Modern Salon
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Oprah’s Most Unforgettable Hairstyles by Andre Walker!

When Oprah Winfrey signed off on 25 years of the “Oprah” show, she recapped her most memorable TV moments. Now, we want to recap her most memorable TV hair! Since the show started in 1986 in a Chicago TV studio, Oprah has sported some fabulous styles, as well as the ubiquitous ’80s perm. Take a peek at some of the most unforgettable looks from daytime television’s most unforgettable star!

by Kelly Cison
July 11, 2011
2 min to read


When Oprah Winfrey signed off on 25 years of the "Oprah" show, she recapped her most memorable TV moments. Now, we want to recap her most memorable TV hair! Since the show started in 1986 in a Chicago TV studio, Oprah has sported some fabulous styles, as well as the ubiquitous '80s perm.

Who is the hairdresser behind the woman? Former Chicago salon owner Andre Walker has been Oprah's only stylist for the past 25 years. A seven-time Emmy Award winner for styling Oprah's hair, Walker also boasts his own product line-chosen as one of Oprah's favorite things-and website with styling and hair care tips (visit andrewalker.com).

Ad Loading...

A 1976 Pivot Point graduate, Walker got his start some of Chicago's top salons before opening his own business. When he heard through the grapevine that Winfrey was looking for a stylist, he told Pivot Point, "I sent her flowers with a note that said, ‘I'm dying to get my hands on your hair.'" After a few hairstyling tryouts, Walker joined Oprah's staff full-time and has been doing her hair ever since, describing the TV personality as "a wonderful person to work for."

In his 25 years, Walker has created some unforgettable looks for daytime television's most unforgettable star, now showcased on oprah.com (see our favorites below). What do you think of Oprah's looks over the years? Do you have a favorite-or least favorite? Tell us in the comments!

Photos courtesy of oprah.com.

1986: An experimental look the first year her show airs.

1988: Interviewing Elizabeth Taylor.

Ad Loading...

1994: A conservative look with bangs.

1999: Short and sleek.


2002: A cropped cut.


Ad Loading...

2003: Layered with flipped out ends.

2004: Shoulder-length and polished.

2005: Voluminous curls.

2006: Braided for her cross-country road trip.

2007: Lighter and curly.

Ad Loading...

2009: Oprah shows off her real hair.

2011: A sleek pony during her farewell season.

More In The Know

Ad Loading...
colorful geometric patterns and text that reads 'Salon Today 2026 Technology Guide'
In The Know|Articles|Sep 2, 2026

Salon Today 2026 Technology Guide

As technology evolves at an accelerated rate, you want to make sure you have the best in your business toolkit to help you grow sales, motivate your team, communicate with your current and future clientele, and streamline your managerial tasks. The 2026 SALON TODAY Technology Solutions Guide is designed to help you navigate today's growing landscape of salon and spa technology. In this guide, you'll find a curated look at more than 50 of the latest software platforms, digital solutions, and innovative features to help you compare options and identify the best fit for your business.

Ad Loading...
Ad Loading...