Women's Hairstyles That Probably Should Be Left in the Past
| LAST UPDATE 08/17/2021
Choosing the perfect hairstyle is no simple task. After all, it's quite a commitment. Well, luckily for you, we're about to rule out quite a few options, as many of these hairstyles are probably no longer as trendy as you may think.
Perms
If it's the illusion of wavy or curly hair that you are looking for then a perm may just be the perfect hairdo for you! This style provides you with volume and texture, however, making this choice is a long-term commitment.
So, are perms good for your hair? Well, as you know, it's a chemical process that alters the structure of your hair from straight to curly. As much as technology has improved, the look is truly a difficult one to pull off. While it may have been snazzy in the past, that might have been the only time.
"The Rachel"
With just one tv show, female hair trends would arguably be changed forever. 'The Rachel' was a truly iconic look in the '90s that basically became a global phenomenon. In the mid-1990s, 'The Rachel' was seen just about everywhere and several hairdressers reported that they were inundated with requests for this look.
If you had gone to a salon back in the day, you probably saw others getting this style too; but there was a major problem - no one seemed to realize that Aniston always had a stylist with her which was truly needed. The look seemed to fade as people realized how much maintenance was required. So tell us, are you still a fan of the look?
Crimped Hair
Want a statement hairstyle? Well, as Christina showed us, the crimped hair look is certainly a sight to behold. With texture and volume, this hairdo is an eye-catching piece in itself and will definitely make you stand out in any crowd and any event. If you’re tired of flat and dull, you may have considered spicing it up with this do.
Back in the day, crimping was all the range. People were looking for something new and exciting, and it happened to come in the form of a crimping machine. Due to this hairdo not being permanent or hard to achieve, many people tried it out, sometimes just for the fun of it, other times not. Bottom line, you might wanna rethink this one.
Slicked-Back Bobs
We're not sure about you, but we really can't gel with this look anymore. This style is simple and elegant, and if you can pull it off, you're probably rocking it. Providing the 'bob' cut with a more formal side, this look is great for making sure no attention is taken away from your face.
However, there are very few people that can pull off this kind of look. You may think that the convenience of having a quick and easy hairstyle will save you some time, but think again. Not all of us have the right jawline or cheek bones for this kind of hairdo, so be sure to consult your hair dresser.
Dark Roots
When we see this kind of style, we're taken straight back to the Avril Lavinge days, where princess-blonde hair paired with a dark root was one of the best looks you could have. A trend that many people took on, a style which provided a little 'funk' while still keeping it simple.
While this look can be really great, it requires a lot of attention as the roots quickly grow out and can ruin the look. Some hairdressers say this style should be selectively chosen as if you are of more mature age, your grey hairs are likely to be more visible as your hair grows out. Leave this one behind...
Frizzy Waves
If it's the 'I woke up like this' look that you are going for, then 'frizzy waves' are one of the styles that come to mind. This look creates the illusion of effortlessness, giving you a rolled-out-of-bed chic appearance. While this is the look that is portrayed, the effort behind this isn't that simple.
This look has a lot of room for error. Over brush it, it becomes too frizzy; too much heat, it loses its volume and, it's not very weather friendly. So if you are going to try to get this ‘effortless’ look, remember the effort required behind it. This is sadly another look we might need to leave in the past.
Modern Bouffants
Previously known as the look of leisure, we now have modern bouffants. A hairdo that takes time to create but is often so worth it as it truly is a statement and an attention-drawing look. This style is often associated with all things retro as it originally became famous when worn by Jacqueline Kennedy.
Whether it's height or head-turning that you are looking for, you might want to rethink this one. This kind of hairdo isn't as popular as it used to be, and for good reason. While Snooki may seem like she's loving it, even this Jersey Shore star left this style in the past. You might want to do the same.
Voluminous Buns
A great and simple hairstyle that goes with most outfits and most events. Need some extra height? Voluminous bun. Got a formal event? Voluminous bun. Wearing a very busy outfit or dress? Voluminous bun. Or so you may think... While this hairstyle can look great, it almost never looks as good as it did when you left the house.
Due to this style being so simple to do and head out with, some people tend to wear it over and over again in their everyday lives. While this could be cool and practical, it's important to change things up sometimes. Don't let the bun take control of you! You take control of the bun!
Super Long Hair Extensions
Many of us are guilty of going there. For some, it takes a while for the hair to grow and it's easy to get impatient when you're desperate for that luscious flowing long-haired look. So, what do you do when you don't have a magic wand? Buy some clip-in or stick-on hair extensions.
Although this look could totally be pulled off, having such long hair creates a lot of attention and could therefore easily take away from your outfit. So, while some are still able to rock this look, it seems we may just have to let it go. Unless you paid a gazillion dollars for the hair, it almost always looks super fake.
Top Knot
Now, we're not saying that this look should be completely left behind, but you might want to think twice before doing the top-knot. While it may look beautiful on certain faces, it can also be a little odd when you're not walking down a runway. It's also pretty difficult to achieve this look without ending off the night with a headache.
