Introduction
The 1980s were a vibrant and revolutionary decade in the world of fashion, and 1980s men’s hair fashion was no exception. From bold, gravity-defying styles to iconic cuts influenced by pop culture, this era allowed men to explore their individuality through their hair like never before.
Characterised by volume, creativity, and sometimes wild experimentation, 1980s men’s hair fashion reflected the dynamic social and cultural changes of the time. In this article, we’ll delve into the most popular hairstyles of the decade, their influences, and the impact they left on future hair trends.
The Influence of Pop Culture on 1980s Men’s Hair Fashion
Pop culture played an enormous role in shaping 1980s men’s hair fashion. The music, movies, and TV shows of the decade became the blueprint for style inspiration. Icons like David Bowie, Michael Jackson, and the members of Duran Duran, with their distinctive and trendsetting hairstyles, influenced men’s grooming choices.
Whether through MTV music videos or blockbuster films, the entertainment industry inspired men to embrace individuality in their appearance, leading to a variety of unique and memorable hairstyles. The most recognizable and talked-about hairstyle of the 1980s was the mullet.
With its short, neat front and long, flowing back, the mullet became a symbol of rebellious masculinity. Celebrities like Billy Ray Cyrus, David Bowie, and Andre Agassi popularised this style, which became a cornerstone of 1980s men’s hair fashion.
The mullet’s versatility made it a popular choice for men across different walks of life. It was often seen as a perfect blend of professionalism and edginess, fitting in both corporate settings and rock concerts. Over the years, this style has remained a topic of nostalgic conversation and even occasional modern revivals.
The High Top Fade: A Reflection of Hip-Hop Culture
The high top fade, another iconic style of the era, influenced by the rise of hip-hop culture. This bold hairstyle featured short sides with a flat-topped, tall block of hair in the middle. Stars like Will Smith (in his “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” days), Kid ‘n Play, and other hip-hop artists popularised this look.
1980s men’s hair fashion for African-American men, in particular, saw a wave of creativity and experimentation with styles like the high top fade. It became not only a fashion statement but a symbol of cultural identity and pride within the African-American community.
Big Hair: Volume Takes Center Stage
Volume was key in 1980s men’s hair fashion, and big hair became a staple during the decade. Influenced by glam metal bands like Mötley Crüe and Bon Jovi, men began to adopt voluminous hairstyles that defied gravity. These larger-than-life looks were often created using generous amounts of hairspray, mousse, and blow-drying techniques to give hair an exaggerated, windswept appearance. This trend wasn’t limited to rock stars alone.
Men from all backgrounds embraced big hair, using it as a way to project confidence, boldness, and status. Hairstyles like the pompadour, popularised by the likes of James Dean decades earlier, saw a resurgence with an 80s twist of extra height and volume.
The Role of Hair Products in 1980s Men’s Hair Fashion
A key factor in achieving the gravity-defying styles of 1980s men’s hair fashion was the use of hair products. Hair sprays, gels, and mousses were essential for sculpting hair into the bold shapes that defined the decade. Popular brands like Aqua Net became household names, as men relied on these products to keep their hair in place throughout the day.
The heavy reliance on hair products also paved the way for an evolving grooming culture, where men became more involved in styling and maintaining their hair. The daily use of these products was seen as a part of the routine, and it wasn’t uncommon to see men carrying around a comb or pocket mirror to ensure their look remained pristine.
The Feathered Look: Soft, Layered, and Effortless
Not every style in 1980s men’s hair fashion was about volume and boldness. The feathered look, characterised by soft, layered waves, offered a more relaxed and approachable alternative. This hairstyle was achieved by cutting the hair in layers, with each section curving away from the face. The feathered look gained massive popularity thanks to heartthrobs like John Travolta and Rob Lowe, who sported the style in films and TV shows. This look was considered stylish yet approachable, making it appealing to a broader audience.
Punk Influence: Mohawks and Dye Jobs
For the more rebellious, punk-inspired men, 1980s men’s hair fashion offered an array of daring choices. The punk movement, known for its anti-establishment ethos, brought mohawks, spikes, and coloured hair into the mainstream. Mohawks, often seen in vivid shades of green, blue, or pink, worn by those who wanted to make a statement.
The punk subculture, with its rejection of conventional norms, used hair as a form of protest, resulting in some of the most audacious looks of the decade. This movement expanded the definition of men’s fashion, proving that hair could be a powerful tool for self-expression.
1980s Men’s Hair Fashion in Retrospect
As we look back on 1980s men’s hair fashion, it’s clear that the decade left an indelible mark on grooming trends. The bold experimentation and creativity of the time allowed men to express their personalities in new and innovative ways. From the rock-influenced mullets to the punk-inspired mohawks, the hairstyles of the 1980s were as diverse and dynamic as the people who wore them.
Even though some of these styles may seem outlandish by today’s standards, their influence can still be seen in modern trends. Many of these iconic looks have experienced revivals in various forms, whether in fashion shows, music videos, or even casual street style. The legacy of 1980s men’s hair fashion lives on, reminding us of an era where hair was not about appearance.
FAQ
How did boys wear their hair in the 80s?
In the 1980s, boys often embraced hairstyles that mirrored the bold and expressive trends seen in men’s fashion. Some popular styles included:
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The Mullet
Short in the front and long in the back, the mullet was popular among boys and men alike.
Feathered Hair
Soft, layered cuts with hair feathered back on the sides worn by many boys, inspired by stars like John Travolta.
High Top Fade
Especially among African-American boys, the high top fade, popularised by hip-hop culture, was a go-to style.
Bowl Cut
This simple, straight-cut style was a favourite for younger boys, often cut at home.
Shaggy, Bedhead Look
Messy and tousled styles, often associated with rock stars, were also common among boys.
How to get an 80s hairstyle for men?
To achieve an 80s hairstyle for men, follow these steps:
Choose the Style
Decide whether you want a classic 80s mullet, a voluminous rock-star look, or a high top fade.
Grow the Hair
If you’re going for a mullet or a big hair style, grow your hair long enough to create volume or maintain length in the back.
Layer the Hair
Many 80s styles rely on layers, especially for feathered or big-volume styles. Ask your stylist to create layers for a fuller look. 4.
Use the Right Products:
Mousse and Hair Spray
Essential for adding volume and holding the style in place.
Gel
For slicking back or defining certain parts, like for high top fades.
Blow Dry
Use a blow dryer to add height and volume, particularly for pompadours and other gravity-defying styles.
Finish with Accessories
For a more punk look, consider adding hair dye or styling with a headband or bandana.
What were 80s hair techniques?
The 80s saw a range of hair techniques to create volume, texture, and style. Common techniques included:
Teasing/Backcombing
To achieve voluminous looks, especially for big hair styles, men often teased their hair by combing it backward toward the roots.
Blow Drying
Blow drying with a round brush was key to achieving the height and shape of 80s hairstyles.
Layering
Layered cuts helped give hair texture and volume, especially for feathered and shaggy looks.
Perming
For curly or wavy hair, some men turned to perms to achieve that signature 80s wave.
Hairspray and Mousse Application
Stronghold hairsprays and volumizing mousses were used to hold gravity-defying styles in place.
What is 80s hair called?
80s hair is often referred to as “big hair” or “voluminous hair” due to the decade’s obsession with height and volume. Specific styles from the 80s include the mullet, feathered hair, high top fade, perm, and punk mohawks. Each of these styles has become iconic in defining 1980s hair fashion, with “big hair” being one of the most recognizable and memorable descriptors of the era.
