The 1980s were a vibrant and expressive era for men’s hairstyles. Hair became a form of self-expression, with iconic styles that defined the fashion-forward decade. From mullets to punk spikes, these hairstyles captured the spirit of the times and continue to inspire retro fashion trends today.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the popular 80s haircuts for men, the men’s hair trends of the 80s, and the iconic 80s hairstyles that made a lasting impact on men’s hairstyling in that era.
The Mullet
The mullet haircut was a quintessential 80s hairstyle that captured the spirit of the decade. It featured long hair in the back and shorter hair in the front, creating a unique and bold look. The mullet quickly became an iconic symbol of the 80s, representing a fusion of rebellion and fashion-forward style.
Patrick Swayze and Billy Ray Cyrus were among the celebrities who popularized the mullet, making it a lasting trend. The mullet came in various styles, including the rat-tail mullet and modern mullet, each offering its own twist on the classic look.
Despite its polarizing reputation, the mullet continues to inspire hairstyles today. From the 80s mullet that pays homage to its iconic roots to modern interpretations that add a fresh twist, the mullet remains a source of inspiration for those seeking a distinctive and daring hairstyle.
Iconic Mullet Styles
| Style | Description |
|---|---|
| Rat-Tail Mullet | A variation of the mullet that features a thin, elongated strand of hair hanging down from the back. |
| Modern Mullet | A contemporary take on the mullet, combining classic elements with updated styling techniques for a fresh look. |
Whether you’re a fan of the 80s mullet or looking for modern mullet inspiration, this iconic hairstyle continues to make a statement. Embrace the boldness and individuality the mullet represents, and let your hair reflect your unique personality.
Punk Look
The punk look of the 80s was all about rebellion and individuality. It featured spiked hair, vivid colors, and iconic styles like the liberty spike and punk mohawk. Artists like Billy Idol and Sid Vicious embodied the punk aesthetic, inspiring a generation of men to embrace their inner rebel.
With its roots in the punk rock movement, the punk hairstyle became a symbol of counterculture and nonconformity. Men who embraced this edgy style opted for spiked hair that defied gravity and challenged societal norms. The liberty spike, characterized by tall and upright spikes, was a popular choice among punk enthusiasts, while the punk mohawk brought a touch of wildness and individuality to the look.
One of the key aspects of the punk look was its vibrant and unconventional colors. Many punks dyed their hair bright hues like neon green, fiery red, and electric blue, creating a visual statement that expressed their rebellious spirit. This experimentation with hair color further solidified the punk hairstyle as a form of self-expression.
“The punk look represented freedom and a rejection of mainstream beauty standards. It allowed men to break free from societal norms and express their true selves through their hair.”
Whether it was the anarchistic energy of Sid Vicious or the seductive allure of Billy Idol, the punk hairstyle served as a powerful form of self-identity and rebellion. To this day, the punk look continues to inspire men seeking a hairstyle that embodies individuality, creativity, and a fearless attitude.
| Characteristics | Examples |
|---|---|
| Spiked hair | Billy Idol, Sid Vicious |
| Liberty spike | Sid Vicious |
| Punk mohawk | Billy Idol |
| Vibrant colors | Neon green, fiery red, electric blue |
Feathered Hair
Feathered hair was a popular 80s hairstyle that added volume and softness to men’s hair. It involved layers and a gentle, flowing style that created a sense of movement. This iconic hairstyle became synonymous with the 80s fashion trends and continues to inspire modern hairstyles.
The feathered mullet, rocked by John Stamos in the hit TV show Full House, became an instant style sensation. Stamos’s effortless and sleek feathered mullet inspired men across the nation to recreate this trendy look. With its layered texture and feather-like appearance, the feathered hairstyle perfectly embodied the carefree spirit of the 80s.
Benefits of Feathered Hair
- Added volume and movement to hair
- Soft and natural-looking texture
- Versatility for different hair lengths and types
- Low maintenance and easy to style
Whether it was a long flowing mane or a shorter, more structured cut, feathered hair allowed men to experiment with their style and express their individuality. The feathered hairstyle represented freedom, self-expression, and a departure from traditional grooming norms.
“Feathered hair was more than just a hairstyle; it was a statement. It exuded confidence, rebellion, and a touch of rock ‘n’ roll.”
