80s Big Hair: A Voluminous Journey Through Time

Introduction:
Embark on a nostalgic adventure into the era of towering tresses and gravity-defying volume. The 80s big hair phenomenon captivated the world, becoming an iconic symbol of the decade's bold and exuberant style. Join us as we explore the history, techniques, and enduring legacy of this captivating hair trend.

The Dawn of the 'Big Hair' Era

In the early 1980s, a wave of rebellion against the tame and conservative hairstyles of the previous decade swept across the globe. Inspired by the glam rock and punk movements, artists and fashion icons alike sought voluminous, attention-grabbing locks.

Key Pioneers and Influencers:

• Farrah Fawcett: Her iconic "Farrah Flick" haircut, featuring ample layers and feathering, became synonymous with the 80s big hair trend.
• Pat Benatar: The rock legend's gravity-defying mane, often styled with a bouffant and teased curls, epitomized the rebellious spirit of the era.
• Madonna: The pop icon experimented with various big hair styles, including curly perms, spiked mohawks, and high ponytails.

Techniques for Achieving Voluminous Locks

The pursuit of big hair required a range of innovative techniques that pushed the boundaries of hair styling.

Perming and Teasing:

• Perming: Chemical treatments broke down and reformed the hair's bonds, creating curls or waves that added volume and texture.
• Teasing: Backcombing strands at the roots created friction, separating the hair and making it look thicker.

Layering and Feathering:

• Layering: Cutting hair in layers created a graduated effect that gave the illusion of more volume.
• Feathering: Razoring or cutting into hair ends thinned them out, reducing weight and enhancing fullness.

Products and Tools:

• Hairspray: Strong-hold hairspray was the cornerstone of big hair, locking in volume and preventing hair from collapsing.
• Volume-Enhancing Shampoos and Conditioners: Formulas specifically designed to plump up hair strands and boost body became popular.
• Jumbo Rollers: Large rollers were used to create big, bouncy curls that added height and volume to the hair.

The Social and Cultural Impact of Big Hair

The 80s big hair trend transcended aesthetics, becoming a reflection of the decade's societal shifts and aspirations.

Empowerment and Confidence:

• For many women, towering hair symbolized a sense of empowerment and confidence.
• It challenged traditional beauty standards and encouraged individuality and self-expression.

Youth Culture and Rebellion:

• Big hair became a defining feature of the vibrant youth culture of the 80s.
• It represented a break from the past and a desire to push boundaries.

Commercial Success:

• The big hair trend fueled a booming industry of hair salons, styling products, and accessories.
• It created a significant economic impact and helped shape the fashion and beauty landscape of the time.

The Legacy of 80s Big Hair

Despite the decline of big hair's popularity in the late 1980s, its influence continues to resonate in contemporary hairstyles.

Modern Adaptations:

• Elements of big hair, such as layering and volumizing techniques, have been incorporated into modern hairstyles for added texture and body.
• Contemporary stylists often blend big hair principles with other trends to create unique and flattering styles.

Cultural Significance:

• Big hair remains an iconic symbol of the 1980s, evoking nostalgia and a retro aesthetic.
• It has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and fashion editorials, echoing its enduring cultural relevance.

3 Inspirational Stories of Embracing Big Hair

1. The Confidence Booster:
Sarah, a timid and self-conscious teenager, struggled with low self-esteem. Encouraged by a friend, she visited a salon to get a big hair perm. The dramatic transformation gave her an instant boost of confidence, helping her overcome her insecurities.

2. The Creative Expression:
As a young artist, Jessica experimented with different hair colors and styles. Her signature look became a voluminous, spiked mohawk that reflected her bold and unconventional personality. Through her hair, she expressed her creativity and defied societal norms.

3. The Career-Changer:
After years working in a corporate environment, Mary decided to pursue her passion for hair styling. She enrolled in a beauty school and quickly became known for her expertise in creating voluminous, glamorous hairstyles. Her big hair creations became her calling card, leading to a successful and fulfilling career.

Effective Strategies for achieving 80s Big Hair

• Choose the right haircut: Layers and feathering create volume.
• Perming or teasing: Add curls or texture for extra height.
• Use volume-enhancing products: Shampoos, conditioners, and hairsprays can plump up hair strands.
• Blow dry upside down: Lift roots and create volume by blow-drying hair upside down.
• Use large rollers: Big rollers will create bouncy, voluminous curls.
• Backcomb at the roots: Gently tease hair at the roots to add fullness.
• Protect your hair: Use heat protectant spray and avoid excessive teasing to prevent hair damage.

Tips and Tricks for Maintaining Big Hair

• Refresh with hairspray: Reapply hairspray throughout the day to keep hair in place.
• Avoid over-brushing: Brushing too frequently can flatten hair.
• Condition regularly: Keep hair moisturized to prevent frizz and breakage.
• Use dry shampoo: Dry shampoo can absorb excess oils and boost volume.
• Experiment with styles: Create different big hair looks by varying curl sizes or teasing techniques.
• Embrace your individuality: There is no one-size-fits-all approach to big hair. Find a style that complements your face shape and personality.

Pros and Cons of 80s Big Hair

Pros:

• Volume and Height: Big hair adds dramatic volume and height, creating a striking and attention-grabbing look.
• Confidence Boost: For many people, big hair can enhance self-confidence and foster a sense of empowerment.
• Fashion Statement: Big hair became an iconic fashion statement of the 1980s, representing a bold and rebellious style.

Cons:

• Time-Consuming Styling: Creating and maintaining big hair can be time-consuming and require significant styling effort.
• Hair Damage: Excessive teasing, perming, and blow-drying can damage hair, leading to breakage and frizz.
• Limited Hairstyle Options: Big hair may limit the versatility of hairstyles, as it may not be suitable for all occasions or face shapes.

Call to Action

Whether you're looking to embrace the nostalgic charm of 80s big hair or simply add volume and pizzazz to your current style, it's time to channel your inner rebel and go big. Experiment with different techniques, embrace your individuality, and let your hair soar to new heights. Remember, the bigger the hair, the closer to heaven!

Table 1: Top 80s Big Hair Products and Brands

Table 2: Comparison of Different Big Hair Styling Techniques

Table 3: Benefits and Risks of 80s Big Hair