Why Did Men's Hair Fashion Change in the 1980s?

Introduction

The 1980s was a decade of bold fashion, vibrant colors, and, most importantly, big hair. From the rockstars with their wild, voluminous locks to the sharp, sleek styles seen in Hip-Hop culture, men’s hairstyles in the ‘80s were anything but boring. Influenced by music, television, and Hollywood, men experimented with curls, volume, and even perms to keep up with the latest trends.

Let’s take a trip back in time to explore the most iconic men's hairstyles of the radical 1980s.

The Cultural Impact on 1980s Hair Trends

Music Icons and Their Influence

Music played a massive role in shaping 1980s men's hairstyles. Rock bands like Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, and Mötley Crüe popularized the long, voluminous hair, while pop stars like Michael Jackson brought the Jheri curl into the mainstream.

The Rise of MTV

With the launch of MTV in 1981, music videos became the ultimate trendsetters. Seeing artists on screen meant that hairstyles became as important as the music itself.

Hollywood’s Role in Setting Hair Trends

Actors like Tom Cruise, John Travolta, and Patrick Swayze influenced the feathered hair look, while action stars like Arnold Schwarzenegger kept the classic, slicked-back styles alive.

Iconic Men's Hairstyles of the 1980s

The Mullet – Business in the Front, Party in the Back

Perhaps the most legendary hairstyle of the decade, the mullet was short on the sides and front but long and wild at the back. Celebrities like Billy Ray Cyrus and David Bowie helped cement its popularity.

The Big Hair Rocker Look

Rock bands ruled the '80s, and their hair was just as loud as their music. Achieving the "big hair" look meant using tons of hairspray and backcombing for volume.

The Jheri Curl – The Wet and Shiny Look

Thanks to Michael Jackson’s Thriller era, the Jheri curl became a signature look for Black men. This style required a lot of maintenance, including activator spray to keep the curls hydrated.

Feathered Hair – The Pretty Boy Look

Men who wanted a softer, stylish look opted for feathered hair. This style, made famous by John Travolta and Rob Lowe, featured layers with a light, feathery texture.

The Flat Top – Sharp and Defined

Hip-Hop culture brought the flat top into mainstream popularity. This angular, high-cut style was worn by legends like Will Smith and Kid from Kid ‘n Play.

The Spiky Hair Trend

Punk rockers and rebellious teens spiked their hair using strong gel and mousse. Inspired by bands like The Clash and The Ramones, this edgy look symbolized rebellion.

Hair Products and Maintenance in the 1980s

The Importance of Hair Spray and Mousse

Hairspray was king! The more volume, the better. Mousse helped add body and texture to keep hair looking full and styled.

The Perm Revolution for Men

Many men got perms to achieve a curly, wavy look, proving that perms weren’t just for women.

How to Recreate 1980s Men's Hairstyles Today?

Want to bring back the 1980s look? Modern barbers are revamping classic styles like the mullet and flat top, giving them a fresh twist.

Conclusion

The 1980s was a golden era for men's hair fashion, filled with bold and fearless styles. From rockstars to actors, everyone experimented with their hair to make a statement. Even today, ‘80s hairstyles are making a comeback, proving that good style never truly dies.

FAQs

1. What was the most popular men's hairstyle in the 1980s?
The mullet, feathered hair, and Jheri curl were among the most popular styles.

2. How did men style their hair in the '80s?
They used mousse, gel, and hairspray to achieve volume and texture.

3. What hair products were commonly used in the 1980s?
Hairspray, mousse, gel, and perm solutions were essential for styling.

4. Is the mullet making a comeback?
Yes! Many celebrities and influencers are bringing back the mullet with a modern twist.

5. Which celebrities made 1980s hairstyles famous?
Michael Jackson, David Bowie, Bon Jovi, and Patrick Swayze all played a role in shaping '80s hair trends.