Hughes trained in dance and performing arts at the Arts Educational Schools London. In 1981, she originated the role of Victoria the White Cat in the London production of Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical "Cats". In 1983, Hughes starred with John Travolta in the musical film "Staying Alive", a sequel to "Saturday Night Fever". She played the role of Laura, an English dancer who is the romantic interest of Travolta's character Tony Manero. Hughes also appeared on the sitcom "Blossom", and as the X-Men character Emma Frost in the television movie "Generation X" (1996).