While staying on top can truly be great, it wouldn't hurt to mix it up sometimes, let your hair down and let yourself experience a different kind of freedom. This look is smart and elegant, but it can also look a little bit alien-like. It truly depends on the person, ask a trusted friend for their honest opinion.
High Ponytails
Welcome to the high life. We’re not sure about you, but this style takes us back to those beloved high school days. With that classic pony and style accompanying it, nothing says ‘teen queen’ quite like a high ponytail. It was the cheerleader staple look, and the higher the ponytail, the better the result.
While rocking this look can be so very cool, it may not hurt to just let your hair down and be free. You can show off your beautiful mop and everyone will be able to see all the effort it took to keep you looking fresh and luscious. Besides, times are changing, and so are these trends.
Tight Braids
Craving something a little different but still want to keep your look elegant? Well, then tight braids could be a great option for you. This look allows you to show off your gorgeous locks while still adding a personal touch, as there are so many different styles you can do with them.
Or so you may think... This look is sadly another outdated hairstyle that we need to add to our list. While many people look amazing with braids in their hair, there are some who just can't pull it off. It might be a good idea to try this fun style when you're away on vacation, but other than that, leave this one in the past.
Repetitive Ponytails
As Andy Grammer once sang, "But you gotta keep your head up, oh, And you can let your hair down, eh, eh, eh." While ponytails are a total classic, it wouldn't hurt once in a while to let your locks down and let loose. While it may be Ariana Grande's signature-look, we're sure it's only a matter of time until she gets tired of it too.
You might find comfort in the fact that it takes a few minutes to put your hair up. To be fair, there are those mornings where we run a little bit late and have to make the best out of a difficult situation. However, don't get too used to putting your hair up, show us that beautiful face!
Neon Streaks
Nothing says 'I'm probably cool, 'I'm probably confident,' and 'I'm probably keen to party' quite like some neon streaks. This style can be a great look for Halloween or any other event you may have that requires a little bit of creativity. However, what happens when Monday rolls around?
How this hairstyle will be received within a formal work environment well, we're not too sure of that. If you work in a creative industry, a client probably wouldn't think twice. However, when a CEO walks into a business meeting with you, he may just take a second look and get the wrong impression.
Half Up, Half Down
There's nothing worse than 'sitting on the fence' however with this look, that isn't the case. You may think this style allows you to get the best of both worlds with this 50/50 look. This hairdo could also be considered quite iconic, as for years it was often worn to final year formal dances.
Though this look can be really great, it is important that it is worn to the appropriate event or occasion. This style is both formal and casual as it combines two great individual looks. But is it not a little too 'cheerleader'? While the Kardashians may be sporting this look quite a bit, we can't help but wonder if we're just trying to make 'fetch' happen.
Pink Copper Hues
You might be one of the lucky few who look great and funky with this hairdo, but we can't help but wonder what you would do if you had an important job interview. Of course, you could be giving off the impression that you're young and fun. However, what would you do in a more formal/serious situation?
If you work in a more informal or creative environment, then you could say, as the iconic group Queen said, "Don't stop me now, I'm having such a good time. I'm having a ball." It all depends on the message you are trying to send. But as for an everyday look? We would recommend trying something different.
Asymmetrical Haircuts
Not many things 'say' efficiency quite like this hairstyle. No time needs to be wasted during your morning routine. You can simply wake up, give it a quick brush, and maybe even put some gel in if you want to spice things up, and off you can go! Sounds easy right? But wait...
Whether going to a business meeting or family gathering, this style seems to portray a feeling of trust and 'boss energy.' I mean just look at who was rocking it, Kris Jenner, the ultimate mom-ager and all-round 'boss lady.' However, bare in mind that she constantly has access to a stylist.
Micro-Bangs
Welcome to the world of micro-bangs, a style that thrived during the '80s and '90s. Like many other styles, micro bangs are there to shape and often shorten a person's face. They were originally used in the world of haute-couture but later became a mainstream style.
The great thing about this style is that in order for it to be successful, your hairdresser will have to work out the length of the bangs based purely on your custom features. While it may work for some, a lot of the time it just doesn't. Unfortunately, we're adding this look to the list of styles that probably should be left in the past.
Buzz Cuts
Feel the breeze with this cool and alternative hairdo. A style that doesn’t take away from your make-up or facial features and is easy to maintain. It will also never conflict with your outfit or even those high cheekbones which you probably spent a lot of time enhancing. But this one can be a little tricky...
While this style can be super funky, the growing out process, if you want to change it, could be rather long and lead to some very interesting looks. Also, it could be considered rather edgy and may not work for every profession. It truly depends on the person, but maybe think this one through before making the big commitment.
Eye-Skimming Bangs
If you're craving some change, cutting bangs may be one of the easiest ways to fulfill this desire. While we do agree on the 'change' part, we're not so convinced about the 'easy' part. So before you decide to make this move, you should seriously consider the maintenance it will require.