How to Achieve Feathered Hair
To achieve the feathered hairstyle, it’s crucial to start with a haircut that incorporates layers. This technique creates the signature feathered effect. Styling products like mousse or volumizing spray can be used to add extra height and hold to the hair. Using a round brush, blow-dry the hair while lifting the roots to enhance the feathered texture.
| Tools and Products | Steps |
|---|---|
| 1. Comb | 1. Start with clean, towel-dried hair |
| 2. Round brush | 2. Apply a volumizing product to damp hair |
| 3. Blow dryer | 3. Use a round brush to lift the roots while blow-drying |
| 4. Styling product (mousse, hairspray) | 4. Apply a styling product to enhance volume and texture |
The feathered hairstyle remains a versatile and timeless choice for men looking to add style and movement to their hair. Whether paired with a casual outfit or a formal attire, this iconic 80s hairstyle continues to make a statement.
The Quiff
The quiff hairstyle was a popular choice in the 80s, known for its ability to add volume and exude modern sophistication. This iconic hairstyle featured longer hair on top, styled upward to create a voluminous look similar to a modern pompadour.
Renowned icons like George Michael and Huey Lewis embraced the quiff, showcasing its versatility and timeless appeal. By sporting the quiff, they demonstrated how this hairstyle could effortlessly elevate one’s overall aesthetic.
The quiff was characterized by its ability to grant men with voluminous hair. Its striking appearance captured attention and spoke to the fashion-forward nature of the 80s era.
Pompadour
The pompadour hairstyle was a popular choice in the 80s, capturing the essence of rock and roll with its voluminous top hair and slicked-back sides. This iconic look exuded sophistication and style, making it a favorite among fashion-forward individuals.
One famous celebrity who sported a trendy pompadour in the 80s was Antonio Banderas. His sleek and polished hairstyle became a symbol of rock and roll hair, combining elegance with a rebellious edge.
To achieve the perfect pompadour, individuals would style the hair on the top of the head into a voluminous mound, while the sides and back were slicked back tightly. This combination created a striking contrast and accentuated the height of the hairstyle.
Throughout the 80s, the pompadour became synonymous with confidence and charisma. It was a bold choice that added a touch of rockstar allure to any look, making it a beloved hairstyle for both men and women.
“The pompadour was a hairstyle that personified the rock and roll culture of the 80s. It was all about making a statement and embracing individuality.” – Celebrity Stylist
How to Style a Pompadour
Creating a pompadour hairstyle requires a few simple steps:
- Start with clean, dry hair
- Apply a styling product, such as pomade or hair gel, to add volume and hold
- Using a comb, lift the hair on top of the head and shape it into a mound
- Slick back the sides and back of the hair, ensuring a sleek and polished look
- Finish with a strong-hold hairspray to maintain the style throughout the day
With some practice and the right tools, anyone can achieve the classic pompadour look reminiscent of the 80s.
Take inspiration from Antonio Banderas and rock a pompadour hairstyle that combines sophistication with a touch of rebellious flair.
Pompadour vs. Slicked-Back Style
| Pompadour | Slicked-Back Style |
|---|---|
| Voluminous top hair | Tightly slicked-back sides |
| Sophisticated and stylish | Refined and polished |
| Exudes rock and roll vibes | Elegant and sleek |
Slicked-Back Style
The slicked-back hairstyle was a hallmark of suave and sophistication in the 80s. This iconic look created a refined and polished appearance that exuded confidence and style. It was often associated with characters like Gordon Gekko in Wall Street, portrayed by Michael Douglas.
The secret to achieving the perfect slicked-back hairstyle lies in its sleek and polished finish. By combing the hair back, using styling products like gel or pomade, and ensuring a smooth texture, men could effortlessly elevate their overall look to one of timeless elegance.
Whether attending a formal event or aiming to make a statement in a casual setting, the slicked-back hairstyle offered versatility and sophistication. Its popularity in the 80s cemented its status as a classic look that continues to inspire men’s grooming trends today.
Stay Sleek and Polished:
- Use a high-quality styling product like pomade or gel to ensure a sleek and shiny finish.
- Comb the hair back using a fine-toothed comb or a brush to achieve a neat and polished look.
