Accrington, a town in Lancashire, UK, has witnessed a fascinating evolution in hair styles over the decades, reflecting changing cultural trends and societal norms. This article delves into the hair style evolution in Accrington, exploring the most influential styles from the mid-20th century to the present day.
Post-War Era: The Rise of the Quiff and Bouffant
The post-war era in Accrington, like much of the UK, was marked by austerity and rationing. However, this didn't stop the town's residents from embracing new hair styles as they emerged from the war. The quiff, a style characterized by short sides and a swept-back, high top, became popular among men, while women adopted the bouffant, a voluminous style often worn with a beehive.
The Swinging Sixties: The Mod and Hippie Influence
The 1960s brought a cultural revolution to Accrington, as it did to the rest of the world. The Mod movement, with its sharp suits and short, sleek haircuts for men, gained traction in the town. Meanwhile, the Hippie counterculture brought long, flowing locks and colorful, intricate styles for both men and women.
Accrington's youth embraced these changes, with local salons like The Cutting Edge and Hair by Helen becoming hubs for these new styles. The town's annual carnival became a showcase for these evolving trends, with participants sporting the latest looks.
Local Legend: The Accrington Fade
Accrington's unique contribution to the hair style landscape emerged during this decade. The Accrington Fade, a skin fade on the sides with a longer, textured top, became a local signature style. This style, still popular today, was born out of the town's working-class roots and has been sported by many of Accrington's notable figures, including local footballers and musicians.
The Disco Era: Afros and Layered Cuts
The 1970s saw the rise of disco culture, and with it, new hair styles. Afros, both natural and permed, became popular among Accrington's black community. Meanwhile, layered cuts, often featuring a fringe, were embraced by the town's white population. These styles could be seen in local nightclubs like The Tower Ballroom and Chequers Nightclub.
The 1980s: Big Hair and the Mullet
The 1980s was the decade of big hair. Perms, teased hair, and crimping iron creations dominated the scene. Accrington's women embraced these styles, with local salons like Curl Up & Dye and Hairport bustling with clients seeking the latest treatments. Meanwhile, the mullet, a style characterized by short hair at the front and sides and long hair at the back, became a controversial favorite among men.
The 1990s: The Grunge Influence and the Return of Short Hair
The 1990s brought a backlash against the excess of the 1980s. The grunge movement, with its emphasis on authenticity and simplicity, influenced Accrington's youth. Short hair, often styled messy or spiky, became popular among both men and women. Local salons like Headz Up and The Hair Lounge saw a surge in demand for these styles.
The 2000s to Present: Diversity and Individualism
From the 2000s onwards, Accrington has seen a celebration of diversity and individualism in hair styles. From natural afros and locs to undercuts and fades, the town's residents embrace a wide range of styles. Local salons now cater to a diverse range of clients, offering services from braiding and weaving to coloring and styling.
| Decade | Popular Styles |
|---|---|
| 1950s | Quiff, Bouffant |
| 1960s | Mod (short, sleek), Hippie (long, flowing) |
| 1970s | Afros, Layered Cuts |
| 1980s | Big Hair, Mullet |
| 1990s | Short, Messy/Spiky Styles |
| 2000s-Present | Diverse Styles (Natural Afros, Undercuts, Fades) |
