The 80s were full of many unique hairstyles, and side ponytails the go-to look for young girls, teenagers, as well as celebrities.
There were countless hairstyles throughout the 80s, but one particular style stood the test of time. Side ponytails were one of many unique hairstyles of the 80s, especially for young girls and teenagers. It perfectly captured the decade’s playful and rebellious spirit. Often, side ponytails would be paired with a neon scrunchie in order to create a vibrant and bold fashion statement.
The Rise of the Many Unique Hairstyles of the 80s Let’s face it, the 80s were full of dramatic social and cultural changes . One of the biggest changes in the 80s was the emphasis on self-expression. And while there were many different options for teenagers to express themselves at the time, hair was one of the most unique ways. As a result of the rise of the MTV generation, there were many unique hairstyles. These were mostly influenced by pop icons like Cyndi Lauper and Madonna.
The side ponytail emerged as a fun and youthful twist on the traditional ponytail. Rather than tying up the hair at the back around the neckline, young girls and teenagers would quickly tie off their hair at one side towards the top of their heads. This created a very casual, bold, and quirky look. After all, the 80s embraced individuality and the freedom to experiment with personal style. This quickly became an accessible way for younger women to express their unique personalities.
How Side Ponytails Became One of the Many Unique Hairstyles of the 80s There were a number of reasons why side ponytails became so popular during the 80s. Of course, there was MTV, pop culture, and the rise in popularity of the scrunchie. But there was also a desire for new and unique outlets to express one’s individuality.
Pop Culture, MTV, and the Many Unique Hairstyles of the 80s Pop culture had one of the biggest influences on the many unique hairstyles of the 80s . And, the side ponytail was no exception. After MTV was officially launched in 1981, it completely revolutionized the music industry. It introduced the world to music videos as a new form of entertainment. And, along with providing some of the most amazing tunes of the decade, the videos introduced the MTV generation to a wide assortment of fashion trends and hairstyles.
Of all of the artists who were seen on MTV throughout the 80s, the biggest names that regularly sported side ponytails were Debbie Gibson and Tiffany. During the 80s, Debbie Gibson and Tiffany were both megastars and were seen by young girls and teenagers as idols. So, when they began sporting side ponytails with bright colors and funky outfits, so too did girls all across the country.
The Many Unique Hairstyles and the Scrunchie But, the side ponytail would have never been possible if it weren’t for the scrunchie. It’s important to remember that before the scrunchie existed there were hair ties, but the hair would easily get tangled up in them. Scrunchies provided women with an easy way to tie back their hair, without having to worry about tangling it up in the process. Scrunchies simply made the management of hair easier.
Not only were scrunchies the perfect option for young girls and teenagers, but they were available in a wide assortment of colors. In fact, many girls actually made their own scrunchies. I remember back in elementary and middle school, girls would sell the scrunchies that they made, and trade them with friends so that they had matching scrunchies to wear throughout the day.
But, scrunchies weren’t the only thing that were used to hold her back into side ponytails. Young girls and teenagers still use ribbons to hold hair back, and headbands to prominently display their bangs. There were even plastic hair combs that could be clipped in in order to enhance the look of the side ponytail. In the 80s, it wasn’t just about using a single accessory, rather there was an obsession with bright, loud, and excessive use of accessories.
The Rise of the Fitness Culture There is also the rise of the fitness culture in the early 80s. As the popularity of fitness grew throughout the decade, there was a growing demand for more casual, sporty hairstyles. Side ponytails were one of the many unique hairstyles that fit perfectly into this trend. They could be easily worn during workouts, or even during everyday activities. Even Jane Fonda was known to sport a side ponytail from time to time.
People Who Sported the Many Unique Hairstyles of the 80s The side ponytail would not have been as popular as it was during the 80s if it weren’t for celebrities and style icons. And, during the 80s there were plenty of pop stars and icons that helped to push the side ponytail look to the masses. The biggest names at the time were Cyndi Lauper and Madonna. Cyndi Lauper in particular, was one of the most recognizable figures associated with the side ponytail thanks to her often wild and colorful hairstyles. Then there was also Tiffany and Debbie Gibson who are well known to sport side ponytails both on the stage and off.
Side Ponytails and Unexpected Comebacks Side ponytails have a unique history in the fashion industry. Although initially popular back in the 80s, it has made multiple comebacks over the years. In 2004, the world was introduced to Napoleon Dynamite, and his fans Pedro and Deb. Throughout most of the film, Deb was often seen sporting a side ponytail . After the film’s release, many young girls and teenagers began sporting side ponytails once again.
Conclusion Today, side ponytails continue to be a symbol of 80s nostalgia. And, the side ponytail is one of the first hairstyles that many think of when planning to attend in 80s-themed party. After all, is one of the many unique hairstyles of the 80s that is instantly recognizable as part of that decade. It was a defining element of 80s pop culture, and the era’s emphasis on individuality, fun, and bold self-expression.
