25 Retro 80s Hairstyles for Men That Still Rock Today

The 1980s were loud, bold, and unapologetically stylishespecially when it came to hair. From voluminous mullets to rockstar shags and slicked-back pompadours, the 80s gave us some of the most iconic men’s hairstyles ever. And guess what? Many of these styles are back in a big way for 2025.

Whether you’re inspired by synth-pop, glam metal, or 80s sports legends, this list of 25 retro 80s hairstyles for men proves that vintage never goes out of styleit just evolves.

Why 80s Hairstyles Are Back in Style

The resurgence of 80s fashion, music, and film in pop culture has brought these hairstyles right back into the spotlight. Here’s why they’re trending in 2025:

• They’re bold, expressive, and full of personality
• Music and fashion revivals are influencing modern grooming
• Streaming shows and reboots bring back 80s icons
• Barbers and stylists are updating old-school cuts with new techniques
• Men are embracing longer hair and texture once again

25 Retro 80s Hairstyles for Men In 2025

1. The Mullet

The mullet is the iconic 80s haircut that never truly disappeared. With short hair at the front and sides and longer locks at the back, it’s all about contrast and character. The modern mullet often includes faded or tapered sides, making it more polished while still edgy.

All Key Features:

• Short front and sides
• Long hair at the back (neck-length or longer)
• Often styled with layers for flow
• Can include a skin fade or taper for modern flair
• Works on straight, wavy, or curly textures

All Styling Tips:

• Use lightweight mousse or sea salt spray for texture
• Blow-dry the top with a round brush to add volume
• Keep the back conditioned and detangled
• Use pomade or wax to define the front layers
• Trim the sides regularly to maintain shape

Best For:

• Men who want to make a bold statement
• Those with naturally textured hair
• Guys open to vintage trends with a modern twist

Vibe:

• Rebellious
• Rock-inspired
• Playfully daring

2. Permed Curls

Permed curls were a staple of 80s glam, bringing volume and softness to men’s hair. The modern version dials back the stiffness and offers more natural, bouncy curlsperfect for creating fullness and flair in finer or straight hair.

All Key Features:

• Voluminous curls throughout
• Soft, loose ringlets or waves
• Adds dimension and body to flat hair
• Long-lasting shape through chemical perm
• Works best on medium to long hair lengths

All Styling Tips:

• Apply curl-defining cream or mousse after washing
• Use leave-in conditioner to prevent frizz and dryness
• Avoid brushesuse fingers or wide-tooth combs
• Let air dry or diffuse on low heat for bounce
• Touch up curls with a curling wand if needed

Best For:

• Men with straight or wavy hair
• Those wanting a fuller look without daily heat styling
• Guys interested in long-lasting texture

Vibe:

• Soft and romantic
• Retro with a modern edge
• Trendy yet approachable

3. The Flat Top

A defining haircut of 80s hip-hop, the flat top is sharp, geometric, and packed with personality. It’s a high-standing, squared-off silhouette that showcases structure and precisionespecially popular among Black men with coarse or kinky hair.

All Key Features:

• Tall, flat, boxy top shape
• Crisp vertical edges
• Tapered or faded sides
• Clean hairline or line-up
• Best with dense, coarse hair

All Styling Tips:

• Shape regularlyevery 2 to 3 weeks
• Use a pick to maintain height and shape
• Moisturize with leave-in conditioner or hair oil
• Apply firm-hold cream or gel to lock in definition
• Visit a skilled barber for sharp angles and edges

Best For:

• Black men with Type 4 hair
• Those who want high-impact, sculpted styles
• Anyone looking to channel vintage swagger

Vibe:

• Bold and precise
• Hip-hop inspired
• Creative and confident

4. Feathered Layers

Feathered layers were the go-to for heartthrobs of the 80s. This soft, airy cut featured long layers that were styled away from the face, creating effortless volume and movement. It’s making a comeback for men who love a relaxed yet put-together look.

