80’s male hairstyles – Step into the vibrant era of the 1980s, where male hairstyles took center stage and became emblems of self-expression and cultural shifts. From the iconic mullet to the edgy Jheri curl, these hairstyles transcended mere trends and left an enduring mark on fashion and popular culture.
Prepare to embark on a nostalgic journey as we delve into the captivating world of 80’s male hairstyles, exploring their origins, cultural significance, and lasting impact.
Provide a brief history of the most popular 80’s male hairstyles, including their origins and evolution.
The 1980s witnessed a vibrant and diverse array of male hairstyles, each reflecting the era’s unique cultural and fashion sensibilities. These hairstyles often originated from subcultures and music genres, becoming symbols of identity and self-expression.
The iconic mullet, with its short front and long, flowing back, emerged in the early 80s, popularized by rock and heavy metal bands. The Mohawk, characterized by a strip of hair running down the center of the head, originated in the punk subculture, symbolizing rebellion and individuality.
The Jheri curl, with its tight, spiral curls, gained popularity in the African American community, influenced by musicians and actors. The flattop, with its squared-off top, was adopted by the military and later became a symbol of authority and masculinity.
The Mullet
The mullet, a distinctive hairstyle characterized by short hair in the front and long hair in the back, emerged as a prominent trend in the 1980s. Its origins can be traced back to the 1970s, where it gained popularity among rock musicians and athletes. During the 80s, the mullet became a cultural phenomenon, transcending its initial niche and becoming a widely adopted hairstyle among men of all ages and backgrounds.
Evolution and Popularity
The mullet underwent several variations throughout the 80s. In the early part of the decade, it was typically styled with a shorter front and a longer, feathered back. As the decade progressed, the mullet evolved to feature a more extreme contrast between the front and back. The front became even shorter, often styled in a crew cut or flat top, while the back grew longer and more voluminous. This exaggerated version of the mullet became known as the “business in the front, party in the back” style.
Celebrity Endorsements
The mullet’s popularity was further amplified by its association with various celebrities and cultural icons. Rock stars such as David Bowie, Rod Stewart, and Billy Idol embraced the hairstyle, contributing to its widespread appeal. Athletes like hockey player Wayne Gretzky and football player Joe Montana also sported the mullet, further solidifying its status as a symbol of the 80s.
Decline and Legacy
The mullet’s popularity began to wane towards the end of the 1980s. As fashion trends shifted, the hairstyle gradually fell out of favor. However, it remains an iconic symbol of the decade, frequently referenced in popular culture and often associated with nostalgia for the 80s era.
The Jheri Curl
The Jheri curl, also known as the Jerry curl, is a hairstyle that became popular in the 1980s, particularly among African Americans. It is characterized by tight, spiral curls that are created using a chemical process called a “perm” or “relaxer.” The Jheri curl was popularized by celebrities such as Michael Jackson, Prince, and Lionel Richie.
The process of creating a Jheri curl involves applying a chemical solution to the hair, which breaks down the hair’s natural bonds and allows it to be reshaped into curls. The solution is typically left on for several hours, after which the hair is rinsed and styled. The curls can be made tighter or looser depending on the strength of the solution used and the length of time it is left on.
Cultural Impact and Popularity
The Jheri curl was a popular hairstyle in the 1980s due to its association with the African American community and its unique and eye-catching appearance. It was seen as a symbol of style and individuality, and it was often worn by celebrities and musicians. The Jheri curl also had a significant impact on fashion and beauty trends, and it helped to popularize the use of hair products such as gels and pomades.
Notable Figures
- Michael Jackson
- Prince
- Lionel Richie
- Eddie Murphy
- Samuel L. Jackson
The Flat Top
The flat top is a striking hairstyle characterized by a meticulously leveled top that appears to have been cut with a ruler. This iconic look, popularized in the 1980s, originated in the military, where it was a standard haircut for recruits due to its low-maintenance and regulation-compliant nature.
To achieve a flat top, barbers use a combination of clippers and shears. The sides and back of the head are typically trimmed short, while the top is left longer. The barber then uses clippers to create a level surface on the top, ensuring that it is perfectly flat and parallel to the ground. To refine the look, shears are used to trim any stray hairs and create a clean, defined edge around the flat top.
