Big, Bold, and Beautiful: Why 80s Men’s Hairstyles Were All About Volume

The Rise of Big Hair in the 1980s

The 1980s were a decade of excess, and nowhere was this more evident than in the world of fashion and hairstyles. Men’s hairstyles during this era were defined by one key characteristic: volume. Big, bold, and unapologetically dramatic, 80s men’s hairstyles were a reflection of the times—a period marked by vibrant self-expression, rebellion, and a desire to stand out. From rock stars to movie icons, men everywhere embraced larger-than-life looks that defied gravity and convention. This article explores the cultural and social forces that shaped these iconic hairstyles, the techniques used to achieve them, and their enduring influence on modern fashion.

The Cultural Backdrop of the 80s

The 1980s were a time of significant cultural shifts. Music, movies, and television played a pivotal role in shaping the era’s aesthetic. Rock bands like Bon Jovi, Def Leppard, and Guns N’ Roses dominated the airwaves, and their members became style icons. These musicians sported voluminous, teased hair that became synonymous with the rock-and-roll lifestyle. Similarly, action heroes like Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger, as well as heartthrobs like Tom Cruise, showcased hairstyles that were as bold as their on-screen personas.

The decade was also marked by a sense of rebellion against the understated styles of the 1970s. The 80s were about making a statement, and hair was one of the most visible ways to do so. Men’s hairstyles became a form of self-expression, a way to communicate individuality and confidence. The bigger the hair, the more attention it commanded, and in a decade obsessed with standing out, volume was king.

The Science of Volume: How Men Achieved the Look

Achieving the perfect 80s hairstyle was no small feat. It required a combination of the right products, tools, and techniques. Hairspray was the unsung hero of the era, with brands like Aqua Net becoming household names. Men would often tease their hair, backcombing it at the roots to create lift and volume. This technique, known as “ratting,” was essential for achieving the signature height of 80s hairstyles.

Blow dryers also played a crucial role. Men would blow-dry their hair upside down to maximize volume, often using round brushes to add shape and movement. For those with naturally straight or fine hair, perms were a popular option. Perms added texture and curl, making it easier to achieve the desired volume. Styling gels and mousses were used to add hold and definition, ensuring that the hairstyle stayed in place throughout the day.

The Influence of Pop Culture

Pop culture was a driving force behind the popularity of big hair in the 80s. Music videos, in particular, played a significant role in showcasing these hairstyles to a global audience. MTV, which launched in 1981, became a cultural phenomenon, bringing rock and pop music into living rooms across America. Artists like David Bowie, Prince, and Michael Jackson pushed the boundaries of fashion and hairstyles, inspiring men to experiment with their looks.

Television and movies also contributed to the trend. Shows like Miami Vice and Magnum, P.I. featured male leads with stylish, voluminous hair. These characters became fashion icons, and their hairstyles were emulated by fans around the world. Even animated characters, like He-Man and the ThunderCats, sported exaggerated, voluminous hairstyles that reflected the era’s aesthetic.

Iconic 80s Men’s Hairstyles

The 1980s were a golden age for men’s hairstyles, with a wide variety of looks that catered to different tastes and personalities. From the mullet to the flat top, these hairstyles were united by one common theme: volume. Each style had its own unique flair, but all were designed to make a statement. This section explores the most iconic men’s hairstyles of the 80s, the celebrities who popularized them, and the cultural significance behind each look.

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

The mullet is perhaps the most iconic men’s hairstyle of the 1980s. Characterized by short hair on the top and sides and long hair at the back, the mullet was a symbol of rebellion and individuality. It was a versatile style that could be worn by rock stars, athletes, and everyday men alike.

David Bowie and Billy Ray Cyrus were among the celebrities who helped popularize the mullet. Bowie’s ever-evolving style made him a fashion icon, while Cyrus’s “Achy Breaky Heart” era brought the mullet into the mainstream. The mullet was more than just a hairstyle—it was a lifestyle. It represented a carefree, rebellious attitude that resonated with men of all ages.

The Flat Top: A Bold and Structured Look

The flat top was another popular men’s hairstyle in the 80s. This style featured hair that was cut flat on top, often with a sharp, angular shape. The flat top was a bold, structured look that exuded confidence and masculinity.

Celebrities like Mr. T and Bruce Willis helped bring the flat top into the spotlight. Mr. T’s iconic look, complete with his gold chains and tough-guy persona, made the flat top a symbol of strength and power. Willis, on the other hand, showcased a more refined version of the style, proving that the flat top could be both edgy and sophisticated.

The Perm: Curls for Days

For men who wanted to add texture and volume to their hair, the perm was the go-to option. Perms involved chemically treating the hair to create curls or waves, resulting in a full, voluminous look. This style was particularly popular among rock stars and actors, who used it to enhance their stage presence.

Jon Bon Jovi and Richard Dean Anderson, star of MacGyver, were two notable figures who sported permed hair. Bon Jovi’s tousled curls became a signature part of his rock-star image, while Anderson’s perm added a touch of rugged charm to his character. The perm was a versatile style that could be tailored to suit different personalities, making it a favorite among men in the 80s.

