The 1980s. Big hair, bold shoulders, and even bolder makeup. Prom night in the 80s was a spectacle of vibrant style, a far cry from the more understated looks of today. If you're looking to recreate the iconic 80s prom aesthetic, or just curious about what defined the decade's prom scene, this guide will take you back in time. We'll explore the quintessential hair and makeup trends, answering some frequently asked questions along the way.
What were the most popular 80s prom hairstyles?
The 80s were all about volume! Think teased, backcombed, and heavily lacquered styles reaching for the sky. Some of the most popular prom hairstyles included:
- Big, voluminous curls: Achieved with curlers, hot rollers, or even perms, these curls were teased to add even more volume and height. Think Farrah Fawcett flipped-out layers or even a full-on bouffant.
- High ponytails and buns: These were often teased at the crown and secured with copious amounts of hairspray for maximum hold and shine.
- Side ponytails with volume: Similar to high ponytails, but with the added flair of a dramatic side sweep.
- Crimped hair: The crimping iron was an 80s staple, creating a textured, wavy look that could be styled into various updos or left loose.
What kind of makeup was popular at 80s proms?
80s prom makeup was all about vibrant colors and a strong, defined look. Key features included:
- Bold eyeshadow: Think bright blues, greens, purples, and pinks, often applied heavily and blended less-than-perfectly for a dramatic effect. A popular technique was layering colors, with a darker shade in the crease and a lighter shade on the lid.
- Dark eyeliner and mascara: Thick, dramatic eyeliner, both liquid and pencil, was essential. Mascara was applied liberally to create long, luscious lashes.
- Blush: Generally, a rosy blush was applied high on the cheekbones, sometimes extending upwards towards the temples.
- Bright lipstick: Think bright pinks, reds, and corals – often applied directly from the tube for maximum impact.
How can I achieve the 80s prom look today?
While some 80s trends might seem extreme by today's standards, recreating the look is surprisingly achievable with a few key products and techniques. Remember, the 80s were about fun, so don't be afraid to experiment! Focus on volume in your hair, using techniques like backcombing and teasing, and don't be shy with the hairspray. For makeup, embrace bright, bold colors and don't be afraid to be dramatic.
What products did they use for 80s prom hair?
The secret weapon of 80s hair was, without a doubt, hairspray. Lots and lots of hairspray. Alongside this, you'd find:
- Teasing combs: Essential for creating volume at the roots.
- Hot rollers: To create voluminous curls.
- Curling irons: For more defined curls and waves.
- Hair mousse: To add volume and hold.
What were some common 80s prom makeup mistakes?
While the 80s celebrated bold choices, some makeup trends haven't aged well. Avoid:
- Overly heavy foundation: A lighter touch on foundation is more flattering by today's standards.
- Mismatched eyeshadow and lipstick colors: While bold colors were key, strive for some harmony between your eyeshadow and lip colors.
How do I find 80s prom inspiration for my hair and makeup?
Looking for inspiration? Search online for images of 80s prom photos, celebrity hairstyles from the era (think Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, or even Molly Ringwald), and 80s movies. Pinterest and Instagram are also great sources for tutorials and inspiration. Remember, the key to a successful 80s prom look is embracing the bold and having fun! Don't be afraid to experiment and find a style that suits your personality.
