The 1970s. A decade of bell bottoms, disco fever, and groundbreaking hairstyles. More than just a way to cover your head, hair in the 70s was a statement. It reflected the shifting social landscape, the burgeoning counterculture, and the evolving role of women in society. From the long, flowing manes of rock gods to the perfectly feathered styles of television stars, the 70s offered a diverse range of looks, each with its own story to tell.
The Reign of Long Hair: Natural and Free
The early 1970s saw the continued popularity of long hair, a trend that began in the late 1960s. For both men and women, long hair symbolized freedom, rebellion, and a connection to nature.
The Appeal of Natural Textures
Rejecting the rigid styles of previous decades, many embraced their natural hair texture. Straight hair was worn long and loose, often parted in the center. Curly and wavy hair was celebrated, encouraged to grow wild and free. This embrace of natural beauty was a significant departure from the perfectly coiffed styles of the past.
For women, long hair offered versatility. It could be worn down, braided, or tied back in a simple ponytail. It was a canvas for self-expression, allowing women to experiment with different looks without conforming to strict societal standards.
Men with long hair were often associated with the rock and roll scene. Think of musicians like Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin or David Bowie, sporting their iconic long locks. Long hair for men was a powerful symbol of rebellion against the establishment, a rejection of traditional masculine norms.
The Farrah Fawcett Effect: Feathered Hair Takes Flight
While long, natural hair remained popular, the mid-1970s saw the rise of the feathered hairstyle, largely thanks to Farrah Fawcett’s iconic look on “Charlie’s Angels.” This style involved layering the hair and styling it away from the face, creating a soft, voluminous, and flowing effect.
The feathered look was achieved with the help of styling tools like curling irons and blow dryers. It required a certain level of maintenance, but the result was considered incredibly glamorous and sophisticated. Farrah Fawcett’s feathered hair became one of the most requested hairstyles of the decade, influencing countless women to emulate her signature look.
This wasn’t just a hairstyle; it was a cultural phenomenon. It appeared on magazine covers, television screens, and in everyday life. Salons were flooded with requests for “the Farrah,” solidifying its place as a defining hairstyle of the 1970s.
Short and Chic: Pixies and Wedges
While long hair dominated much of the 70s, shorter styles also found their place, appealing to women seeking a more modern and practical look.
The Enduring Pixie Cut
The pixie cut, popularized in the 1960s by actresses like Twiggy, continued to be a stylish choice in the 1970s. This short, cropped hairstyle exuded confidence and sophistication. It was a bold statement, often chosen by women who wanted to stand out from the crowd.
The pixie cut offered a low-maintenance option for women who didn’t want to spend hours styling their hair. It was also a versatile style, easily adapted to different face shapes and hair textures. In the 1970s, the pixie cut was often paired with bold makeup and fashionable clothing, creating a chic and modern look.
The Rise of the Wedge
The wedge hairstyle gained popularity in the late 1970s. It was a short, layered haircut with a distinctive triangular shape, wider at the top and tapering towards the nape of the neck. The wedge was often styled with volume at the crown and a smooth, sleek finish.
This hairstyle was seen as a more sophisticated alternative to the long, flowing styles that were prevalent at the time. It was popular among professional women who wanted a polished and professional look.
Men’s Hairstyles: From Mops to Mullets
Men’s hairstyles in the 1970s were just as diverse and expressive as women’s. Long hair remained a popular choice, but shorter styles also gained traction as the decade progressed.
Long Hair, Beards, and Moustaches
As mentioned previously, long hair was a defining characteristic of male style in the early to mid-1970s. Often paired with beards and moustaches, long hair represented a rejection of traditional masculine ideals and an embrace of individuality. Rock musicians, counterculture figures, and everyday men alike sported long locks.
Beards and moustaches were also important elements of male grooming in the 1970s. From full, bushy beards to neatly trimmed moustaches, facial hair allowed men to express their personal style.
The Shag: A Textured Sensation
The shag haircut was another popular choice for men. This layered, textured hairstyle offered a more casual and relaxed alternative to the perfectly styled looks of previous decades. The shag was often worn with a middle part and allowed to fall naturally around the face.
