The 1980s were a wild ride, and that extends to men’s facial hair. Forget the clean-shaven look of previous decades – the 80s embraced bold statements, and beards were a major part of that.
Think big hair, bright colors, and even bigger personalities. And what better way to top off that look than with a seriously awesome beard? We’re talking everything from perfectly groomed mustaches to full, flowing beards that would make a lumberjack jealous.
The Mustache Mania of the 80s
The mustache was king in the 80s. Forget the subtle lip-ticklers; we’re talking handlebar mustaches, meticulously waxed and sculpted to perfection. Think Tom Selleck’s iconic ‘stache – the epitome of 80s facial hair sophistication. Maintaining this level of facial fluff required dedication and a whole lot of mustache wax!

But it wasn’t just the handlebar that ruled. You also had thinner, more neatly trimmed mustaches, often paired with sideburns that blended seamlessly into a well-groomed look. The key was precision and a touch of retro flair.
The Full-Blown, Rock Star Beard
On the other end of the spectrum, we had the full beards. These weren’t your neatly trimmed, corporate beards; these were wild, untamed, rock-and-roll beards that matched the decade’s rebellious spirit. Think heavy metal bands, and you’ll get the picture. Length, volume – the more the merrier!

These beards often sported a slightly unkempt look, adding to their rebellious charm. Maintenance was less about precision and more about letting it all hang out – in a stylish way, of course.
The Goatee and Sideburn Combo
The goatee and sideburn combo was another popular choice. This style offered a balance between the clean-shaven look and the more adventurous beards. It could be styled in many different ways, allowing for some personalization.

The sideburns were often quite prominent, sometimes extending down to the jawline or even further. This style was sharp and sophisticated but still had a bit of an edge to it.
Maintaining the 80s Look in 2024
Want to rock an 80s beard style in 2024? It’s totally doable! You just need the right tools and a little bit of patience. Invest in a good beard trimmer, some mustache wax (if you’re going for a handlebar), and beard oil to keep things soft and manageable.
Remember, the key is to embrace the boldness and personality of the era. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the style that best suits you. Modern interpretations of 80s beards can be surprisingly versatile and stylish, offering a unique twist on classic facial hair trends.
Products to help you achieve the look:
- Beard trimmer
- Mustache wax
- Beard oil
- Beard balm
- Small comb or brush
So, there you have it – a glimpse into the awesome world of 80s beard styles. Whether you’re channeling your inner rock star or aiming for sophisticated retro charm, there’s an 80s beard out there waiting to be discovered. Go forth and rock that retro facial hair!
