The 1970s, often called the '70s, began on January 1, 1970, and wrapped up on December 31, 1979. It was a decade that truly did not do things by halves, you know? This era saw a big mix of events, from global shifts like the fall of Saigon and the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan to the resignation of a U.S. president. Pop culture and politics even had their moment when Elvis Presley, the king of rock 'n' roll, visited President Richard Nixon in the White House Oval Office on December 21, 1970. It was a time when things really moved and shook.
This period of unrest and upheaval, marked by significant happenings like the Beatles’ end and the start of personal computing, also brought forth a truly expressive and fun approach to fashion. People were wearing everything from jumpsuits and turtlenecks to hot pants, as a matter of fact. This vibrant spirit certainly extended to hair, especially for guys. The hair trends of the seventies were just as bold and varied as the music, which featured artists like Van Morrison and chart-toppers from Carl Douglas, David Essex, and Billy Paul.
So, if you are looking to bring a bit of that unforgettable 70s vibe into your style today, you are in the right place. We are going to take a closer look at some of the most iconic 70s hairstyles for guys. These looks were all about freedom and making a statement, and they still hold a certain charm. You might find some inspiration to try something new, or simply enjoy a trip down memory lane to a time when hair was a big part of personal expression.
Table of Contents
- The Spirit of 70s Hair
- Iconic 70s Hairstyles for Guys
- Bringing the 70s to Today
- FAQ About 70s Hairstyles for Guys
The Spirit of 70s Hair
The 1970s was a decade of massive change, and this feeling of transformation really showed up in fashion and hair. It was a time when people wanted to express themselves, and hair became a powerful way to do that. The decade saw a lot of political and social movements, with activists organizing protests and forming groups like the National Organization for Women, fighting for the Equal Rights Amendment. This push for freedom and individuality, you know, played a big role in how guys chose to wear their hair.
Think about the music scene too. The 70s gave us rock music charts for all 3,652 days of the decade, featuring top bands and artists whose bios, album discographies, and music videos are still explored today. Musicians often led the way in setting trends, and their hairstyles became symbols of the era. The hair was often less structured than in previous decades, giving off a relaxed yet rebellious vibe. It was, in a way, about breaking free from traditional norms.
So, the hair styles for guys in the 70s were not just about looking good; they were also about making a statement. They reflected the general feeling of the time, a period when things were sometimes a bit chaotic but also incredibly creative. Whether it was long, short, curly, or straight, each style carried a piece of that decade's unique energy. This was a time when reels were spinning, and people were finding new ways to show who they were.
Iconic 70s Hairstyles for Guys
When we talk about 70s hairstyles for guys, a few distinct looks immediately come to mind. These styles were popular across different groups, from rock stars to everyday guys, and they really captured the essence of the decade. Each one, in its own way, tells a story about the times. You could say they were more or less a reflection of the era's diverse culture.
The Shag Cut
The shag was a truly popular cut for both men and women in the 70s. It featured lots of layers, often shorter on top and longer towards the bottom, creating a somewhat messy, effortless look. This style was pretty versatile and could be worn by guys with different hair types. It gave off a cool, relaxed vibe, which was very much in tune with the casual fashion of the time. Think of it as a style that just kind of flowed naturally.
This haircut was favored by many musicians, giving it a rock 'n' roll edge. It looked great with a bit of texture and movement, not too neat or perfect. The shag really embodied the idea of individual expression that was so important in the 70s. It was a style that said, "I'm cool, but I don't try too hard," which, honestly, is a pretty timeless message.
Long and Flowing Looks
For many guys in the 70s, longer hair was the way to go. This often meant hair that reached the shoulders or even longer, sometimes parted right down the middle. It was a natural, often unstyled look that emphasized freedom and a return to nature. This style, you know, was a stark contrast to the shorter, more structured cuts of previous decades.
This kind of hair was often seen on musicians and people involved in counter-culture movements. It could be straight, wavy, or curly, just letting the hair do its own thing. The length allowed for a lot of movement and a rather carefree appearance. It truly symbolized a break from conformity, and it still looks pretty good today, in some respects.
