Bouncy, fluffy, and full of personality, 80s voluminous curls are back as a fun way to make your hair the main event of your look. Big curls in this era were all about height at the crown, lots of layers, and a “more is more” approach to volume that felt bold and confident rather than polished and perfect. Think teased roots, defined ringlets, and hair that frames the face while still expanding outward for that unmistakable “big hair” effect. Today, you can recreate these classic curly looks with modern tools, lighter formulas, and healthier techniques while still keeping that iconic 80s drama. Whether you have natural curls, a perm, or straight hair you curl with hot tools, there’s a voluminous 80s-inspired look that can work for your length, texture, and routine.
1. Classic 80s Big Perm Curls
The classic big perm curls look is the first image many people picture when they think of 80s hair, thanks to celebrities and music icons who lived in huge spiral curls and sky-high volume. This style is built on tight to medium spiral curls from roots to ends, usually created with a chemical perm or by setting very small sections on narrow rollers for an allover textured effect. To modernize it, stylists now add long layers to remove bulk, which lets curls stack and expand without forming a heavy triangle shape. Root-lifting mousse, heat protection, and strong yet flexible hairspray help you maintain height without crunchy stiffness, while scrunching and gentle diffusing keep curls bouncy. It’s a high-impact, low-subtlety look that works best if you love statement hair and don’t mind spending time maintaining shape and moisture in your curls with hydrating products.
2. 80s Voluminous Curly Shag
An 80s voluminous curly shag combines those nostalgic big curls with a heavily layered, rock-inspired haircut that brings movement and a little bit of edge. The shape usually includes lots of short-to-long layers starting around the cheekbones or eyes, with the shortest pieces adding height and fullness at the crown while longer curls fall around the shoulders or below. This layered structure keeps volume evenly distributed, so curls explode outward in a halo rather than just puffing out at the bottom. Styling focuses on enhancing texture with mousse or curl cream, air-drying or diffusing, then using light teasing at the crown to push even more lift without flattening the curl pattern. Because the shag has softer edges and plenty of movement, it gives you that authentic 80s fullness while still framing the face in a flattering way, especially if you like a slightly messy, lived-in finish.
3. 80s Side Part Voluminous Curls
If you want instant drama, 80s side part voluminous curls center everything around a deep, exaggerated part that pushes curls up and over to one side. This creates a strong, asymmetrical shape, with big curls sweeping across the forehead and cascading over one eye or cheek for a glamorous, almost movie-star feel that still looks bold and fun. To get that lift, hair is often blow-dried or diffused in the opposite direction of the final part, then flipped over to create built-in volume at the roots. From there, small to medium sections are curled or enhanced with a curling iron or wand, alternating directions to keep texture lively and prevent curls from clumping together. A firm-hold hairspray or volumizing spray at the roots locks in the height while the midlengths and ends stay touchable, making this look ideal for parties, photos, or any time you want your curls to stand out.
4. 80s Curly Bangs With Full Volume
80s curly bangs with full volume give the face a playful, youthful frame, turning your fringe into a major feature instead of just a small detail. In this look, bangs are cut either straight across or slightly rounded, then curled or encouraged into ringlets and brushed or picked out slightly for that fluffy, cloud-like finish. The rest of the hair is kept equally voluminous with layers and root lift, so the bangs blend smoothly into the surrounding curls rather than sitting flat on the forehead. Hot rollers, narrow curling irons, or a tight perm can help create consistent curl in the fringe, while volumizing mousse and a round brush at the root add that signature 80s lift. Because curly bangs can shrink and bounce, regular trims and careful styling with lightweight products are key to avoiding heaviness, keeping the overall look fun, big, and full of personality.
5. 80s Curly Layered Hair With Volume
80s curly layered hair with volume focuses on a customized cut that carves out the bulk and builds height where you want it most. Layers are usually added throughout, starting at or slightly below the cheekbones on medium hair and around the jawline for longer lengths, allowing curls to sit on top of each other and expand outward. The top layers tend to be shorter so they can be lightly teased or lifted with a brush and blow dryer, boosting volume at the crown while midlengths and ends stay bouncy and rounded. Modern versions keep the ends softer and less blunt, making the silhouette large but still flattering and slightly more polished than some of the wildest vintage cuts. Curl creams, volumizing foam, and diffusers help define texture, while finishing with a flexible hairspray keeps everything in place without sacrificing movement or curl shape.
6. 80s Curly Half Up Hairstyle
An 80s curly half up hairstyle gives you the best of both worlds by keeping your length down while creating serious height at the crown. The top section of hair, usually from temple to temple, is lifted, teased, and pinned or clipped back, forming a mini bouffant that instantly channels retro energy. The bottom half is left loose in voluminous curls, which can be defined with a curling iron or enhanced with mousse and a diffuser if you have natural texture. This contrast between the high, rounded top and the full, flowing curls below creates a flattering shape that opens up the face while still showing off your hair’s movement. It works well for medium to long hair, and you can keep it simple and soft for daytime or pair it with bold makeup and accessories for a full 80s-inspired party look.
