1980 hairstyles men’s: a time of bold experimentation, boundary-pushing styles, and iconic looks that continue to inspire and intrigue. From the rebellious mullet to the voluminous shag, the spiky hair to the classic flat top, 1980s hairstyles were a reflection of the decade’s vibrant and dynamic culture.
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the defining characteristics, origins, and cultural significance of the most iconic 1980s hairstyles for men. Get ready to explore the styles that shaped a generation and left an enduring mark on fashion and popular culture.
Men’s Hairstyles in the 1980s
The 1980s witnessed a surge of bold and experimental hairstyles for men, influenced by the decade’s flamboyant fashion, music, and cultural trends. These hairstyles often exuded a sense of confidence, individualism, and rebellion, reflecting the spirit of the time.
Key characteristics of 1980s men’s hairstyles include volume, texture, and asymmetry. Long, flowing hair was popular, often styled with perms or curls. Spiky and textured styles, achieved through the use of gels and hairspray, added height and definition to the hair. Undercuts, where the hair on the sides and back of the head is shaved or closely cropped, created a sharp contrast with the longer hair on top.
Popular Hairstyles of the 1980s
- Mullet: A controversial yet iconic hairstyle featuring short hair on top, long hair in the back, and shaved or tapered sides.
- Jheri Curl: A permed style popularized by Michael Jackson, characterized by tight, bouncy curls and a wet, shiny look.
- Flat Top: A short, square-cut style with a flat top and sharply defined sides.
- Spiky Hair: Short to medium-length hair styled with gels or hairspray to create sharp, pointed spikes.
- Undercut: A hairstyle with short or shaved hair on the sides and back, contrasting with longer hair on top.
The Mullet
The mullet, an iconic and polarizing hairstyle, is characterized by short hair on the top and sides, while the back is left long. Its origins can be traced back to the 1970s, with some attributing its creation to Paul McCartney during his Wings era. The mullet gained immense popularity in the 1980s, becoming a symbol of the decade’s rock and roll culture.
Famous Individuals Who Sported the Mullet
- David Bowie
- Rod Stewart
- Billy Ray Cyrus
- Patrick Swayze
- George Clooney
The mullet’s popularity peaked in the mid-1980s, becoming a staple hairstyle for rock stars, athletes, and even politicians. It was associated with a rebellious and anti-establishment attitude, embodying the spirit of the era.
The Mullet’s Cultural Significance, 1980 hairstyles men’s
The mullet has been both celebrated and ridiculed throughout its history. In the 1980s, it was a symbol of rebellion and non-conformity, often associated with heavy metal music and the glam rock scene. However, by the 1990s, the mullet had become synonymous with outdated fashion and was often seen as a humorous or ironic hairstyle.
In recent years, the mullet has experienced a resurgence in popularity, particularly among younger generations. This revival is attributed to the trend of embracing retro and nostalgic fashion, as well as the mullet’s association with celebrities such as Miley Cyrus and Jared Leto.
The Shag
The shag hairstyle was a popular choice for men in the 1980s. It was characterized by its layered and textured look. The shag could be worn short or long, and it could be styled with a variety of products, including mousse, gel, and hairspray.
To style a shag haircut, start by washing and conditioning your hair. Then, apply a small amount of mousse or gel to your hair and work it through from roots to tips. Use a blow dryer to dry your hair, using a diffuser attachment to create volume. Once your hair is dry, use a brush or comb to style it into the desired shape. You can add additional hairspray to hold the style in place.
The Spiky Hair
In the 1980s, spiky hair became a popular hairstyle for men. It was characterized by short, spiked-up hair that was often styled with hairspray or other styling products. Spiky hair could be created on hair of any length, texture, or density, but it was most commonly seen on short to medium-length hair that was straight or slightly wavy.
Styling Spiky Hair
To create spiky hair, you will need to use hairspray or another styling product. Start by applying the product to damp hair, then use your fingers to spike up the hair. You can create different variations of spiky hair by varying the amount of product you use and the way you spike up the hair. For example, you can create a more subtle look by using a small amount of product and spiking up the hair only slightly. Or, you can create a more dramatic look by using a large amount of product and spiking up the hair more aggressively.
