Iconic African American 80s Hairstyles for Black Females: A Journey of Style and CultureAfrican

african american 80s hairstyles black female
4 months ago

The 1980s was a decade of bold fashion, vibrant music, and expressive hairstyles, particularly in the African American community. For Black women, hairstyles were not only a way to showcase personal style but also a powerful form of cultural expression. From voluminous curls to intricate braids, African American 80s hairstyles for Black females were iconic, and many of these styles continue to influence modern trends today.

In this article, we’ll explore the most popular African American 80s hairstyles for Black women, the cultural significance behind these styles, and how they helped define the beauty standards of the era.

Table of Contents on African American 80s hairstyles for Black females

The Cultural Impact of African American Hairstyles in the 80s

Iconic African American 80s Hairstyles for Black Women

2.1. The Jheri Curl

2.2. Box Braids

2.3. Cornrows

2.4. The High Top Fade

2.5. Afro Puffs

2.6. The Asymmetrical Bob

2.7. Bantu Knots

2.8. The Finger Wave

Hair Accessories of the 80s

The Legacy of African American 80s Hairstyles in Modern Fashion

Conclusion


1. The Cultural Impact of African American Hairstyles in the 80s

For Black women, hairstyles have always been a deeply personal and cultural aspect of their identity. In the 1980s, hairstyles became even more symbolic, reflecting the empowerment and pride of the Black community during a time of social and political change. Influenced by the rise of hip hop culture, R&B music, and the increasing visibility of Black women in entertainment, African American 80s hairstyles for Black females were diverse, bold, and innovative.

These hairstyles were more than just trends; they represented self-expression, resistance against Eurocentric beauty standards, and a celebration of African heritage. The 80s was a time when Black women embraced their natural hair textures and found creative ways to style them.

2. Iconic African American 80s Hairstyles for Black Women

The 1980s was a decade that introduced many iconic hairstyles that remain influential in Black culture today. Here are some of the most memorable African American 80s hairstyles for Black females.

2.1. The Jheri Curl

The Jheri Curl was one of the most recognizable hairstyles of the 1980s for African Americans. Made famous by celebrities like Michael Jackson and Lionel Richie, the Jheri Curl gave wearers loose, glossy curls that were soft and bouncy. This style was loved for its shine and movement but required consistent maintenance and moisture to keep it from drying out.

For Black women, the Jheri Curl was a stylish alternative to the Afro and allowed for a looser curl pattern while still celebrating natural hair.

2.2. Box Braids

Box braids became a staple in the 80s thanks to women like Janet Jackson and Salt-N-Pepa. These protective braids, styled in square-shaped sections, were practical, versatile, and low-maintenance. Black women could wear their box braids long, short, or in intricate updos, making this style a favorite for its adaptability and cultural significance.

Box braids were not only stylish but also a direct nod to African heritage, as braiding has been a part of African culture for centuries.

2.3. Cornrows

Cornrows are another classic style that gained widespread popularity during the 80s. The tight, intricate braids were often designed in symmetrical patterns that showcased both creativity and skill. Cornrows were worn by both men and women, but for Black women, the style became a versatile option for everyday wear, special occasions, or under wigs and weaves.

Cornrows, like box braids, hold deep cultural roots, symbolizing a connection to African traditions and an appreciation for the artistry of Black hair.

african american 80s hairstyles black female

2.4. The High Top Fade

Though the High Top Fade is more commonly associated with men, Black women in the 80s also embraced this edgy and cool hairstyle. Characterized by shaved sides and a tall, rectangular-shaped top, this style became an iconic look in hip hop culture.

Female artists like Grace Jones helped to popularize this look for women, adding their own twist by keeping the style slightly softer or more dramatic depending on their preference.

2.5. Afro Puffs

Afro puffs were another fun and youthful hairstyle that African American women loved in the 80s. This style involved pulling the hair into two or more puffs, usually on either side of the head, creating a playful yet chic look. Afro puffs were often accessorized with colorful bands or ribbons, adding a touch of flair to the style.

Afro puffs allowed women to showcase their natural texture while maintaining an easy-to-style, low-maintenance look.

2.6. The Asymmetrical Bob

The Asymmetrical Bob was a cutting-edge hairstyle that rose to prominence in the 80s, particularly in the R&B and hip hop scenes. Singers like Salt-N-Pepa made this look famous with their short, angular bobs that featured one side longer than the other. This style exuded confidence and individuality, making it a favorite among Black women who wanted to make a statement.

2.7. Bantu Knots

Bantu knots, also known as “Zulu knots,” are small coiled sections of hair that are twisted and wrapped into mini buns. This hairstyle, deeply rooted in African culture, was both functional and fashionable in the 80s. Black women embraced Bantu knots not only for their cultural significance but also for the bold and defined look they offered.

This style also worked as a protective hairstyle and, when unraveled, could be worn as a curly textured style the next day.

2.8. The Finger Wave

The Finger Wave is a sleek and sophisticated hairstyle that made a comeback in the 1980s after originally being popular in the 1920s and 30s. Black women embraced this look for its smooth, polished appearance and vintage charm. It involved sculpting the hair into S-shaped waves close to the scalp using a comb and gel.

Finger waves were often paired with short haircuts, giving Black women a chic and elegant style that was perfect for formal occasions or everyday glamour.

african american 80s hairstyles black female

3. Hair Accessories of the 80s

Hairstyles in the 80s were often complemented by bold and colorful accessories. From large, chunky headbands to oversized scrunchies, accessories played a crucial role in enhancing the overall look of African American 80s hairstyles for Black females.

Popular accessories included:

Hair beads: Frequently used with braids or cornrows, beads added a playful and cultural touch to hairstyles.

Scarves and head wraps: Often worn to protect hair or as a fashion statement, head wraps and scarves became popular in both casual and formal settings.

Barrettes and pins: Glittery and metallic barrettes were often used to pin back sections of hair or to add a touch of sparkle to any style.

4. The Legacy of African American 80s Hairstyles in Modern Fashion

Many of the iconic African American 80s hairstyles for Black females have made a strong comeback in recent years. Celebrities, influencers, and everyday women are revisiting these classic looks with a modern twist, showing the timeless nature of Black hair fashion.

From box braids to finger waves, the 80s served as an era of bold experimentation and self-expression, setting the foundation for future trends. Today, Black women continue to celebrate and redefine these styles, making them as relevant and powerful as ever.

5. Conclusion

The African American 80s hairstyles for Black females were more than just trends—they were bold statements of identity, culture, and resistance. From the soft curls of the Jheri curl to the intricate artistry of braids and cornrows, these hairstyles represented a celebration of Black beauty and creativity.

As we look back on the 80s, it’s clear that the hairstyles of that era continue to inspire and influence modern fashion, reminding us of the enduring power of Black hair culture.

Spotlight