80s Prom Hairstyles: Iconic Looks To Be Prom Queen

From voluminous curls to crimped waves, let’s discover the perfect retro look among iconic 80s prom hairstyles to shine as a prom queen.

Fashion and beauty in the 1980s were characterized by great daringness, creativity, and a distinctive sense of individuality. 80s prom hairstyles provide big, fluffy curls, crimp waves, and edgy accessories. Let’s take a closer look at what was iconic in that decade and how we can recreate those looks in today’s world.

1. What is 80s prom hairstyles?

Hairstyles that dominated the 80s prom scene are remembered for their everything-goes approach, and they did so through the dramatic use of teasing, crimping, and perming. Wild hairstyles became the new normal, and people went above and beyond to accessorize them with scrunchies, bows, headbands, and glitter.

During that time, 80s prom hair was an absolute ‘birthday cake on steroids.’ It was all about hairspray and crimpers, mega volume curls, or polished updos with outrageous neon-colored streaks, and each bore its distinctive trademark. It’s not just about looking pretty. It’s about confidence.

2. Top 15 top-rated 80s prom hairstyles

The 80s were not a time of half-measure especially when it came to fashion and prom hairstyles were not left out. Here were some of the most memorable 80s prom queen hairstyles: big curls and theatrical updos of the great years. Below are the fifteen best 80s prom hairstyles that should help you rock that decade’s glamorous look.

2.1. The perm queen

When we talk about the top 80s prom hairstyles, the term that comes to mind is ‘the perm’ with no second thoughts. Hair was styled using a perm technique, where hair was treated chemically in coils around a rod to achieve a swing and a curl going forward. Since a prom meant creating a breathtaking look, permed hair was over the top and was efficient in hair volume and texture.

2.2. Teased and tousled

Teased and tousled hairstyles were the epitome of 80s glam and the stars of the show. The hair roots were teased to provide bulk with free and unkempt strands around the scalp that were tousled. This look would require a mound of hairspray to be effective.

2.3. Side ponytail

If you wanted 80s prom hairstyles that were fun and youthful, then the side ponytail option is a great alternative. A thematic and stylish scrunchie usually would wrap around this side ponytail which would sit high on the one side of the head and crimped or curled insertions to the ponytail would add movement.

2.4. Crimped hair

Crimping irons would go on top as a required accessory in the 1980s as the apex tool of crimped hairdos started incorporating zá zig structures giving hairdos a rich depth. Whether the hair was held down, in a ponytail, or in a bun, crimped hair dried versatile. Today, a hot crimping tool can still give the same look as leaving my wet braid tucked away overnight.

2.5. Рhigh updo with accessories

It’s safe to say that high updo hairstyles were the perfect finishing touches to achieve a formal and exquisite prom look as hair was teased around the crown area and was pinned into a thick bun or a chignon. This style also included headbands, rhinestone pins, and oversized bows as accessories.

2.6. Neon highlights

Temporary neon highlights were used to depict the fun side of the 80s prom hairstyles and were eye-catching. The 80’s saw the incorporation of bright pink, blue, and green sections or strands into the hair to enhance the overall look of the person/ add a bold statement.

2.7. Madonna bow

Teased hair paired with a big bow styling on the right or left side of the head is one of the 80s prom hairstyles the remarkable pop champion of style Madonna patented exudes. For a true Madonna look, teaming this up with bold eyeliner, overdrawn lips, and vivid red lipstick adds to perfection.

2.8. Half-up, half-down

The half-up, half-down hairdo when merged with the neckline enabled a collection to be self-restrained with a wide range of clothing, which included casual or formal wear. Furthermore, in the 80’s the upper parts of hair were deliberately teased to create somebody with the free parts of this half: crimped and often curled.

2.9. Afro

Afro promoted and encouraged all forms of natural hair texture as a key display of personal self-expression through its unique styles and looks. Beautiful big curls and scatter curls were typical for this hairstyle and the hairstyles often added both luster and a sparkling effect to the hair.

2.10. Feathered hair

The likes of Farrah Fawcett made the feathered hair famous as it featured certain layers that would frame a woman’s face while also having a flipping appearance. Combining the hairdos with makeup gave a more feminine and classic prom look. This style also added glam to the head, along with the soft makeup.

2.11. Large fluffy curls

Using rollers or curling irons was enough to make the increasingly popular large fluffy curls. The curls would always add a romantic and glamorous touch to the rest of the outfit, especially for prom. For that 80’s look, a bit of teasing at the roots combined with some hairspray to the curls should do the trick.

2.12. Elegant updo

Having an elegant updo is a great option for 80s prom hairstyles. Instead of letting the hair down, the updo features several curls framing the face and then the hair is pinned at the back or the top. Adding rhinestone pins or floral decoration makes the hairstyle great.

2.13. Curly updo

An updo is always a mixture of fun and class and the curly updo is an example of that. For prom, the hairstyle is a perfect choice as it encompasses multiple loose tendrils mixed with a bun consisting of a lot of pinned-up curls. Adding fun accessories can enhance the glam of the hairstyle.

2.14. Feathered bangs

Feathered bangs were an effective and bright facet of 80s hairstyles prom. Feather bangs, when worn with a strong updo or voluminous curls, could accentuate the person’s features and eyes rather than drown them.

2.15. Retro waves

The retro waves were also perfect for the prom-goers who wanted to tone it down but maintain the glam factor. Retro waves softly off-shoulder lay inflows and suggestive folds just like the Hollywood smooth waves but yet as easy as an 80s style. For added perfection curl the ends of your hair and set them using shine spray, making it a stunning option for 80 prom hairstyles.

3. How to choose the right 80s prom hairstyle for your outfit and makeup

Choosing ideal 80s hairstyles prom takes into account your prom dress, makeup, and most importantly your style. Below are some recommendations for making your look more cohesive:

• Match hair volume with dress style: A full dress will require more hair while a stylish do will work with a tight gown.
• Match with accessories: Incorporate 80s elements with bows, headbands, or rhinestone pins and match them with your outfit.
• Matching makeup: An elaborate hairdo may require aggressive shadow and lipstick whereas a soft style would be best supported with less makeup.
• Comfort: Ensure that the hairstyle is comfortable enough to allow for moving around freely and even dancing throughout the night.

Conclusion

To sum up please remember that the 80s prom hairstyles were all about exuding creativity, individuality, and retro flair. Be it a crimped ponytail, a teased curls, or a stylish updo these hairstyles will make sure to highlight how special you are on that particular day. Keeping in mind the right dress, makeup, and accessories you can carry practically any 1980s top-notch hairstyle with today’s contemporary beats.