Hairstyles From The 70s And 80s

Let's dive into the totally rad world of hairstyles from the 70s and 80s! These iconic looks defined entire generations, and they're still influencing trends today. From the disco fever of the 70s to the big hair bands of the 80s, get ready for a blast from the past that's full of volume, texture, and unforgettable style. We'll explore the defining characteristics of these hairstyles, the celebrities who rocked them, and how you can incorporate elements of these vintage looks into your modern style.

The Groovy 70s: Free Spirit and Disco Glam

The 1970s was an era of major change and self-expression, and that was definitely reflected in its hairstyles. Think long, flowing locks, natural textures, and a touch of bohemian flair. It was all about embracing your individuality and letting your hair down – literally!

Key Looks of the 70s:

• Feathered Hair: Farrah Fawcett's iconic feathered hairstyle set the standard for 70s glam. This voluminous, layered look involved carefully styled waves that framed the face, creating a soft and feminine silhouette. Achieving this look often required hours of blow-drying and setting with rollers, but the results were undeniably stunning. The feathered look wasn't just for women; men also adopted a softer, feathered style, though typically with less extreme volume.

• Long and Straight: For those who preferred a more low-key look, long, straight hair was a popular choice. This style was often parted in the middle and allowed to flow naturally, embodying the free-spirited essence of the decade. While it appeared simple, maintaining healthy, shiny long hair required dedication to proper hair care routines, including regular conditioning and avoiding excessive heat styling. Celebrities like Cher perfected this look, making it a symbol of effortless cool.

• The Shag: The shag hairstyle was all about texture and layers. This choppy, deliberately messy style was easy to maintain and exuded a rock-and-roll vibe. The shag could be adapted to various hair lengths and textures, making it a versatile choice for both men and women. Celebrities like Jane Fonda embraced the shag, showcasing its edgy appeal and solidifying its place as a 70s staple.

• Afro: The afro was more than just a hairstyle; it was a statement of cultural pride and identity. This bold, voluminous style celebrated natural hair texture and was a powerful symbol of self-expression within the African American community. Afros came in various shapes and sizes, each reflecting the wearer's personal style. Maintaining a healthy afro required specialized care, including moisturizing and gentle detangling techniques to preserve its shape and volume.

Influences and Icons:

The 70s weren't just about the styles but also the people who rocked them. Music icons like Stevie Nicks and Joni Mitchell epitomized the bohemian look with their long, flowing hair and natural textures. On the other hand, disco queens like Donna Summer brought the glam with their perfectly coiffed curls and shimmering outfits. TV stars like Farrah Fawcett influenced millions of viewers with her signature feathered style, setting trends that defined the decade's aesthetic. These cultural figures helped shape the beauty standards of the time and continue to inspire fashion and beauty trends today.

The Electric 80s: Big Hair and Bold Statements

Fast forward to the 1980s, and things got a whole lot bigger. The 80s were all about excess, and that definitely applied to hair. Volume was key, and the higher the hair, the closer to heaven! This decade embraced bold colors, daring cuts, and a sense of fearless self-expression that was unlike anything seen before. It was a time of experimentation and individuality, where anything went, and the more outrageous, the better!

Key Looks of the 80s:

• Big Hair: The bigger, the better! Teasing, crimping, and hairspray were essential tools for achieving the gravity-defying volume that defined 80s hair. This style often involved layering and backcombing to create a full, voluminous look that stood out from the crowd. Big hair wasn't just about volume; it was about making a statement and expressing confidence. Celebrities like Madonna helped popularize this style, inspiring millions to embrace their inner rock stars.

• The Perm: The perm was a game-changer for those who wanted to add texture and volume to their hair. This chemical treatment created lasting curls and waves, giving hair a permanent boost in body and bounce. Perms were incredibly versatile, ranging from tight, springy curls to loose, beachy waves. The perm became a symbol of 80s style, adorning the heads of everyone from pop stars to soccer moms.

• The Mullet: Business in the front, party in the back! The mullet was a controversial but undeniably iconic hairstyle of the 80s. This style featured short, trimmed hair in the front and long, flowing hair in the back, creating a unique and polarizing look. While often associated with rock stars and rebels, the mullet found its way into mainstream fashion, becoming a symbol of edgy individuality. Celebrities like David Bowie helped popularize the mullet, solidifying its place in 80s hairstyle history.

• Crimped Hair: Crimped hair added texture and visual interest to any style. This look was achieved using a special crimping iron that created small, uniform waves throughout the hair. Crimped hair was often combined with other 80s trends, such as big hair and bright colors, to create a truly eye-catching look. Whether worn loose and flowing or styled into updos, crimped hair was a fun and playful way to express individuality.

Influences and Icons:

The 80s were shaped by larger-than-life personalities who weren't afraid to push boundaries. Music icons like Madonna and Cyndi Lauper redefined pop culture with their bold hairstyles and fearless fashion choices. Actresses like Molly Ringwald and Sarah Jessica Parker influenced a generation with their relatable yet stylish looks. These cultural figures inspired countless individuals to embrace their individuality and experiment with their personal style.

Bringing Vintage Styles into the Modern Era

So, how can you rock these vintage hairstyles without looking like you stepped straight out of a time machine? The key is to incorporate elements of these iconic looks into your modern style. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Subtle Volume: Instead of going full-on 80s big hair, try adding subtle volume at the roots for a more contemporary take. Use a volumizing mousse or spray and focus on lifting the hair at the crown for a natural, effortless look.

• Textured Layers: Add layers to your hair to create movement and texture. This will give your hair a more modern shag-like appearance without the extreme choppiness of the original 70s style.

• Accessorize: Use accessories to add a touch of vintage flair to your look. Headbands, scrunchies, and hair clips can instantly transform your hairstyle and evoke a sense of nostalgia.

• Embrace Natural Texture: Instead of trying to replicate a specific hairstyle, embrace your natural hair texture and let it shine. This will give your look a unique and personal touch while still nodding to the iconic styles of the 70s and 80s.

By incorporating these tips, you can channel the spirit of the 70s and 80s without looking dated or out of touch. These vintage hairstyles are all about self-expression and confidence, so have fun experimenting and finding what works best for you!

Conclusion

The hairstyles of the 70s and 80s were more than just trends; they were reflections of the social, cultural, and political landscapes of their time. These iconic looks continue to inspire and influence fashion and beauty trends today, reminding us of the power of self-expression and the importance of embracing individuality. So, whether you're a fan of the feathered hair of the 70s or the big hair of the 80s, there's no denying the lasting impact of these unforgettable styles. Go ahead, give one of these vintage hairstyles a try and let your inner retro goddess shine!