Step back in time, if you will, to a decade that really shaped how we think about personal style and expression. The 1970s, often simply called the '70s, was a period of big changes, and this spirit showed up in hair in a very striking way. It was a time when hair became a true statement, offering looks that felt both free and glamorous. From the dance floor's bright lights to everyday street scenes, women's hair during this era had a distinct personality, reflecting a sense of individuality and fun. It's almost as if the hair itself told a story about the decade's unique vibe, you know?
So, why are we still talking about these looks? Well, the influence of 70s hairstyles female continues to appear in today's fashion and beauty circles. People are always looking for ways to bring a touch of that vintage charm into their modern appearance. Whether it's the sweeping elegance of a particular cut or the playful bounce of a style, these looks are more than just old trends; they are timeless expressions of beauty that just keep coming back around, apparently.
This article will take you on a little trip through some of the most memorable 70s hairstyles for women. We'll explore iconic styles, like the much-loved feathered hair and the energetic disco curls. You'll get some practical tips for recreating these looks, and we'll even touch on the general feeling of the 70s that inspired them. It's about finding your perfect retro look and getting the styling advice you need to make it work for you today, so.
Table of Contents
- The Enduring Charm of Feathered Hair
- Dancing Through the Decades with Disco Curls
- Beyond the Big Two: More 70s Hair Looks
- Getting That 70s Vibe: Styling Essentials
- The 70s Mood: A Decade of Expression
- Frequently Asked Questions About 70s Hairstyles
The Enduring Charm of Feathered Hair
When you think about 70s hairstyles female, the first thing that often comes to mind is feathered hair. This look, arguably one of the biggest hair trends to come out of that period, really defined an era. It was all about creating a soft, voluminous frame around the face, giving off an air of effortless cool. The way the hair curved back from the face, almost like wings, was incredibly distinctive, and it felt fresh and modern for its time, you know?
What Makes Feathered Hair So Special?
The magic of feathered hair lies in its unique cutting technique and the way it’s styled. It’s not just about layers; it's about delicate layers that are strategically placed. Typically, this style involves cutting a bob that is shorter at the front and then gradually gets longer at the back. This specific layering allows the hair to naturally sweep away from the face, creating that signature feathered effect. It's a look that, in a way, blends sophistication with a touch of playful bounce, too.
Recreating the Feathered Look Today
If you're thinking about bringing this iconic 70s hairstyle female into your current look, the process is actually pretty straightforward. First, you'll want to talk to your hair stylist about getting those delicate layers cut into your hair, keeping the bob shape that's shorter in front and longer in the back. This cut is the very foundation of the style, so getting it right is important. Once the cut is done, the styling is where the real transformation happens, apparently.
To achieve the classic feathered volume, you'll need a good round brush and a hair dryer. The trick is to use the round brush to roll the ends of your hair back, away from your face, while applying heat from the dryer. This action creates tons of volume and that outward curl that gives feathered hair its characteristic shape. You'll want to focus on the sections around your face, really coaxing them into that beautiful backward sweep. It takes a little practice, but the results are pretty stunning, so.
For added hold and shine, you might want to use a light hairspray or a volumizing mousse before you start drying. This helps the style last longer and keeps those feathered pieces in place throughout the day. Remember, the goal is volume and a soft, airy feel, not stiffness. It's about creating a look that feels natural and flowing, a bit like the breeze is always gently pushing your hair back, in some respects.
This style, really, works well on various hair lengths, though it’s traditionally seen on medium to long hair. The key is those layers, which give the hair movement and make it seem lighter. It's a versatile look that can be dressed up or down, making it a wonderful choice for anyone wanting to embrace a piece of 70s glamour without going completely retro. It's a timeless choice, really, that continues to capture people's attention.
Dancing Through the Decades with Disco Curls
Beyond the smooth, feathered look, another defining aspect of 70s hairstyles female was the sheer exuberance of disco curls. When the disco ball started spinning, hair got bigger, bolder, and full of life. These curls were all about volume, bounce, and a joyful, energetic spirit that matched the vibrant music and dance culture of the time. It was a look that screamed fun and freedom, you know, just like the music that filled the air.
The Essence of Disco Curls
Disco curls were not subtle. They were often tight, springy, and piled high, creating a magnificent halo around the face. Think about the iconic looks of the era – hair that moved with every step, every spin on the dance floor. This style celebrated natural texture for some, while others used hot rollers or curling irons to achieve that intense, glorious curl. It was about making a statement, a very big one, with your hair, so.
