Black Hairstyle In The 80'S
The 80's were a defining era for black hairstyles. From the rise of hip hop culture to the emergence of the African American middle class, black hair was an expression of identity, style, and pride. In this article, we will take a look back at some of the most iconic black hairstyles of the 80's and their significance.
The Jheri Curl
The Jheri Curl was a popular hairstyle for men and women alike in the 80's. It was a low-maintenance style that required a perm and daily application of activator spray to maintain its wet look. The Jheri Curl was popularized by celebrities like Michael Jackson, Rick James, and Lionel Richie, and it became a symbol of black coolness and relaxation.
The Hi-Top Fade
The Hi-Top Fade was a bold and edgy hairstyle that was popularized by hip hop artists like Kid 'n Play and Big Daddy Kane. It was characterized by a short buzz cut on the sides with a longer, flat top that could be styled into various shapes, like a box or a slope. The Hi-Top Fade was a way for black men to express their individuality and rebellion against traditional hairstyles.
The Box Braid
The Box Braid was a protective hairstyle that became popular in the 80's. It involved braiding synthetic or human hair into small, square-shaped sections that hung from the scalp. The Box Braid was a practical and stylish choice for black women who wanted to protect their natural hair from damage due to chemicals and heat styling. It was also a way for black women to celebrate their cultural heritage and showcase their artistic braiding skills.
The Finger Wave
The Finger Wave was a classic hairstyle that was popularized in the 1920's, but it made a comeback in the 80's thanks to black celebrities like Janet Jackson and Whitney Houston. It involved using a comb and gel to create waves and curls that looked like they were molded by fingers. The Finger Wave was a glamorous and elegant style that suited both short and long hair, and it was often worn with bold accessories like earrings and headbands.
The Afro
The Afro was a revolutionary hairstyle that emerged in the 60's, but it continued to be worn by black men and women in the 80's as a symbol of black pride and resistance. It involved growing out natural hair into a round, fluffy shape that defied Eurocentric beauty standards. The Afro was a political and cultural statement that signaled unity, strength, and identity.
In conclusion, black hairstyles in the 80's were not just about fashion, but also about empowerment, self-expression, and cultural heritage. From the Jheri Curl to the Afro, these hairstyles represented different aspects of black identity and challenged mainstream beauty norms. Today, many of these hairstyles are still popular and relevant, proving that black hair is not just a trend, but a timeless art form.