When discussing hairstyles that might warrant a “cringe award,” it’s important to recognize that fashion and style are subjective, and what might cause embarrassment or be seen as awkward in one era or culture could be celebrated in another. However, historically, there have been several hairstyles that have been frequently mocked or ridiculed:
Mullet – Often dubbed “business in the front, party in the back,” the mullet has experienced both derision and resurgence. It’s seen as symbolic of a bygone era or rural aesthetic when unflatteringly portrayed.
Rat Tail – A very niche choice popular in the late ’80s and early ’90s, the rat tail consists of a small section of hair at the base of the neck that is kept long while everything else is short.
Perms on Men – While perms were all the rage in the ’80s, men with perms became a target for jokes due to the often over-the-top volume and curls that contrasted sharply with more conservative hairstyles.
Frosted Tips – Popular in the late ’90s and early 2000s, especially among boy bands, this style involves bleaching just the tips of the spikes, which is now often looked back on as cheesy or outdated.
Liberty Spikes – Extreme liberty spikes can evoke punk rock fashion, which might be seen as rebellious and iconic in some subcultures but excessive or unprofessional in others.
Though these styles are sometimes considered cringeworthy, they can also be appreciated for their uniqueness and the way they capture a moment in fashion history. It’s also worth noting that these hairstyles might occasionally make a comeback as trends tend to cycle back around.