Creating Your Own Disco Magic
To get those fabulous disco curls today, you have a few options. If your hair has a natural curl or wave, you can enhance it with a curl-defining cream and then diffuse it dry, really encouraging that volume. For those with straighter hair, hot rollers are your best friend for achieving uniform, bouncy curls. You'll want to section your hair and roll it tightly, letting the rollers cool completely before gently unraveling them. This helps set the curl, apparently.
Alternatively, a small-barrel curling iron can also create those tight, defined spirals. Once you've curled all your hair, the secret to true disco volume is to gently brush or pick out the curls. This might seem counterintuitive, but it breaks up the individual curls, making them expand and blend into that wonderful, voluminous cloud. A wide-tooth comb or a hair pick works wonders for this. You're aiming for a full, almost wild look, not perfectly separated ringlets, a bit like a joyful explosion of hair, in a way.
To keep your disco curls from falling flat, a strong-hold hairspray is pretty much essential. You can even flip your head upside down and spray from underneath for maximum lift. This style is all about embracing big hair and having fun with it. It’s a fantastic choice for a night out, a themed party, or just when you feel like adding a lot of drama and excitement to your everyday appearance. It’s a style that truly embodies the spirit of the seventies, you know?
Beyond the Big Two: More 70s Hair Looks
While feathered hair and disco curls might be the most famous, the 70s offered a surprisingly wide range of 70s hairstyles female. The decade was, as a matter of fact, a melting pot of styles, from super sleek and straight to wonderfully shaggy and layered. Women really experimented with their hair, finding looks that suited their individual tastes and the different subcultures emerging at the time. It was a period of great personal expression, so.
Long and Straight
For many, the early 70s continued the long, straight hair trend that began in the late 60s. This look was often worn with a simple center part, sometimes with a few subtle layers around the face to add movement. It was a very clean, natural look that felt quite effortless. Think about the folk music scene, or just a casual, relaxed vibe. To get this look, you really just need straight hair, perhaps with a flat iron for extra sleekness, and a precise part, you know?
The Shag
Then there was the shag, a choppy, layered cut that offered a lot of movement and a rebellious edge. This style featured layers of varying lengths, often shorter on top and gradually getting longer towards the bottom, with bangs that blended into the sides. It was a versatile cut that could be worn messy and carefree or styled for a bit more polish. The shag was a favorite among rock stars and those who wanted a less "done" but still very stylish appearance. It's a bit like controlled chaos, in a way, for your hair.
Braids and Boho Waves
The bohemian influence also played a significant role in 70s hairstyles female. Long, natural-looking waves, often with braids woven throughout, were very popular. These styles often had a relaxed, earthy feel, sometimes adorned with headbands or flowers. It was about embracing a more free-spirited aesthetic, and the hair reflected that. Think about music festivals and a general feeling of connection to nature, you know? These looks were about simplicity and natural beauty, really.
The Pageboy
For those who preferred a shorter, more structured look, the pageboy was a cute and classic choice. This style featured hair cut to chin or shoulder length, with the ends curled under, creating a smooth, rounded shape. It often included a fringe or bangs that were also cut straight across. It was a very neat and polished look, a bit retro even for the 70s, but it definitely had its moment. It offered a very clean silhouette, apparently, that many found appealing.
Getting That 70s Vibe: Styling Essentials
Recreating 70s hairstyles female isn't just about the cut; it's also about how you style your hair and the products you use. The decade was known for its emphasis on volume and movement, so getting those elements right is pretty important. Whether you're aiming for feathered waves or bouncy curls, a few key techniques and tools can help you achieve that authentic retro feeling, so.
Volume is Your Friend
For most 70s looks, volume is absolutely key. Hair that lies flat just doesn't capture the spirit of the era. To get that lift, start with a volumizing mousse or spray applied to damp hair, especially at the roots. Then, when blow-drying, use a round brush to lift sections of hair at the root, directing the airflow upwards. Backcombing (gently teasing the hair at the roots) can also add significant lift, particularly for styles like the shag or disco curls. It's all about creating that big, bold shape, you know?
The Power of the Round Brush
As mentioned with feathered hair, the round brush is an indispensable tool for achieving those signature flips and curves. When blow-drying, roll sections of hair around the brush and direct the heat, then let the hair cool on the brush for a few seconds before releasing. This helps set the shape. For feathered ends, roll the hair back and away from your face. For a pageboy, roll the ends under. This technique is, in a way, the secret sauce for many 70s styles, apparently.
