21 Best Retro Hairstyles for Long Hair

  • Best for naturally straight or slightly wavy hair
  • Works well with minimal styling and a smoothing serum
  • Looks great when accessorized with a floppy hat or layered necklaces

11. 1980s Teased Crimped Hair with Side Ponytail

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The 1980s crimped hairstyle was all about volume, texture, and bold styling. Women with long hair would tease their locks to extreme heights, incorporating crimped sections for added texture. The side ponytail was a fun and youthful way to wear this style, secured with scrunchies or colorful accessories. This high-energy look was a favorite among pop stars and trendsetters of the era.

  • Best for parties, themed events, and bold fashion statements
  • Works well with thick hair that holds texture well
  • Requires a crimping iron, teasing comb, and plenty of hairspray

12. 1980s Power Curls with Bold Bangs

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Big hair ruled the 1980s power look, and voluminous curls were a defining feature. Women wore their long hair in structured curls, paired with bold, teased bangs. This look exuded confidence and made a statement, whether in professional settings or nightlife scenes. Achieving this style requires plenty of body, mousse, and a strong-hold finishing spray.

  • Ideal for thick or naturally curly hair
  • Works well for formal and casual settings alike
  • Looks great with bold makeup and statement jewelry

13. 1990s Grunge-Inspired Layered Hair

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The 1990s grunge hairstyle took a rebellious turn with ultra-long, choppy layers and a messy, undone finish. Often paired with dark lipstick and flannel shirts, this style was popularized by alternative rock culture. It embraced a “just rolled out of bed” aesthetic, making it an effortlessly cool look.

  • Perfect for casual wear and alternative fashion
  • Works best with straight or slightly wavy hair
  • Minimal styling required—just a bit of texturizing spray

14. 1990s Sleek Supermodel Hair

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The supermodel hair of the 1990s was all about long, ultra-sleek locks with a center part. Think of catwalk icons with glossy, perfectly straight hair that flowed effortlessly. This look was chic, minimalistic, and sophisticated, making it a timeless choice for any occasion.

  • Best for straight or chemically smoothed hair
  • Requires a flat iron and shine-enhancing products
  • Pairs well with a slip dress and simple accessories

15. 2000s Spiky Y2K Tendrils

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The early 2000s Y2K hairstyle featured long hair pulled back with spiky, face-framing tendrils left loose. This futuristic-meets-playful aesthetic was a favorite among pop stars and teen idols, styled with butterfly clips and shimmery accessories. It’s a fun throwback style that’s making a modern comeback.

  • Best for playful and nostalgic fashion looks
  • Works well with straight or slightly wavy hair
  • Use gel or wax to define the spiky tendrils

16. 1920s Gatsby Waves with Pearl Accessories

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A variation of the classic finger waves, Gatsby-style waves took the 1920s elegance to another level. Women with long hair would enhance their waves with pearl hairpins or embellished clips. This ultra-glamorous style was a go-to for high-society parties and sophisticated gatherings.

  • Ideal for weddings, formal events, and vintage-themed parties
  • Requires precise finger-waving techniques and setting lotion
  • Best paired with pearl necklaces and Art Deco fashion

17. 1940s Hollywood Waves with a Side Part

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The 1940s Hollywood wave hairstyle gave long hair a structured yet soft look. This classic side-parted wave style created an air of sophistication, worn by leading ladies of the golden age of cinema. The key to this look is sculpting each wave with precision and finishing with a glossy shine.