Women's Hair in the 80s: A Blast from the Big and Bold Past

04 Sep 2024

Remember the days when shoulder pads rivaled skyscrapers and neon was a staple in every wardrobe? The 1980s were a time of bold fashion choices, and hair was no exception. Women's hairstyles in the 80s were all about volume, texture, and making a statement. Think big curls, crimped waves, and an unapologetic embrace of hairspray.

This era wasn't just about following trends; it was about expressing individuality and pushing boundaries. Women were stepping into new roles in society, and their hairstyles reflected this newfound confidence and desire to be seen and heard.

From pop icons like Madonna and Cyndi Lauper to the everyday woman on the street, 80s hairstyles were as diverse as the women who wore them. Whether it was the sleek, straight hair popularized by Princess Diana or the wild, untamed manes of rock stars, there was a style for everyone.

So, what fueled this obsession with big hair? The 80s marked a departure from the more natural styles of the previous decade. Women were experimenting with new technologies like hot rollers, curling irons, and, of course, copious amounts of hairspray. This era was all about embracing artificiality and pushing the limits of what could be achieved with a little bit (or a lot) of styling.

This exploration of 80s women's hair wouldn't be complete without mentioning the accessories. Scrunchies in every color imaginable, headbands worthy of a workout montage, and banana clips that defied gravity - these were the hallmarks of a true 80s hair aficionado. It was a time when more was definitely more, and hair accessories were just another way to express your unique personality.

Advantages and Disadvantages of 80s Hairstyles

Advantages	Disadvantages
Expressive and Individual: 80s styles allowed for immense creativity and personalization. Confidence Boosting: The volume and boldness of many 80s hairstyles instilled a sense of confidence. Memorable and Iconic: These hairstyles remain instantly recognizable and often associated with a sense of fun and rebellion.	Time-Consuming: Achieving these looks often required extensive styling routines. Potential Hair Damage: The heavy use of heat and hairspray could lead to dryness and breakage. Not Always Practical: The extreme volume and use of accessories wasn't suitable for every occasion.

Best Practices for Recreating 80s Hairstyles

Want to channel your inner 80s diva? Here are some tips to get you started:

Start with the Right Tools: Invest in a good curling iron, crimper (if you dare!), and a teasing comb.
Embrace the Hairspray: Don't be shy! Hairspray is your best friend when it comes to holding those styles in place.
Don't Fear the Volume: Teasing, backcombing, and volumizing products are key to achieving that signature 80s height.
Accessorize Wisely: Choose accessories that complement your style and add an extra touch of 80s flair.
Have Fun with It: The beauty of 80s hair is that it's all about expressing yourself, so don't be afraid to experiment and have some fun!

The 80s were a time of experimentation and self-expression, and women's hair took center stage. From the iconic big curls to the vibrant accessories, these hairstyles continue to captivate and inspire. So, whether you're looking for a fun throwback look or simply appreciate the boldness of the era, there's no denying the impact that 80s women's hair has had on the world of style.