Step into a time machine with your hair, because crimped hairstyles are officially back and making a major statement. This isn't just a fleeting trend; it's a full-blown revival of a beloved retro look, bringing a unique blend of nostalgia and modern chic to the forefront of fashion. From the runways to your everyday style, the distinctive zig-zag texture of crimped hair is proving its versatility and enduring appeal.
Gone are the days when crimped hair was solely associated with the vibrant, bold aesthetics of the 80s. While it certainly retains that cool 80's throwback look, today's crimped hair trend has evolved, offering sophisticated and subtle interpretations alongside the more dramatic, full-on textured styles. Whether you're aiming for a playful detail or an all-over voluminous effect, understanding the charm of crimped hairstyles and how to achieve them with ease is your ticket to a fresh, updated look.
Table of Contents
- The Resurgence of Crimped Hairstyles: A Timeless Trend
- Understanding the Allure of Crimped Hair: Texture and Volume
- Who Can Rock Crimped Hairstyles? Versatility for All Hair Types
- Mastering the Art of Crimping: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Beyond the Basics: Creative Crimped Hairstyles to Try
- The Modern Crimp: From Runways to Red Carpets
- Maintaining Your Crimped Look: Tips for Longevity
- Common Crimping Mistakes to Avoid
The Resurgence of Crimped Hairstyles: A Timeless Trend
The fashion world is cyclical, and what was once popular inevitably finds its way back into the spotlight. For hair, the latest triumphant return is the crimped hairstyle. This iconic look, deeply rooted in the vibrant culture of the 1980s, has shed its sometimes-over-the-top reputation to emerge as a chic, modern, and incredibly versatile option for anyone looking to update their style. Crimped hair looks hot & is a great way to update a look, offering a fresh take on texture that feels both nostalgic and utterly contemporary.
What makes this comeback so compelling? It's the ability of crimped hairstyles to transform ordinary hair into something extraordinary. It's not just about recreating a past trend; it's about reinterpreting it with a fresh perspective. We're seeing it everywhere, from high fashion runways to social media influencers, proving that this fun, stylish, and glam way to style a crimped hairstyle for that cool 80's throwback look is resonating with a new generation while still appealing to those who remember its first wave of popularity. The current trend embraces subtlety as much as boldness, making it accessible for diverse personal styles.
Understanding the Allure of Crimped Hair: Texture and Volume
At its core, crimped hair is all about adding distinctive texture to your hair. Unlike waves or curls, crimps create a unique zig-zag pattern that catches the light and adds an incredible visual interest. This style gives your hair a complex texture that is both tactile and visually striking, setting it apart from other heat-styled looks. The beauty of crimping lies in its ability to dramatically alter your hair's appearance without requiring a cut or color change.
Beyond its unique texture, crimping also serves another fantastic purpose: it helps add extra volume. By creating these sharp bends and angles throughout the hair shaft, crimping lifts the hair away from the scalp, instantly boosting its body and fullness. This makes crimped hairstyles an excellent choice for individuals with fine or flat hair who desire more lift and dimension. The added volume can make hair appear thicker and more robust, offering a significant impact with relatively little effort.
Maximizing Volume with Crimps
If your primary goal is to achieve maximum volume, the technique you use for crimping is crucial. For more volume, crimp your hair closer to the roots. Starting the crimps right at the scalp creates an immediate lift that builds upon itself as you work your way down the hair shaft. This technique is particularly effective for creating a voluminous base for updos or simply giving your everyday style a significant boost. Consider using a smaller crimping iron for tighter, more concentrated waves near the scalp, which will enhance the lift even further.
Additionally, sectioning your hair properly and working in small, manageable pieces ensures that each section gets adequate heat and pressure, leading to more defined crimps and, consequently, more volume. Applying a volumizing mousse or root-lifting spray before crimping can also amplify the effect, helping to hold the added body in place throughout the day.
Who Can Rock Crimped Hairstyles? Versatility for All Hair Types
One of the most appealing aspects of the crimped hair trend is its incredible versatility. Forget the misconception that crimping is only for a specific hair type or length. Regardless of your length or style, we have 18 different crimped hairstyles that you’re sure to love. This style truly transcends boundaries, proving that anyone can incorporate crimps into their look and make it their own.
