Hairspray Heroes: Reliving the Epic Big Hair of the 80s

08 May 2024

13 Hairstyles You Totally Wore in the '80s

Close your eyes and picture the 1980s. What comes to mind? Synthesizers? Leg warmers? Shoulder pads, perhaps? It's impossible to think about this iconic decade without picturing a cascade of gravity-defying, larger-than-life...big hair! It was a hairstyle, a statement, a way of life. But how did this trend explode onto the scene and become so deeply ingrained in 80s culture?

The roots of 80s big hair can be traced back to the late 70s, with the glamorous excess of disco and the free-spirited vibe of bohemian styles. Think Donna Summer's voluminous curls or the tousled waves of Fleetwood Mac. As the 80s dawned, these influences morphed into something bolder, something that screamed for attention – and hairspray. This was the era of power dressing, of ambitious career women and pop icons unafraid to express themselves. Big hair became a symbol of confidence, individuality, and an unyielding desire to push boundaries.

From the teased-to-heaven perms of Jon Bon Jovi and the sculpted masterpieces of Madonna to the iconic curls of Whitney Houston, big hair transcended musical genres and infiltrated every corner of pop culture. Movies like "Flashdance" and "Working Girl" showcased the trend, while TV shows like "Dynasty" and "Dallas" made it synonymous with glamour and power.

Creating these gravity-defying masterpieces required dedication – and a whole lot of product. Hairspray became a staple, holding each carefully sculpted curl and wave in place. Crimping irons, hot rollers, and teasing combs were essential tools of the trade, used to add volume and texture. The bigger, the bolder, the better!

While the trend eventually faded as the 90s ushered in a more relaxed aesthetic, the legacy of 80s big hair remains. It's a reminder of an era defined by its boldness, its willingness to take risks, and its celebration of individuality. And who knows, maybe with the cyclical nature of fashion, we'll see a resurgence of this iconic style soon! (Just maybe with a slightly more modern twist.)

Advantages and Disadvantages of Big Hair

Advantages	Disadvantages
Expressive and Individualistic	High Maintenance
Boosted Confidence	Prone to Damage from Heat and Products
Complemented Bold Fashion Trends	Could be Impractical for Daily Life

Best Practices for Achieving 80s Big Hair

Want to relive the magic of 80s big hair? Here's how to channel your inner rockstar (or pop princess!):

Start with the Right Cut: Layers are your best friend! They add volume and movement, essential for creating that signature 80s shape.
Embrace the Perm (Or Fake It!): A perm was practically a rite of passage in the 80s, but today, you can achieve similar curls with hot rollers or a curling iron.
Tease It Up: Backcombing, or teasing, is key to achieving dramatic volume. Use a teasing comb and hairspray to lift the roots and create a solid base for your style.
Hairspray Is Your Best Friend: Don't be shy with the hairspray! It's essential for holding your style in place and fighting off humidity.
Accessorize with Attitude: Finish off your look with bold headbands, scrunchies, or even a side ponytail for extra 80s flair.

FAQs: Unraveling the Mysteries of 80s Big Hair

Still have questions about this iconic hairstyle? We've got the answers!

Q: What products were essential for 80s big hair?
A: Think hairspray (lots of it!), mousse for volume, gel for hold, and often, a whole lot of teasing!
Q: Was big hair just for women?
A: Not at all! Male rockstars like Jon Bon Jovi and David Lee Roth embraced big hair with equal enthusiasm.
Q: What inspired the big hair trend of the 80s?
A: The glam rock and disco scenes of the late 70s, the rise of powerful female figures in music and entertainment, and a general desire for bold, expressive styles all contributed.

From its iconic presence in music videos and movies to its powerful statement of individuality, big hair in the 80s was more than just a hairstyle; it was a cultural phenomenon. It reminds us of an era that dared to dream big, embrace individuality, and express itself without reservation. So, why not tap into that fearless spirit and try a little volume yourself? You might be surprised at how empowering a little extra "oomph" can be!