All Key Features:

• Medium to long layered haircut
• Layers curved and flicked away from the face
• Creates a feathered, flowing shape
• Adds softness and movement
• Often includes a side or middle part

All Styling Tips:

• Blow-dry with a round brush to shape the layers outward
• Use a lightweight mousse for volume without stiffness
• Finish with a light-hold hairspray to maintain the feathering
• Trim every 4–6 weeks to keep layers from looking bulky
• Works well with straight or slightly wavy hair

Best For:

• Men with fine to medium hair texture
• Guys wanting soft, romantic volume
• Anyone aiming for a vintage Hollywood look

Vibe:

• Flowy and flirtatious
• 80s teen idol
• Gentle yet stylish

5. Rockstar Shag

The rockstar shag ruled the 80s music scene with its chaotic charm and head-banging texture. This multi-layered, unkempt style embraced volume and movement and works wonders on naturally wavy or thick hair.

All Key Features:

• Lots of short, choppy layers
• Messy and voluminous throughout
• Often features fringe or bangs
• Designed for movement and edge
• Looks great with natural wave or curl

All Styling Tips:

• Use texture spray or sea salt spray to emphasize the layers
• Air dry or use a diffuser for volume
• Work styling cream into damp hair with fingers
• Avoid combing too muchembrace the mess
• Occasional trim to maintain shape without losing the wildness

Best For:

• Men with thick, wavy, or curly hair
• Creative types and musicians
• Guys who want a laid-back yet bold style

Vibe:

• Wild and rebellious
• Rock ‘n’ roll edge
• Effortlessly cool

6. Big Hair Blowout

Description:
The bigger, the better80s hair culture embraced mega-volume, and the big blowout was front and center. Popular with glam rockers and pop stars alike, this dramatic style turned heads and owned the stage.

All Key Features:

• Maximum volume on top and sides
• Layers teased and fluffed for height
• Long or medium-length hair works best
• Can be paired with side part or curtain bangs
• Often styled shiny or with a soft wave

All Styling Tips:

• Apply volumizing mousse to damp hair
• Blow-dry with a round brush, lifting from the roots
• Tease with a comb for added lift
• Use hairspray to lock in the volume
• Optional: Add hot rollers or a curling iron for more body

Best For:

• Men with medium to long hair
• Those with straight or slightly wavy textures
• Guys channeling glam rock energy

Vibe:

• Glamorous and bold
• Stage-ready flair
• Confident and dramatic

7. Slicked-Back Hair

Slicked-back hair was the defining style of Wall Street tycoons and power players in the 80s. Paired with sharp suits and confidence, this sleek look is back and perfect for formal or high-fashion settings.

All Key Features:

• Medium to short hair length on top
• Clean sides, sometimes faded or tapered
• Hair combed directly back
• High-shine finish
• Controlled and sharp appearance

All Styling Tips:

• Start with damp hair
• Apply pomade or gel (medium to strong hold) evenly
• Use a fine-tooth comb to slick the hair straight back
• Blow-dry on low heat for extra hold (optional)
• Use a touch of hairspray for all-day shine and structure

Best For:

• Straight or slightly wavy hair
• Men working in corporate or formal environments
• Guys who love vintage sophistication

Vibe:

• Power-driven and polished
• 80s executive cool
• Strong, confident, and commanding

8. The Rat Tail

One of the most iconic (and controversial) styles of the 80s, the rat tail features a single long lock of hair at the nape while the rest is cropped short. It’s edgy, nostalgic, and seeing a quirky resurgence in 2025.

All Key Features:

• Short haircut all around
• A narrow strand of long hair at the back
• Often braided or beaded for style
• Can be subtle or exaggerated
• A deliberate retro throwback

All Styling Tips:

• Keep the rest of the hair trimmed regularly
• Use leave-in conditioner or styling cream on the tail to prevent frizz
• Optional: braid or wrap the rat tail for extra flair
• Use scissors or clippers to keep the contrast sharp
• Add beads, color, or wraps for customization

Best For:

• Guys with bold or offbeat style
• Straight to wavy hair types
• Men who love embracing retro culture unapologetically

Vibe:

• Quirky and rebellious
• 80s nostalgia with a twist
• Anti-trend, but making its own trend

9. Mohawk

Nothing said punk like the Mohawk in the 80s. With clean-shaved sides and a spiked center strip, this bold cut was a staple of rebellion. Today, it’s seen both on the runway and in streetwear culture.