The shag was a versatile style that could be adapted to different hair lengths and textures. It was popular among musicians and artists, adding to its cool and edgy appeal.
The Infamous Mullet: Business in the Front, Party in the Back
While it may be considered a controversial hairstyle today, the mullet gained popularity in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Characterized by short hair in the front and long hair in the back, the mullet was a bold and unconventional style that reflected the changing trends of the era.
The origins of the mullet are debated, but it is often associated with rock musicians and athletes. While the mullet may not be universally admired today, it remains a recognizable symbol of the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Accessories and Styling Techniques
Hairstyles were only part of the story. Accessories and styling techniques played a crucial role in creating the iconic looks of the 1970s.
Headbands and Scarves
Headbands and scarves were popular accessories for both men and women. Headbands were used to keep hair out of the face, while scarves added a touch of style and personality. These accessories came in a variety of colors, patterns, and materials, allowing individuals to express their unique sense of fashion.
The Power of the Blow Dryer and Curling Iron
The blow dryer and curling iron were essential tools for achieving the hairstyles of the 1970s. The blow dryer was used to create volume and shape, while the curling iron was used to create curls, waves, and the feathered effect popularized by Farrah Fawcett.
These styling tools allowed people to experiment with different looks and create hairstyles that were both fashionable and flattering.
Hair Products and Maintenance
Hair products played a significant role in maintaining the hairstyles of the 1970s. Hairspray was used to hold styles in place, while mousse and gels added volume and texture. Shampoo and conditioner were used to keep hair clean and healthy.
The hairstyles of the 1970s required a certain level of maintenance, but the results were worth the effort for those who wanted to stay on top of the latest trends.
The Lasting Legacy of 1970s Hairstyles
The hairstyles of the 1970s were more than just a passing fad. They reflected the social, cultural, and political changes of the era. From the long, flowing hair of the counterculture to the feathered styles of television stars, the hairstyles of the 1970s continue to inspire and influence fashion today.
The emphasis on natural textures, the embrace of individuality, and the experimentation with different styles all contributed to the lasting legacy of 1970s hairstyles. Whether you’re drawn to the bohemian chic of long, natural hair or the glamorous sophistication of the feathered look, the hairstyles of the 1970s offer something for everyone. They remind us of a time of freedom, creativity, and self-expression.
The 1970s hairstyles continue to be a source of inspiration for modern trends, with elements of the shag, the pixie, and the long, flowing locks appearing in contemporary styles. The decade’s emphasis on individuality and self-expression remains relevant, encouraging people to embrace their natural hair texture and experiment with different looks. The influence of the 1970s on the world of hairstyling is undeniable and continues to shape the way we think about hair and fashion.
The styles of the 70s will always have a significant place in hair history.
What were the most iconic hairstyles for women in the 1970s?
The 1970s saw a diverse range of iconic hairstyles for women, reflecting the decade’s spirit of individuality and experimentation. The Farrah Fawcett feathered style, with its voluminous layers and bouncy curls, was perhaps the most recognizable and widely copied. Other popular styles included long, straight hair parted down the middle, often adorned with headbands, as well as shags, which offered a more textured and effortlessly cool look.
Beyond these mainstream trends, the decade also embraced more daring and unconventional styles. Afros, reflecting the rise of Black pride and cultural expression, were a powerful statement. Punk rock hairstyles, with their edgy cuts, vibrant colors, and rebellious spirit, emerged towards the end of the decade, further diversifying the landscape of 1970s women’s hair.
How did music influence 1970s hairstyles?
Music played a significant role in shaping hairstyle trends during the 1970s. Rock and roll icons like David Bowie and Led Zeppelin influenced androgynous styles and long, flowing locks. The rise of disco also contributed to the popularity of big, glamorous hair, often styled with curls and waves to reflect the energy and excitement of the dance floor.
The punk rock scene, emerging in the late 1970s, had a particularly strong impact on hairstyles. Bands like the Sex Pistols and the Ramones popularized short, choppy cuts, spiky hair, and unconventional colors, directly reflecting the genre’s rebellious and anti-establishment attitude. Music videos, a growing medium during the decade, further amplified these trends, allowing fans to visually connect with their favorite artists and emulate their iconic looks.
