In the world of vintage weddings, the 1970s stands out as a decade of remarkable transformation and liberated expression. 70s wedding hair moved decisively away from the severe, sculpted styles of the previous generation, embracing a sense of natural movement, earthiness, and romantic whimsy. Characterized by its fluidity and lack of rigid structure, the hair from this era was designed to complement the free-flowing silhouettes of bell-bottom dresses and bohemian-inspired gowns, creating a look that felt both effortless and iconic.
The Hallmarks of 70s Wedding Hair
The defining features of 70s wedding hair are immediately recognizable to anyone familiar with the era's aesthetic. Unlike the beehives and victory rolls of the 50s or the sleek, jet-set looks of the 60s, the 70s prioritized a relaxed, almost undone quality. The focus was on enhancing the bride's natural features rather than masking them, which led to styles that celebrated individuality and personal flair.
Key Characteristics
- Loose, Natural Curls: Big, bouncy curls created with hot rollers or curling irons were a staple. These curls were often left to fall freely around the face and shoulders, providing volume without stiffness.
- The Farrah Flick: Named for the legendary actress Farrah Fawcett, the feathered, layered hairstyle became a global phenomenon. Many brides adopted this look, characterized by its soft, graduated layers that framed the face beautifully.
- Center and Side Parts: While deep side parts were popular for more glamorous disco-inspired looks, a soft center part was also common for a more wholesome, romantic vibe.
- Half-Up, Half-Down: This versatile style, often with braids woven into the secured section, offered a perfect balance between practicality and romance, keeping hair off the face while still showcasing its length.
Color, Texture, and the Influence of Disco
The 70s were a time of experimentation, and this extended to hair color. While natural shades were prevalent, we also saw the emergence of bolder, more adventurous choices. Soft highlights, sun-kissed balayage, and subtle color rinses were popular, adding dimension and a healthy glow to the hair. Furthermore, the disco scene influenced hair trends, with some brides embracing glitter in their hair or sleeker, more sophisticated styles that shimmered under the dance floor lights.
Texture played a crucial role in achieving the perfect 70s look. The era celebrated natural hair, whether it was straight, wavy, or curly. For those with straight hair, creating volume at the roots was essential to avoid a limp appearance. For those with naturally curly hair, the goal was often to enhance and define those curls rather than fighting to straighten them. This acceptance of natural texture was a significant shift from the previous decades' focus on conforming to a singular standard of beauty.
Iconic Styles and Accessorization
Certain hairstyles became synonymous with the 70s wedding aesthetic. The "macaroni" braid, a thick, intricate braid often adorned with flowers, was a hugely popular choice for adding a touch of boho-chic to the wedding hairstyle. Braids were also frequently incorporated into updos or used to pin back sections of hair, providing both style and security for the long, flowing locks.
Accessories were used to enhance the overall look rather than to dominate it. Floral crowns, made from fresh or silk flowers, were perhaps the most iconic addition, perfectly aligning with the era's connection to nature and the outdoors. Headbands, either made from velvet, suede, or thin plastic, were also common, as were delicate scarves tied at the nape of the neck or under the hair. These elements completed the romantic, free-spirited 70s vision.
Recreating the Look Today
The resurgence of vintage weddings has led to a renewed appreciation for 70s-inspired hair, with modern brides and grooms eager to capture its magic. The good news is that many of these styles are surprisingly achievable with a few key techniques and the right tools. The focus remains on creating soft, romantic curls and incorporating organic elements like flowers and subtle braiding.
To capture the essence authentically, work with a hairstylist experienced in vintage styles. Ask for inspiration from Farrah Fawcett's layered look or the loose, cascading curls seen in films from the era. By combining modern hair care with timeless techniques, you can create a 70s-inspired hairstyle that is both nostalgic and uniquely yours, proving that great style truly is timeless.
