Jheri Redding invented the "Jheri curl," often misspelled as "Jerry curl," that surged in popularity among African Americans in the 1970s and 80s. The Jheri curl was a type of perm that loosened African Americans' naturally tight curls by using chemical softeners and perm rods. The look fell out of style largely because of the high maintenance it required -- wearers had to apply greasy activator and heavy moisturizers each day and sleep with a plastic cap on their heads.
Short Men's Style
The most common Jheri curl style for men was cut short all the way around, and often featured bangs that rested 1 to 2 inches above the eyes. This style was worn by many African American entertainers and athletes throughout the 1970s and 80s. Famous wearers of this style included actor and singer Jamie Foxx, singer Lionel Ritchie, baseball player Pedro Martinez and actor Samuel L. Jackson in the movie "Pulp Fiction." Singer Rick James wore a mullet-like version of this style that was short on top but longer in the back, hitting at shoulder-length or below.
Long Women's Style
Many African American women adopted the Jheri curl style in the 1970s and 80s. This longer style featured a side or middle part and layers that began at the chin. Hair was shoulder length or longer and had substantial volume on the sides. Many women added blond or red highlights to accent the curls. Famous wearers of this style included actresses Lela Rochon and Stacey Dash.
Michael Jackson's Style
Michael Jackson was undeniably the most famous wearer of the Jheri curl. His style, copied by fans and celebrities alike, was cut to sit close on the sides with volume at the top of his head. Bangs were often side-swept, with a few tendrils hanging down just over his eyes. Hair at the back rested at shoulder length or just below. His hairstyle gained infamy in 1984 when it caught fire while filming a Pepsi commercial. Many people believed the Jheri curl's greasy activator contributed to the mishap.
Tags: Jheri curl, curl style, Jheri curl style, African American, African Americans, Famous wearers, Famous wearers this
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