Stepping back into the '70s means more than just a trip down memory lane; it's about embracing a time when self-expression truly took center stage, especially with hair. That decade, from January 1, 1970, to December 31, 1979, was a period of big shifts. It was a time, too, when music charts pulsed with fresh sounds from artists like Carl Douglas and Billy Paul, and fashion got wonderfully bold with jumpsuits and hot pants. People were ready for something different, and their hair showed it.
The '70s, often called the seventies or the '70s, saw quite a lot happening, from political changes like the fall of Saigon and the resignation of a U.S. president, to cultural milestones such as the Beatles' ending their run and personal computing beginning its journey. This mix of serious events and vibrant pop culture, you know, really shaped how people presented themselves. Hair became a powerful statement, moving away from the more structured looks of earlier times.
So, if you're curious about how hair became a symbol of freedom and fun during those 3,652 days, or perhaps you're looking for some truly iconic looks to try today, you're in the right place. We'll explore the famous **70s hair styles** that defined an era, styles that, arguably, still hold a special place in our hearts and on our heads.
Table of Contents
- The Spirit of the '70s and Its Influence on Hair
- Iconic 70s Hair Styles for Everyone
- Bringing 70s Hair to Today
- Frequently Asked Questions About 70s Hair
- Revisiting the Magic of 70s Hair
The Spirit of the '70s and Its Influence on Hair
The 1970s, as a matter of fact, was a decade of considerable change. From the activism that saw groups like the National Organization for Women fighting for the Equal Rights Amendment, to major news events like the Munich Massacre, people were very much engaged with the world around them. This period of unrest and upheaval, strangely enough, also birthed an incredible freedom in personal expression. Fashion, as we know, became incredibly expressive and fun, with people trying out everything from jumpsuits to hot pants. This spirit of trying new things, of being bold and individual, flowed right into hair.
Music played a big part, too. The decade was filled with diverse sounds, from rock music charts that were constantly changing to audio documentaries celebrating the era's tunes. Artists like Van Morrison were making their mark, and you could find all the top bands and artists of the 1970s with their bios, album discographies, and music videos. This lively music scene, with its different genres and styles, clearly inspired many of the hair trends. People wanted looks that matched the beat, whether it was a soulful tune or a rock anthem.
Basically, the '70s didn't do things by halves. It was a time when pop culture and politics could, in a way, collide, like when Elvis Presley visited President Richard Nixon. This blend of serious moments and sheer joy, of trying to make sense of a changing world while also enjoying the ride, really shaped the distinctive hair looks we remember. It’s almost as if hair became a canvas for the decade's diverse moods and movements, reflecting everything from political statements to pure fun.
Iconic 70s Hair Styles for Everyone
When we think about **70s hair styles**, certain images probably pop right into your head. These looks weren't just about looking good; they were about embodying a feeling, a spirit of the time. There was a real move towards more natural, free-flowing hair, but also some very sculpted looks that required a bit of effort. It was, you know, a mix of everything.
The Feathered Flip and Shag Cut
Perhaps the most recognizable of all **70s hair styles** is the feathered flip. Made famous by television stars, this look involved layers cut in a way that they could be curled or blown out away from the face, creating a soft, voluminous frame. It was a pretty glamorous look, often paired with a side part, giving off a feeling of effortless chic. Achieving it meant using rollers or a round brush with a blow dryer, really working those layers outwards. This style, actually, became a symbol of the decade's softer, more approachable beauty.
Then there was the shag cut, a rather edgy and versatile style that gained popularity. This look featured choppy, uneven layers, typically shorter on top and gradually longer towards the bottom. It was a bit messy, very cool, and surprisingly easy to manage, which made it a favorite for many. The shag could be styled with a natural wave or straightened for a different vibe. It represented a more rebellious, rock-and-roll side of the '70s, often seen on musicians and people who liked a less polished appearance. It had, you know, a certain carefree appeal.
Disco Curls and Afro Power
As disco music swept the nation, so too did disco-inspired hair. Think big, bouncy, often permed curls that moved with every dance step. This was all about volume and shine, creating a look that was truly ready for the dance floor. People would spend time setting their hair in rollers or getting permanents to achieve that perfect, springy curl. It was a style that celebrated movement and joy, very much in tune with the vibrant disco scene. This look, in a way, screamed fun.
The Afro, on the other hand, was more than just a hairstyle; it was a powerful statement of cultural pride and identity for Black individuals. This natural, rounded shape, varying in size, symbolized a rejection of European beauty standards and an embrace of heritage. It was a bold, beautiful, and unapologetic look that stood out and represented a significant movement towards self-acceptance and empowerment during a time of activism and change. Its prominence, arguably, showed the shift in social consciousness.
