Rattail (haircut)
A rattail is a hair style that is characterized by a long "tail"-like element of hair growing downward from the back of the head. The rattail usually curls naturally; however, it can be braided, treated as a dread, permed, straightened, or curled with an iron. In some instances, an individual might choose to grow several tails as opposed to a single very long tail.[1]
The rattail saw a brief period of mainstream popularity during the 1980s and has rapidly fallen out of vogue.[citation needed] However, it has recently[clarification needed] seen renewed popularity.
[edit] Cultural prevalence
The rattail seems to be rather commonly seen on manga characters.[original research?] For example, Dr. Tofu (a character in Ranma 1/2) and Masaharu Niou from Prince of Tennis all have small ponytails resembling rattails. Tenchi Masaki also is seen with a rattail. Auron from Final Fantasy X also sports a rattail in a concept art by Tetsuya Nomura (it is not visible in game because of his high-brim collar). However, this may be due to the hairstyle's similarity to the queue. This overtly "low-brow" hairstyle can also be seen prevalently in the movie Joe Dirt starring David Spade, a movie which was intended to poke fun at the redneck subculture of which this hairstyle is closely connected.[1]
Some punks and rivetheads have been known to support them also, although in a much more punky style, totally shaven head, except for a tuft of hair at the back, usually dyed in various luminous colours. In Australia it is associated with the "bogan" subculture.
Former junior welterweight boxing champion Kostya Tszyu sported a rather famous rattail throughout his career.[2]
The television show Dog the Bounty Hunter stars Leland Chapman and Tim Chapman, both of whom wear a variation of this haircut.[citation needed]
Taylor Hanson, Lead singer and keyboardist of the band Hanson, had a braided rattail as of the late 1990's, and it was his style trademark.
Cristiano Ronaldo had in the past a variation of this haircut.
Jet Li's character from Lethal Weapon 4 had a rattail hairstyle.
Roach Gigz rapper from San Francisco has two rattails this hairstyle it has taken the Bay Area by storm.
[edit] See also
[edit] References
- ^ a b "Rat Tail Hairstyle". http://www.hairfinder.com/hair3/rat-tail-hairstyle.htm. Retrieved February 15, 2010.
- ^ "Shane Mosley & Kostya Tszyu: Boxing’s Smiling Assassins". http://www.secondsout.com/world-boxing-news?ccs=225&cs=27106. Retrieved February 15, 2010.
