The 1970s was a decade that revolutionized women's fashion and hairstyles, marking a shift from the conservative looks of the past. This was an era where free-spiritedness and individualism reigned, reflected beautifully in the haircuts and styles that flourished.
From long,/page-breaking cascades to short, bold crops, and everything in between, the 70s hairstyles for women were a true reflection of their changing roles and spirits. They were characterized by experimentation, volume, and embracing one’s natural texture.
The Rise of Long Hair
The 1970s saw a resurgence in the popularity of long hair, as women embraced their natural locks and sought to enhance, rather than hide, their Hendrix-inspired manes. Central to this was the 'Shag', which was basically a long, layered cut with a lot of volume at the roots.
Styling options were endless. From natural, beachy waves to smooth, straight locks, and sporty ponytails or intricate braids, it was a time of bold, individualistic expressions. Glamorous blowouts, big curls, and poker-straight styles also ruled the decade, adding a touch of sophistication to the overall casual vibe.
The 'Shag': Forerunner of Layered Cuts
The 'Shag' was undoubtedly the poster girl hairstyle of the decade. Sported by legends like Farrah Fawcett and Syd Barrett, it was essentially a layered cut with no specific length. It was all about the texture and volume at the roots.
It offered versatility; you could wear it wavy, straight, or curly, depending on your mood. Its messy, yet stylish, nature made it easy to maintain, perfect for women who wanted to express their femininity and individuality without spending too much time primping.
Long, Lush Locks
Long hair was not just about length, but also about volume and health. Women spent hours conditioning and treating their hair, using the latest products to keep it shiny and healthy. Big, soft curls were a common sight, as were long, sleek styles parted down the middle.
Wavy and curly hair was embraced and enhanced, often styled into loose, flowing shapes. Braids, when incorporated into long styles, added an interesting, put-together look. Star Wars-braids, fishtail braids, double Dutch braids, and milkmaid braids became lungo the years, adding a playful touch to long hairstyles.
Short and Sassy Styles
While long hair ruled the roost, short hairstyles were not left behind. They, too, got bolder and more fun, reflecting the spirit of rebellion and non-conformity. These cuts were all about showing off a woman's strong, confident side.
Twiggy's iconic short bob, which emphasized wide cheekbones and full lips, was one of the most popular of the era. Yet, it was just one of many styles. Women also loved pixie cuts, which emphasized movement and texture, and the 'Dorothy Hamill', a wedge cut named after the Olympic figure skater.
The Bob:Forever Chic
The bob, in particular, made a strong comeback. It was typically cut quite short, with bangs cut straight across the forehead, or even longer, with a slight angle at the back. This style was easy to maintain and very versatile, going from office-appropriate to night-out-ready with just a bit of mousse and styling.
For those who wanted more length but loved the ease of a shorter cut, the 'Lob' (a long bob) was a great pick. It offered the best of both worlds, delivering length and versatility without the need for excessive maintenance.
The Punk Influence
Towards the end of the decade, punk culture began to influence hairstyles. This was the beginning of the 'mohawk', a gravity-defying style that started as a thin strip of hair down the middle of the scalp from forehead to nape, with the rest of the scalp shaved. It was extreme, provocative, and a bold statement.
The punk movement also popularized colorful hair. Dyed hair, often in bold hues of red, blue, or black, was a sign of rebellion. It challenged societal norms and allowed women to express themselves freely, marking yet another pivotal aspect of 70s hairstyles.
Thus, the 70s were a true testament to the time's spirit of liberated expression and freedom. They were characterized by their volume, versatility, and ability to highlight each woman's unique beauty. This was a decade where forging your own path was celebrated and encouraged, and women's hairstyles truly embodied that spirit. Today, women continue to draw inspiration from this rich fashion history, incorporating 70s hairstyles into their contemporary looks. Yet, just like the 70s spirit, their ways of wearing these styles are entirely their own, reflecting their individuality and continued march towards self-expression and empowerment.