All Key Features:

• Shaved or faded sides
• Central strip of hair from front to back
• Hair can be short and stiff or long and dramatic
• Often styled vertically or in peaks
• Can incorporate color or design

All Styling Tips:

• Use strong-hold gel or styling glue to spike the strip
• Blow-dry upright after applying product for lift
• Trim the sides frequently to maintain contrast
• Try bold hair dye for extra impact
• Pair with clean line-up or beard for balance

Best For:

• Thick or coarse hair
• Men with strong facial features
• Anyone wanting a bold, alternative aesthetic

Vibe:

• Punk rock rebellion
• Loud, edgy, and fearless
• 80s counterculture with modern swagger

10. Pompadour

The pompadour soared in popularity in the 80s thanks to new wave musicians and fashion-forward icons. It’s all about height, slickness, and confidenceblending rock ‘n roll roots with bold 80s glam.

• All Key Features:
  
  • High volume at the front, swept back
    
  • Tapered or faded sides
    
  • Slick finish with structured form
    
  • Great for adding vertical balance to round faces
    
  • Iconic retro silhouette
    
• All Styling Tips:
  
  • Blow-dry the hair upward using a round brush
    
  • Apply a volumizing mousse before drying
    
  • Use pomade or wax for hold and sheen
    
  • Finish with hairspray to keep the height locked in
    
  • Trim regularly to maintain shape and sides
    
• Best For:
  
  • Medium to thick hair
    
  • Oval, square, or round face shapes
    
  • Men who love statement styles with a vintage edge
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Retro glam with a rockstar twist
    
  • Confident and fashion-forward
    
  • Bold and structured

11. Side Part with Volume

Description:
This elevated version of the classic side part added drama and structure, making it a favorite for both preppy and professional styles in the 80s. The volume makes it polished yet cool.

• All Key Features:
  
  • Defined side part
    
  • Medium to high volume on top
    
  • Cleanly tapered or faded sides
    
  • Slick or soft-styled depending on finish
    
  • Great everyday or formal look
    
• All Styling Tips:
  
  • Create a clean part using a fine-tooth comb
    
  • Add volumizing mousse or a light pomade to the roots
    
  • Blow-dry at an angle to enhance lift
    
  • For a softer look, use cream instead of gel
    
  • Maintain clean edges and occasional trims
    
• Best For:
  
  • Straight to wavy hair
    
  • Professionals, students, or anyone wanting a classy silhouette
    
  • Formal or semi-formal events
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Clean-cut sophistication
    
  • Retro with modern refinement
    
  • Gentleman meets showman
    

12. Jheri Curl

Description:
The Jheri curl defined 80s Black culture and music, giving hair a glossy, springy texture. Modern versions retain the shine but drop the sticky residue, making it healthier and easier to maintain.

• All Key Features:
  
  • Loose, shiny curls with bounce
    
  • Moisturized and defined texture
    
  • Often medium length
    
  • Glossy finish with a wet look
    
  • Cultural staple in 80s pop and hip-hop
    
• All Styling Tips:
  
  • Use a curl activator or leave-in conditioner daily
    
  • Avoid alcohol-based products to maintain hydration
    
  • Style with fingers or wide-tooth comb
    
  • Sleep with a satin cap to reduce frizz
    
  • Trim regularly to avoid split ends
    
• Best For:
  
  • Naturally curly or coily hair (Type 3 & 4)
    
  • Fans of vintage Black fashion and music culture
    
  • Medium-length styles seeking shape and bounce
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Iconic, bold, and expressive
    
  • Music-video ready
    
  • Radiates 80s nostalgia with modern care

13. High Volume Quiff

Description:
The 80s quiff was bold, bouncy, and full of attitudeespecially for guys with naturally thick hair. The style keeps the front tall while gradually tapering down the back and sides for a powerful silhouette.

• All Key Features:
  
  • Voluminous front sweep or lift
    
  • Tapered or faded sides
    
  • Clean neckline or undercut (modern variation)
    
  • Works best with medium to thick hair
    
  • Combines polish with a rebellious edge
    
• All Styling Tips:
  
  • Start with damp hair and apply volumizing mousse
    
  • Blow-dry upward and backward with a round brush
    
  • Lock in shape with a medium to high-hold pomade or wax
    
  • Optional: Finish with a light hairspray for all-day hold
    
  • Maintain regular trims to keep the height manageable
    
• Best For:
  
  • Oval or square face shapes
    
  • Guys with dense or wavy hair
    
  • Those wanting a balance of retro glam and everyday wear
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Flamboyant yet fashionable
    
  • Confident, polished, and full of flair
    
  • A modern-day rockabilly remix
    

14. Skater Cut

Description:
Loose, rebellious, and effortlessthis hairstyle was a staple for laid-back teens and punk-inspired skaters. Typically chin-length with a middle or off-center part, it gave off “I don’t care, but I look cool” energy.

