The 1970s was a decade known for its free-spirited fashion and rebellious beauty. From the big screen to the catwalk, 70s hairstyles have made a lasting impact on our cultural landscape. In recent years, there has been a resurgence in ’70s hairstyles, thanks in part to designers like Gucci embracing the retro vibes. Celebrities like Billie Eilish, Miley Cyrus, and Jordyn Woods have sported iconic ’70s haircuts, bringing back the groovy look of the disco era. In this article, we will explore some of the most iconic 70s haircuts and styles that continue to inspire and influence us today.
Get ready to take a walk down memory lane as we delve into the world of vintage hairstyles, retro haircuts, and nostalgic hairstyles. Whether you’re looking to embrace the disco era hair or simply add a touch of retro chic to your current style, we have you covered. From the shag haircut to feathered hair, iconic ’70s hairstyles have stood the test of time and continue to be a source of inspiration for hairstylists and fashion enthusiasts alike.
The Shag Haircut
The shag haircut is one of the most definitive and quintessential hairstyles of the ’70s. It is a layered haircut with choppy ends that exude an effortless and rebellious vibe. Today, the shag has been deconstructed and reinvented in various ways, with grungy layers and wispy curtain bangs. Billie Eilish’s platinum shag and Miley Cyrus’s rocker mullet are examples of how the shag haircut has made a comeback in recent years, adding a touch of ’70s coolness to modern hairstyles.
Why choose the shag haircut?
- It adds texture and movement to the hair
- It gives an effortless and rebellious vibe
- It is versatile and can be adapted to different hair lengths and textures
- Grungy layers and wispy curtain bangs add a modern twist to the classic shag
“The shag haircut is the perfect choice for those who want to embrace the carefree and edgy style of the ’70s while staying on-trend with contemporary hairstyles.” – Hairstylist Sophia Davis
| Advantages of the Shag Haircut | Disadvantages of the Shag Haircut |
|---|---|
| Provides volume and texture | Requires regular trims to maintain the desired shape |
| Can be customized to suit individual face shapes | May not be suitable for very fine or thin hair |
| Allows for easy styling and versatility | Requires more maintenance compared to low-maintenance hairstyles |
Feathered Hair
Farrah Fawcett’s feathered hair is an iconic ’70s hairstyle that continues to captivate and inspire. As the star of Charlie’s Angels, Fawcett became a fashion icon, and her feathered hairstyle quickly gained popularity. The layered cut with feathery ends added texture and movement to the hair, creating a carefree and confident look.
Today, feathered hair remains a sought-after choice, offering a touch of ’70s glamour to modern hairstyles. Whether you opt for a full feathered look or incorporate subtle feathered layers, this iconic style adds a sense of nostalgia and timeless beauty to any ensemble.
“Farrah Fawcett’s feathered hair exudes a sense of effortless elegance and playful allure. Its feathery ends create a soft and feminine touch, making it a timeless hairstyle that never goes out of style.”
To achieve the feathered hair look, consider visiting a professional stylist who can create layers and feathered ends that flatter your face shape. Alternatively, you can use styling techniques such as blow-drying with a round brush or using a large-barrel curling iron to add volume and create feathery texture.
Whether you want to embrace Farrah Fawcett’s iconic ’70s hairstyle or simply add a touch of feathery texture to your locks, feathered hair offers a versatile and chic option that allows you to channel the spirit of the disco era with a modern twist.
The Afro
The ’70s was an important era for embracing natural Black hair texture, and the Afro hairstyle emerged as a powerful symbol of Black pride and cultural identity. Influential figures like Diana Ross and Aretha Franklin confidently sported their Afros, inspiring generations to embrace their natural beauty and reject societal norms. Today, the Afro continues to be an iconic and empowering hairstyle that celebrates individuality and showcases the beauty of natural hair.
The Afro is characterized by its voluminous and rounded shape, creating a halo of tightly coiled or curly hair. This bold and expressive hairstyle became a statement of self-acceptance and a celebration of Black heritage during a time when mainstream beauty standards often favored straight hair.
“The Afro carries a rich history of resistance and cultural pride. It defies Eurocentric beauty ideals and allows individuals to embrace their heritage and reclaim their identity.” – Dr. Angela Davis
Chic Bob with Bangs
The chic bob with bangs is a timeless hairstyle that captures the essence of the ’70s. It combines face-framing bangs with a sleek bob, creating a sophisticated and stylish look. Michelle Pfeiffer’s iconic bob in Scarface is a perfect example of how this hairstyle exudes the flair of the era.
Michelle Pfeiffer’s chic bob in Scarface is a standout moment in ’70s hairstyles. With her sleek, shoulder-length bob and wispy bangs, she radiated confidence and sophistication, cementing the chic bob with bangs as a fashion-forward choice.
