With the much-anticipated second season of *Rivals* now gracing our screens, the revival of bold, extravagant hairstyles from the 1980s is taking centre stage once again. Fans of the show are not only enjoying the drama but are also embracing the iconic hair looks that have made a triumphant return. From the voluminous Jilly Cooper blow-dry to other legendary styles, it’s clear that the spirit of the 80s is alive and well.
The Jilly Cooper Blow-Dry: A Timeless Classic
The star of the show, Emily Atack, portrays Sarah Stratton, and her luscious locks have reignited interest in the quintessential Jilly Cooper blow-dry. This hairstyle embodies the boldness associated with the era, characterised by its big and bouncy appearance. As *Rivals* continues to captivate audiences, it seems we are also rediscovering the glam of smoking, dinner parties, and even the audacity of naked tennis.
Iconic 80s Hairstyles to Embrace
As the nostalgia kicks in, here are some standout hairstyles from the 80s that are worth reviving:
1. Bonnie Tyler’s Gravity-Defying Locks
Bonnie Tyler’s hair was a marvel of volume, blending shades from soft blond to a more rebellious dirty hue. The hairstyle was a statement, projecting an image of someone ready to take on the world without hesitation. It was both wild and alluring, perfectly capturing the essence of rock-chic glamour.
2. The Princess Diana Look
Known affectionately as the “duck’s arse,” Princess Diana’s feathered hairstyle is a testament to elegance. With its precise layering, it exuded royal charm while maintaining an air of sophistication. This iconic look remains timeless, showcasing the balance between grace and tradition that Diana embodied.
3. Tina Turner’s Bold Mane
Tina Turner’s hair was a force of nature, unapologetically wild and untamed. It defied categorisation, reflecting her fierce individuality. No one could replicate this iconic look, as it was uniquely hers — a celebration of freedom and self-expression that still resonates today.
4. Jane Fonda: Fitness and Flair
Jane Fonda transformed her hair into a symbol of empowerment. From her soft, natural styles to the sleek, polished looks seen during her workout videos, Fonda’s hairstyles were as dynamic as her fitness regime. Each cut communicated confidence and an invitation to join her in a journey of health and vitality.
5. Dolly Parton’s Unforgettable Transformation
Dolly Parton shocked fans in 1986 with a dramatic shift to a shorter, straighter mullet. This bold move not only showcased her versatility but also proved that change can be powerful. Parton’s ability to reinvent herself while maintaining her signature charm continues to inspire.
6. Kylie Minogue’s Perm Perfection
Kylie Minogue’s transition from a soap star to a pop sensation was accentuated by her iconic perm. The bouncy curls radiated youthfulness and charm, influencing a generation eager to replicate her signature look.
7. The Avant-Garde Grace Jones
Grace Jones brought an avant-garde edge to the 80s with her buzzcut. This striking look defied expectations and redefined beauty standards, showcasing her unique blend of strength and ethereality. Jones’s fearless approach to hair remains influential, challenging norms and inviting reinterpretation.
8. David Bowie: A Glamorous Enigma
Bowie’s hairstyles were as transformative as his musical personas. The Labyrinth-era look, with its layered drama, was nothing short of theatrical. It encapsulated the essence of creativity and rebellion, making Bowie an everlasting icon of style.
9. Bono’s Notorious Mullet
Bono’s mullet, a mix of metrosexual flair and rockstar bravado, became a talking point during the Live Aid concert. Although he later expressed embarrassment over it, the style remains a symbol of an era when individuality reigned supreme.
10. Nikki Sixx’s Rock Star Vibes
Mötley Crüe’s Nikki Sixx blended glam and grit with his voluminous hair. It symbolised the freedom of expression in the glam metal scene, where exaggerated hairstyles were just as important as the music itself.
11. Steven Tyler: The Male Jilly Cooper
Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler took the essence of the Jilly Cooper look and made it his own. His hair was a reflection of charisma and showmanship, creating a unique identity in the rock genre.
12. Slash: The Iconic Curls
Slash’s cascading curls are legendary, defining his rock persona. His signature look, with its effortless vibe, continues to inspire countless fans and aspiring musicians. The natural beauty of his hair remains an emblem of authenticity.
Why it Matters
The resurgence of 80s hairstyles, sparked by *Rivals*, goes beyond mere nostalgia; it represents a cultural moment where self-expression and individuality are celebrated. As viewers embrace these iconic looks, we witness a collective return to boldness and creativity, reminding us that fashion is cyclical and that the spirit of the past can inspire the future. In an age where personal style is a form of empowerment, these hairstyles serve as a powerful reminder of the freedom to express oneself without restraint.
