The phrase "hair of the 1980s" refers to the distinctive hairstyles that characterized the decade. Characterized by volume, height, and often permed curls, iconic 80s hair was made popular by celebrities such as Joan Jett, Pat Benatar, and Cyndi Lauper.
The styles of the 1980s were not only visually striking but also reflected the decade's cultural and social trends. In a period of excess and experimentation, the popular "big hair" of the time symbolized optimism and individuality. One significant historical development was the rise of hairspray, which became essential in achieving and maintaining the exaggerated volume that defined 80s hair.
In this article, we will delve into the different styles of hair of the 1980s, exploring their cultural impact and legacy in modern fashion and popular culture.
hair of the 1980s
As a defining characteristic of the decade, the hair of the 1980s had several key aspects that shaped its distinctive look:
- Volume
- Height
- Curls
- Hairspray
The combination of these elements created the exaggerated and iconic styles that characterized the era. Volume was achieved through teasing and blow-drying, while height was gained using products like mousse and hairspray. Curls were often permed or styled with curling irons, and hairspray was essential for holding everything in place. These key aspects not only contributed to the visual impact of 80s hair but also reflected the decade's cultural and social trends, symbolizing optimism and individuality.
Volume
Volume was a defining characteristic of hair of the 1980s. It was achieved through a combination of teasing, blow-drying, and the use of volumizing products such as mousse and hairspray. The result was a hairstyle that was full, high, and often larger than life. Volume was a critical component of many popular 80s hairstyles, including the mullet, the shag, and the pixie cut. It was also a key element of the "big hair" look that was popularized by celebrities such as Joan Jett, Pat Benatar, and Cyndi Lauper.
Volume in 80s hair was more than just a fashion statement. It was also a symbol of the decade's optimism and individuality. In a period of economic prosperity and cultural change, big hair represented a break from the past and a willingness to experiment with new and different styles. Volume also had a practical application. It could be used to create a variety of looks, from the sleek and sophisticated to the wild and outrageous. It could also be used to add height and drama to shorter hairstyles.
Today, volume is still an important element of many hairstyles. It can be used to create a variety of looks, from the classic to the modern. Volume can also be used to add height and drama to shorter hairstyles. It is a versatile and timeless style that can be adapted to any occasion.
Height
Height was another defining characteristic of hair of the 1980s. It was achieved through a combination of teasing, blow-drying, and the use of volumizing products such as mousse and hairspray. The result was a hairstyle that was full, high, and often larger than life. Height was a critical component of many popular 80s hairstyles, including the mullet, the shag, and the pixie cut. It was also a key element of the "big hair" look that was popularized by celebrities such as Joan Jett, Pat Benatar, and Cyndi Lauper.
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Volume
Volume was essential for achieving height in 80s hair. It was created by teasing the hair at the roots and then blow-drying it to set the volume. Volumizing products such as mousse and hairspray were also used to add volume and hold it in place.
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Teasing
Teasing was a technique used to create volume and height at the roots of the hair. It was done by backcombing the hair with a fine-toothed comb, which created friction and caused the hair to tangle and stand up.
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Blow-drying
Blow-drying was used to set the volume and height of 80s hair. It was done by directing a hot stream of air from a blow dryer at the roots of the hair while brushing it upwards. This helped to lift the hair and keep it in place.
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Products
Volumizing products such as mousse and hairspray were used to add volume and height to 80s hair. Mousse was applied to the hair before blow-drying to help create volume, while hairspray was used to hold the volume and height in place.
Height in 80s hair was not just a fashion statement. It was also a symbol of the decade's optimism and individuality. In a period of economic prosperity and cultural change, big hair represented a break from the past and a willingness to experiment with new and different styles. Height also had a practical application. It could be used to create a variety of looks, from the sleek and sophisticated to the wild and outrageous. It could also be used to add height and drama to shorter hairstyles.
Curls
Curls were an integral part of hair of the 1980s, adding texture, volume, and personality to the iconic styles of the decade. From tight ringlets to loose waves, curls were a versatile way to express individuality and make a statement. They were often achieved through perms, but could also be styled with curling irons or hot rollers.
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Perm
A perm is a chemical treatment that permanently changes the structure of the hair, creating curls or waves. Perms were very popular in the 1980s, and were often used to achieve the big, bouncy curls that were characteristic of the decade.
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Curling iron
A curling iron is a heated tool that can be used to create curls or waves in the hair. Curling irons were also popular in the 1980s, and were often used to create smaller, tighter curls than perms.
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Hot rollers
Hot rollers are heated rollers that can be used to create curls or waves in the hair. Hot rollers were less popular than perms or curling irons in the 1980s, but were still used to create looser, more natural-looking curls.
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Curling mousse
Curling mousse is a styling product that can be used to help create and hold curls. Curling mousse was popular in the 1980s, and was often used to add volume and definition to curls.
Curls were a defining characteristic of hair of the 1980s, and they remain popular today. They are a versatile and stylish way to add personality to any look.