The chic bob with bangs remains a popular choice for short hair, as it is versatile and suits almost every face shape. Whether you have fine or thick hair, straight or curly, this hairstyle can be tailored to your individual features and style.
Bob with Bangs Styling Tips
- Start with a precision cut to achieve the desired length and shape for your bob.
- Opt for face-framing bangs that complement your facial features.
- Use a round brush and blow dryer to create a sleek and smooth finish.
- For added texture, use a texturizing spray or sea salt spray.
- Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep your bob in place throughout the day.
With its timeless appeal and ability to elevate any look, the chic bob with bangs continues to be a go-to hairstyle for those seeking a touch of ’70s sophistication.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Versatile and suits almost every face shape | – Requires regular maintenance |
| – Can be customized to suit different hair textures and styles | – Bangs may require frequent trimming |
| – Exudes sophistication and chic elegance | – May not be suitable for those who prefer longer hair |
Long Straight Hair with Center Part
In the ’70s, long, straight hair with a center part was a trendy hairstyle seen on icons like Cher and Ali Macgraw. This simple yet elegant style added a touch of sophistication to any outfit, allowing the hair’s natural beauty to shine through.
Achieving this look can be done with a flat iron to achieve sleek, straight strands. Adding some twists on either side can give it a boho-inspired touch.
| Icon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
| Cher | An American singer, actress, and fashion icon known for her long, straight hair with a center part. | |
| Ali Macgraw | An American actress and model who achieved fame for her role in the film “Love Story,” often seen with long, straight hair parted in the center. |
Half Up & Down with Curtain Bangs
The half up and half down hairstyle with curtain bangs is a retro-inspired look that captures the essence of the ’70s. It combines the elegance of a half-updo with the trendy appeal of face-framing bangs. Stars like Olivia Newton-John and Jane Fonda popularized this chic and versatile style back in the day, and it continues to be a favorite among those who want to channel the iconic era.
Creating the half up and half down hairstyle with curtain bangs is all about striking the perfect balance between sophistication and nonchalance. To achieve this look:
- Start by parting your hair down the middle, creating the classic curtain bangs effect.
- Take sections of hair from each side of your head, just above your ears.
- Pull these sections of hair back and secure them with bobby pins in the back of your head. Make sure to leave some loose strands around your face for a soft and romantic feel.
- For added volume, you can gently tease the hair at the crown of your head before pulling it back.
- Finish the look with a spritz of hairspray to ensure your style stays in place throughout the day.
This half up and half down hairstyle with curtain bangs is extremely versatile and can be adapted to suit various occasions. It can effortlessly transition from a casual daytime look to an elegant evening style. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a music festival, or simply going about your daily routine, this hairstyle is sure to turn heads and evoke a sense of ’70s nostalgia.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Combines elegance with a trendy appeal | – Requires regular maintenance to keep the bangs in shape |
| – Versatile and suitable for various occasions | – May not suit all face shapes |
| – Evokes a sense of ’70s nostalgia | – Requires skill to achieve the perfect balance between a polished half-updo and effortless waves |
Disco Curls
Disco curls were the epitome of the vibrant energy that defined the ’70s. This glamorous and voluminous hairstyle graced the heads of many fashion-forward individuals, including icons like Donna Summer and Bianca Jagger. Disco curls exuded a sense of playful fun and freedom, making them perfect for those who wanted to embrace the disco era vibes.
Creating disco curls is easier than you might think. You can achieve this fabulous hairstyle by using a round brush and blow dryer to add volume and texture to your hair. For a more defined curl, hot rollers work wonders. Whether you’re hitting the dance floor or attending a glamorous event, disco curls will leave you feeling like a true ’70s diva.
Let’s take a look at some tips for achieving disco curls:
- Start with freshly washed and conditioned hair.
- Apply a volumizing mousse or spray to damp hair to enhance the curl and create lasting hold.
- Blow dry your hair using a round brush, lifting the roots to add volume.
- Divide your hair into sections and wrap each section around a hot roller. Leave them in for about 15-20 minutes to set the curls.
- Gently remove the rollers and use your fingers to loosen and separate the curls for a more natural look.
- Finish off with a light hairspray to hold the curls in place and add extra shine.
With disco curls, you can channel the glamour and excitement of the disco era in your own unique way. Let your hair be the life of the party as you dance the night away with voluminous curls that are sure to turn heads.
Messy Hair with Side Part
Embracing the bold and rebellious spirit of the ’70s, the messy hair with a side part is an edgy and effortlessly cool hairstyle. This retro-inspired look features long, layered locks with textured strands, channeling the essence of an iconic era.
Stevie Nicks, the legendary rock icon, often wore her hair in messy waves, showcasing the relaxed and free-spirited vibe of the decade. Her disheveled yet intentional style added a touch of mystique to her on-stage presence, captivating audiences with her signature messy hair and magnetic stage presence.
