The 1980s was a transformative decade in fashion and culture, marked by bold, rebellious, and highly expressive trends. Men’s Hairstyles In The 80s played a pivotal role in this cultural shift, with hair becoming a significant expression of individuality and style. During this era, hairstyles weren’t just about looking good—they were a statement. As pop culture, music, and movies deeply influenced the world, men’s hair became an extension of personality, social status, and even musical or cinematic affiliations. From the rock ‘n’ roll glam of big hair to the sharp, stylish cuts seen in Hollywood films, men’s hairstyles in the 80s reflected the spirit of the time, where creativity and boldness ruled. This period saw the rise of iconic styles that became synonymous with music genres, iconic films, and the evolving societal mindset of self-expression.
Men’s Hairstyles In The 80s
Men’s hairstyles in the 80s were bold, expressive, and a reflection of the decade’s cultural shifts. From the iconic mullet to the high-top fade, hair became a key element of personal style and identity. Influenced by music, movies, and fashion, these hairstyles left a lasting impact on pop culture.
Men’s Mullet
The mullet is perhaps the most iconic and controversial hairstyle of the 80s, characterized by short hair on the front and sides with long hair at the back. It became a symbol of rebellion and individuality during the decade, worn by rock stars, athletes, and everyday men. Celebrities like David Bowie and Billy Ray Cyrus made the mullet even more recognizable, as it became synonymous with rock ‘n’ roll culture. Despite its divisive nature, the mullet enjoyed massive popularity, eventually becoming a symbol of fun and carefree 80s fashion.
The High-Top Fade
The high-top fade was a bold, angular haircut that became emblematic of African American culture in the 1980s. Popularized by hip-hop artists like Run-D.M.C. and Will Smith’s character in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, this hairstyle featured sharp, flat tops with neatly tapered sides. The style was often achieved with a combination of a fade on the sides and the top sculpted to stand tall and angular. Its influence on urban fashion and hip-hop culture made it an important symbol of black identity during the decade.
The Jheri Curl
The Jheri curl was a popular hairstyle for African American men in the 1980s, featuring tight, shiny curls that looked as though they were perpetually wet. The style was the result of a chemical process that left hair bouncy and full of shine, often achieved with a heavy dose of curl activator. Celebrities like Michael Jackson and Eddie Murphy embraced this look, and it became a major fashion statement. While it required a significant amount of maintenance, the Jheri curl was considered fashionable, smooth, and dynamic.
Flat Top
The flat top was a stylish and clean-cut haircut that gained immense popularity during the 80s, especially among African American men. The haircut featured hair that was cut short on the sides and top, with the top section of the hair standing up in a flat, square shape. This hairstyle was a favorite of both urban youth and professional athletes like NBA players, who showcased it as a symbol of modern, athletic cool. The flat top was simple, sharp, and easy to maintain, making it a practical yet fashionable choice.
The Crew Cut
The crew cut was a practical and clean hairstyle that became popular during the 80s, particularly among military personnel and athletes. It featured short, evenly trimmed hair all around, giving it a neat, polished appearance. This no-nonsense haircut was easy to maintain and gave a professional, sharp look. The crew cut was perfect for those who preferred a low-maintenance hairstyle that still exuded confidence and discipline.
Big, Voluminous Hair
Big, voluminous hair was one of the defining characteristics of 80s fashion, as men embraced fuller, more textured looks. With the help of hairspray, mousse, and curling irons, men styled their hair to achieve maximum volume. This was particularly true in the glam rock and heavy metal scenes, where musicians like Jon Bon Jovi and Axl Rose sported hair that defied gravity. This bold, larger-than-life style became an expression of rebellion and rock ‘n’ roll energy, influencing not just the music scene but mainstream fashion as well.
The Perm
The perm made a strong comeback in the 80s, as both men and women sought to achieve curly, voluminous hair. For men, the perm was a way to add texture and volume to otherwise straight hair, creating a more dynamic, full-bodied look. The style was especially popular among those in the glam rock and pop scenes, as musicians and actors embraced the curly look. The perm required regular maintenance and chemical treatments, but it offered a unique and distinctive hairstyle that became emblematic of the 80s aesthetic.
The Side Part
The side part was a classic and timeless hairstyle that remained popular throughout the 80s. It was characterized by a clean, defined part on one side of the head, with the hair combed neatly to the opposite side. This look exuded sophistication and maturity, often worn by men in business or more formal settings. While not as wild or bold as other styles of the 80s, the side part remained a symbol of traditional style, serving as an alternative to the more daring trends of the decade.
Spiked Hair
Spiked hair was a rebellious and edgy hairstyle that was often associated with punk rock and the alternative scene. Using gel or hair wax, men would create sharp, spiky textures that defied the natural flow of hair. The style became iconic in the 80s, especially among those who identified with the punk or new wave subcultures. It was a statement of defiance, individuality, and a break from mainstream norms. Celebrities and bands like The Cure and Billy Idol embraced this look, making spiked hair a staple of 80s youth culture.
Men’s Shag Haircut
The shag haircut made a return in the 1980s, taking inspiration from the 70s but with a more voluminous and layered approach. This style featured choppy, uneven layers that added texture and movement to the hair, often styled to look slightly messy or tousled. The shag was worn by both rock musicians and everyday men looking for a carefree, effortless look. It became a symbol of the laid-back yet stylish attitude of the 80s, often paired with leather jackets and denim jeans for a cool, casual vibe.