The Jheri Curl: Sleek and Shiny

The Jheri curl was another iconic hairstyle of the 80s, particularly within the African American community. This style involved chemically treating the hair to create loose, glossy curls. The Jheri curl was known for its sleek, shiny appearance, which was achieved using specialized products like activator gel.

Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie were two of the most famous proponents of the Jheri curl. Jackson’s ever-changing looks made him a fashion icon, and his Jheri curl phase remains one of his most memorable styles. Richie, on the other hand, used the Jheri curl to enhance his smooth, romantic image. The Jheri curl was a symbol of sophistication and style, and it left a lasting impact on men’s fashion.

The Tools and Products Behind the Volume

Achieving the perfect 80s hairstyle required more than just a good haircut—it demanded the right tools and products. From hairspray to blow dryers, men relied on a variety of items to create and maintain their voluminous looks. This section delves into the essential products and tools of the 80s, the techniques used to apply them, and their impact on men’s grooming routines.

Hairspray: The Unsung Hero

Hairspray was the backbone of 80s hairstyles. It provided the hold and structure needed to keep voluminous looks in place, even in the face of wind, rain, or hours of dancing. Brands like Aqua Net and L’Oréal became household names, offering a range of products to suit different hair types and styles.

Men would often apply multiple layers of hairspray throughout the day to maintain their hairstyles. This involved spraying the hair from various angles to ensure even coverage. While hairspray was effective, it also had its drawbacks. The strong chemicals and heavy formulas could leave hair feeling stiff and sticky, and overuse could lead to buildup and damage.

Blow Dryers and Round Brushes: Creating Volume

Blow dryers were another essential tool for achieving 80s hairstyles. Men would use them to add volume and shape to their hair, often blow-drying it upside down to maximize lift. Round brushes were used in conjunction with blow dryers to create movement and texture.

The technique involved sectioning the hair and wrapping it around the brush while applying heat. This process could be time-consuming, but the results were worth it. The combination of heat and tension helped to smooth the hair while adding volume, creating the perfect foundation for styling.

Perms and Chemical Treatments: Adding Texture

For men with naturally straight or fine hair, perms were a popular option for achieving volume. Perms involved chemically treating the hair to create curls or waves, which added texture and body. The process could take several hours and required regular maintenance to keep the curls looking fresh.

Perms were not without their risks. The chemicals used could cause damage to the hair and scalp, and improper application could lead to uneven results. Despite these challenges, perms remained a popular choice for men who wanted to add volume and texture to their hair.

Styling Gels and Mousses: Defining the Look

Styling gels and mousses were used to add definition and hold to 80s hairstyles. Gels provided a strong, long-lasting hold, while mousses added volume and texture without weighing the hair down. These products were applied to damp hair and worked through with the fingers or a comb.

The key to using gels and mousses effectively was moderation. Too much product could leave hair looking greasy or stiff, while too little would fail to provide the desired hold. Men had to experiment to find the right balance, often combining different products to achieve the perfect look.

The Legacy of 80s Men’s Hairstyles

The 1980s may be long gone, but their influence on men’s hairstyles continues to be felt today. The bold, voluminous looks of the era have left a lasting impact on fashion and culture, inspiring new generations to experiment with their hair. This section examines the legacy of 80s men’s hairstyles, their resurgence in recent years, and their enduring appeal.

The Resurgence of 80s Styles

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in 80s fashion, and hairstyles are no exception. The mullet, once considered a relic of the past, has made a comeback among younger generations. Modern interpretations of the style often feature updated cuts and styling techniques, but the essence of the mullet remains the same.

Similarly, the flat top and perm have seen a revival, with celebrities and influencers putting their own spin on these classic looks. The Jheri curl, while less common, has also experienced a resurgence, particularly within the African American community. These styles are a testament to the enduring appeal of 80s fashion and its ability to adapt to changing times.

The Influence on Modern Hairstyles

The 80s emphasis on volume and texture has had a lasting impact on modern hairstyles. Today’s men’s hairstyles often incorporate elements of 80s fashion, such as layered cuts, textured tops, and bold shapes. The use of styling products like gels and mousses has also become more widespread, thanks in part to the innovations of the 80s.

The era’s focus on self-expression and individuality continues to resonate with modern audiences. Men today are more willing to experiment with their hair, trying out bold colors, unconventional cuts, and unique styling techniques. This spirit of creativity and experimentation can be traced back to the 80s, when men’s hairstyles became a form of personal expression.

The Cultural Significance of 80s Hairstyles

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, 80s men’s hairstyles hold cultural significance. They represent a time of boldness and rebellion, when men were unafraid to stand out and make a statement. These hairstyles were a reflection of the era’s values and attitudes, and they continue to inspire new generations to embrace their individuality.

The 80s were also a time of innovation in men’s grooming. The development of new products and techniques revolutionized the way men cared for their hair, paving the way for the diverse range of options available today. This legacy of creativity and experimentation continues to shape the world of men’s fashion.