7. 80s Curly Ponytail With Volume
The 80s curly ponytail with volume is all about turning a simple pony into a big, bouncy statement that still feels quick and practical. Instead of a flat, low pony, the hair is usually gathered high or mid-head, with the crown teased and smoothed for extra lift before securing with an elastic. Curls are either naturally textured or created with a curling iron, then fluffed out by gently separating strands and misting with hairspray for that signature fullness. Some versions leave a few curly tendrils or a fringe around the face to soften the look and keep it flattering from every angle. This ponytail is great for busy days, workouts, and nights out because it keeps hair off your neck while still leaning fully into that joyful, oversized 80s curl aesthetic.
8. 80s Curly High Side Ponytail
The 80s curly high side ponytail is one of the most recognizable playful looks from the decade, overflowing with character and volume. Hair is swept to one side and secured high above the ear, so the curls spill over the side of the head and shoulder instead of straight down the back. The roots and crown are often backcombed or lifted first, so you get that exaggerated round shape with the ponytail sitting on a cushion of volume. Curls are defined with small to medium barrel irons or rollers, then separated with fingers to boost fullness without losing their overall shape. This look suits medium and long lengths and works especially well when you want a fun, nostalgic touch that feels a little cheeky while still being undeniably eye-catching and energetic.
9. 80s Curly Hair With Scrunchie Volume
80s curly hair with scrunchie volume brings together two core trends of the era—big curls and bold accessories—to frame the face in a fun, retro way. The hair is usually gathered into a high or mid-height ponytail, half up, or top knot, then secured with a fabric scrunchie that adds both support and a pop of color or pattern. Curls are fluffed around the base of the scrunchie, creating a cloud-like effect that appears even bigger because the fabric lifts and supports the hair. Some people combine this with a deep side part or face-framing curls left out in front for a softer, flattering finish. As a modern take, you can use softer scrunchies and lighter styling creams to protect the hair shaft and avoid breakage while still achieving that nostalgic, oversized 80s curl look.
10. 80s Curly Volume Blowout Look
The 80s curly volume blowout look mixes round-brush blowout techniques with curl-enhancing tools to create a big, glamorous, salon-like finish. Hair is typically prepped with volumizing mousse, then blow-dried with a round brush or blow-dry brush to lift the roots and smooth the cuticle while still keeping bend and body in the lengths. After drying, curls or large waves are added using a curling iron, hot rollers, or Velcro rollers, which are left to cool completely to lock in shape. A light brush-out with a paddle or wide-tooth comb softens the curls into big, fluffy body waves that sit away from the face and fill out the silhouette. Finishing with a firm yet flexible hairspray and a touch of shine spray gives that polished, editorial-style volume that echoes 80s glam without feeling stiff or outdated.
11. 80s Rockstar Curly Volume Hair
80s rockstar curly volume hair is unapologetically wild, drawing inspiration from glam rock and hair metal bands who made huge curls their signature. This look usually combines lots of layers, extreme height at the crown, and wide, expanded curls that almost form a mane around the head and shoulders. Stylists often use a mix of tight curls and brushed-out texture, teasing and backcombing the roots while leaving the ends more defined or slightly frizzed for that rebellious, “done but undone” energy. Holding sprays with strong hold, plus generous teasing with a fine-tooth comb, are essential to keep the shape towering and dramatic through a full night. If you like bold fashion and loud accessories, this is a great way to let your hair match that vibe, especially for concerts, themed events, or when you simply want to stand out.
12. 80s Curly Top With Volume For Short Hair
If your hair is short, an 80s curly top with volume lets you still embrace big, retro curls without needing a lot of length. The cut often keeps the sides slightly shorter or more controlled while leaving extra length on top, which is then curled tightly and lifted for a high, rounded effect. This creates a silhouette that almost resembles a soft curly crop or mini curly mullet, with the crown appearing full and fluffy from every angle. Styling usually involves a curl-defining mousse or foam, diffusing to set the curls, and strategic teasing or picking at the roots to build height without making the shape too boxy. It’s a great option if you want something low maintenance in terms of drying time but still crave the spirit of 80s volume and texture in your everyday look.
13. 80s Curly Mullet With Volume
The 80s curly mullet with volume leans fully into the “business in the front, party in the back” idea, but with the added flair of big, defined curls. The front and top are cut with shorter layers to create lift and a slightly structured frame around the face, while the back is left longer so curls can fall freely past the neck or shoulders. Volume is amplified all over with teasing at the crown and strong styling products, giving the entire cut a rounded yet elongated silhouette. Modern versions often soften the transitions between front and back lengths, making the look more wearable while still keeping that nostalgic edge. If you like experimental haircuts and want something that feels both retro and surprisingly current, a curly mullet with lots of volume is a bold, conversation-starting choice.
14. 80s Curly Feathered Layers With Volume
80s curly feathered layers with volume combine classic feathering techniques with big curls for a soft yet dramatic shape. In this look, layers are cut in a way that makes the ends of the hair flick back and away from the face, creating a winged effect that pairs beautifully with round curls. The crown and top layers are heavily layered and slightly shorter, which naturally builds height and makes teasing more effective while keeping the overall look airy instead of heavy. Curls are styled with a combination of curling irons or rollers and then lightly brushed or picked out to merge the feathered ends and curls together. The result is a voluminous silhouette that frames the face with soft movement, great if you want a glamorous retro feel that still reads romantic and wearable today.
