The big hairstyles were introduced in the 1960s, and gained popularity in the 1970s and 80s. Similar styles have become fashionable at various periods in history. This fashion was not limited to people with big or massive hairs, even people with short hairs adopted this fashion. Hair was frequently brushed forward and stranded to create different styles. Hair spray was a crucial tool, along with the ubiquitous mousse.

Actresses, pop stars, and celebrities like Farrah Fawcett, Madonna, Raquel Welch, Brigitte Bardot and Jane Fonda, became big-haired icons.