The Afro
The Afro was a powerful and symbolic hairstyle in the 70s, particularly within Black communities. It was a natural, rounded shape that celebrated natural hair texture and was a strong statement of identity and pride. This style, clearly, was more than just a haircut; it was a cultural and political statement.
This look required specific care to maintain its shape and volume, but its impact was undeniable. It was a bold and beautiful style that truly stood out. The Afro represented a movement towards self-acceptance and cultural affirmation, and its influence is still felt today. It was, basically, an iconic part of the decade's visual landscape.
Classic Sideburns
While not a full hairstyle on its own, sideburns were an almost essential accessory for many 70s male haircuts. They were often grown long and thick, sometimes extending down to the jawline or even below. You know, they added a distinct frame to the face and completed many of the popular looks.
Sideburns could be seen with shorter cuts, longer styles, and everything in between. They were a sign of the times, a little detail that made a big difference in the overall look. If you are going for a 70s vibe, long sideburns are definitely something to consider. They just kind of tie the whole look together, don't they?
The Feathered Style
Inspired by iconic figures, the feathered look involved layers that were styled to sweep back and away from the face, creating a soft, airy effect. While famously popular with women, guys also adopted this style, particularly towards the latter half of the decade. It gave a somewhat polished yet still relaxed appearance.
This style often required a bit more effort with a blow dryer and brush to get that distinctive sweep. It was a softer, perhaps a bit more refined, version of the longer hair trends. The feathered look added a touch of glam to male hairstyles, showing that guys were also embracing more styled, yet still natural-looking, hair. It was, you know, a pretty cool way to wear your hair.
Bringing the 70s to Today
So, how can you bring these cool 70s hairstyles for guys into your modern look? The good news is that many of these styles, with a few tweaks, fit right into today's trends. The key is to take inspiration from the past without looking like you are wearing a costume. It's about capturing the spirit, not just copying exactly.
For a shag, talk to your barber about getting some good layers, keeping the top a bit shorter and letting the sides and back grow out. You can use some texturizing spray or mousse to get that natural, slightly messy look. If you are going for a long and flowing style, patience is key. Let your hair grow, and use good quality conditioner to keep it healthy and soft. A middle part can really sell the look, too it's almost a signature of the era.
For the Afro, embracing and caring for your natural texture is paramount. There are many products available today that can help maintain shape and moisture. And for those classic sideburns, just let them grow out! You can trim them to your desired length and thickness. The feathered style might need a bit of blow-drying technique, but a good stylist can show you how to achieve it with ease.
Remember, the 70s were all about individuality and expression. So, feel free to mix and match elements from different styles, or simply take inspiration from the overall vibe. It's about finding what feels right for you and your hair. You can learn more about hair trends on our site, and also check out this page for more vintage fashion ideas. This approach lets you create a look that is both retro and current, which, you know, is a pretty neat trick.
FAQ About 70s Hairstyles for Guys
What were common 70s hairstyles for guys?
Common 70s hairstyles for guys included the shaggy cut, long and flowing hair often with a middle part, the Afro, and feathered styles. Sideburns were also a very popular feature that went with most of these looks. These styles often showed a relaxed, somewhat natural, and expressive vibe.
How can I get a 70s look today?
To get a 70s look today, you can ask your stylist for layered cuts like a modern shag, or grow your hair out for a long, natural style. Embracing your hair's natural texture is key. Using products that add texture without making hair stiff can help achieve that effortless 70s feel. Don't forget to consider growing out your sideburns for an authentic touch.
Did men wear long hair in the 70s?
Yes, men absolutely wore long hair in the 70s. Long hair was a very prominent trend for guys throughout the decade, often styled in natural, flowing ways, sometimes parted down the middle. It was a significant shift from earlier decades and symbolized a sense of freedom and individuality. Many musicians and public figures sported long hair, making it a widespread fashion statement.
