'70s Hair: Iconic Styles Making A Comeback In 2024!
Was the 1970s truly the golden age of hair? Without a doubt, the decade was a vibrant tapestry of styles, a period where self-expression reigned supreme and hair became a powerful statement. From the runways of Paris to the streets of New York, and across the television screens of the world, the '70s witnessed a revolution in hair, an explosion of creativity that continues to inspire and influence fashion today. It was a time when hairstyles were not just about looking good; they were about making a statement, about embracing individuality, and about defying the norms of a conservative era.
The era's flamboyant and playful nature permeated every aspect of culture, and the hairstyles of the time were no exception. The '70s saw the rise of iconic looks that transcended mere trends to become timeless classics. Whether it was the feathered layers of Farrah Fawcett, the voluminous afro of Diana Ross, or the sleek pageboy, the decade offered a hairstyle for every personality and preference. These weren't just fleeting fads; they were enduring emblems of the era, reflecting the changing social landscape and the burgeoning spirit of freedom. The impact of the '70s on hair has been so profound that many of the styles are still incredibly relevant today.
Before we delve deeper, let's reflect on what exactly defined the era, and what continues to influence our style choices today. Let's explore the key styles that made the '70s so iconic.
| Era | Key Hairstyles | Notable Influences | Signature Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| The 1970s | Feathered Hair, Afro, Shag, Mullet, Pageboy, Wedge, Big Curls, Curtain Bangs, Long Straight Hair with Middle Part | Farrah Fawcett, Diana Ross, Dorothy Hamill, Charlie's Angels | Volume, Texture, Movement, Versatility, Expressiveness |
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The pageboy haircut, for instance, was a sleek and sophisticated choice for those seeking a polished look. It offered a versatile elegance suitable for both formal and informal settings, perfectly capturing the decades blend of simplicity and grace. The hairstyle was a staple, offering a refined aesthetic that was effortlessly chic. The pageboy haircut, with its clean lines and structured shape, was a versatile style suitable for a variety of face shapes and hair textures, making it a perennial favorite.
Then there was the explosion of the "Charlie's Angels" star's hairstyle, which was a sensation that defined the decade and, with the help of TikTok, has been back in style many times, most recently in 2021. The stars of the iconic show, with their flowing locks, became beauty icons, sparking a wave of emulation. This hairstyle, often characterized by its layered, voluminous look, embodied the era's spirit of freedom and flair.
For those seeking a touch of casual glamour, the feathered layers, popularized by Farrah Fawcett, offered a playful yet polished aesthetic. This iconic look, characterized by its voluminous, layered style, epitomized the carefree spirit of the '70s. Similarly, the afro, championed by Diana Ross, became a symbol of Black pride and cultural expression, a celebration of natural hair that continues to influence hairstyling trends today. Both looks continue to inspire a sense of freedom and playfulness.
The shag, with its textured, layered cut, became a favorite among those who appreciated a rebellious yet stylish aesthetic. The shag was the embodiment of a relaxed, lived-in vibe, a go-to style for those who wanted to embrace an effortlessly cool look. Similarly, the mullet, once the subject of much debate, now enjoys a resurgence, celebrated for its playful juxtaposition of short front and sides with a longer back. As the saying goes, the mullet is business in the front, party in the back.
For those who preferred something more structured, the wedge haircut, famously sported by figure skater Dorothy Hamill, burst onto the scene. This short, geometric cut, with its stacked layers and tapered edges, was the epitome of a chic, angular silhouette, perfect for active lifestyles. It combined practicality with style, offering a clean and polished look that was easy to maintain. This haircut truly defined the decade and the women who wore it.
Big curls, the bigger, the better, were a key feature. The use of hot rollers or pin curls, coupled with teasing the bottom sections of the hair, created a look that was both playful and glamorous, a true embodiment of the disco era's extravagance. The volume was an absolute must, bringing a touch of flamboyance to any outfit.
The 1970s were a time of reinvention, and the decade's hairstyles reflected that spirit. The flamboyant vibes and innovative charm continue to inspire modern trends. In the 70s, styles like bigger hair and pageboy cuts were trendy. If you want 70s hair, you can experiment with a variety of different style choices to create a look that works for you. Go for a classic pageboy, big curls, or 70s waves.
Long straight hair with a middle part, and curtain bangs also had their moment in the spotlight. Curtain bangs, with their floaty, effortless feel, could be paired with almost any hair length, offering a touch of softness and versatility. These styles, with their ease and accessibility, made them a favorite. The updo of tousled curls continues to be an icon.
Todays 1970s hairstyles are coming back into the spotlight, as seen on celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Selena Gomez, and Zendaya. Although modern takes on these retro styles are slightly cleaner and show hints of nostalgic elegance. These styles are still incredibly relevant if you can do them right. With modern takes on the styles, and the ability to tailor them to your needs, the 70s remain a source of inspiration.
While the cut itself looks incredible on any hair texture, it looks particularly well on those with naturally wavy or curly hair, as the cut will accentuate your curls and waves even more.
Whether you're thinking of chopping your hair into a shag, or going for the full Farah Fawcett look, there are a plethora of choices. To make these hairstyles work, you need the right techniques. When styling curls into a '70s haircut like Ross's voluminous afro, you'll want to set your hair in a way that's still moveable, according to Abergel.
The 1970s was marked by a counterculture movement and campaigns for political change. But it was also an expressive time for fashion, beauty, and hair, and the 70s have given us some of the most influential hairstyles which remain relevant today for their versatility. The hairstyles reflected the flamboyant vibes and innovative charm that continue to inspire modern trends. The '70s provided us with a vast array of looks, allowing everyone to pick their new hairstyle.
So, how can you recreate these iconic looks today? To achieve the big curls, use a set of hot rollers, or set your hair with some pin curls. Add extra volume by teasing the bottom sections of your hair for some serious lift. To get these mega curls, the bigger, the better, embrace your inner disco goddess with full, voluminous curls. When selecting short haircuts for women over 70, its important to determine first which texture and cut is going to work and look best with your particular face shape. This bob is a classic hairstyle for women over 70 with thin hair, designed with a flawlessly flattering frame for older women, and built to make thinner hair look fuller and livelier without going overboard. Taking a leaf out of the retro styles you'll certainly be able to pick out your new hairstyle.
The beauty editors point is that the single best thing about the '70s was the hair. The decades influence on hair is enduring and can be seen in the choices we make today.
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