Hairspray
Hairspray played a pivotal role in achieving and maintaining the iconic hairstyles of the 1980s. It was used to set volume, hold curls, and tame flyaways, becoming an essential tool for creating the exaggerated and gravity-defying styles that defined the decade.
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Setting Volume
Hairspray was essential for setting and maintaining the voluminous styles that were popular in the 1980s. It was applied to the hair after blow-drying to help hold the volume in place, preventing it from falling flat throughout the day.
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Holding Curls
Hairspray was also used to hold curls in place, preventing them from falling out or becoming frizzy. It was applied to the hair after curling to help set the curls and keep them defined, even in humid conditions.
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Taming Flyaways
Hairspray was also used to tame flyaways and smooth the hair, giving it a polished and finished look. It was applied to the hair after styling to help control flyaways and keep the hair in place.
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Iconic Brands
Some of the most iconic hairspray brands of the 1980s include Aqua Net, Rave, and Elnett Satin. These brands were known for their strong hold and ability to keep hair in place all day long.
Hairspray was an indispensable part of hair of the 1980s, helping to create the exaggerated and gravity-defying styles that were characteristic of the decade. It was used by both men and women, and was available in a variety of strengths and finishes to suit different hair types and styles.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hair of the 1980s
This section provides answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about hair of the 1980s, its defining characteristics, and its cultural impact.
Question 1: What were the key characteristics of hair of the 1980s?
The key characteristics of hair of the 1980s included volume, height, curls, and the extensive use of hairspray.
Question 2: How was volume achieved in 80s hair?
Volume in 80s hair was achieved through a combination of teasing, blow-drying, and the use of volumizing products such as mousse and hairspray.
Question 3: What was the role of hairspray in 80s hairstyles?
Hairspray played a pivotal role in 80s hairstyles, as it was used to set volume, hold curls, and tame flyaways, helping to create the exaggerated and gravity-defying styles that were characteristic of the decade.
Question 4: What were some of the most popular hairstyles of the 1980s?
Some of the most popular hairstyles of the 1980s included the mullet, the shag, the pixie cut, and the big, teased styles popularized by celebrities such as Joan Jett, Pat Benatar, and Cyndi Lauper.
Question 5: What cultural factors influenced the popularity of big hair in the 1980s?
The popularity of big hair in the 1980s was influenced by several cultural factors, including a desire for self-expression, individuality, and a rejection of the more conservative styles of the 1970s.
Question 6: Is the big hair of the 1980s still popular today?
While the exaggerated styles of the 1980s are not as common today, elements of 80s hair, such as volume and curls, continue to influence modern hairstyles.
These FAQs provide a brief overview of hair of the 1980s, its defining characteristics, and its cultural impact. For a more in-depth exploration of this topic, please continue reading the article.
The next section of the article will discuss the history and evolution of hair of the 1980s, examining its roots in earlier decades and its lasting legacy in contemporary fashion and popular culture.
Tips for Styling Hair of the 1980s
This section provides detailed tips and techniques for styling your hair in the iconic styles of the 1980s.
Tip 1: Start with Volume
Teasing your hair at the roots will create volume and height, which is essential for many 80s hairstyles.
Tip 2: Use a Curling Iron or Hot Rollers
Curls were a defining characteristic of 80s hair. Use a curling iron or hot rollers to create curls or waves, depending on your desired look.
Tip 3: Don't Be Afraid of Hairspray
Hairspray is essential for holding 80s hairstyles in place. Apply it liberally to keep your volume and curls intact throughout the day.
Tip 4: Experiment with Different Products
There are a variety of products available to help you achieve 80s hair, such as volumizing mousse, curl-enhancing creams, and hairspray. Experiment with different products to find what works best for your hair type and desired style.
Tip 5: Use a Diffuser
If you have naturally curly hair, use a diffuser to dry your hair. This will help to define your curls and reduce frizz.
Tip 6: Accessorize
Accessories such as headbands, scrunchies, and barrettes were popular in the 1980s. Use these accessories to add a personal touch to your 80s hairstyle.
Summary:
By following these tips, you can recreate the iconic hairstyles of the 1980s. With a little practice, you can achieve the volume, curls, and height that were characteristic of the decade.
Transition:
These tips will help you to achieve the perfect 80s hairstyle. In the next section, we will discuss the cultural impact of hair of the 1980s and its lasting legacy in fashion and popular culture.
Conclusion
This article has explored the history, characteristics, and cultural impact of hair of the 1980s. We have seen how this iconic style was shaped by the decade's social and cultural trends, and how it continues to influence fashion and popular culture today.
Three key points emerge from our exploration:
- Hair of the 1980s was characterized by volume, height, curls, and the extensive use of hairspray.
- This style was a reflection of the decade's optimism, individuality, and desire for self-expression.
- Hair of the 1980s continues to inspire contemporary hairstyles, demonstrating its lasting legacy in fashion and popular culture.
Hair of the 1980s was more than just a fashion trend; it was a cultural phenomenon that reflected the spirit of the times. By understanding this style, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the decade's unique and enduring impact on our culture.
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