Hair Type and Spiky Hair
The length, texture, and density of your hair can affect the outcome of a spiky hairstyle. If you have short hair, you will need to use more product to create spikes. If you have long hair, you will need to use less product and spike up the hair less aggressively. If you have thick hair, you will need to use more product to create spikes. If you have thin hair, you will need to use less product and spike up the hair more gently.
Maintaining Spiky Hair
Spiky hair can be maintained by using hairspray or another styling product to keep the spikes in place. You can also use a blow dryer to help set the spikes. To restyle spiky hair, simply wet the hair and reapply the styling product.
Risks and Benefits of Spiky Hair
There are some potential risks and benefits associated with using hairspray and styling products for spiky hairstyles. Some of the potential risks include hair damage, scalp irritation, and allergic reactions. Some of the potential benefits include improved hair hold and style, and increased confidence.
The Flat Top: 1980 Hairstyles Men’s
The flat top hairstyle, also known as the “high-top fade,” originated in the 1950s and gained immense popularity in the 1980s. It features a flat, rectangular top that contrasts with the faded sides and back. Achieving a perfect flat top requires meticulous cutting and styling techniques.
To create a flat top, the barber begins by establishing the desired height and shape of the top. The sides and back are then faded using clippers, blending into the skin or a short stubble. The top is then cut straight across, creating a sharp, geometric edge. To maintain the flatness, the barber may use a flat iron or blow dryer to smooth out any unevenness.
Variations and Styles
The flat top hairstyle offers various variations and styles:
- Classic Flat Top: The traditional flat top features a rectangular shape with sharp corners and a moderate height.
- Box Flat Top: Similar to the classic flat top, the box flat top has a rectangular shape but with a higher and more defined height.
- Rounded Flat Top: This variation features a flat top with rounded corners, creating a softer and more modern look.
- Fade Flat Top: The sides and back of the flat top are faded to create a seamless transition between the top and the shorter hair.
- Disconnected Flat Top: This style features a sharp disconnect between the flat top and the faded sides, creating a bold and edgy look.
The Jheri Curl
The Jheri curl is a hairstyle that became popular in the 1980s. It is characterized by tight, springy curls that are created through a chemical process called waving or curling. The process involves applying a solution containing ammonium thioglycolate to the hair, which breaks down the hair’s bonds and allows it to be reshaped into curls.
The Jheri curl was popularized by a number of famous individuals, including Michael Jackson, Prince, and Lionel Richie. It was also popular among athletes, such as basketball player Julius Erving and football player Walter Payton.
Types of Jheri Curls
There are several different types of Jheri curls, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular types include:
- Tight Jheri curls: These curls are very small and tight, and they give the hair a very curly appearance.
- Loose Jheri curls: These curls are larger and looser than tight Jheri curls, and they give the hair a more wavy appearance.
- Spiral Jheri curls: These curls are shaped like spirals, and they give the hair a very distinctive look.
Celebrities Who Wore Jheri Curls
Some of the celebrities who wore Jheri curls include:
- Michael Jackson
- Prince
- Lionel Richie
- Julius Erving
- Walter Payton
Timeline of the Jheri Curl’s Popularity
The Jheri curl was first popular in the early 1980s. It reached its peak in popularity in the mid-1980s, and it began to decline in popularity in the late 1980s.
Cultural Significance of the Jheri Curl
The Jheri curl was a significant hairstyle in the 1980s. It was a symbol of black pride and empowerment, and it helped to break down racial barriers in the United States.
The Perm
The perm, short for permanent wave, was a popular hair treatment in the 1980s that gave men a curly or wavy hairstyle. There were several types of perms available for men, including:
- Spiral perm: This perm created tight, spiral curls.
- Body wave perm: This perm created loose, flowing waves.
- Jheri curl: This perm was popular among African American men and created tight, bouncy curls.
To care for permed hair, it is important to use products that are specifically designed for permed hair. These products will help to keep the hair hydrated and prevent it from becoming dry and frizzy. It is also important to avoid over-washing permed hair, as this can strip away the natural oils that help to keep the hair healthy.
