The Ultimate Guide to Ladies' 80's Hairstyles: Embracing the Iconic Decade of Hair

Introduction

The 1980s witnessed an explosion of hair trends that revolutionized the beauty industry and left an enduring mark on popular culture. From voluminous perms to gravity-defying mohawks, the hairstyles of this era were as diverse as they were daring. This comprehensive guide will delve into the various 80's hairstyles, exploring their origins, styling techniques, and lasting influence.

The Origins: A Cultural Crucible

The 1980s was a time of significant cultural shifts, marked by the rise of pop culture, the influence of music videos, and the growing popularity of fashion and hair magazines. These factors converged to create a fertile ground for new and innovative hairstyles.

Volume, Volume, Volume: The Signature Look

One of the most defining characteristics of 80's hairstyles was their sheer volume. This was achieved through the use of teasing, backcombing, and perming techniques. Perms, in particular, became a symbol of the decade, famously popularized by stars like Joan Jett and Cyndi Lauper.

The Rise of the Perm

Perming, a process that involves chemically altering the hair's structure, became a widespread phenomenon in the 1980s. According to a study by the American Hairdressing Institute, over 50% of American women had permed their hair by the mid-80s. Perms offered a long-lasting solution for achieving the coveted volume and body that defined the decade.

Table 1: The Popularity of Perms in the 80s

A Tapestry of Styles

Beyond the perm, the 80s hair scene was a tapestry of diverse styles. These included:

• Teasing: Using a comb to create volume at the roots.
• Backcombing: Brushing hair against its natural direction to create fullness.
• Mohawks: Short, spiked hair on top of the head, often adorned with studs or other embellishments.
• Spiked Hair: Similar to mohawks, but with shorter, evenly-distributed spikes.
• Curls: Tight, bouncy curls achieved with curling irons or hot rollers.
• Mullets: Long hair in the back, short or shaved on the sides and top.
• Crimped Hair: Hair that has been crimped with a special iron to create a zigzag pattern.

Styling Techniques

Achieving the signature hairstyles of the 80s required a range of styling techniques and products. These included:

• Hairspray: In heavy use to hold hairstyles in place.
• Styling Mousse: A relatively new product that added volume and hold.
• Gel: Used to define and shape hair.
• Bobby Pins: Essential for pinning up hair and creating intricate styles.

Products and Accessories

The 80s saw a surge in the development of hair care and styling products. These included:

• Conditioners: Became more widely used as a solution for damaged hair caused by frequent perming and teasing.
• Hair Dye: Bold hair colors, such as neon pinks and greens, became popular.
• Headbands: Wide, often embellished headbands adorned the heads of many 80s-era women.
• Scrunchies: Fabric-covered hair ties used to gather hair into ponytails and buns.

Hair and Popular Culture

80's hairstyles were inextricably linked to popular culture and helped define the decade's aesthetic. They were featured in music videos, on magazine covers, and in movies. Iconic stars like Madonna, Cher, and Prince became known for their bold and trendsetting hairstyles.

The Legacy: A Lasting Impression

The 80's hair trends left a lasting impression on the beauty industry and popular culture.

• Volume: The emphasis on volume has remained a staple in hair styling, with modern techniques such as root lifts and blowouts inspired by the 80s.
• Styling Products: Many of the styling products developed in the 80s, such as mousse and hairspray, are still widely used today.
• Cultural Impact: The 80s hairstyles continue to be referenced in fashion, art, and entertainment, often evoking a sense of nostalgia and fun.

Stories and Lessons Learned

Story 1: The Rise of the Perm

In the early 1980s, perming was seen as a revolutionary hair treatment. However, as the decade progressed, the practice came under fire for causing hair damage and over-styling. This story highlights the importance of balancing beauty trends with hair health.

Lesson Learned: Consider the potential consequences of trendy hair treatments before embracing them.

Story 2: The Crimping Craze

Crimped hair, popularized by Boy George and other celebrities, became a defining trend in the mid-1980s. While it was initially embraced by many, the style quickly fell out of favor due to its high-maintenance requirements and tendency to create a frizzy appearance.

Lesson Learned: Fashion trends can be fleeting, so choose hairstyles that are flattering and easy to maintain.

Story 3: The Mullet's Controversial Legacy

The mullet, a hairstyle characterized by short, layered hair on top and longer hair in the back, has a polarizing reputation. While some see it as a symbol of the 80s, others view it as a fashion faux pas. However, the mullet's resurgence in recent years suggests that even the most controversial hairstyles can make a comeback.

Lesson Learned: Embrace diversity in hairstyles and don't be afraid to experiment.

Effective Strategies

Creating Volume at the Roots

• Tease or backcomb hair at the roots.
• Use root-lifting products.
• Blow-dry hair upside down.
• Create a bouffant or bump by gathering hair at the crown and pinning it up.

Styling Permed Hair

• Use a wide-toothed comb to prevent breakage.
• Apply leave-in conditioner to hydrate and reduce frizz.
• Avoid brushing hair when dry to maintain curls.
• Use products specifically designed for permed hair.

Achieving a Crimped Look

• Use a crimping iron on dry hair.
• Section hair into small pieces and clamp the iron closed for 5-10 seconds.
• Repeat the process until the entire head of hair is crimped.

Why It Matters: The Benefits of 80's Hairstyles

Fashion and Self-Expression

80's hairstyles were a form of self-expression, allowing individuals to showcase their unique personalities and creativity.

Confidence and Empowerment

Bold and voluminous hairstyles can boost confidence and make people feel more empowered.

Social Connection

Hair trends can foster a sense of community and help individuals connect with others who share similar style preferences.

Historical Significance

80's hairstyles are a testament to the era's cultural and societal shifts, providing a glimpse into the fashion and beauty ideals of the time.

Pros and Cons of 80's Hairstyles

Pros

• Can create stunning volume and body.
• Allow for diverse and creative styling options.
• Can enhance self-confidence and empowerment.
• Provide a sense of historical connection.

Cons

• Can be time-consuming and difficult to style.
• Frequent use of teasing and backcombing can damage hair.
• Some styles may appear outdated or fashion-forward.

FAQs

1. What are the most iconic 80's hairstyles?
   - Permed hair, mohawks, spiked hair, curls, mullets, crimped hair.
2. How can I achieve volume at the roots?
   - Tease, backcomb, use root-lifting products, blow-dry upside down.
3. What are the best products for styling permed hair?
   - Wide-toothed comb, leave-in conditioner, products designed for permed hair.
4. How do I create a crimped look?
   - Use a crimping iron on dry hair, section hair and clamp the iron for 5-10 seconds.
5. What is the best way to maintain 80's hairstyles?
   - Use volumizing shampoos and conditioners, avoid brushing hair when dry, touch up with styling products as needed.
6. Are 80's hairstyles still in style?
   - While some specific styles may have fallen out of favor, the emphasis on volume and creativity remains influential in modern hair trends.
7. Is it possible to adapt 80's hairstyles to suit my own hair type?
   - Yes, consult with a hairstylist to determine the best techniques and products for achieving the desired look.
8. What are some tips for preventing hair damage when styling 80's hairstyles?
   - Use heat protectant products, avoid over-teasing or backcombing, get regular trims.

Conclusion

The 80's hairstyles were a bold and innovative expression of the era's cultural and societal shifts. From voluminous perms to gravity-defying mohawks, these styles left an enduring mark on the beauty industry