For those with very long and thick hair, crimped hair is a great retro vibe, offering an ideal canvas for dramatic, full-head crimps that showcase the intricate texture beautifully. The added volume can prevent long, thick hair from looking heavy or flat. Conversely, for shorter hair, crimps can add playful texture and a modern edge, transforming a simple bob into a statement look. Even fine hair benefits immensely from crimping, as it instantly creates the illusion of thickness and body without weighing the hair down. The key is to adapt the crimping technique and the extent of crimping to suit your individual hair characteristics and desired outcome.
Mastering the Art of Crimping: A Step-by-Step Guide
Achieving perfect crimped hairstyles might seem daunting, but it's surprisingly straightforward once you know the tricks of the trade. Every girl should know the tricks of the trade to getting an easy wavy hairstyle, and crimping is no exception. With the right tools and a bit of practice, you can learn how to create crimped hair in just 4 easy steps, opening up a world of textured styling possibilities. Discover the charm of crimped hairstyles and how to achieve them with ease by following these simple guidelines.
Essential Tools for Perfect Crimps
To embark on your crimping journey, you'll need a few key items:
- Crimping Iron: This is the star of the show. Crimping irons come in various plate sizes, from micro-crimp for subtle texture to large-crimp for bolder waves. Choose one that suits the intensity of the crimp you desire.
- Heat Protectant Spray: Non-negotiable! Always protect your hair from heat damage before styling.
- Sectioning Clips: These help you work neatly and ensure no strand is missed.
- Hair Spray: A light-hold hairspray can help set your crimps and ensure longevity.
- Fine-Tooth Comb: For precise sectioning.
Prepping Your Hair for Crimping Success
Proper preparation is key to long-lasting and beautiful crimps:
- Start with Clean, Dry Hair: Ensure your hair is completely dry before you begin. Crimping wet or damp hair can cause significant damage.
- Apply Heat Protectant: Generously spray your entire head with heat protectant. Make sure to distribute it evenly.
- Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into manageable sections. For a full head of crimps, start with horizontal sections from the bottom up. For partial crimps, isolate the sections you wish to crimp. Smaller sections generally result in more defined crimps.
- Heat Up Your Iron: Allow your crimping iron to heat up to the appropriate temperature for your hair type. Finer hair requires lower heat, while thicker hair can handle higher temperatures.
Beyond the Basics: Creative Crimped Hairstyles to Try
Once you've mastered the basic crimping technique, the real fun begins. Crimped hairstyles offer a vast playground for creativity. These 31 impressive styles will make anyone look great & want to add some crimp to their hair, showcasing the incredible range of possibilities. You don't always need to crimp your entire head; sometimes, a subtle touch is all it takes to elevate a look. You can add crimped hair into your hairstyle as a detail or loosen the crimps for a glamorous appeal, making it a versatile tool in your styling arsenal.
Consider crimping just the underlayers of your hair for a hidden volume boost, or crimp random sections for an effortlessly cool, undone texture. For a more dramatic effect, full-head crimps can create an impressive, voluminous mane that commands attention. The modern crimp is about personalization, allowing you to tailor the intensity and placement to your unique style.
Integrating Crimps into Updos and Braids
The textured nature of crimped hair makes it an ideal foundation for various updos and braided styles. Crimped updos and colorful hairstyles are the current new faves, proving that this trend is not just for loose hair. The added grip and volume from crimping help updos hold better and appear fuller, giving a more intricate and sophisticated finish. Try crimping your hair before creating a messy bun or a high ponytail for added texture and body.
Braids also benefit immensely from crimped hair. Whether it's a fishtail, French, or Dutch braid, crimped strands add a unique dimension and fullness that regular braids often lack. The zig-zag pattern makes the braid appear thicker and more detailed, transforming a simple plait into a work of art. Experiment with crimping just the sections you plan to braid, or crimp your entire head for an all-over textured braided look.