When styling permed hair, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it is important to use a wide-toothed comb to avoid damaging the curls. Second, it is important to avoid using heat styling tools, as these can also damage the hair. Finally, it is important to use products that will help to define the curls and keep them in place.
The Side Part
The side part is a classic men’s hairstyle that has been popular for decades. It is characterized by a clean, defined part on one side of the head, with the hair combed to the side. The side part can be worn with a variety of hair lengths and textures, and it can be styled in a number of different ways.
To achieve a clean and defined side part, start by combing your hair wet. Use a fine-toothed comb to create a precise part. Once you have created the part, use a blow dryer to dry your hair while brushing it in the direction you want it to go. You can also use a styling product, such as pomade or gel, to help hold the part in place.
Variations of the Side Part
There are many different variations of the side part. Some of the most popular include:
- The classic side part: This is the most traditional type of side part, with a clean, defined part on one side of the head. The hair is combed to the side, and it can be worn with a variety of hair lengths and textures.
- The deep side part: This variation of the side part is characterized by a deep, defined part that is located closer to the center of the head. The hair is combed to the side, and it can be worn with a variety of hair lengths and textures.
- The side part with a fade: This variation of the side part features a fade on one side of the head. The fade can be high, medium, or low, and it can be customized to suit your personal style.
- The side part with a pompadour: This variation of the side part features a pompadour on top of the head. The pompadour can be high, medium, or low, and it can be customized to suit your personal style.
The Undercut
The undercut is a versatile hairstyle that has been popular for decades. It is characterized by short, tapered sides and a longer top. The undercut can be styled in a variety of ways, from slicked back to messy.
There are several different variations of the undercut hairstyle. The classic undercut has short, tapered sides and a longer top that is usually styled slicked back. The modern undercut has longer sides that are faded into the top. The disconnected undercut has a sharp line between the short sides and the longer top.
To cut an undercut, you will need a pair of clippers and a comb. Start by trimming the sides of the head to the desired length. Then, use the comb to create a guideline for the top of the head. Finally, use the clippers to cut the top of the head to the desired length.
To style an undercut, you can use a variety of products, including pomade, gel, or wax. Start by applying the product to the top of the head and then comb it into place. You can then use your fingers to style the top of the head as desired.
Fading
Fading is a technique that is often used to create a smooth transition between the short sides and the longer top of an undercut. To fade the sides of the head, you will need to use a clipper with a guard that is set to a longer length. Start by fading the sides of the head from the bottom up. Then, gradually decrease the length of the guard as you move up the head. This will create a smooth transition between the short sides and the longer top.
Styling
The undercut can be styled in a variety of ways. Some popular styling options include:
– Slicked back: To slick back the undercut, apply a pomade or gel to the top of the head and then comb it back.
– Messy: To style the undercut messy, apply a wax or clay to the top of the head and then use your fingers to style it as desired.
– Side part: To style the undercut with a side part, apply a pomade or gel to the top of the head and then comb it to the side.
– Provide step-by-step s on how to cut and style a pompadour.
A pompadour is a classic men’s hairstyle that has been popular for decades. It is characterized by its high volume and swept-back style. Cutting and styling a pompadour can be a bit tricky, but with the right tools and techniques, you can achieve a great look.
To cut a pompadour, you will need:
- A pair of sharp scissors
- A comb
- A blow dryer
- A styling product, such as pomade or gel
Once you have your tools, you can follow these steps to cut and style a pompadour:
- Wash and dry your hair.
- Comb your hair back and create a part on the side.
- Use the scissors to cut the hair on the sides and back of your head to a short length.
- Leave the hair on the top of your head longer.
- Use the blow dryer to dry your hair and style it into a pompadour.
- Apply a styling product to your hair to hold it in place.
The Mohawk
The mohawk is a distinctive hairstyle that involves shaving the sides of the head while leaving a strip of hair in the center. It is a versatile style that can be customized to suit different face shapes and hair types. There are several variations of the mohawk, including the classic, faux, and side-swept.
