The 1970s were a golden era for fashion and beauty, particularly when it came to hair. Known for bold cuts, voluminous curls, and effortless styles, the decade's hairstyles still influence fashion today. Whether you’re after a subtle nod to the past or a full-on retro transformation, here are eight of the best 1970s hairstyles that will give you a cool vintage look. Each style is easy to recreate, bringing back the charm and freedom of that iconic decade.
Popularized by Farrah Fawcett, feathered hair is perhaps the most iconic hairstyle of the 1970s. The style is known for its layers that are flipped back away from the face, creating a soft, feather-like appearance. It’s voluminous, playful, and effortlessly chic. To recreate this look, ask your stylist for layers that frame the face, and use a round brush to flip the ends outward. Use a lightweight hairspray to hold the style in place while keeping it soft and bouncy.
Visual Guide: Think of long, layered hair with a lot of volume, brushed backward from the face.
The shag haircut, worn famously by Jane Fonda in the 1970s, is a rock-and-roll classic. This style features choppy layers, textured ends, and plenty of volume. It’s a low-maintenance look that suits nearly all hair lengths. The shag can be customized with bangs for a more retro look, or without for a modern touch. Use a texturizing spray for added movement and a messy finish.
Visual Guide: Medium-length hair with uneven, choppy layers and a slight fringe. Messy yet stylish.
The Afro became a symbol of pride and empowerment in the 1970s. This bold and voluminous style is best for those with naturally curly or coiled hair, allowing the curls to take center stage. Maintaining an Afro involves regular moisturizing and gentle combing to preserve the curls' shape without causing frizz.
Visual Guide: Big, voluminous, and natural curls that form a perfect halo around the head.
Straight and full, blunt bangs were a huge trend in the 1970s. Worn by celebrities like Cher, this style adds a touch of drama and sophistication. Blunt bangs work best with long, straight hair and can be paired with subtle layers to add movement. Use a flat iron to get that smooth and sleek look, finishing with a shine serum.
Visual Guide: Long, sleek hair with thick, straight-across bangs that cover the forehead.
The 1970s were all about freedom and expression, and Bohemian waves reflect that carefree spirit. This style is characterized by loose, natural-looking waves that cascade down the back. Perfect for medium to long hair, it’s a style that can be achieved with minimal effort. Use a curling wand for soft waves, then comb through with your fingers for a relaxed, boho vibe.
Visual Guide: Loose waves that are soft and flowy, slightly tousled for an effortless look.
A simple yet sophisticated style, the sleek middle part was a staple in the 1970s, often seen on fashion icons like Ali MacGraw. This hairstyle is about straight, shiny hair parted perfectly down the middle. It works best on medium to long hair. Use a smoothing serum and a straightening iron to achieve this glossy finish, and make sure the part is crisp and centered.
Visual Guide: Long, straight hair with a dead-center part, sleek and smooth without any flyaways.
The pageboy cut is a polished, shorter hairstyle that gained popularity in the 1970s. This look is characterized by its straight edges, often curled under slightly at the ends, and a prominent fringe. It’s a chic choice for those with fine hair who want a low-maintenance yet stylish look. Blow-dry the ends with a round brush to get that classic inward curl.
Visual Guide: A short, chin-length cut with soft, curved-under edges and a clean fringe.
Flicked ends were all the rage in the 1970s, giving the hair a fun and flirty bounce. This look is characterized by hair that flips outwards at the ends, adding movement and volume. It works well on both short and long hair. Use a large round brush while blow-drying, and finish with a lightweight hairspray for hold without stiffness.
Visual Guide: Hair that flicks outward at the ends, creating a light and bouncy effect.
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