The 80s Hair Affair: A Tribute to Men’s Signature Styles

80s Mens Hairstyles: Rediscovering the Decades Signature Looks

Ah, the 1980s – a time when fashion was bold, music was loud, and hair was big. As a seasoned hairstylist, I've seen trends come and go, but there's something about the hairstyles of the '80s that keeps them coming back for more. Let's dive into the world of 1980s men's hairstyles, where more was always better.

The Permed Hair Phenomenon

Permed hair was the rage, and let me tell you, it wasn't just for the ladies. I remember clients coming in, asking for those tight coils that made them look like rockstars. The modern perm might be subtler, but back then, it was all about volume and texture.

Personal Anecdote: The Perm Request

I'll never forget the day a burly, tattooed biker walked into my salon and asked for a perm. At first, I thought he was joking, but he was serious. He wanted to look like Jon Bon Jovi, and by the time I was done with him, he did – and he loved it!

Big Hair with Volume

Big hair with volume was synonymous with the '80s. Think David Hasselhoff running in slow motion on the beach – that kind of volume. It was all about the blow dryer, mousse, and a can-do attitude toward gravity-defying heights.

The Hasselhoff Effect

I had clients who would come in with a picture of 'The Hoff' and say, "Make me look like this." It was a tall order, but nothing a little teasing and hairspray couldn't handle.

The High Top Fade

The high top fade was more than just a haircut; it was a statement. Popularized by hip-hop culture, it was as much about the height as it was about the crisp lines and angles.

Keeping It Fresh

I remember the first time I crafted a high top fade. It was like sculpting – every snip had to be precise. The result was always worth it, though. There's nothing like seeing someone walk out of your shop with an extra few inches of confidence.

Slicked Back Hair: The Power Look

Slicked back hair was the ultimate power move¹. It said, "I mean business," without uttering a single word. It was sleek, it was shiny, and it was all about the attitude.

Wall Street Wannabes

In the '80s, everyone wanted to be Gordon Gekko – at least in terms of hair. I had young guys in suits coming in, asking for that slicked-back look that screamed success.

The Iconic Jheri Curls

Jheri curls were a cultural icon, thanks to Michael Jackson¹. They were the perfect blend of tight curls and glossy finish. It was a look that required commitment, but it paid off in style.

The King of Pop's Influence

The day after the "Thriller" video dropped, my appointment book was full of Jheri curl requests. It was a busy time, but it was thrilling to help people channel their inner MJ.

The Buzz Cut: Simplicity at Its Best

Sometimes, simplicity wins, and the buzz cut was the epitome of easy maintenance¹. It was for the guy who wanted to look good without the fuss – a true classic.

The Cruise Control

Tom Cruise made the buzz cut cool in the '80s. I had more than a few young men sit in my chair, pointing to a picture of Cruise, hoping to capture that effortless charm.

The 1980s were a time of excess and expression, especially when it came to hair. As someone who's been in the trenches, cutting and styling through the decades, I can say that the '80s were some of the most fun years in men's hair. Whether it was the volume, the height, or the sheer boldness, the hairstyles of that era were a testament to the creativity and freedom of the time.

So, whether you're looking to recreate the '80s look for a themed party or just want to add a touch of retro flair to your style, remember this – the key to nailing any of these classic looks is confidence. Rock that perm, puff up that volume, and wear that high top fade with pride. After all, if the '80s taught us anything, it's that when it comes to hair, bigger and bolder is always better.