Why Was Hair Curly In The 80s? The Secret Reasons Behind The Signature Look

The 1980s witnessed an explosion of hair volume and curls, leaving an indelible mark on fashion and culture. From the iconic perm to the towering bouffant, curly hair reigned supreme. But what drove this enigmatic hair phenomenon? Let’s unravel the secrets behind the curly craze of the ’80s.

The Rise of the Perm

The perm, short for permanent wave, emerged as the key ingredient to achieving the coveted curly look. This chemical treatment broke down the hair’s structure, allowing it to be reshaped into a variety of curls and waves. While perms had existed before, the 1980s marked their widespread adoption, thanks to advancements in hair care technology.

The Influence of Pop Culture

The ’80s was a decade of bold fashion and music, and hair played a pivotal role. Iconic musicians like Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, and Whitney Houston sported voluminous, curly hairstyles, inspiring millions to emulate their looks. Television shows and movies also featured characters with larger-than-life hair, further cementing the trend.

The Search for Volume

In the era of big shoulder pads and bold colors, hair needed to match the overall aesthetic. Curly hair provided the perfect solution, adding height and body to even the thinnest of strands. Teasing and backcombing became essential techniques for creating the illusion of even greater volume.

The Embrace of Natural Texture

While perms were popular, many women also embraced their natural curls. The ’80s marked a shift towards celebrating diversity and individuality, and curly hair became a symbol of both. Products like mousse and gels helped define and enhance natural curls, giving them the same level of prominence as permed hair.

The Influence of Technology

Advances in hair dryers and styling tools made it easier than ever to achieve curly hair. Hot rollers and curling irons became essential for creating a variety of curls, while hairspray provided the necessary hold. The ability to style hair at home empowered women to experiment with different looks and create their own unique styles.

The End of an Era

By the end of the ’80s, the curly hair craze gradually subsided. Straighter, sleeker styles gained popularity, influenced by grunge music and the rise of minimalism. However, the legacy of ’80s curly hair lives on in fashion and pop culture, inspiring nostalgia and appreciation for the era’s bold and experimental hairstyles.

Key Points: Embracing the ’80s Curl Legacy

The curly hair phenomenon of the 1980s was a product of cultural influences, technological advancements, and the desire for volume and individuality. While the trend may have faded, the impact of ’80s curly hair remains evident in the continued appreciation for curls and the celebration of diverse hair textures.

Top Questions Asked

1. Why did curly hair become so popular in the 1980s?
A: The perm revolutionized hair styling, pop culture icons embraced curly looks, and the pursuit of volume and individuality drove the trend.

2. What was the most popular perm style in the ’80s?
A: The spiral perm, with tight, corkscrew-like curls, was a signature hairstyle of the decade.

3. What products were essential for styling curly hair in the ’80s?
A: Mousse, gels, hairspray, and hot rollers were key tools for defining and maintaining curls.

4. How did natural curls influence the ’80s hair trend?
A: The ’80s celebrated diversity and individuality, and many women embraced their natural curls as a symbol of self-expression.

5. What factors contributed to the decline of curly hair popularity in the ’90s?
A: Changing fashion trends, the rise of grunge music, and the preference for sleeker, straighter styles led to the gradual decline of curly hair‘s dominance.