The 80s was a defining decade in fashion and hairstyles. From big and bold to sleek and stylish, there were a variety of 80s hairstyles that made an impression and left a lasting impact. From the punk rockers to the preppy teens, the decade was dominated by distinct looks that are still popular today. For those looking to revisit the past, here is a closer look at some of the most iconic 80s hairstyles.
Big Hair
One of the most iconic 80s hairstyles was the big hair look. This style was popularized by celebrities like Madonna, Cyndi Lauper and Whitney Houston. It featured a lot of volume and usually involved back-combing and teasing the hair to create big, full styles. Women would often use hairspray to keep their hair in place and add extra volume. This was also a popular look for men, who would often use gel to create a slicked-back style. Big hair was often accompanied by colorful accessories, including scrunchies and headbands.
Mullets
The mullet was one of the most iconic 80s hairstyles for men. This style was characterized by short sides and a long back. It was often worn with a side part, and the sides were usually parted above the ears. This style was associated with country music and was sported by stars like Billy Ray Cyrus. It was also popular among punks and rockers, who often paired it with heavy makeup and spiked hair.
Perms
The perm was another popular 80s hairstyle. This style involved chemically treating the hair to create curls and waves. It was often combined with a layered cut, which helped to accentuate the curls. Women often wore their hair in soft curls or big, dramatic curls. Men usually opted for a tighter, more defined curl. This look was often paired with a side part.
Shoulder-Length Hair
Shoulder-length hair was a popular style throughout the 80s. It was usually worn with layers and often featured a side part. This style was often accompanied by accessories such as scrunchies and barrettes. It was a popular look for both men and women, and it was often seen on celebrities like Princess Diana and Tom Cruise.
Spikes and Fades
Spikes and fades were two of the most popular hairstyles for men in the 80s. Spikes could range from short and choppy to long and wild. Fades were usually worn with the hair shorter on the sides and longer on top. This style was often combined with a side part, and it was a popular look for celebrities like Michael J. Fox and Bruce Willis.
Side Ponytails
The side ponytail was a popular look for women in the 80s. This style was usually worn with a center part and was often accompanied by a scrunchie or other hair accessory. It was a popular look for celebrities like Debbie Gibson and Sheena Easton. This style was often paired with bright makeup and flashy clothing for a truly 80s look.
Punk Rock
Punk rock was a major influence on 80s hairstyles. This style was characterized by extreme looks, such as spiked and dyed hair. It was popular among the punk and new wave scenes, and it was often paired with heavy makeup and dark clothing. Punk rockers like Siouxsie Sioux and Billy Idol helped to popularize this look.
The Preppy Look
The preppy look was popular among teens in the 80s. This style was usually worn with a side part and short layers. It was often accompanied by accessories such as headbands and clips. This look was popularized by stars like Molly Ringwald and was a staple in the era. It was seen as a clean and polished look, and it was often paired with a blazer and collared shirt.
Conclusion
The 80s was a defining decade in fashion and hairstyles. From big and bold to sleek and stylish, there were a variety of 80s hairstyles that made an impression and left a lasting impact. From the punk rockers to the preppy teens, the decade was dominated by distinct looks that are still popular today. From big hair to mullets and perms, the 80s were a time of experimentation and exploration in the world of hairstyles.