 1980s were a time of bold fashion, vibrant music, and iconic hairstyles. From big, voluminous curls to punk – inspired spikes, the 80s offered a plethora of hair trends that continue to inspire modern – day looks. If you have short hair and want to channel your inner 80s fashionista, you’re in luck. In this article, we’ll explore various 80s – inspired hairstyles for short hair and provide step – by – step guides on how to achieve them, taking into account different hair textures and personal characteristics.
Preparing Your Hair
Before diving into the specific 80s hairstyles, it’s essential to prepare your hair properly. Start by washing your hair with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner. This will add body and texture to your locks, which is crucial for many 80s styles. After washing, gently towel – dry your hair to remove excess moisture.
For Fine Hair
If you have fine hair, use a root – lifting spray or mousse. Apply it evenly throughout your hair, focusing on the roots to create volume. This will help your hair hold the 80s styles better and prevent it from looking flat.
For Thick Hair
Those with thick hair can benefit from a smoothing serum or cream. This will help tame any frizz and make your hair more manageable when styling. Apply a small amount to the ends of your hair, avoiding the roots to prevent your hair from looking greasy.
1. The Big & Bold Perm
The perm was a huge trend in the 80s, and it can be adapted for short hair. A perm creates tight, springy curls that add volume and a touch of retro glamour.
Suitable for
This style works well for most face shapes as the volume at the top can help balance out different features. However, if you have a very round face, you may want to ask your stylist for a more layered perm to add some angles.
How to Achieve
Visit a Professional: Perming is a chemical process, so it’s best to have it done by a professional stylist. They can assess your hair type and choose the right perm solution and rods to achieve the desired curl size.
Maintenance: After getting a perm, use a sulfate – free shampoo and conditioner to keep your curls healthy and defined. Avoid brushing your hair when it’s dry, as this can cause frizz. Instead, use a wide – tooth comb to gently detangle your hair when it’s wet.
2. The Teased Bob
The teased bob is a classic 80s look that combines the sophistication of a bob with the volume of teased hair.
Suitable for
This style suits oval, heart – shaped, and square faces. The teased top can add height and lengthen the appearance of the face, which is flattering for these face shapes.
How to Achieve
Start with Dry Hair: Ensure your hair is completely dry before teasing. You can use a blow – dryer with a round brush to add some initial volume if needed.
Tease the Crown: Take a small section of hair at the crown of your head and backcomb it using a fine – tooth comb. Start from the roots and work your way down to the mid – lengths. Repeat this process with several sections of hair until you achieve the desired volume.
Smooth the Top: Once you’ve teased your hair, gently smooth the top layer with a soft – bristle brush to create a more polished look. You can also use a light – hold hairspray to keep the teased section in place.
Style the Bob: Use a curling iron to add some loose waves to the ends of your bob. This will give the style a more 80s – inspired, tousled look.
3. The Mohawk with a Twist
The mohawk was a popular punk – inspired hairstyle in the 80s, and you can give it a modern twist for short hair.
Suitable for
This style is great for those with a bold personality and a strong jawline. It can add an edgy and rebellious vibe to your overall look.
How to Achieve
Shave or Trim the Sides: You can either shave the sides of your head very short or use a clipper to trim them down to a very close length. If you’re not ready for a full shave, you can ask your stylist to create a faux – hawk by leaving a bit more hair on the sides and gradually tapering it down.
Style the Top: Use a strong – hold pomade or gel to slick back the hair on the top of your head. You can also use a comb to create a defined part in the middle for a more polished look. If you want to add some texture, you can use your fingers to tousle the hair slightly after styling.
Add Accessories: To complete the 80s punk look, add some accessories such as spikes, studs, or colorful hair clips to the mohawk section.
4. The Finger Waves for Short Hair
Finger waves were a glamorous style in the 1920s but made a comeback in the 80s with a more modern twist.
Suitable for
This style is perfect for those with a more elegant and vintage – inspired fashion sense. It works well for oval, round, and heart – shaped faces as the waves can add softness and dimension to the face.
How to Achieve
Apply Styling Product: Start by applying a generous amount of styling gel or mousse to your damp hair. This will help hold the waves in place.
Create the Waves: Using your fingers, create small S – shaped waves in your hair. Start at the front of your hairline and work your way back. You can use a comb to help define the waves if needed.
Secure the Waves: Once you’ve created the waves, use hairpins to secure them in place. Let your hair dry naturally or use a blow – dryer on a low heat setting to speed up the process.
Remove the Pins and Style: After your hair is dry, carefully remove the hairpins and gently tousle the waves with your fingers to create a more relaxed look. You can also use a light – hold hairspray to keep the waves in place throughout the day.
5. The Spiky Pixie
The spiky pixie is a fun and playful 80s – inspired hairstyle that’s perfect for short hair.
Suitable for
This style is great for those with a youthful and energetic personality. It suits most face shapes, especially those with angular features as the spikes can add softness to the overall look.
How to Achieve
Apply Styling Product: Use a strong – hold styling wax or pomade in your hands and rub it together until it’s warm. This will make it easier to apply to your hair.
Style the Spikes: Take small sections of hair and apply the styling product to them. Use your fingers to twist and shape the hair into spikes. You can make the spikes as tall or as short as you like, depending on your preference.
Add Texture: To add more texture and dimension, you can use a salt spray or a texturizing powder. Sprinkle a small amount onto your hair and use your fingers to tousle it.
Personalizing Your 80s Hairstyle
When choosing an 80s hairstyle for your short hair, it’s important to consider your personal characteristics and lifestyle. If you have a busy schedule, a low – maintenance style like the spiky pixie may be more suitable for you. If you have a more formal job, the teased bob or the finger waves can add a touch of sophistication to your look.
You can also personalize your 80s hairstyle by adding your own unique twist. For example, you can dye your hair a bold 80s – inspired color like neon pink or electric blue. You can also experiment with different hair accessories such as headbands, scarves, or feathers to make your style stand out even more.
Conclusion
The 80s were a decade of iconic hairstyles that can be easily adapted for short hair. Whether you want to go for a big and bold perm, a teased bob, a mohawk with a twist, finger waves, or a spiky pixie, there’s an 80s – inspired style out there for you. By following these step – by – step guides and considering your personal characteristics, you can rock an 80s hairstyle that’s both stylish and unique. So, grab your styling products and get ready to channel your inner 80s fashionista!
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