15. 80s Curly Volume With Headband
80s curly volume with headband uses a simple accessory to emphasize both height and fullness without complicated styling. Hair is usually styled into big curls first using rollers, diffusers, or curling irons, then gently teased at the crown and sides for that oversized halo effect. A fabric or stretchy headband is placed either at the hairline or behind the bangs, pushing curls up and back while leaving plenty of volume above and around it. This not only keeps hair out of the face but also accentuates the round shape of the curls, giving a playful, sporty, or slightly preppy twist depending on the headband style. It’s a great way to change up your usual curly routine with minimal effort, especially on days when you want your volume to look purposeful and styled, not just big.
16. 80s Curly Volume Updo Hairstyle
An 80s curly volume updo hairstyle is perfect for special occasions when you want big curls but also need a more formal finish. The hair is first prepped with mousse and curled all over, then sections are lifted and pinned toward the crown or back of the head to build height and structure. Instead of smoothing everything tight, curls are left fluffy and visible, often arranged into soft clusters or pinned rolls that give the appearance of a curly, sculpted cloud. Teasing at the roots and strategic pinning keep the updo from collapsing, while firm-hold hairspray locks in volume through hours of movement. This style channels the glam side of the 80s and works well with statement earrings and bold makeup, making it a go-to for weddings, parties, or any event where you want your hair to truly stand out.
17. 80s Curly Volume With Crimped Texture
80s curly volume with crimped texture takes big hair even further by mixing curls and zigzag crimps for maximum fullness. Hair is often crimped in sections close to the roots or underneath layers, then curled or left naturally curly on top so the combination of textures lifts the entire style outward. Crimping adds tiny bends that act almost like built-in teasing, expanding the hair without needing as much backcombing. Once the hair is fully textured, it’s fluffed with fingers or a wide-tooth comb and set with strong-hold hairspray to maintain the larger-than-life silhouette. This look is ideal if you want a truly authentic 80s finish that feels fun, theatrical, and unapologetically bold, especially for themed events or nights where subtlety is not the goal.
18. 80s Curly Volume Bob Haircut
An 80s curly volume bob haircut shows that you don’t need long hair to embrace big, bouncy curls with a retro twist. The bob is usually cut to chin or shoulder length with generous layering, preventing the ends from forming a heavy line and instead letting curls expand outward for a rounded shape. Volume is built at the crown with shorter layers and light teasing, while the perimeter stays soft and full, framing the jaw and cheeks in curls. Styling focuses on defining curls with mousse or gel, diffusing to set, and then gently separating curls to keep them airy instead of weighed down. This haircut works particularly well for naturally curly or wavy hair and offers a manageable way to get that 80s feel without committing to very long lengths or complex updos.
19. 80s Curly Curtain Bangs With Volume
80s curly curtain bangs with volume bring a softer, framing effect to big curls by parting the fringe down the middle or slightly off-center. The bangs are cut to skim the cheekbones or jaw when curly, creating two curved sections that open around the face like curtains while blending seamlessly into the rest of the curls. Extra layers around the front help these pieces sit lightly and bounce rather than falling flat or feeling heavy. Styling usually involves applying curl cream or light gel to the fringe, diffusing or air-drying, then gently lifting at the roots with fingers to maintain height. The result is a voluminous overall shape with a romantic, face-framing detail that makes the classic 80s full curl look more modern and flattering for many face shapes.
20. 80s Curly Volume With Defined Ringlets
80s curly volume with defined ringlets leans into tight, springy curls that are still big and full but a bit more structured than fluffy, brushed-out looks. Small sections are curled with narrow irons, perm rods, or flexi rods, or enhanced on naturally tight curls, creating uniform spirals from root to tip. Instead of brushing them out completely, the curls are separated gently with fingers and lifted at the roots so they keep their shape while still building serious volume. Lightweight gel or mousse helps hold definition, while a pick or wide-tooth comb used only at the roots prevents frizz in the lengths. This look is perfect if you love the drama of big 80s hair but still want each curl to look intentional and glossy, offering a glamorous finish that reads polished yet full of retro charm.
Conclusion:
80s voluminous curls are more than just a nostalgic trend—they’re a fun way to celebrate texture, height, and individuality in your everyday hair routine. From big perms and layered shags to curly mullets, side ponytails, and headband looks, these hairstyles prove that volume can be tailored to any length and level of boldness. Modern tools, gentler formulas, and smarter cutting techniques now make it possible to recreate these shapes without sacrificing hair health or curl definition. With the right combination of layers, root lift, curl-enhancing products, and controlled teasing, you can dial your look up or down depending on the occasion while still keeping that unmistakable 80s spirit. Whether you prefer structured ringlets, fluffy brushed-out curls, or dramatic updos, leaning into big hair lets your personality shine and turns your curls into a true statement feature.
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