Heat Styling Tools
Curling irons and hot rollers are your allies for creating curls and waves. For disco curls, smaller barrel curling irons or hot rollers will give you tighter, bouncier spirals. For softer waves, a larger barrel iron or even braiding damp hair before bed can work wonders. Always remember to use a heat protectant spray before applying any heat to your hair to keep it healthy and shiny, you know? Protecting your hair is, after all, a good idea.
Finishing Touches
Once your hair is styled, a good hairspray will help hold your look in place without making it feel too stiff. For a natural finish, choose a flexible hold spray. If you want those disco curls to last through a night of dancing, a stronger hold might be better. A shine spray or serum can also add that glossy finish that makes hair look healthy and vibrant. It's about making your hair look alive and full of movement, so.
Remember, the 70s were about having fun with your hair and letting your personality shine through. Don't be afraid to experiment with different techniques and products to find what works best for your hair type and the specific look you're trying to achieve. You can learn more about hair care tips on our site, and also explore more vintage hair trends for inspiration.
The 70s Mood: A Decade of Expression
To truly appreciate 70s hairstyles female, it helps to understand the general feeling of the decade itself. The 1970s, which began on January 1, 1970, and concluded on December 31, 1979, was a period marked by significant cultural shifts and events. It was a time when music, fashion, and social attitudes were all undergoing quite a transformation. This backdrop undeniably influenced the way people chose to express themselves, including through their hair, you know?
Music and Fashion Influences
The music of the 70s was incredibly diverse, from the smooth sounds of soul and R&B to the high-energy beats of disco and the raw power of rock. Think about the single stars of the charts for Carl Douglas, David Essex, and Billy Paul, whose music often set the tone for the era's vibe. This rich musical landscape directly inspired fashion choices. People wore jumpsuits, turtlenecks, hot pants, and everything in between, creating a very expressive and fun fashion scene, so. Hair was, in a way, just another accessory in this vibrant display.
A Time of Change
The 70s were also a time of unrest and upheaval, with notable events such as the fall of Saigon, the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, the Munich massacre, and the resignation of a president. As you explore the timeline of the 1970s, you’ll find a decade marked by significant moments, like the Beatles’ end and the start of personal computing. All these shifts, from political events to technological advancements, contributed to a collective desire for self-expression and individuality, which was quite evident in personal style. It was, apparently, a very dynamic period.
The news, sports, weather, TV listings, and rock music charts from all 3,652 days of the 1970s paint a picture of a world constantly moving forward. People were looking for ways to stand out, to feel unique, and their hairstyles were a big part of that. Whether it was a voluminous look that made a statement or a simple, cute cut, these styles were about more than just looking good; they were about embodying the spirit of a truly unforgettable decade. You can check out all of the top bands and artists of the 1970s to get a better feel for the era's sound and style, you know? Their bios, album discographies, music videos, and memorabilia are often all in one place, which is pretty cool.
The expressive nature of 1970s fashion and the general mood of the decade provided the perfect environment for these bold and beautiful hairstyles to flourish. They weren't just trends; they were reflections of a generation finding its voice and showing it off, very much so, through personal style.
Frequently Asked Questions About 70s Hairstyles
What were the most popular hairstyles in the 70s?
The 70s saw a range of popular looks, but two really stood out: feathered hair and disco curls. Feathered hair featured layers that swept back from the face, creating a soft, voluminous look. Disco curls were all about big, bouncy, and often tight curls that brought a lot of energy. Other notable styles included long, straight hair with a center part, the shaggy cut with its choppy layers, and the neatly curled-under pageboy, you know?
How do you do feathered hair?
To create feathered hair, you start with a specific cut that has delicate layers, often shorter at the front and longer at the back, like a bob. Then, for styling, you use a round brush and a hair dryer. The main technique involves rolling sections of hair, especially around the face, back and away from your face with the round brush while drying. This creates tons of volume and that signature outward flip. It takes a little practice, but it's pretty achievable, so.
What kind of bangs were popular in the 70s?
Bangs, or fringes, in the 70s varied quite a bit, depending on the overall style. For feathered hair, bangs were often blended into the longer, sweeping layers, sometimes parted in the middle or swept to the side. With the shag, bangs were typically choppy and layered, designed to blend seamlessly with the rest of the cut's texture. Straight, blunt bangs were also seen, especially with longer, straighter hair or the pageboy cut. It was, in a way, all about how the bangs complemented the main style, apparently.
