The 1980s were a transformative period for men’s fashion, particularly in the realm of hairstyles. The decade’s hairstyles were characterized by boldness, volume, and a willingness to experiment, reflecting the vibrant cultural shifts of the time. This article delves into the iconic hairstyles that defined 1980s mens hair fashion, their cultural significance, and their enduring influence on contemporary styles.
The Mullet: Business in the Front, Party in the Back
Perhaps the most emblematic hairstyle of the 1980s, the mullet featured short hair on the sides and front, with longer lengths cascading down the back. This distinctive look was embraced by rock stars, athletes, and everyday individuals alike, symbolizing a rebellious yet practical style. The mullet’s versatility allowed it to cross various social and cultural boundaries, cementing its place in 1980s mens hair fashion.
The Jheri Curl: Glossy and Curly
Popularized by African American men, the Jheri curl offered a glossy, loosely curled hairstyle that became a cultural phenomenon. Icons like Michael Jackson sported this look, making it a sought-after style during the decade. The Jheri curl required regular maintenance and specialized products to maintain its signature sheen and curl pattern.
The Flat Top: High and Tight
The flat top haircut, characterized by hair cropped short on the sides with a flat, level length on top, became a defining look among men with textured hair. This style was particularly popular within hip-hop culture and was often paired with shaved designs or patterns on the sides, showcasing individuality and artistic expression.
Feathered Hair: Soft and Layered
Feathered hair, featuring soft, layered cuts that framed the face, was another popular style during the 1980s. This look was achieved by cutting hair into layers and styling it back, creating a feather-like appearance. It offered a more natural and relaxed alternative to some of the decade’s more structured hairstyles.
The Quiff and Pompadour: Retro Revival
The 1980s saw a revival of classic 1950s hairstyles like the quiff and pompadour. These styles involved longer hair on top, styled upward and back, with shorter sides. The quiff combined pompadour and flat top elements, creating a voluminous front section. These retro-inspired looks added a touch of classic elegance to 1980s men’s hair fashion.
The Mohawk: Punk Influence
The Mohawk became a symbol of countercultural defiance emerging from the punk rock movement. This hairstyle featured a strip of longer hair running from the forehead to the nape, with the sides shaved clean. Variations included colorful spikes and liberty spikes, showcasing the wearer’s individuality and rebellious spirit.
The Perm: Curl Revolution
The perm, short for permanent wave, allowed men with straight hair to achieve curls or waves, adding volume and texture to their hairstyles. This chemical treatment became popular, with many men embracing fuller, curlier styles that epitomized the 1980s aesthetic.
Cultural Icons and Their Influence
Several cultural icons played pivotal roles in popularizing these hairstyles:
-
David Bowie: His ever-evolving styles, including the pompadour mullet, showcased a blend of classic and avant-garde elements, influencing fans worldwide.
-
Michael Jackson: The King of Pop’s Jheri curl became iconic, inspiring many to adopt the glossy, curly look.
-
Billy Idol: His platinum blonde, spiky hair embodied the punk aesthetic, encouraging fans to embrace edgier styles.
The Role of Media and Entertainment
Television shows, movies, and music videos of the 1980s played significant roles in disseminating these hairstyles. Characters from popular TV series and films sported various styles, influencing audiences and setting trends. Music videos, a burgeoning medium during the decade, showcased artists’ distinctive looks, further embedding these styles into mainstream culture.
Hair Products and Styling Tools
The 1980s saw an explosion of hair products and tools designed to achieve and maintain these elaborate styles:
-
Hairspray: Essential for holding voluminous styles in place, hairsprays like Aqua Net became household staples.
-
Mousse: Used to add volume and shine, mousse helped in achieving the desired fullness without weighing down the hair.
-
Gel: For styles requiring a wet or slicked-back look, hair gel provided the necessary hold and sheen.
-
Perming Kits: At-home perm kits allowed individuals to experiment with curls and waves, making the perm accessible to a broader audience.
Enduring Legacy and Modern Revivals
The bold hairstyles of the 1980s have left an indelible mark on fashion, with many styles experiencing revivals in contemporary times:
-
Mullets: Modern interpretations of the mullet have resurfaced, blending retro flair with contemporary styling techniques.
-
Perms: The perm has made a comeback, with updated techniques offering more natural-looking curls, appealing to a new generation.
Influence on Modern Fashion and Pop Culture
The impact of 1980s mens hair fashion continues to be seen in contemporary trends, music, and entertainment. Fashion designers, barbers, and hairstylists frequently draw inspiration from the bold, statement-making styles of the era. Celebrities, musicians, and social media influencers have revived classic 1980s hairstyles, often with modern twists.
- Runway and Streetwear: High-fashion brands have incorporated vintage 80s aesthetics, with models sporting mullets, feathered hair, and slicked-back styles reminiscent of the era.
- Barbering Trends: The rise of modern barbershops has led to a resurgence of the flat top, quiff, and undercut styles, often infused with 1980s influences.
- Social Media Influence: Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have played a role in bringing back retro hairstyles, with young men experimenting with perms, mullets, and even Jheri curls.
How to Achieve a Classic 1980s Hairstyle Today
If you’re looking to recreate an authentic 1980s mens hair fashion look, here are some tips:
- Choose the Right Style: Decide on a look that suits your hair type and personality—whether it’s a mullet, a Jheri curl, or a punk-inspired Mohawk.
- Use the Right Products: Hairspray, mousse, and gel were staples of the 80s. Opt for volumizing products to achieve the decade’s signature big hair.
- Consult a Barber or Stylist: If you’re aiming for precision, such as a flat top or a permed look, professional styling can help achieve the best results.
- Embrace the Boldness: The 1980s were all about confidence and individuality. Don’t be afraid to experiment and stand out.
Conclusion
1980s mens hair fashion was a dynamic and expressive period, defined by volume, bold cuts, and cultural influences. From the rebellious Mohawk to the sophisticated pompadour, the decade left an indelible mark on hairstyling history. Today, these styles continue to inspire modern trends, proving that the fearless fashion of the 80s remains timeless. Whether you’re reviving a classic look or adapting it with a contemporary twist, the legacy of 1980s hairstyles lives on.