Military Origins
The flat top has a strong association with the military, particularly the United States Army. It became a standard haircut for recruits in the 1950s due to its practicality and ease of maintenance. The flat top’s short length and lack of styling requirements made it ideal for military life, where time and resources were limited.
Cultural Impact
In the 1980s, the flat top transcended its military roots and became a popular fashion statement among civilians. It was adopted by celebrities, athletes, and musicians, who saw it as a symbol of masculinity and confidence. The flat top became synonymous with the decade’s bold and exaggerated fashion trends.
The Pompadour
The pompadour, a classic hairstyle that exudes confidence and style, traces its roots back to the extravagant court of King Louis XV of France in the 18th century. In the 1980s, the pompadour made a roaring comeback, becoming a symbol of rebellion and individuality. Its resurgence was influenced by rockabilly culture, punk fashion, and the rise of new wave music.
Styling Techniques
Achieving a pompadour requires a combination of techniques and products. The hair is typically cut short on the sides and back, while the top is left longer. To style, apply a generous amount of pomade or mousse to damp hair and blow dry it upwards, using a round brush to create volume. Once the hair is dry, use a comb to smooth out the top and shape the pompadour. Secure the style with hairspray for a lasting hold.
Variations
The pompadour has several variations, each with its own unique characteristics:
- Classic Pompadour: The classic pompadour features a high, voluminous top that is slicked back and tapered at the sides.
- Quiff: The quiff is a modern take on the pompadour, with a shorter, less voluminous top that is swept forward and styled with a matte finish.
- Faux Hawk: The faux hawk is a hybrid of the pompadour and the mohawk, with a long, spiky top that is styled upwards and tapered at the sides.
Cultural Impact
The pompadour has been associated with rebellion, individuality, and self-expression throughout history. In the 1980s, it was a popular hairstyle among rock stars, punks, and new wave musicians. Today, the pompadour continues to be a popular choice for men who want to make a statement with their hair.
Resources
For more information on the pompadour, refer to the following resources:
- Men’s Hairstyle Trends: Pompadour Hairstyle
- FashionBeans: How to Style a Pompadour
- YouTube: How to Style a Pompadour
The Side Part
The side part was a classic hairstyle of the 1980s, characterized by a clean division of hair on one side of the head, with the hair combed or brushed to the opposite side. It was a versatile style that could be adapted to suit different face shapes and hair types, and was often paired with other popular 80s hairstyles, such as the mullet or the perm.
Variations of the Side Part
There were several variations of the side part, including the pompadour, the quiff, and the slick back. The pompadour was characterized by its height and volume, with the hair swept up and back from the forehead. The quiff was similar to the pompadour, but with less height and more texture. The slick back was a more polished look, with the hair combed straight back from the forehead and secured with hairspray.
Creating a Side Part
To create a defined side part, a comb or brush was used to divide the hair on one side of the head. The hair was then combed or brushed to the opposite side, and hairspray was often used to hold the style in place.
Popularity of the Side Part
The side part was a popular hairstyle throughout the 1980s, and was worn by both men and women. It was often seen on celebrities and musicians, and was considered to be a stylish and sophisticated look.
“The side part is a timeless hairstyle that has endured for decades,” says celebrity hairstylist Sally Hershberger. “It’s a versatile style that can be adapted to suit any face shape or hair type, and it always looks polished and put-together.”
The Perm
Perms, short for permanent waves, were a popular hair treatment in the 1980s, allowing individuals to achieve a variety of curly or wavy hairstyles.
There were two main types of perms available: acid perms and alkaline perms. Acid perms used thioglycolic acid to break down the hair’s disulfide bonds, while alkaline perms used ammonium thioglycolate to achieve the same effect. The hair was then wrapped around perm rods and a neutralizing solution was applied to set the curls.
Perm Styles
Perms could be customized to create a range of curl patterns, from tight ringlets to loose waves. Some popular perm styles included:
- Spiral perms: Tight, corkscrew-like curls.
- Body perms: Loose, natural-looking waves.
- Jheri curls: A perm style popularized by Michael Jackson, featuring tight, springy curls.