• All Key Features:
  
  • Chin-length straight or slightly wavy hair
    
  • Often unlayered or subtly feathered at the ends
    
  • Casual partingusually down the middle or slightly off
    
  • Movement and slight messiness built-in
    
  • Works great with natural texture
    
• All Styling Tips:
  
  • Use lightweight cream or texturizing spray
    
  • Let air dry or lightly blow-dry for shape
    
  • Finger-comb for a natural, tousled look
    
  • Use dry shampoo to add volume if hair falls flat
    
  • Occasional trims to avoid split ends and heaviness
    
• Best For:
  
  • Straight or wavy hair
    
  • Teen and 20-something men with laid-back style
    
  • Casual dressers or vintage streetwear fans
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Carefree, rebellious, and cool
    
  • Skatepark-to-studio energy
    
  • Vintage grunge with modern nonchalance

15. Shoulder-Length Layers

Description:
Long, face-framing layers were a signature 80s style among rockstars, actors, and creative types. In 2025, it’s a powerful nod to expressive masculinityrefined with better products and healthier hair routines.

• All Key Features:
  
  • Hair down to the shoulders or slightly above
    
  • Soft, feathered or blended layers for movement
    
  • Parted in the center or to the side
    
  • Great for highlighting waves or curls
    
  • Adds volume and dimension to long hair
    
• All Styling Tips:
  
  • Use leave-in conditioner or anti-frizz cream
    
  • Blow-dry with a diffuser for natural texture
    
  • Trim every 6–8 weeks to avoid a “weighed down” look
    
  • Consider sea salt spray for beachy, lived-in waves
    
  • Avoid heavy styling products to keep bounce
    
• Best For:
  
  • Medium to long wavy or curly hair
    
  • Artistic, alternative, or expressive dressers
    
  • Guys who don’t mind extra maintenance for standout results
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Retro glam with a modern indie twist
    
  • Rockstar or boho-chic
    
  • Expressive, confident, and laid-back

16. Undercut with Comb Back

Description:
A sleek, polished version of the undercut popularized in the 80s. The hair on top was longer and combed straight back, creating a powerful contrast with the shaved or closely cropped sides.

• All Key Features:
  
  • High or mid undercut
    
  • Longer top combed back for a clean silhouette
    
  • Sharp edges and neat finish
    
  • Works best with straight or wavy hair
    
  • Adds structure and attitude
    
• All Styling Tips:
  
  • Use a vent brush and blow dryer to direct hair backward
    
  • Apply a medium-hold gel or pomade for slick control
    
  • For a more natural look, use a matte cream and finger-style
    
  • Use a fine-tooth comb to define the shape
    
  • Get routine trims to keep sides sharp and top manageable
    
• Best For:
  
  • Square or oval face shapes
    
  • Straight to wavy hair
    
  • Guys who want a clean yet retro edge
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Confident, commanding, and a bit rebellious
    
  • Mix of 80s Wall Street and modern streetwear
    
  • Perfect for fashion-forward men who like contrast

17. Spiked Hair

Description:
One of the most iconic teen styles of the 80s. Whether you used gel or mousse, the goal was lift, separation, and attitude. Fast-forward to 2025, and the style is back with softer edges and less crunch.

• All Key Features:
  
  • Short to medium-length hair spiked upward or outward
    
  • Defined tips and separated strands
    
  • Usually paired with fade or taper sides
    
  • Works great with straight hair
    
  • Popular with younger guys and edgy styles
    
• All Styling Tips:
  
  • Towel dry hair and use a strong-hold gel or wax
    
  • Spike sections individually using your fingers
    
  • Blow-dry for extra height and durability
    
  • Avoid overloading product to keep hair from clumping
    
  • Optional: Use matte clay for a modern, dry-textured look
    
• Best For:
  
  • Straight or fine hair
    
  • Active or youthful guys
    
  • Casual streetwear or Y2K throwback looks
    
• Vibe:
  
  • Edgy, playful, and energetic
    
  • Brings back punk and skater boy cool
    
  • Low-effort, high-attitude

18. Glam Rock Mullet

Description:
The glam rock mullet wasn’t just a hairstyleit was a personality. Teased and dramatic on top with feathered ends in the back, this cut was the crown of many 80s frontmen. In 2025, it’s a confident throwback statement.

