DIY Flock of Seagulls Hair: Achieve the Iconic 80s Look at Home

Remember the Flock of Seagulls, that band from the 80s with their hit “I Ran (So Far Away)” and their absolutely gravity-defying hairstyles? Well, whether you love or hate the look, the Flock of Seagulls hairstyle is an undeniable piece of pop culture history. And it’s making a comeback! If the outrageousness appeals to you, and you’re on a budget, here’s how to nail the Flock of Seagulls cut and style right at home.

Table of Contents

First, A Little Prep

Before we dive into the fun, let’s get realistic:

Hair Length: The Flock of Seagulls look is best with medium to longer hair. If it’s too short, you won’t have enough material for the extreme styling.
Hair Texture Naturally straight or slightly wavy hair will be the easiest to work with. Curly or textured hair can pull it off, but the styling will be more challenging.
Your Vibe: Be honest about how much time you’ll put into this daily. This style needs maintenance!
Embrace the Silly: This look is out there. If you’re self-conscious, it might not be for you.

Step 1: The Flock of Seagulls Cut

The essence of this hairstyle is short sides and back, lots of volume and length on top, and those swooping side bangs. Here’s how to get close at home:

Tools: Sharp hair scissors, thinning shears (optional), comb, sectioning clips.
Reference: Have a clear photo of the exact style you want. There are subtle variations!
The Sides and Back: Start damp. If confident, use clippers, going short, maybe even fading up as you reach the crown. Otherwise, snip those areas short with scissors, working in sections.
The Top: Leave this part long! You may just want to slightly trim for evenness. Thinning shears can be used VERY subtly here to help with styling.
Bangs: This is key. Section a wide, triangular swoop of hair for the side bangs. Cut a blunt line, starting shorter near the temple and angling down into the longer top section.

NOTE: If you’re unsure, start more conservative at first. You can always trim more! Or find a budget-friendly salon willing to try a slightly unusual cut.

Step 2: Styling Products – Your Best Friends

The Flock of Seagulls didn’t achieve that sculpted look by accident. Here’s your budget-conscious arsenal:

Strong-Hold Gel: This is non-negotiable. Look for ones promising stiffness without flakes.
Hairspray: Extra hold for finishing and combating frizz.
Mousse or Volumizing Spray: For fine/flat hair, this is applied pre-styling for a boost.
Pomade or Wax (Optional): If your hair is thick, this defines sections and smooths flyaways.

Step 3: The Transformation

It’s time to unleash your inner 80s hairdresser!

Damp Start: Towel-dried hair is ideal – pliable but not soaking wet.
Product Base: Apply your mousse or volumizer to the longer top sections.
Blow Dry Madness: Blast the top with a hairdryer, aiming upwards. Focus on getting those roots lifted for maximum volume.
Gel Time: Be generous! Sculpt upwards with the gel, getting that gravity-defying look. Define the bangs as a separate, swooping section.
Details: Pinch and shape sections with gel. For extra spikes, apply a bit to dry fingertips and tweak individual pieces of hair.
Lock it Down: Hit the whole thing with hairspray for staying power.

DIY Flock of Seagulls – Maintenance Tips

Sleeping: A satin pillowcase or loose satin bonnet will help minimize friction and keep your style from getting crushed overnight.
Refreshing: Spritz with water or a light leave-in detangler in the morning and re-sculpt smaller sections. Focus especially on reshaping the bangs and any major spikes.
Wash Day: Choose a clarifying shampoo to thoroughly remove all the product buildup. Follow up with a rich conditioner on the mid-lengths and ends to combat any dryness.
Embrace Imperfection: A slightly wilder, “lived-in” Flock of Seagulls look can still be fun. Think of it as adding a bit of a rock ‘n roll edge.

Make It Your Own

The Flock of Seagulls hairstyle is a starting point, not a rulebook! The fun part is experimenting and finding a version that suits your personality. Think of it like a remix of an iconic 80s track. Here’s some inspiration:

Color Clash: Forget natural hair colors – a vibrant streak of blue, pink, or even neon green amps up the outrageous factor. Temporary hair dye is your friend if you’re commitment-shy.
Tame the Beast: Want the vibe without the sky-high hair? Go for a toned-down modern take. Keep the sides a little longer, the overall height less dramatic, and you strike a balance between edgy and everyday.
Attitude is Everything: This hairstyle is a bold declaration. Embrace the silliness, rock it with a playful attitude, and you’ll turn heads in the best way possible. It’s part hairdo, part performance art!

Conclusion

Whether you’re heading to an 80s-themed costume party, feeling nostalgic, or just have a daring sense of style, the Flock of Seagulls haircut is an unforgettable adventure. It takes some effort, a willingness to stand out, and a healthy sense of humor. If you have that combo, go for it! Channel your inner 80s rebel and rock a hairstyle that’s sure to be a conversation starter.