Celebrities with Perms
Many celebrities and cultural icons sported permed hairstyles in the 1980s, including:
- Michael Jackson
- Lionel Richie
- Prince
- Don Johnson
- Tom Selleck
The Spiky Hair
Spiky hair, a defining trend of the 1980s, epitomized rebellion and individuality. Characterized by sharp, upward-pointing strands, it became a symbol of self-expression and a staple in youth culture.
Variations of spiky hair emerged, each with its unique techniques and styling methods. Classic spikes, with their evenly distributed, finger-combed spikes, offered a timeless look. Faux hawks, inspired by the mohawk, featured a strip of upright hair running down the center of the head, while textured spikes incorporated layers and varying lengths for a more dynamic effect.
Products and Tools
Achieving spiky hair requires a combination of products and styling tools. Gels, pomades, and waxes play crucial roles in providing hold and shine. Gels offer a strong hold, creating defined spikes with a glossy finish. Pomades, with their medium hold, add texture and shine, while waxes provide a matte finish and a flexible hold.
Blow dryers, hair straighteners, and curling irons assist in shaping and setting the spikes. Blow dryers, when used with a round brush, help create volume and direct the hair upwards. Hair straighteners can tame unruly hair, making it easier to style into spikes. Curling irons, used on small sections of hair, add texture and definition to the spikes.
Celebrity Inspiration
Numerous celebrities and musicians embraced spiky hair, shaping its popularity. Kurt Cobain, the frontman of Nirvana, sported a messy, textured version of the style, while David Beckham showcased a sleek, classic spike look. Justin Timberlake’s spiky hair, often styled with a faux hawk, became synonymous with his boy band days.
Step-by-Step Guide, 80’s male hairstyles
- Prepare: Wash and towel-dry hair.
- Apply product: Work a dime-sized amount of gel, pomade, or wax into damp hair, focusing on the roots.
- Blow dry: Use a round brush to blow dry hair upwards, creating volume and directing the spikes.
- Shape spikes: Use your fingers or a comb to shape the spikes, pulling them upwards and outward.
- Set with hairspray: Spray hairspray to hold the spikes in place.
Variations of Spiky Hair
| Variation | Technique | Products | Tools |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic spikes | Finger-combed, evenly distributed spikes | Gel, pomade | Blow dryer |
| Faux hawk | Strip of upright hair running down the center | Gel, wax | Blow dryer, curling iron |
| Textured spikes | Layers and varying lengths | Pomade, wax | Blow dryer, hair straightener |
FAQs
- Is spiky hair suitable for all hair types?
Yes, but it works best on short to medium-length hair with a natural wave or texture. - Which products are recommended for spiky hair?
Gels for strong hold, pomades for texture and shine, and waxes for a matte finish. - How often should I wash spiky hair?
Regular washing is essential to prevent product buildup and maintain healthy hair.
– The Bowl Cut
The bowl cut, also known as the pudding bowl cut or mushroom cut, is a classic hairstyle that has been around for decades. It is characterized by its short, blunt bangs that are cut in a straight line across the forehead and ears, and its rounded shape that resembles an inverted bowl. The bowl cut can be worn by people of all ages and genders, but it is most commonly associated with young boys.
There are several different variations of the bowl cut, including the classic bowl cut, the Caesar cut, and the French crop. The classic bowl cut is the most basic variation, and it is characterized by its short, blunt bangs and rounded shape. The Caesar cut is a similar hairstyle, but it has longer bangs that are combed forward. The French crop is a shorter variation of the bowl cut, and it has bangs that are cut just above the eyebrows.
The bowl cut can be created using a variety of techniques and tools. The most common technique is to use a pair of scissors to cut the hair in a straight line across the forehead and ears. Another technique is to use a bowl to guide the scissors, which can help to create a more even and rounded shape.
The bowl cut has been worn by a variety of celebrities and public figures, including Ringo Starr, John Lennon, and Justin Bieber. It has also been featured in a number of movies and TV shows, including “The Breakfast Club” and “Seinfeld.”
The bowl cut has been popular at various times throughout history. It was particularly popular in the 1960s and 1970s, and it has recently seen a resurgence in popularity. The bowl cut is a versatile hairstyle that can be worn by people of all ages and genders. It is a classic hairstyle that has stood the test of time.