• All Key Features:
  • Voluminous crown, often teased
  • Feathered layers at the back, flowing to the shoulders
  • Shorter or layered sides for contrast
  • Usually paired with highlights or bold color
  • Great for naturally thick or wavy hair
    
• All Styling Tips:
  
  • Use volumizing mousse and blow-dry with a round brush
  • Tease the crown for extra height and fluff
  • Apply texture spray or light hairspray for hold
  • Consider using a straightener to flick feathered ends
  • Maintain length with trims to avoid a mullet mullet
    
• Best For:
  • Thick or layered hair
  • Guys in music, fashion, or artsy circles
  • Bold personalities not afraid to turn heads
    
• Vibe:
  • Dramatic, expressive, and unapologetically 80s
  • Rock concert-ready
  • For men who love volume, edge, and stage-worthy swagger

19. Short Caesar

Description:
Inspired by ancient Rome and re-popularized by 80s icons like George Michael, the Short Caesar cut is characterized by a flat, horizontal fringe and uniform short length. It’s neat, sharp, and timeless.

• All Key Features:
  • Short length all around (1–2 inches)
  • Horizontal blunt fringe across the forehead
  • Uniform shape with low taper or subtle fade
  • Ideal for hiding thinning hairlines or receding temples
  • Low-maintenance and clean-cut
    
• All Styling Tips:
  
  • Towel dry and use a pea-sized amount of matte cream
  • Comb forward to define the fringe
  • Use light pomade or paste for a more defined texture
  • Regular trims every 3–4 weeks keep it crisp
  • Skip the blow-dryerair-drying enhances the natural flow
    
• Best For:
  • Oval, square, and receding hairlines
  • Men who prefer low-effort styles
  • Those with straight or slightly wavy hair
    
• Vibe:
  • Clean, classic, and subtly edgy
  • Effortlessly stylish for any age
  • Ideal for professionals or minimalists

20. Wet Look

Description:
The wet look defined 80s club and red carpet glam. Achieved with generous amounts of gel, this sleek style gave hair a high-shine, slicked-back appearance that screamed confidence and control.

• All Key Features:
  • High-shine, slicked appearance
  • Hair combed back or side-parted
  • Can be paired with fades, undercuts, or long tops
  • Works with straight or slightly wavy hair
  • Often paired with dramatic outfits or formalwear
    
• All Styling Tips:
  • Start with damp hair and apply a generous amount of wet-look gel
  • Comb hair back or to the side for desired shape
  • Use a fine-tooth comb to achieve a sleek finish
  • Optional: Add shine spray for extra gloss
  • Avoid touching hair throughout the day to maintain hold
    
• Best For:
  • Formal events, night outs, and fashion-forward men
  • Medium to long straight or wavy hair
  • Guys with symmetrical face shapes
    
• Vibe:
  • Glamorous, bold, and red-carpet ready
  • 80s playboy meets modern minimalist
  • Great for guys who love attention and polish

21. Pushed-Back Waves

Description:
Soft and stylish, this cut keeps medium-length wavy hair brushed back for volume and control. It was casual yet refineda favorite for men who wanted the “put-together” look without rigid styling.

• All Key Features:
  • Medium-length waves brushed away from the face
  • Volume at the crown, natural texture throughout
  • Can be worn with or without a part
  • Works best with natural waves or loose curls
  • Soft and touchable finish
    
• All Styling Tips:
  • Apply curl cream or light mousse to damp hair
  • Use a round brush and blow dryer to lift hair back
  • Finish with a flexible-hold spray for movement
  • For a messier version, finger-style the waves without a brush
  • Trim every 6–8 weeks to keep shape tidy
    
• Best For:
  • Naturally wavy or textured hair
  • Men with heart-shaped or oval faces
  • Casual dressers with an eye for style
    
• Vibe:
  • Cool, romantic, and effortlessly chic
  • Think “beach meets boardroom”
  • Ideal for everyday wear or weekend brunches

22. Brush-Up with Sideburns

Description:
A staple of the 80s rebel look, this style featured short back and sides with the top pushed upward and outward. Finished with distinctive sideburns, it balanced volume and edge.

