The ‘Stranger Things’ Season 5 Hair and Makeup Looks Took Heavy Inspiration from Gen X Icons

Understanding the Evolution of Hair in Stranger Things Season 5

In the highly-anticipated fifth season of Stranger Things, the characters’ hairstyles reflect substantial shifts, both in personal journeys and cultural context. The show has always excelled at capturing the essence of the 1980s, and hair play a significant role in that authenticity. One noteworthy transformation can be observed in the character Max, portrayed by Sadie Sink, who has been in a coma since season four. Her iconic red hair has grown long, presenting challenges for the show’s creative team who needed to maintain character continuity while also aligning with the storyline.

For this season, hair stylist Sarah Hindsgaul opted for a wig to create the desired look, as Sink has sported a cropped hairstyle in real life. Hindsgaul remarks, "I think that was my favorite hair from this season," emphasizing the beautiful, voluminous nature of Max’s hair, which contrasts with how the character is portrayed as somewhat plain throughout the series. The intricate design process involved creating a wig that would complement the character’s persona while ensuring it remained gritty enough to fit the show’s eerie atmosphere. Hindsgaul’s method of attaching the wig behind Sink’s natural hairline allowed her to achieve a combination of length and texture without risking damage to Sink’s actual hair.

In the meticulous process of crafting these hairstyles, Hindsgaul often requests a piece of the actors’ hair from their undersides to ensure authenticity in color and texture. “It’s a lot to ask—it has to be fairly thick,” she explains. This attention to detail is crucial; as young actors grow and change, their hair naturally evolves due to hormonal influences. By assessing this variability, Hindsgaul can match wig samples more accurately to the actors’ current hair forms, embodying the vital traits that define their characters.

The Transformation of Karen Wheeler’s Hair

The evolution of hair among the characters is also a central theme for Karen Wheeler, played by Cara Buono. As the seasons progress, the transformation in Karen’s hairstyle mirrors the cultural and social changes happening in Hawkins, Indiana. Initially depicted in darker, layered styles that reflect the late ’70s trends, by season five, set in 1987, her look shifts dramatically. The character sports bleached and permed hair, transitioning into a shorter cut that resonates more with her daughter Nancy’s style.

Interestingly, the roles reversed as Karen found inspiration from Nancy, portrayed by Natalia Dyer. This is quite a departure from earlier seasons, where Nancy often emulated her mother’s hairstyles. Hindsgaul recalls sending a photograph of a woman with a chic, blonde bob cut to Dyer. Almost serendipitously, Buono sent a similar photo reflecting the same aesthetic she desired for her character, leading to a coordinated transformation that reflects both generational shifts and personal growth.

Stylists Behind the Magic

The creative vision behind these compelling character hair designs lies in the collaboration between Hindsgaul and the actors. A successful on-screen appearance requires not just the hair itself but also a stylistic approach that aligns with each character’s narrative arc. For example, the show’s ambience demands that hairstyles not only look visually striking but also feel authentic to the gritty storylines. It’s a delicate balance, and Hindsgaul’s careful attention to detail unlocks deeper layers of meaning within the show’s rich tapestry.

Moreover, the color palette and texture of the wigs and hairstyles are painstakingly chosen to create an impactful visual storytelling tool. Hindsgaul often discusses trends and concepts with the actors to ensure they resonate well with their personalities, reflecting the ongoing evolution of each character throughout the series.

Cultural Impact and Reflections

The hairstyles in Stranger Things serve as a cultural lens through which viewers can appreciate the show’s setting and narrative. Each character’s look encapsulates the essence of their personal stories while also acting as a reflection of societal norms and trends of the decade. The changes in Max’s and Karen’s hairstyles provide not just a visual reminder of the time period but also hint at their internal transformations.

In this season, the hair becomes a canvas that showcases resilience, identity, and the complexities of growing up in a turbulent environment filled with supernatural elements. By understanding these nuances behind the scenes, fans can further appreciate the extensive work that goes into creating the needed mood for Stranger Things.

Conclusion

The hair styling in Stranger Things season five emerges as a pivotal component of character development and storytelling. From Max’s strikingly long wig to Karen’s generational style shift, the attention to detail by Hindsgaul and her team enhances the overall viewing experience. As viewers tune into Stranger Things, they are not just witnessing a tale of suspense and friendship; they are also engaging with carefully curated art that celebrates the spirit of the 1980s.

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