The Modern Crimp: From Runways to Red Carpets
The resurgence of crimped hairstyles isn't just a whisper; it's a roar that's echoing through the highest echelons of fashion. Right now, the crimped hair trend is making a reappearance on the runways, signaling its undeniable status as a contemporary style staple. Designers are embracing its unique texture to complement their collections, proving that crimps can be both avant-garde and elegantly chic. This presence on the runway translates directly into mainstream appeal, influencing celebrity stylists and everyday fashion enthusiasts alike.
From editorial shoots to red carpet events, we're seeing celebrities and style icons sporting various interpretations of crimped hair. This mainstream adoption solidifies its position as a relevant and desirable look. The modern crimp is less about rigid, uniform waves and more about embracing a softer, more organic texture, or using it strategically for impactful statements. It's a testament to the enduring power of a good texture and its ability to continually reinvent itself.
Maintaining Your Crimped Look: Tips for Longevity
Once you've perfected your crimped hairstyle, you'll want it to last as long as possible. Here are some tips to help maintain that distinctive texture and volume:
- Finish with Hairspray: A light mist of flexible-hold hairspray can help set the crimps without making them stiff or crunchy. Avoid heavy-duty sprays that can weigh down the hair.
- Avoid Brushing: Once crimped, avoid brushing your hair, as this will smooth out the texture and diminish the volume. If you need to detangle, gently use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to separate strands.
- Protect While Sleeping: To preserve your crimps overnight, loosely tie your hair into a high ponytail or bun using a silk scrunchie, or sleep on a silk pillowcase. This reduces friction and helps keep the crimps intact.
- Dry Shampoo for Refresh: If your hair starts to feel oily or lose volume on day two, a little dry shampoo at the roots can refresh your style and add back some lift.
- Touch-Ups: If certain sections lose their crimp, you can quickly touch them up with your crimping iron, focusing on the areas that need a boost.
Common Crimping Mistakes to Avoid
While crimping is relatively easy, a few common pitfalls can hinder your results. Being aware of these can help you achieve flawless crimped hairstyles every time:
- Crimping Wet Hair: As mentioned, this is a big no-no. Heat styling on wet hair can cause significant damage, including breakage and frizz. Always ensure your hair is 100% dry.
- Skipping Heat Protectant: Overlooking heat protectant is a recipe for dry, damaged hair. It creates a barrier that shields your strands from the high temperatures of the iron.
- Using Too Much Heat: While you need heat for crimps, excessive heat can burn your hair. Start with a lower temperature and increase it only if necessary, especially for fine or color-treated hair.
- Holding the Iron Too Long: A few seconds per section is usually enough. Holding the iron on one spot for too long can lead to heat damage and less defined crimps.
- Overlapping Crimps: For a uniform look, ensure you align the crimping iron plates perfectly with the previous crimp as you move down the hair strand. Overlapping can create an uneven, messy texture.
- Not Sectioning Properly: Rushing through sectioning can lead to missed spots or uneven crimps. Take your time to create clean, consistent sections.
- Brushing Out Too Soon: Allow your crimps to cool completely before touching or styling them. This helps set the pattern and ensures longevity.
Conclusion
From its bold 80s origins to its sophisticated modern revival, crimped hair has proven its enduring appeal and versatility. It's a fantastic way to add distinctive texture and impressive volume to any hair type or length, transforming your look with ease. Whether you're aiming for a full-on retro vibe or a subtle, chic detail, mastering the art of crimping opens up a world of creative styling possibilities. The fact that crimped updos and colorful hairstyles are the current new faves further cements its place as a must-try trend.
So, why not embrace the comeback? Check out these fun, stylish, and glam ways to style a crimped hairstyle for that cool 80's throwback look. Experiment with different crimping irons, integrate crimps into your updos, or simply rock a full head of textured waves. The beauty of crimped hairstyles lies in their adaptability and ability to make a statement. We encourage you to try out these techniques and discover the charm of crimped hair for yourself. Share your favorite crimped looks in the comments below, or tag us on social media! For more hair inspiration and styling guides, explore other articles on our site.


