Rad Styles: The Definitive Guide to 80s Hairstyles for Men

The decade of excess, bold fashion, and groundbreaking music – the nineteen eighties. It was a time when individuality reigned supreme, and nowhere was this more evident than in the hairstyles. From the streets to the silver screen, men sported looks that were as distinct as the music that fueled the era. This guide is dedicated to the most iconic hairstyles for men, offering insights, styling tips, and modern adaptations to help you capture the spirit of the decade. Get ready to rewind, because we’re diving headfirst into the world of unforgettable looks.

The 1980s were a cultural melting pot. The rise of MTV, the explosion of new wave music, and the birth of hip-hop all contributed to a vibrant landscape where self-expression was king. Hairstyles weren’t just a way to look presentable; they were statements of identity, belonging, and sometimes, rebellion. Whether you wanted to emulate your favorite movie star, rock out like your heroes, or simply stand out from the crowd, the nineteen eighties had a style for you.

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

Perhaps no hairstyle embodies the spirit of the nineteen eighties more than the mullet. This distinctive look, characterized by shorter hair in the front and sides with significantly longer hair in the back, became a cultural phenomenon. It was a bold statement, a juxtaposition of practicality and playfulness, and a symbol of the decade’s anything-goes attitude. Musicians, actors, and everyday men embraced the mullet, making it a staple look.

To get this style right, growing your hair is key. Start by letting your hair grow out, aiming for a moderate length in the front and sides while allowing the back to flourish. Regular visits to a barber are essential to maintain the shape. The barber can blend the front and sides while shaping the back to achieve the desired “party” length. The maintenance involved shaping the front and sides every few weeks while letting the back grow.

The Jheri Curl: A Testament to Texture and Style

The Jheri curl represented an evolution in Black hairstyles, transforming the way men approached and cared for their hair. Named after hair stylist Jheri Redding, this chemical process created tight, defined curls that gave wearers a distinctive look. Celebrities like Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie, and countless others sported the Jheri curl, cementing its place in the annals of style history. The resulting look offered versatility, volume, and a unique aesthetic, but required careful maintenance.

The process involved a chemical relaxer to loosen the natural curl pattern, followed by a series of steps using curl activators, moisturizers, and specialized styling products. Due to the chemicals involved, proper maintenance was and remains crucial to avoid hair damage. Keeping the hair moisturized was paramount, using products designed for chemically treated hair.

The High-Top Fade: Elevating the Game

Emerging from the streets and quickly gaining traction, the high-top fade revolutionized men’s hairstyles, particularly within the hip-hop community. Characterized by closely shaved or faded sides and back, with a tall, flat top, this style was a statement of individuality and pride.

The evolution of the high-top fade reflected a burgeoning sense of Black identity and creativity. Iconic figures like Salt-N-Pepa and various hip-hop artists popularized the look, transforming it from a local trend to a global style.

Achieving the high-top fade requires precise barbering skills. Barbers use clippers to achieve the fade, gradually shortening the hair from the sides and back, blending it seamlessly with the longer hair on top. Regular touch-ups are necessary to maintain the crisp lines and defined shape. The top can then be styled in different ways, depending on the desired effect.

Spiky Hair: Defiance and Edge

Inspired by the punk and new wave scenes, spiky hair captured a rebellious spirit. This style was all about defying convention and embracing a raw, untamed aesthetic. It wasn’t just a hairstyle; it was an attitude. The style found a home amongst a wide range of men looking to express themselves.

To achieve a spiky look, the right products are essential. Gel, hairspray, and wax were the tools of the trade. Styling involved applying the product to damp or dry hair, then using fingers to create the desired spikes, shaping and molding them until the style sets.

The Flattop: Architectural Precision

The flattop was a hairstyle of precision and discipline. This military-inspired look featured a flat top that stood in stark contrast to closely shaved or faded sides. The result was a bold, strong aesthetic that became a symbol of confidence and control.

The flattop’s creation relied on skill and accuracy. Barbers used clippers to achieve the flat top, ensuring the hair on top was precisely level and perpendicular to the sides. The technique demanded a steady hand and an eye for detail.

The Perm: Waves and Volume

The perm, a style that added waves and curls to the hair. It was an exercise in volume and texture, giving straight hair a new dimension. Popular with both men and women, the perm became a symbol of glamour and individuality.

The perm process involved using chemicals to reshape the hair’s structure, followed by setting the hair on rollers. The curl pattern could vary depending on the size of the rollers, and the process needed expert application.

The Side Part: Classic Sophistication

While the other styles were bold and daring, the side part offered a touch of sophistication. The hair was neatly parted to the side, offering a polished and understated look.

Styling a side part could be as simple as combing your hair to the side. However, using products such as gel or pomade could provide hold and structure.

Essential Tools and Products: Building Your Style

The right tools and products are essential for achieving these looks. Let’s explore some must-haves:

Gel

Gel provides hold, shine, and definition.

Hairspray

Hairspray sets the style, ensuring it stays in place.

Mousse

Mousse adds volume and texture.

Wax

Wax gives hold and a matte finish.

Hairdryer & Styling Tools

A hairdryer helps mold the hair.

Choosing the Right Look

Consider your hair type and texture when selecting a nineteen eighties hairstyle. Thick, straight hair might be a good match for a flattop, while wavy hair might be perfect for a perm. Experimentation and finding the right product is important.

The Comeback: Embracing the Past

The past is always a source of inspiration. Styles from the nineteen eighties are experiencing a resurgence. Designers and fashion enthusiasts have embraced these looks.

The key to integrating these styles into the present is adapting them. You can tweak a mullet, or give the side part a modern twist. The point is to be confident and expressive.

The hairstyles of the nineteen eighties represent a moment in time, when self-expression took center stage. The looks are as varied as the individuals who sported them.

So, embrace the heritage of hair. Whether you choose a mullet, the high-top fade, or any of the other iconic looks, remember to have fun, be bold, and rock your style with confidence. The nineteen eighties are calling – are you ready to answer?