The 80s Push Back Hairstyle: A Retro Trend Making a Comeback

The 80s push back hairstyle, a signature look of the decade’s bold fashion, is experiencing a remarkable resurgence. This iconic style, characterized by its voluminous back-combing and teased texture, offers a unique blend of edgy attitude and sophisticated glamour. This article delves into the history, techniques, and modern interpretations of this much-loved 80s push back hairstyle.

A Look Back at the 80s Push Back: Origins and Iconic Moments

The 80s witnessed an explosion of expressive hairstyles, and the push back style quickly established itself as a symbol of the era’s rebellious spirit. Influenced by the burgeoning music scene and the rise of powerful female figures in popular culture, the push back hairstyle became a statement piece. Think big hair, bold volume, and a distinct sense of controlled chaos. From the iconic teased styles of Madonna to the voluminous curls of actresses like Jennifer Beals in *Flashdance*, the 80s push back hairstyle permeated various facets of society, cementing its status as a timeless classic. Its popularity extended beyond the silver screen and music videos, making its mark on everyday fashion and influencing countless individuals.

The Techniques Behind the 80s Push Back Hairstyle

Achieving the perfect 80s push back hairstyle required precision and a few key techniques. The foundation involved back-combing sections of hair to create volume and lift at the crown. This technique, often combined with strategically placed teasing, was crucial for achieving the desired height and fullness. Hairspray was an essential tool, providing the necessary hold to maintain the style throughout the day. Different variations existed, ranging from sleek, controlled pushes to looser, more voluminous styles depending on hair texture and personal preference. The use of rollers or hot styling tools often preceded the backcombing to build a base of volume, emphasizing the dramatic effect of the final push-back.

Variations on the Theme: Exploring Different 80s Push Back Looks

• The High-Volume Push Back: This version emphasized extreme height and fullness, often achieved through layers of back-combing and copious amounts of hairspray. [See also: Achieving Maximum Volume in Your Hair]
• The Sleek Push Back: This variation focused on a more controlled, polished look. While still utilizing the back-combing technique, the end result was smoother and less overtly teased.
• The Curly Push Back: Curls and waves were incorporated into the push back, creating a softer, more romantic look. This version often involved setting hair in rollers before back-combing for extra volume and definition.

Modern Interpretations of the 80s Push Back

While the original 80s push back hairstyle was characterized by its dramatic volume and bold texture, contemporary interpretations have embraced a more refined approach. Modern stylists often incorporate elements of the original technique while adjusting it to suit contemporary trends. The focus now is often on creating a sense of volume and lift without the excessive back-combing that could potentially damage the hair. Subtle teasing techniques and volumizing products are used to achieve a modern take on the classic style, emphasizing a more polished and sophisticated finish. This allows for a versatile look, suitable for both casual and formal occasions.

Products and Tools for the Modern 80s Push Back

Creating a modern 80s push back hairstyle involves a careful selection of products and tools. Volumizing mousses and sprays can be applied to damp hair to create a base for volume. Round brushes can be used during blow-drying to add lift at the roots, while teasing combs are still employed, but often with a lighter touch than in the 1980s. Hairspray, albeit often in lighter-hold formulas, is essential for setting the style. It’s important to focus on healthy hair care practices to avoid damage associated with excessive back-combing. Using heat protectant sprays before using any heat styling tools is crucial to mitigate heat damage.

Step-by-Step Guide to a Modern 80s Push Back

1. Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair.
2. Blow-dry hair, using a round brush to lift the roots.
3. Gently back-comb sections of hair at the crown to create volume.
4. Smooth the top layer of hair to conceal the back-combing.
5. Set the style with hairspray.

The 80s Push Back Hairstyle: A Timeless Classic

The enduring appeal of the 80s push back hairstyle lies in its versatility and ability to transform any look. From subtle lifts to dramatic volumes, the style offers endless possibilities for self-expression. Its ability to seamlessly transition from a retro statement to a contemporary twist makes it a truly timeless classic. The 80s push back hairstyle is a testament to the enduring power of bold style and the cyclical nature of fashion, proving that some trends never truly fade away. The 80s push back style continues to inspire and influence hair trends, showcasing its lasting relevance and its ability to adapt to the ever-evolving world of fashion and beauty.

Maintaining the 80s Push Back: Tips and Tricks

Maintaining the 80s push back hairstyle, especially the more voluminous variations, requires attention to detail. Regular use of volumizing products can help to keep the style in place. Touch-ups with hairspray throughout the day may be necessary, especially in humid conditions. Proper hair care, including regular conditioning and minimizing the use of harsh chemicals, is crucial for maintaining hair health and preventing damage. Remember, preventing damage is key to keeping your 80s push back hairstyle looking its best. [See also: Hair Care Tips for Voluminous Styles]

The Enduring Legacy of the 80s Push Back Hairstyle

The 80s push back hairstyle represents more than just a hairstyle; it embodies a specific era’s spirit, reflecting its boldness, confidence, and unapologetic self-expression. Its resurgence demonstrates the continued influence of 80s fashion and its adaptability to contemporary tastes. Whether it’s a subtle nod to the past or a full-blown embrace of retro glamour, the 80s push back continues to offer a unique avenue for personal style and creative self-expression.