Modern Salon
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

The Many Styles of Nicki Minaj

Take a look back at some of pop diva Nicki Minaj's wildest looks

by Jessica Galliart
March 9, 2012
2 min to read


One universally true thing about Nicki Minaj: She knows how to make an entrance, head-first. Whether they’re wigs or weaves, the pop star’s eye-popping colors and sky-high looks always keep us guessing. Nicki drops a new album in a few short weeks, so it’s safe to say we can expect to see even more outrageous hair from her in the coming months. Let’s take a look back at some of her most daring styles.


The Barbie Look

Her most recent style, this lengthy bombshell blonde wig softens Nicki up a bit when she’s taking a break from her usual red carpet splashes. Bold and statement-making for most, casual for Nicki.

Ad Loading...

The Dreamsicle Look

When she’s not rocking platinum blonde, NIcki can usually be found doused in a shade of light or bright pink. Here, we get the best of both worlds with some sleek, pink bangs and length, paired with a curled and swirled blonde effect at the tips. Reminds you of summer and those Dreamsicle treats from the ice cream truck, doesn’t it?

Nicki, Bride of Frankenstein?

Speaking of hair that makes you hungry, take a look at this sky-high, cotton candy-esque hair piece she wore on tour throughout 2011. The fine strands around her hairline might make the look a bit less appetizing, but they’re undoubtedly necessary to keep the piece in place.

The Buttery Updo

Maybe Nicki is working on making edible hair the next big trend? It’s hard to forget the twisted updo (and getup) she donned in the front row at 2011 Fashion Week while sitting next to Anna Wintour. Popcorn, anyone?

The Sleek Bob

In a nice change of pace, the diva tried out a slightly asymmetrical but very chic bob in both deep black and platinum blonde styles. She most recently brought back a shorter style similar to this one at the Super Bowl half-time show with Madonna, when she wore a white wig with gold accessories.

The Pink Curls

Perhaps one of her signature looks, this curly pink bob seen here at the 2011 Ameircan Music Awards somehow gives Nicki a more down-to-earth, laid-back vibe while still showing her true, wild colors.

Ad Loading...

The Pigtails Look

Of course, we saved the wildest for last. While most ladies’ interpretation of the classic pigtail sits low and understated, Nicki embraces the high-placed look and ups the ante with some serious volume and striking fringe.  Photos: Getty Images

Which of Nicki's wild styles would you want to try on a client? Post it on MODERN's Facebook wall.

More In The Know

A man cuts a man's hair
In The Know|Articles|Aug 6, 2026

In Dubai, Clients Visit the Salon Every Week. Here’s What That Market Can Teach You

In Dubai, a salon visit isn’t an appointment. It’s a weekly routine, and clients can spend $800 to $1,400 a month on it, according to Gaurav Tripathi of MADI International. On October 6-8, 2026, the market behind those numbers opens its doors as Beautyworld Dubai marks its 30th edition at the Dubai World Trade Centre, bringing together distributors, brands, stylists and salon owners from all over the world.

Ad Loading...
A woman with long brown hair, a black sleeveless blouse, and a beaded headband.
In The Know|Articles|Jul 2, 2026

Mireya Villarreal Announces From Chair to Boss Live, a New Business Education Event for Beauty Professionals

Mireya Villarreal, founder of From Chair to Boss™, is bringing together beauty industry leaders for a new one-day educational event designed to help salon professionals strengthen the business side of their careers. From Chair to Boss Live! will take place September 28 at the Hilton Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference Center in Oak Brook, Illinois.

Ad Loading...
In The Know|News|May 22, 2026

Aura Salonware Announces 2026 Scholarship Winners

Aura Salonware is proud to announce its 2026 scholarship recipients. This first-time scholarship in partnership with the Professional Beauty Association awarded three different scholarships to support beauty professionals at every point in their professional journey.

Ad Loading...