What styling tools and products were essential for achieving 1970s hairstyles?
Achieving the voluminous and textured hairstyles of the 1970s required a specific set of styling tools and products. Blow dryers with concentrator nozzles were crucial for creating lift and volume, particularly for styles like the Farrah Fawcett. Curling irons and rollers were also widely used to create the soft, bouncy curls and waves that were characteristic of the decade.
Hair sprays were essential for holding styles in place, providing the necessary hold and shine. Mousse and volumizing products were used to add body and texture to the hair, ensuring the desired fullness and shape. Furthermore, hair accessories such as headbands, scarves, and barrettes were frequently used to embellish and personalize hairstyles, reflecting the decade’s emphasis on individuality.
What were some popular hairstyles for men in the 1970s?
The 1970s saw a significant shift in men’s hairstyles, moving away from the neat and conservative styles of previous decades. Long hair, often reaching shoulder length or longer, became increasingly popular, reflecting the decade’s embrace of freedom and self-expression. Facial hair, including mustaches, beards, and sideburns, also became a common feature of men’s looks.
Beyond long hair, other popular styles included shags and variations of the mullet, offering a more textured and rebellious appearance. Afros were also a prominent hairstyle for Black men, celebrating cultural identity and pride. The overall trend was towards more relaxed and natural-looking styles, reflecting a departure from the rigid conformity of earlier eras.
How did the political and social climate of the 1970s influence hairstyles?
The political and social climate of the 1970s, marked by significant changes and movements, deeply influenced hairstyle trends. The rise of feminism and the women’s liberation movement contributed to a rejection of traditionally feminine hairstyles, with many women opting for shorter, more practical styles. Natural hair textures were also embraced as a form of empowerment and self-acceptance.
The Civil Rights Movement and the growing emphasis on Black identity led to the widespread adoption of Afros and other natural hairstyles within the Black community, reflecting a celebration of heritage and cultural pride. Anti-establishment sentiments and the rise of counterculture movements also influenced the emergence of more rebellious and unconventional hairstyles, such as punk rock styles, symbolizing a rejection of societal norms and expectations.
Did any specific celebrities heavily influence 1970s hairstyles?
Numerous celebrities heavily influenced hairstyle trends throughout the 1970s. Farrah Fawcett’s iconic feathered hairstyle became a global phenomenon, widely emulated by women of all ages. Other influential actresses like Diane Keaton and Goldie Hawn popularized effortless, natural-looking styles that resonated with a broad audience.
On the male side, rock stars like David Bowie, Mick Jagger, and Robert Plant shaped hairstyle trends with their long, flowing locks and androgynous styles. Actors like Burt Reynolds and Robert Redford also influenced men’s hairstyles, popularizing mustaches and longer, well-groomed looks. These celebrities, through their public appearances and performances, played a significant role in shaping and disseminating hairstyle trends throughout the decade.
How did 1970s hairstyles influence later trends?
The hairstyles of the 1970s have had a lasting influence on subsequent decades. The feathered layers and voluminous styles pioneered in the 1970s saw a resurgence in the 1980s, albeit with a more exaggerated and dramatic flair. Elements of the shag and other textured hairstyles have also continued to reappear in various forms over the years, demonstrating the enduring appeal of these versatile cuts.
Furthermore, the emphasis on individuality and self-expression that characterized 1970s hairstyles continues to resonate today. The acceptance of natural hair textures and the celebration of diverse styles owe a debt to the groundbreaking trends of the 1970s, paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse landscape of hair fashion. The legacy of 1970s hairstyles can be seen in the ongoing trends that celebrate personal style and embrace individuality.
Alden Pierce is a passionate home cook and the creator of Cooking Again. He loves sharing easy recipes, practical cooking tips, and honest kitchen gear reviews to help others enjoy cooking with confidence and creativity. When he’s not in the kitchen, Alden enjoys exploring new cuisines and finding inspiration in everyday meals.