Before deciding to go with this style, you must consider your face shape and what length would suit you best. For example, these bangs could be considered too long as they cover a significant portion of Taylor's face. Moreover, it seems to hide her eyes and the surrounding features. Bangs are probably another look we should leave behind.
Wet Hair
This is a look that Kim Kardashian has certainly taken well to. However, bear in mind, she pairs it with some very expensive hair extensions and has her glam-squad on-call 24/7. Back in the day, putting in some hair mousse with your freshly washed locks was a great idea, but times have changed.
So, while this look can really work with time constraints, if it’s too wet, it may look oily and If it dries too quickly, your hair could frizz or look as if it hasn't been styled at all. So, have you got what it takes to pull off this niche look? We're excited to find out!
Rainbow Hues
It's always nice to brighten up the world with some beautiful colors, and this look could probably do just that. Want to give 'bold and beautiful' a whole new meaning? bring these rainbow hues into your life and hair. However, don't you think it would be better off buying a wig instead of bleaching then dying your locks?
While these colors can create a conversation or turn some heads in the grocery store, it could also attract some unwanted attention. There are many other ways to express your unique personality, instead of making a permanent decision to dye your hair according to the color of your mood.
Glittery Hair
Now, we're certainly not against glitter. After all, when dressing up, if you have any intention of standing out, you might want to consider adding glitter to the equation. However, gone are the days where we add our glitter spray to our hair, regardless of what our plans are that day.
Don't forget to consider that you are likely to have glitter in both your hair and house for the next couple of days or even weeks after the event. This wouldn't be the first time someone has left a glitter trail behind. However, unless you're playing dress-up, you might want to leave this look in the past.
Pompadours
Although this style is popular among both men and women, when it comes to red-carpet events, you are likely to see some of your favorite stars rocking this look. Not only does this style make a statement, but it could also be considered quite 'dramatic' as with many other looks at Hollywood events.
While there are a lucky few that can make this do work for them, it is important to consider how it would look with your outfit and what overall vibe you would give off. Moreover, you need to consider how it would look after it grows out. Are you really going to rock this style every day?
Space Buns
Miley Cyrus is one of the first people who comes to mind when we think of these little buns. At the time, it seemed like Hannah Montana was doing everything she could to steer away from her Disney persona. These space buns even became her signature look for a hot minute.
Without denying how cool this look can be, due to its uniqueness, it is only likely to work in certain environments. Imagine showing up to a family gathering. What would your relatives say? Although we could be wrong. Your family could be totally cool and even ask you to show them how they too can 'get to space.’
Bowl Cuts
The name of this hairstyle is self-explanatory. As you can see, it's literally like having a bowl on your head. Welcome to the bowl cut, a controversial style that has been around since medieval times. This style is all about symmetry and let us tell you why...
This hairdo creates your own individual look based on your particular facial features. You start by cutting the hair in the middle of the forehead and keep it in one line. When you reach the ears, it is cut just above them followed by going down towards the jawline, creating a 'circle' around the head. Needless to say, this style certainly belongs on our list.
Long in the Front, Short in the Back
Kind of like a reimagined mullet, this look has a little bit of party in the front and business in the back. The perfect do for family gatherings, dinner dates, or even a red-carpet night out. A style which we would be so intrigued to see all the different looks it could be paired with.
This hairdo, however, could require quite a lot of maintenance as you will need to try your best to keep the hair at the back short. Also, this look is likely to need styling on a daily basis, and the type of ‘I’m gonna wake up, get dressed and leave’ kind of attitude won’t work.
Undershaves
For some time, this trend was seen just about everywhere. It wasn't even a rare occurrence to spot a shaved patch on someone's head. It was either one side shaved, and the other long. It could've been at the back, while the sides stayed long. However, this is another one that needs to be left behind.
While this look may be a statement and possibly even an art piece on your head, there is one major fact that needs to be considered. On average you will probably have to go for touch-ups every two weeks or so. Also, we're glad to say that this is a trend that has died out.
Mullets
As Billy Ray Cyrus once said when referring to his mullet, "Business in the front, party in the back." An iconic and controversial hairstyle that has been worn by several legends throughout time, it is believed this hairstyle originated from many manual laborers having worn it.
Apparently, the long back of the mullet provided them with protection from the sun on their necks, while the front still gave them clear visibility. This style has been controversial for years, but luckily we have hats now people. This look is sadly another trend we need to leave in the past.
Dyed Greys
Who would have thought that one day people would actually be asking their hairdressers to dye their hair grey? We certainly didn't. A style that was brought to life and is thriving in the 20th century and has been taken on by both the younger and older generations.
This look can be cool and funky however, it doesn't work for everyone. Many people have said that it has helped them with their 'salt and pepper' looking roots. But, if it's not done correctly it can have the opposite effect, and rather than being fun and fresh, it could actually age you. Do you think it's a grey-t idea?