1980s Updos

Take a trip back to the glamorous 1980s with these photos of stunning updos! From big bouffants to fancy braids, this gallery shows off the iconic updos that were all the rage during this bold fashion era.
 
Whether you need ideas for a special event or just want to appreciate the beauty of '80s hairstyles, these updos will surely catch your eye and spark your creativity. Come along as we celebrate the unforgettable style of the '80s and explore the beauty of these iconic updos!
 

Cylinder Curls

Up style with cylinder curls
 
Icy brunette hair is adorned with large, round cylinder curls in this striking hairstyle. Cascading off the collar are lackadaisical ribbon-like tendrils, adding to the thick, voluminous effect.
 
To recreate this look, take large sections of your hair and wrap them around a curling iron, creating bold curls that frame your face. Embrace the natural variation in curl sizes, but pay attention to two large curls on the top of the head, styled in opposite directions for balance. Finish with a spritz of hairspray to hold the style in place.
 

Updo with Crimping

Updo with hair crimping
 
Bold and playful, this hairstyle features pithy crimpy kinks gathered into sassy fans of hair, reaching high above the model's head in the photo. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the hair is brushed up all around and backcombed to create impressive height, volume, and a strong feminine presence.
 
Secured with scores of pins and a generous application of spray, this style commands attention. The frontlines are styled with a crimping iron, adding texture and depth to the overall look. Blend the curls with your hands, spot curl as needed, and add volume with strategic backcombing. Finish with a final spritz of hairspray for extra hold and get ready to hit the town with confidence!
 

Fishnet-type Braid

Fishnet braid
 
The braids in this unique hairstyle originate from a central section, lightly twisted from the front and then intricately woven into a larger construction. They culminate at the nape of the neck, cascading down the back in a striking fishnet-like braid.
 
This sophisticated hairstyle exudes elegance and refinement, perfect for any formal occasion or dinner party. However, it's important to note that for those with a fuller figure, long hair, even when braided, can sometimes create the illusion of added weight.
 

Classical Updo

Classical updo with curls
 
This hairstyle features a classical sculptured look with individually twisted coiled curls arranged around the crown of our model's head. The hair is precisely parted in the center and pulled back tightly, giving the impression of a seamlessly attached hairpiece.
 
To achieve this elegant style, each curl was meticulously fashioned from the bottom, gradually working up and positioning them either side by side or layered on top of each other. Secure with pins and use hairspray to set each curl as you style.
 

Up Do with Tendrils

Updo with tendrils
 
Tendrils never go out of style! Every woman wants to feel sexy, and this hairstyle takes it up a notch with a large rolled twist at the back. Achieving the perfect amount of volume and height requires plenty of backcombing.
 
This look is all about effortless glamour, so don't worry about making it too neat. Embrace swirls, curls, and coils to frame your face like our model. If you have long hair and want to recreate this style, use conventional rollers all over your head and allow your hair to dry completely. Once dry, set small vertical rollers where you want your tendrils, then backcomb and style your twist and tendrils as you spray for hold.
 

Brushed Away from the Face

Hair brushed severely back and away from the face
 
Our model wears her hair sleekly brushed away from her face, accentuating joint-barreled curls arranged elegantly at the crown. The amount of styling gel you use depends on your hair texture; for fine or thin hair, a heavier application is recommended during the rolling process.
 
Plenty of back-brushing and hairspray will be needed to set each curl where you want it to be. This style requires an artistic touch, but with practice and familiarity with different hairstyles, there's no reason why you won't be able to recreate these curls yourself. Secure them in place with hairpins.
 

Bouquet of Curls

Upswing with a bouquet of curls
 
Today's delight is in the abundance of curls, effortlessly swept up into a graceful upswing at the back, culminating in the bouquet of curls as seen in the photo. A thick, plunging curl cascades down the center of her face, accentuating the curls and the sun-kissed highlights of her golden strawberry hair color.
 
Upswept hairstyles bring a touch of old-fashioned charm, evoking images of ruffled collars and large brooches. Curls also soften any harshness in an otherwise severe image, whether they're framing the face or adorning the crown.
 

Softening the Face

Updo that softens the face
 
Elegant ribboned coils take center stage in our model's long, pale hair, cascading below her shoulders. The top is elegantly swept up and back, revealing her forehead and framing her eyes, while the soft tendrils along the sides gently soften her features.
 
To achieve this look, start by using your curling iron and favorite styling spray. Begin at the bottom row in the back, taking small sections and curling your hair vertically. Work your way upward to the next row. Once you reach the top, curl your hair backward, lightly back brush, and smooth over with your hands as you spray for a polished finish.
 

Up Style with a Large Roll

Hair brought up into a large roll on the crown
 
True artists, like Picasso or Rembrandt, begin with a vision in their minds and work tirelessly to bring it to life. They never lose sight of their vision and know exactly how to reach their goal. They carefully analyze each face and hair, sketching out their masterpiece in their mind's eye.
 
Bit by bit, the masterpiece takes shape, much like the hairstyle our model is wearing. Her rich ink-black hair is elegantly swept up into a large roll atop her crown, adorned with a decorative hair flower on the left side. Delicate wispy tendrils cascade over her face and along the sides, mirroring those that gently frame her neckline.
 

Up Style for a Gala

Gala hair up style
 
Glorious warm brown panels of hair have been expertly brushed back from the face, then elegantly tucked over one side of the head, showcasing the lush texture of the hair. The playful nature of thin curls, allowed to escape more freely on one side, adds an enchanting touch as they frame the model's figure.
 
Indulge in this unique hairstyle that will set you apart at any gala event. Practice rolling your hair in the desired direction for the style, then secure it with pins once completely dry. Finish with a touch of gloss and a spritz of hairspray for added shine and hold.
 

Swooped Up and Piled

Hair swooped up and piled high
 
The gathered clusters of untamed hair on our model have been swept up and piled high in a disarray of rippled curls, cascading gracefully along the side of her face.
 
To achieve this look, divide your hair into various sections and position them around the head. Once dry, gently backcomb and shape the curls, securing them in place with hairpins and hairspray. Use your hands to adjust the hair for the desired volume and texture.
 

Quick and Neat Updo

Neat and easy updo
 
Seeking a quick, tidy, yet elegant hairstyle? Start with clean, dry hair and brush it up into a ponytail secured with a hairband. Then, take the outer sections of the hair within the band, wrap them around the band, and secure them with pins.
 
Next, fold the inner part of the hair over the band to create a roll, securing it with another pin. Finally, leave a small section of hair out to lay across your forehead and finish with a spritz of hairspray. Quick and effortlessly chic!
 
By Penny | Updated