Long and Straight: The Bohemian Vibe
While some went for big volume, many others embraced a more relaxed, bohemian look with long, straight hair. This style often featured a center part and very little layering, emphasizing natural texture and length. It was a look that felt very earthy and free-spirited, fitting perfectly with the peace and love movements of the era. People would simply let their hair grow, sometimes adding braids or headbands for a touch of personalization. This look, you know, was all about simplicity and natural beauty, a pretty stark contrast to some of the more elaborate styles.
This straight, flowing hair was also popular because it was fairly easy to achieve for many, requiring less styling product and heat than other looks. It resonated with the back-to-nature sentiments and the desire for authenticity that was present in the '70s. It was, in some respects, a quiet rebellion against overly styled hair, allowing one's natural hair to shine.
Men's Hair Styles: A Shift to Longer Looks
Men's hair in the '70s also saw a dramatic shift. Gone were the super short, neat cuts of previous decades. Instead, longer hair became the norm, often styled in shags or feathered looks, much like their female counterparts. The "mop top" or longer, layered cuts were very popular, often covering the ears and sometimes even touching the shoulders. This was a move towards a more relaxed, less formal appearance, reflecting the overall cultural changes. You know, it was a time for guys to let their hair grow out.
Sideburns also became a significant feature for men, often growing long and thick, adding to the overall '70s aesthetic. Many men sported a more natural, unstyled look, letting their hair fall as it pleased, or using just a little product for some control. The emphasis was on a casual, somewhat rugged appeal, which, honestly, felt very modern for the time. This change in men's hair, in a way, mirrored the broader societal shift towards more individual freedom and less rigid norms.
Bringing 70s Hair to Today
The great thing about **70s hair styles** is that many of them still look fantastic today. They have a timeless quality, offering volume, movement, and a touch of retro charm. If you're looking to try a feathered flip, for instance, you'll want to focus on good layering and using a round brush with your blow dryer to create that outward curl. For a shag, ask your stylist for choppy layers and consider some texturizing spray to get that perfectly undone look.
For those with natural curls, embracing a big, voluminous look, like a disco curl or Afro, is a wonderful way to honor the era. Products designed for curl definition and volume can really help here. Even the long, straight look is easily achievable; it’s all about healthy, well-maintained hair. Remember, the '70s were about expression, so feel free to adapt these styles to suit your own personality and hair type. You can learn more about hair care tips on our site, which might help you get these looks.
Many current hair trends, you know, take inspiration from this vibrant decade. You see feathered layers making a comeback, and shags are practically everywhere. This shows just how enduring these looks are. To get more specific styling advice for your hair type, you might want to check out a trusted source like Allure's guide to 70s hairstyles, which offers some good insights.
Frequently Asked Questions About 70s Hair
What were the most popular 70s hair styles?
The most popular **70s hair styles** were, without a doubt, the feathered flip (made famous by Farrah Fawcett), the shag haircut with its choppy layers, big disco curls, and the powerful Afro. Long, straight hair with a center part was also very common, especially for a more bohemian vibe. For men, longer, layered styles and prominent sideburns were very much in fashion.
How can I achieve a 70s feathered look today?
To get that classic 70s feathered look, you'll want to start with layers that frame your face. When styling, use a round brush and a blow dryer, pulling sections of hair away from your face as you dry to create that signature outward curl and volume. A little hairspray can help hold the shape. You can also explore other retro hair techniques on our site.
Did men have long hair in the 70s?
Yes, absolutely! Men in the 70s often wore their hair much longer than in previous decades. Shaggy cuts, longer layers that covered the ears, and even shoulder-length hair were quite common. Sideburns, too, were a very popular and distinct feature of men's hair during this time, adding to the overall relaxed and often rebellious aesthetic of the era.
Revisiting the Magic of 70s Hair
The **70s hair styles** were, in many respects, a reflection of a decade that didn't shy away from being bold, expressive, and a little bit wild. From the freedom of the Afro to the glamour of the feathered flip, these looks captured the diverse moods and movements of a truly transformative time. It was a period when people were ready to experiment, to break away from older traditions, and to let their hair truly speak for itself.
So, whether you're drawing inspiration for a costume party or simply looking to add a touch of retro flair to your everyday look, these iconic styles offer a wealth of possibilities. They remind us that hair is more than just strands on our heads; it's a powerful way to express who we are and to connect with the spirit of different eras. It's pretty amazing, really, how these styles continue to capture our imagination.
