The 1970s was a transformative decade for fashion and beauty, and the hairstyles of the era were no exception. For those with naturally curly hair, this period marked a significant shift toward embracing texture and volume rather than fighting against it. The curly 70s hairstyles celebrated a sense of freedom and movement, moving away from the rigid structures of the past. This era encouraged individuals to wear their hair in its most natural, voluminous state, leading to iconic looks that remain influential in modern style.
The Rise of the Afro
Perhaps the most iconic symbol of 70s curly hair is the Afro. What started as a political and cultural statement in the late 60s evolved into a full-blown mainstream fashion statement by the mid-70s. For the first time, natural curls were not just accepted; they were celebrated as a symbol of pride and empowerment. The ideal was a rounded, voluminous shape that framed the face symmetrically. Achieving the perfect Afro required specific techniques, including the liberal use of relaxers for those with tighter curls to create a uniform look, or extensive teasing and finger-combing for those with looser waves to build height and density.
Shag and the Layers Revolution
The blunt, heavy look of the 60s bouffant gave way to the sharp, angular lines of the shag in the 70s. This haircut was revolutionary for curly-haired individuals because it leveraged the natural texture of the hair to create shape. The classic 70s shag featured heavy, stacked layers around a defined perimeter, which allowed curls to bounce and spring outward. This style removed the need for heavy styling products that weighed curls down, instead relying on the hair’s natural properties to create a dynamic, frizzy frame that moved with the wearer.
The Role of Styling Products
While the 70s were about "natural" texture, this did not mean ignoring styling products. In fact, achieving the signature volume and hold of 70s curls often required specific aids. Mousse was a staple, used generously to add body and shape without the crunch of traditional gels. Hair sprays were particularly heavy-duty, designed to hold gravity-defying styles in place for hours. Women often flicked their hair with mousse or setting lotion while it dried, creating the trademark lift at the roots and soft wave at the ends that defined the era.
Long, Flowing Locks
Not everyone opted for the shorter, edgier looks; long hair was also a major trend in the 70s, and curly textures looked magnificent worn down. The "mammoth" hairdo referred to the thick, heavy layers that created a halo of curls around the head. This style required regular trims to remove weight and prevent the curls from turning into a triangle shape. Parting was usually down the middle, and the hair was often worn straight out or with a slight flip, showcasing the sheer volume that long curly hair can provide.
Cultural Influences and Icons
The look was heavily influenced by African and Bohemian cultures, blending spirituality with a free-spirited aesthetic. The Diana Ross look, with her sleek, straightened bangs and long, curly hair, offered a different take on the trend, showing that curls could be tamed and styled elegantly. On the other end of the spectrum, the natural, puffed-out Afro worn by activists and artists was a direct connection to heritage and identity. Icons like Pam Grier and the members of The Jackson 5 brought these styles into the mainstream, proving that curly hair could be both powerful and glamorous.
Modern Adaptations
Contemporary curly hair enthusiasts owe a huge debt to the 70s. The return of the curtain bangs, the shag cut, and the rejection of bone-straight hair in favor of texture are all direct results of the freedom found in that era. Modern techniques like the DevaCut, which is designed specifically for curl patterns, are the evolved versions of the 70s layering methods. The goal remains the same: to enhance the natural curl pattern rather than suppress it, allowing the hair to look healthy, shiny, and full of movement.
