At one of those too-cool-for-school fashion parties the other night, this girl sashayed into the bathroom, shoved her way in front of the mirror, and started blasting her New Wave pompadour with a huge can of hairspray.

She looked at the rest of us (who were coughing and nearly blinded) and said, "I'm sorry, but it's the only thing that works."

And did it ever.

Despite this girl's penchant for expensive-looking gear, her must-have accessory was a cheapo can of TRESemmé TRES Two Extra Hold Hairspray, which she deemed the most critical component to her look. We watched in awe as the budget hairspray erected her avant-garde style. $4.49

If you plan on working any of the on-trend Eighties styles that were so inspiring this season - I'm still not over the hair at Marc - you know a mamby-pamby hairspray won't cut it. You need a hairspray with guts. Here are a few that don't disappoint.

L'Oréal Paris Elnett Satin in Strong Hold. Previously unavailable in the US, Elnett was the one product that got beauty editors in a freaking tizzy. You see, unlike every other product under the sun, they couldn't just "call it in" and have it at their desk by end of day. The irony is, now everyone can go pick it up - at Target. Beauty democracy in full effect! $14.99

Aqua Net. There's something a bit kitschy and John Waters-y about this old school, hardcore, and positively shameless hairspray, but this product is no joke - it creates serious height. It peaked in the Eighties, after all. (Fun fact: Johnny Depp relies on it.) $2.99

Matrix Vavoom Extra Full Freezing Spray. If it's both height and width you're after, here's your poison. It's perfect for that full-bodied Dallas cheerleader hair, which frankly, I love. $13.99

ghd Ultimate Hairspray. At the shows, I've witnessed über-hairstylist Eugene Souleiman use this spray to keep those intricate, interwoven braided styles (that he's known for) firmly in place. It's strong stuff. Here's a hint: Apply it close to the hair for a really cool patent-leather finish. $27