Cultural Significance
The bowl cut has been associated with a variety of different cultural groups and subcultures. In the 1960s and 1970s, the bowl cut was popular among members of the hippie counterculture. It was also popular among young boys in the 1980s and 1990s. In recent years, the bowl cut has been adopted by a variety of different subcultures, including hipsters and indie rockers.
The bowl cut has also been used as a symbol of rebellion and nonconformity. In the 1960s and 1970s, the bowl cut was often worn by people who wanted to express their individuality and reject the mainstream. In recent years, the bowl cut has been adopted by a variety of different subcultures, including hipsters and indie rockers, who use it as a way to express their creativity and individuality.
Pros and Cons
There are a number of pros and cons to getting a bowl cut. Some of the pros include:
* It is a low-maintenance hairstyle that is easy to style.
* It is a versatile hairstyle that can be worn by people of all ages and genders.
* It can be a stylish hairstyle that can help you to stand out from the crowd.
Some of the cons include:
* It can be a difficult hairstyle to grow out.
* It can be a difficult hairstyle to style if you have thick or curly hair.
* It can be a polarizing hairstyle that some people may find unattractive.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to get a bowl cut is a personal one. If you are considering getting a bowl cut, it is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully to decide if it is the right hairstyle for you.
The Shag
The shag is a versatile haircut that was popular in the 1970s and 1980s. It is characterized by its layered, textured appearance, which can be styled in a variety of ways. The shag is a great choice for people with all hair types, and it can be customized to suit any face shape.
Variations and Techniques
There are many different variations of the shag haircut, each with its own unique look. Some of the most popular variations include:
- The short shag: This variation is cut short, with layers that start at the crown of the head. The short shag is a great choice for people who want a low-maintenance haircut that is still stylish.
- The long shag: This variation is cut long, with layers that start at the shoulders or below. The long shag is a great choice for people who want a haircut that is both stylish and versatile.
- The layered shag: This variation is cut with layers of different lengths, which creates a textured, voluminous look. The layered shag is a great choice for people who want a haircut that adds volume to their hair.
- The textured shag: This variation is cut with a razor, which creates a textured, choppy look. The textured shag is a great choice for people who want a haircut that is both edgy and stylish.
Styling and Maintenance
The shag is a relatively low-maintenance haircut, but there are a few things you can do to keep it looking its best. First, use a shampoo and conditioner that is designed for your hair type. Second, use a leave-in conditioner or styling cream to help add volume and texture to your hair. Third, use a blow dryer with a diffuser attachment to dry your hair. This will help to create volume and prevent frizz.
The Mohawk
The mohawk, a striking and distinctive hairstyle, has its roots in Native American culture. It is characterized by a narrow strip of hair running down the center of the head, while the sides are shaved or cut short.
To create a mohawk, the hair on the sides of the head is buzzed or shaved, leaving a strip of hair in the middle. The width of the mohawk can vary, from a thin strip to a wide band. Styling products such as gel or wax are often used to keep the mohawk standing upright.
Cultural Significance
The mohawk has been associated with various cultural groups throughout history. In Native American culture, it was a symbol of strength and courage, often worn by warriors and chiefs. In the 1970s and 1980s, the mohawk gained popularity among punk rockers and other subcultures as a statement of rebellion and individuality.
Variations
Over the years, the mohawk has evolved into several variations. Some popular styles include:
- Liberty Spikes: Short, spiked sections of hair that resemble the spikes on the Statue of Liberty’s crown.
- Fauxhawk: A mohawk-like style created by teasing and styling the hair without shaving the sides.
- Psychobilly: A mohawk with a pompadour in the front.
The Fade: 80’s Male Hairstyles
The fade was a popular hairstyle in the 80s that involved gradually shortening the hair from the top of the head to the bottom. This created a clean, sharp look that was both stylish and functional.
There were several different types of fades available in the 80s, including the high fade, the mid fade, and the low fade. The high fade started at the top of the head and faded down to the skin at the temples and back of the neck. The mid fade started at the middle of the head and faded down to the skin at the back of the neck. The low fade started at the bottom of the head and faded down to the skin at the neckline.