• All Key Features:
  • Brushed-up top with short sides
  • Medium-length top (3–4 inches) for lift
  • Defined or thick sideburns as a focal point
  • Slight taper or fade for shape
  • Works with straight or slightly wavy textures
    
• All Styling Tips:
  
  • Blow-dry hair upward using a round brush for volume
  • Apply volumizing mousse at the roots
  • Use matte wax or paste to hold shape without stiffness
  • Define sideburns with a trimmer for a sharp retro finish
  • Optional: Add subtle highlights for added depth
    
• Best For:
  • Square or angular face shapes
  • Men with medium-thick hair
  • Anyone embracing a retro-modern mix
    
• Vibe:
  • Confident, structured, and 80s cool
  • A blend of rebellious and clean-cut
  • Great for both casual and semi-formal looks

23. Bowl Cut

Description:
Once mocked, now reimaginedthe modern bowl cut blends retro charm with contemporary finesse through textured layers, tapers, and cleaner lines.

• All Key Features:
  • Rounded cut that wraps around the head
  • Equal-length fringe and sides
  • Modern versions include taper fades or undercuts
  • Works best on straight or fine hair
  • Bold and fashion-forward
    
• All Styling Tips:
  • Blow-dry forward with a paddle brush for smoothness
  • Use light pomade to define ends and maintain shape
  • Add texturizing spray if you want a messier, layered look
  • Maintain sharp lines with regular trims every 3–4 weeks
  • Consider tapering the sides for a softer blend
    
• Best For:
  • Trendsetters and fashion-forward men
  • Straight or fine hair types
  • Oval or diamond-shaped faces
    
• Vibe:
  • Retro with a high-fashion twist
  • Edgy, artistic, and rule-breaking
  • Perfect for the bold, confident dresser

24. Long Bangs (Fringe Forward)

Description:
Worn over the forehead, long bangs added an emo-meets-grunge feel to many 80s and early 90s looks. It’s back in 2025 with more structure and layered depth.

• All Key Features:
  • Long front fringe draping forward
  • Often paired with undercuts or layered tops
  • Textured or wispy ends for movement
  • Adds length and softness to the face
  • Versatile with both short and medium back lengths
    
• All Styling Tips:
  
  • Use lightweight cream or leave-in conditioner to prevent frizz
  • Style bangs forward with a comb or fingers
  • Blow-dry downward using medium heat for control
  • Trim every 2–3 weeks to prevent eye irritation
  • Optional: Add subtle layering for feathered ends
    
• Best For:
  • Oval, heart, or long face shapes
  • Guys with naturally straight or wavy hair
  • Those who want a softer, trendier silhouette
    
• Vibe:
  • Artistic, moody, and 80s-romantic
  • Rebellious yet polished
  • Great for musicians, creatives, and style innovators

25. Curly Afro with Part

Description:
This style honors the 80s heritage of full-volume curls while adding a clean, defined part for modern structure. It’s a bold, natural look that celebrates texture and individuality.

• All Key Features:
  • Rounded, voluminous Afro shape
  • Defined side or center part for extra detail
  • Emphasizes natural coils and curl pattern
  • Medium to large hair length required
  • Enhances facial features with balanced proportions
    
• All Styling Tips:
  • Moisturize regularly with leave-in conditioner or curl cream
  • Use a wide-tooth comb or pick to shape and maintain volume
  • Apply a defining gel or pomade to carve the part cleanly
  • Use a satin bonnet or pillowcase to preserve curls overnight
  • Trim monthly to maintain shape and avoid frizz
    
• Best For:
  • Men with Type 3C to 4C natural curls
  • Those who prefer low-manipulation styles
  • Guys looking to embrace cultural roots with flair
    
• Vibe:
  • Proud, powerful, and deeply rooted in heritage
  • Retro cool with modern polish
  • A go-to for men who want to make a strong, stylish statement