How Men Styled Their Hair in the 80s?
The 1980s was a time of bold self-expression, and men’s hairstyles became an important part of shaping personal style. With the rise of pop culture, music, and movies, hair salons and barbershops became cultural hubs where men gathered to transform their looks. Styling their hair wasn’t just a routine—it was an art form, as men experimented with a wide range of bold, creative styles. Below are some key trends and step-by-step guides on how men styled their hair during this iconic decade.
- The Rise of Barbershops and Hair Salons:
In the 80s, barbershops and salons were more than just places to get a haircut—they became cultural hubs for men to connect, get advice, and experiment with the latest trends. As hairstyles became a form of self-expression, these spaces provided the perfect environment for men to explore bold looks, ranging from high-top fades to the signature mullet. The rise of celebrity-driven trends meant that barbers were often asked for specific styles inspired by music icons and movie stars, making these establishments vital to 80s grooming culture. - Step-by-Step Guides on Achieving Iconic 80s Hairstyles:
Achieving the perfect 80s hairstyle required not only the right cut but also the use of specific tools and products. From heavy-duty hairspray to specialized gels, men learned how to sculpt their hair to achieve the voluminous, structured styles that defined the decade. Hair dryers, curling irons, and blow dryers became essential tools, with some styles requiring more intricate steps, such as the high-maintenance Jheri curl or the precision of a flat top. - The Mullet: Cutting Tips and Styling Techniques:
The mullet was the signature hairstyle of the 80s, featuring short hair on the front and sides with long hair in the back. To cut a mullet, barbers would trim the hair around the ears and forehead, leaving the back section significantly longer. Styling the mullet involved a bit of hairspray or gel to keep the front neat and controlled while allowing the back to flow freely. It was a low-maintenance yet rebellious style, popularized by rock stars like Billy Ray Cyrus and athletes, making it the epitome of 80s cool. - High-Top Fade: How to Create the Perfect Shape and Structure:
The high-top fade was a clean and sharp look that became synonymous with 80s hip-hop culture. To achieve this style, the hair on the top was shaved close to the scalp on the sides, while the top was left significantly longer and styled to stand tall and flat. Barbers would use clippers to fade the sides, blending it into the top section, which could be sculpted with gel or mousse for volume and height. This look was characterized by its geometric shape, requiring regular trims to maintain its perfect structure and symmetry. - The Jheri Curl: Maintaining the Wet Look and Shine:
The Jheri curl was a highly maintained, curly hairstyle that became a hallmark of 80s African American style. To achieve the Jheri curl, the hair would be chemically treated to create tight, shiny curls. Regular maintenance was essential, with curl activators and specialized oils used to maintain the wet, glossy look. Men with Jheri curls needed to apply activator every few days to keep the curls looking fresh and shiny, and regular trims were required to prevent frizz and maintain the defined curl pattern. - The Crew Cut: A Practical, Sharp, Military-Inspired Look:
The crew cut was a simple and practical hairstyle that gained popularity for its clean, military-inspired look. Barbers would trim the hair close to the scalp on the sides and back, while leaving a slightly longer section on top. This classic style was perfect for men who wanted a low-maintenance but polished look. It required minimal styling—often just a bit of gel or pomade to define the edges. The crew cut was favored by athletes, business professionals, and military personnel, representing a no-nonsense, sharp, and clean aesthetic that contrasted with the voluminous styles of the time.
FAQ
What were the most popular Men’s Hairstyles In The 80s?
The 80s were known for bold and expressive hairstyles. Popular looks included the mullet, high-top fade, Jheri curl, flat top, crew cut, and big, voluminous hair. Each style represented different aspects of 80s culture, from rock ‘n’ roll to hip-hop and urban fashion.
Why were mullets so popular in the 80s?
The mullet became iconic in the 80s because it symbolized rebellion and individuality. With short hair on the front and sides and long hair at the back, it became synonymous with rock stars, athletes, and a carefree attitude. It was a statement of non-conformity, often associated with musicians like Billy Ray Cyrus and stars of the era.
How did men achieve the high-top fade in the 80s?
To achieve the high-top fade, the sides were clipped short while the top was left longer and styled to stand flat and square. The hair was usually sculpted with gel or mousse for extra height and structure. It required regular maintenance to keep the shape sharp and precise, making it a signature look of the hip-hop community during the 80s.
What is a Jheri curl and how did maintain Men’s Hairstyles In The 80s?
The Jheri curl was a chemical process that created tight, shiny curls with a wet, glossy appearance. To maintain the look, men used curl activators and oils to keep the curls hydrated and shiny. This hairstyle required regular treatments and was known for its high maintenance, but it became synonymous with 80s pop culture, thanks to figures like Michael Jackson.
Hi, I’m Kortnee Vancleave, a hairstylist based in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. I’ve always had a passion for hair, which led me to pursue my education at Paul Mitchell Cosmetology, where I trained in cosmetology, barbering, styling, and nail instruction. As the proud owner of Top Knot Stylist, I’ve spent years perfecting my craft and sharing my love for hair with clients.
I created my website as a resource to inspire both women and men with fresh, creative hairstyle ideas. Whether you’re looking for classic cuts or bold transformations, I’m here to help you find your next look!