Fades were typically created using a combination of clippers and scissors. The clippers were used to create the initial fade, and the scissors were used to refine the shape and blend the different sections of hair.
Some of the most popular celebrities and cultural icons who sported fade hairstyles in the 80s included Michael Jordan, LL Cool J, and Prince.
The Crew Cut
The crew cut is a short, simple, and versatile hairstyle that was popular in the 1980s. It is characterized by short, evenly cut hair on the sides and back, with slightly longer hair on top. The crew cut can be styled in a variety of ways, from a classic short cut to a more modern, textured look.
To create a crew cut, the hair is first cut short on the sides and back, using clippers or scissors. The length of the hair on the sides and back can vary, depending on the desired look. The hair on top is then cut slightly longer, and can be styled in a variety of ways, such as combed forward, slicked back, or spiked up.
The crew cut is a popular choice for men of all ages, and it can be adapted to suit a variety of face shapes and hair types. It is a low-maintenance hairstyle that is easy to style and keep looking its best.
Variations of the Crew Cut
There are many different variations of the crew cut, including:
- The short crew cut: This is the classic crew cut, with short hair on the sides and back, and slightly longer hair on top.
- The medium crew cut: This variation of the crew cut has slightly longer hair on the sides and back, and can be styled in a variety of ways.
- The long crew cut: This variation of the crew cut has longer hair on top, and can be styled in a variety of ways, such as combed forward, slicked back, or spiked up.
- The textured crew cut: This variation of the crew cut has textured hair on top, which can be created using a variety of styling products.
The crew cut is a versatile hairstyle that can be adapted to suit a variety of face shapes and hair types. It is a low-maintenance hairstyle that is easy to style and keep looking its best.
The High Top Fade
The high top fade is a classic 80’s hairstyle that combines a short, faded haircut on the sides and back with a longer, flat top on top. The fade can be customized to suit individual preferences, from a subtle taper to a sharp contrast. The high top fade originated in the African American community in the 1970s and gained widespread popularity in the 1980s, becoming a symbol of hip-hop culture.
Variations of the High Top Fade
There are several variations of the high top fade, each with its own unique characteristics:
- Drop fade: The fade gradually transitions from short to long, creating a smooth, blended effect.
- Temp fade: The fade begins at the temples and gradually extends towards the back of the head.
- Burst fade: The fade creates a starburst-like pattern on the sides and back of the head.
- Skin fade: The fade blends seamlessly into the skin, creating a clean, polished look.
- Box fade: The fade is cut into a sharp, rectangular shape around the sides and back of the head.
Techniques for Creating a High Top Fade
Creating a high top fade requires precise cutting and blending techniques. The following steps Artikel the general process:
- Trim the top: Use clippers to trim the top of the hair to the desired length.
- Fade the sides and back: Use clippers with different guard sizes to create a gradual fade from the top to the bottom.
- Shape the fade: Use scissors to refine the fade and create the desired shape, such as a drop fade or temp fade.
- Blend the transition: Use clippers or shears to blend the fade into the top, creating a smooth transition.
Cultural Significance of the High Top Fade
The high top fade has been closely associated with hip-hop culture since its inception. In the 1980s, it was popularized by rappers such as Run-DMC and LL Cool J, who used it as a symbol of empowerment and individuality. The high top fade has remained a popular hairstyle in hip-hop culture to this day, representing a connection to its roots and a sense of community.
Final Thoughts
As we bid farewell to our exploration of 80’s male hairstyles, we are left with a profound appreciation for the creativity and audacity that defined this era. These hairstyles not only adorned the heads of individuals but also became symbols of cultural movements and personal style.
Today, the influence of 80’s male hairstyles continues to resonate, inspiring modern interpretations and reminding us of the enduring power of self-expression through fashion.
Popular Questions
What was the most popular 80’s male hairstyle?
The mullet reigned supreme as the most iconic 80’s male hairstyle, with its signature long hair in the back and short hair on the sides and top.
Which hairstyle was popularized by Michael Jackson?
The Jheri curl, with its tight, spiral curls, became synonymous with Michael Jackson’s signature look in the 1980s.
What hairstyle was characterized by a flat, level top?
The flat top, with its distinctive squared-off top, was a popular choice among military personnel and those seeking a clean-cut look.