- Consider slicking back the hair while it’s slightly damp for easier styling and better hold.
- Experiment with different hair lengths and textures to find the perfect variation of the slicked-back style that suits your face shape and personal style.
“The slicked-back hairstyle is a timeless choice for men looking to achieve a refined and sophisticated look. Its sleek and polished appearance exudes confidence and elegance.” – Celebrity hairstylist John Masters
Hair in the Workplace
The 80s witnessed a significant shift in workplace culture, challenging traditional norms and embracing more individuality and creativity in men’s grooming. The era brought with it a wave of innovative corporate hairstyles that were both stylish and professional.
One of the most iconic hairstyles of the decade was the business mullet. This hybrid style combined the business-like look of shorter hair in the front with the party-ready charm of longer hair in the back. The business mullet exemplified the changing attitudes towards men’s grooming in the workplace, allowing for a touch of flair and self-expression without compromising professionalism.
Textured styles also gained popularity in the 80s workplace culture. Men sought to add dimension and personality to their hairstyles through various techniques like layering, tousling, and creating soft waves. These textured styles were a departure from the traditional slicked-back looks of previous decades and added a contemporary touch to men’s grooming.
“The 80s workplace culture allowed for men to express their personal style and individuality through their hairstyles,” says renowned stylist Michael Johnson. “Men no longer felt the need to conform to strict grooming standards and started embracing more relaxed and textured looks.”
Corporate Hairstyles of the 80s
While the business mullet and textured styles were prominent in the workplace, various other corporate hairstyles solidified their presence during the 80s. Some notable mentions include:
- Classic side part: A timeless choice that exudes professionalism and sophistication.
- Quiff: This voluminous hairstyle added a touch of modernity to the office, giving men an effortlessly cool and stylish look.
- Structured pompadour: Seen as a power hairstyle, the pompadour demanded attention and conveyed authority.
| Corporate Hairstyles of the 80s | Description |
|---|---|
| Classic side part | A clean and polished look with a neatly parted hair that creates a timeless and professional appearance. |
| Quiff | A voluminous and stylish hairstyle characterized by a swept-back top with volume, giving men a contemporary and suave look. |
| Structured pompadour | A slicked-back hairstyle with a voluminous top, representing power and authority in the workplace. |
David Bowie’s Pompadour Mullet
David Bowie, a legend in both music and fashion, rocked a signature pompadour mullet that captured the spirit of the 70s and 80s. Known for his daring and innovative style, Bowie’s unique hairstyle became an iconic symbol of his artistic persona.
The key to achieving Bowie’s pompadour mullet is the proper cut. The hair on top should be left longer, while the sides and back are kept shorter, creating a contrast that adds dimension and visual interest to the hairstyle. This combination of a classic pompadour with the mullet’s characteristic longer back creates a bold and edgy look.
To recreate Bowie’s iconic hairstyle, styling products play a crucial role. Use a high-quality pomade or hair wax to create volume, hold the style in place, and add shine. Apply the product to damp hair and use a comb to shape the pompadour, lifting the hair at the front and smoothing it back.
Bowie’s pompadour mullet was ahead of its time, reflecting his artistic vision and unique personality. It perfectly complemented his music and fashion choices, making him a true style icon that continues to inspire generations. Embrace Bowie’s style inspiration and rock a pompadour mullet to channel the spirit of the 80s and pay homage to this legendary artist.
Michael Jackson’s Jheri Curl
Michael Jackson is renowned for his iconic 80s hairstyle, the Jheri Curl. This elegant and sophisticated look featured glossy, defined curls that captured the essence of 80s elegance. The Jheri Curl remains a timeless style that continues to inspire individuals seeking a touch of retro chic.
Maintaining the Jheri Curl requires proper care and regular maintenance. Curl activators are essential for achieving and maintaining the glossy curls. These products help to define and enhance the natural curl pattern, giving the hair that signature Jheri Curl look.
In addition to curl activators, it is crucial to follow proper hair care techniques. This includes gentle shampooing and conditioning to keep the hair hydrated and prevent dryness. Regular moisturizing treatments and deep conditioning sessions can help maintain the curls’ shine and softness, ensuring the Jheri Curl stays looking its best.