The Rise(Literally) of Big Layered 80s Hair.

If heaven has a hairstyle, it’s probably sitting under a cloud of Aqua Net, wearing shoulder pads, and blasting Take On Me.

Because 80s hair wasn’t just hair — it was an architectural achievement. A commitment. A lifestyle. Quite possibly its own zip code.

Let’s travel back.

When Did Bigger Layered 80s Hair Start?

The roots (no pun intended, but absolutely intended) trace back to the late 1970s, when styles like the feathered hair of Farrah Fawcett whispered volume. But by the early 1980s, that whisper turned into a full-blown wind tunnel.

By 1982–1985, the trend was unstoppable: mall bangs, cascading layers, teased crowns, and the iconic “I just got electrocuted but in a cute way” vibe dominated the streets.

From pop stars to hair-metal gods to suburban teens standing in their bathrooms with a round brush and a prayer — everyone went big.

Why Was the Hair SO Big?

Because the economy was up, MTV was new, and subtlety was absolutely not invited.

Also:

• It made your head look smaller.

• It added three inches to your height (without heels).

• It signaled dominance — like a lion’s mane, but with mousse.

The Not-So-Secret Formula: Products That Built the Big Hair Empire

Here are the Top 5 Most Iconic 80s Hair Products — aka the chemicals that held an entire generation together.

1. Aqua Net Super Hold Hairspray

The unofficial oxygen of the 80s. You could secure a marriage proposal with this stuff — or at least your bangs.

2. Dep Hair Gel (Level 10, obviously)

If your hair wasn’t crunchy enough to break off like tortilla chips, you were doing it wrong.

3. Rave 4X Mega Hairspray

Aqua Net’s slightly classier cousin who still meant business. If your hair didn’t move, Rave was responsible.

4. Vidal Sassoon Mousse

A mousse used to “define layers,” but in reality just helped them live their best, fluffiest life.

5. Hot Rollers

Not a product, but a lifestyle choice. They delivered the signature bouncy layers and “TV anchorwoman” volume.

What Made the Layers So… Layered?

The magic formula:

Short layers on top + long layers at the bottom + relentless teasing + hairspray = The 80s Hair Trinity.

The top layer was always ready to fight.

The bottom layer was sexy.

The middle layer existed purely for support.

When Did Big Layered 80s Hair Start to Die Out?

Around 1991–1993, the trend slowly deflated, again— literally.

Suddenly, everyone wanted to look effortless. Enter:

• minimalism

• grunge

• the “I barely brushed my hair today” aesthetic

• Jennifer Aniston with The Rachel (the haircut that ended 80s volume with a single layered swoop)

By 1995, big hair wasn’t dead… but it was definitely on life support, calling for one last bottle of Aqua Net.

Why We Still Love It Today

Because it was bold.

It was unapologetic.

It was fun.

And frankly? The world could use a little more fun. So if you're brave enough...BRING IT BACK!