Variations of the Mohawk
Classic Mohawk: The classic mohawk features a wide strip of hair in the center of the head, with the sides shaved close to the scalp. The height and width of the mohawk can vary depending on personal preference.
Faux Mohawk: The faux mohawk is a less extreme version of the classic mohawk. The sides are not shaved as closely, and the strip of hair in the center is narrower. This style is suitable for those who want the look of a mohawk without the commitment of shaving their heads.
Side-Swept Mohawk: The side-swept mohawk is a variation that involves sweeping the hair from one side of the head over the top of the head. The sides are shaved close to the scalp, and the hair on top is left longer.
Hair Accessories
The 1980s witnessed a surge in popularity of hair accessories for men, reflecting the era’s flamboyant and experimental fashion trends.
Headbands, scrunchies, bandanas, barrettes, and hairspray were ubiquitous accessories that added flair and individuality to hairstyles.
Headbands
- Thin, elastic headbands were popular, often in black or neon colors.
- They symbolized a sporty and rebellious attitude, aligning with the athletic and counterculture aesthetics of the time.
Scrunchies
- Made from velvet or terry cloth, scrunchies came in bright and pastel hues.
- They exuded a feminine and casual vibe, complementing the relaxed and carefree hairstyles of the decade.
Bandanas
- Cotton or silk bandanas, adorned with paisley or floral patterns, were a staple accessory.
- They represented a tough and rebellious spirit, embodying the punk and rock influences of the era.
Barrettes
- Barrettes made of plastic or metal featured geometric or animal designs.
- They were associated with the punk and new wave subcultures, adding an edgy touch to hairstyles.
Hairspray
- High-hold hairspray, such as Aqua Net and Farrah Fawcett, was essential for achieving voluminous and feathered hairstyles.
- It symbolized the era’s obsession with big hair, adding height and texture to various hairstyles.
Cultural and Social Impact
1980s hairstyles for men were not just about fashion; they held cultural and social significance, reflecting the decade’s unique zeitgeist. Music, movies, and fashion played a crucial role in shaping hairstyles, which in turn became symbols of personal identity and subcultures.
Influence of Music and Movies
- Rock and pop stars like Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, and Prince popularized long, flowing hair, influencing the mullet and shag hairstyles.
- Breakdancing and hip-hop culture brought forth the Jheri curl and the flat top, symbolizing rebellion and urban style.
- Movies like “Top Gun” and “Wall Street” showcased slicked-back hair and the side part, representing power and masculinity.
Role in Shaping Social Identities
- The mullet became associated with working-class men and Southern culture, while the shag represented a more bohemian and artistic lifestyle.
- The Jheri curl became a symbol of African American identity and pride, while the perm was popular among both men and women seeking a more glamorous look.
- The Mohawk, often associated with punk subculture, expressed rebellion and non-conformity.
Reflection of Cultural Trends
- The emphasis on volume and height in hairstyles mirrored the decade’s pursuit of excess and extravagance.
- The popularity of perms and hair accessories reflected the growing acceptance of gender fluidity and self-expression.
- The rise of hair salons and stylists signaled a shift towards professional hair care and a focus on personal grooming.
Last Recap
1980s hairstyles for men were not just about aesthetics; they were a reflection of the decade’s cultural and social landscape. They challenged traditional gender norms, celebrated individuality, and became symbols of personal identity and self-expression. As we look back on these iconic styles, we can appreciate their enduring legacy and the lasting impact they have had on fashion and popular culture.
Essential FAQs
What were the most popular 1980s hairstyles for men?
Some of the most popular 1980s hairstyles for men include the mullet, shag, spiky hair, flat top, Jheri curl, perm, side part, undercut, pompadour, and mohawk.
How did 1980s hairstyles reflect the culture of the time?
1980s hairstyles were a reflection of the decade’s vibrant and dynamic culture. They were bold, experimental, and often pushed boundaries. They also celebrated individuality and personal expression.
What is the legacy of 1980s hairstyles?
1980s hairstyles have had a lasting impact on fashion and popular culture. They continue to inspire and intrigue, and many of the styles have been revived in recent years.