The messy hair with a side part is a versatile choice that adds an edgy and effortless touch to any outfit, whether it’s for a casual day out or a night on the town. The tousled waves and imperfectly placed side part create a carefree and lived-in look that exudes confidence and individuality. It’s a hairstyle that embraces imperfections and celebrates the beauty of effortless styling.
Whether you have naturally curly, wavy, or straight hair, the messy hair with a side part can be achieved with the right styling products and techniques. Adding texturizing spray and scrunching the hair with your hands can help create the perfect amount of messy volume and movement.
Get ready to rock the edgy and effortlessly cool vibe of the ’70s with the messy hair with a side part. Set your own rules, embrace your individuality, and let your hair reflect your free-spirited nature.
Braids for Black Hair
The ’70s marked a significant moment for the Black community, as it was a time of embracing natural hair and celebrating Black beauty. Icons like Cicely Tyson wore braids and tiny plaits, inspiring generations to embrace their own hair texture and cultural heritage. These hairstyles continue to have a profound impact today, with Black women embracing their natural texture, whether curly or coily.
Celebrating Black Hair
In the ’70s, Black men and women reclaimed their natural hair, embracing its unique texture and defying societal norms. Braids became a symbol of pride and a way to celebrate cultural heritage. Cicely Tyson, an influential figure in Hollywood, often sported beautiful braided hairstyles, showcasing the versatility and beauty of Black hair.
“I wear my hair in many ways, but my favorite is to have it braided,” said Tyson. “It makes me feel connected to my roots and reminds me of the strength and resilience of my ancestors.”
From intricate cornrows to box braids, these styles not only embraced the natural texture of Black hair but also showcased creativity and individuality. Black women found empowerment in these hairstyles, as they embraced their beauty on their own terms and challenged Eurocentric beauty standards.
Today, braids are more popular than ever, with a wide range of styles and techniques that showcase the beauty of Black hair. Whether it’s Ghana braids, Senegalese twists, or Fulani braids, these hairstyles continue to inspire and empower Black women, allowing them to express their unique style and cultural identity.
The Versatility of Braids
Braids offer endless possibilities when it comes to styling. They can be worn in various lengths, sizes, and patterns, allowing for creative expression. Not only do braids protect the hair from damage and breakage, but they also offer versatility in terms of styling options.
| Braided Hairstyle | Description |
|---|---|
| Cornrows | Tightly braided rows close to the scalp, often geometrically patterned. Perfect for a sleek and polished look. |
| Box Braids | Individual braids created with synthetic hair extensions, offering length and thickness. Can be styled in various ways. |
| Twists | Two-strand twists that can be worn as is or unraveled for a textured look. Versatile and low-maintenance. |
| Braided Updo | An updo style created with braids, offering an elegant and timeless look. Perfect for special occasions. |
With the right styling products and techniques, braids can be transformed into stunning updos, ponytails, or even left loose for a carefree and natural look. The versatility of braids allows Black women to switch up their style and experiment with different looks.
Whether it’s a protective style or a fashion statement, braids will always be a cherished hairstyle in Black culture. Through their elegance, beauty, and rich history, braids continue to inspire and empower Black women, showcasing the beauty of natural hair and cultural heritage.
Wavy Texture
Waves were a hallmark of the ’70s, adding a touch of effortless beauty to any look. Style icons like Jane Birkin and Joni Mitchell embraced beachy, tousled waves, bringing a bohemian chic touch to their hairstyles. Loose cascading waves exude a sense of effortless beauty and can be easily achieved through various styling techniques, such as using a curling iron or embracing the natural texture of your hair.
Image shows a woman with bohemian waves, representing the wavy texture often seen in iconic ’70s hairstyles.
Platinum Blonde Glamour
In the glamorous world of ’70s hairstyles, one trend stood out as the epitome of boldness and sophistication – platinum blonde. Debbie Harry, the iconic lead singer of the band Blondie, was known for rocking her signature platinum blonde mane, effortlessly exuding confidence and glamour.
Platinum blonde hair was more than just a color choice; it was a symbol of daring individuality. Its striking and attention-grabbing nature elevated any hairstyle to new heights, instantly giving it a touch of drama and sophistication.
Debbie Harry’s platinum blonde locks became synonymous with charisma and elegance, inspiring many to embrace their inner diva. Today, platinum blonde hair continues to be a statement-making choice for those who want to channel the spirit of the ’70s, whether they opt for a glamorous hairstyle or a more modern interpretation.
If you’re looking to make a bold statement and exude confidence and glamour, consider trying out the timeless and iconic trend of platinum blonde hair. Embrace your inner Debbie Harry and let your hair color shine as a representation of your own unique style.