1970 women’s hairstyles – 1970s women’s hairstyles were a reflection of the decade’s cultural and social changes, with iconic styles like the Farrah Fawcett flip and the shag becoming symbols of the era. From the influence of feminism to the rise of counterculture, this article delves into the fascinating world of 1970s hairstyles, exploring their evolution, impact, and legacy.
From the feathered locks of Farrah Fawcett to the voluminous curls of Diana Ross, 1970s hairstyles were a canvas for self-expression and individuality. They defied traditional beauty standards and celebrated diversity, becoming an integral part of the decade’s fashion and culture.
Iconic Hairstyles of the 1970s: 1970 Women’s Hairstyles
The 1970s was a decade of experimentation and change, and this was reflected in the hairstyles of the time. Women embraced a wide range of looks, from the natural and bohemian to the glamorous and sophisticated.
Some of the most popular and influential hairstyles of the 1970s included:
The Farrah Fawcett Flip
The Farrah Fawcett flip was one of the most iconic hairstyles of the 1970s. It was popularized by actress Farrah Fawcett in the television series Charlie’s Angels. The flip was characterized by its long, flowing layers and its feathered ends. It was often worn with a center part and styled with a blow dryer and round brush.
The Shag
The shag was another popular hairstyle of the 1970s. It was characterized by its short, layered hair and its choppy ends. The shag was often worn with a side part and styled with a blow dryer and brush.
The Feathered Look
The feathered look was a hairstyle that was characterized by its long, layered hair and its feathered ends. The feathered look was often worn with a center part and styled with a blow dryer and round brush.
Cultural and Social Influences on Hairstyles
The 1970s witnessed a dramatic transformation in women’s hairstyles, influenced by a confluence of cultural and social factors. Feminism, the rise of counterculture, and evolving beauty standards played pivotal roles in shaping the diverse and iconic hairstyles of the decade.
Feminism and Hair Liberation
The feminist movement of the 1970s challenged traditional beauty norms and encouraged women to embrace their natural selves. This led to a rejection of elaborate hairstyles that had been associated with feminine subservience. Women began to wear their hair short, natural, and unstyled, as a symbol of their independence and self-expression.
Counterculture and Hair Rebellion
The counterculture movement of the 1970s promoted individuality and nonconformity. This spirit of rebellion was reflected in the adoption of unconventional hairstyles that defied societal expectations. Hippie women embraced long, flowing hair as a symbol of freedom and individuality, while punks sported spiked and brightly colored hair to express their rebellious nature.
Changing Beauty Standards
The 1970s saw a shift in beauty standards away from the idealized feminine look of the 1950s and 1960s. Women began to embrace a more natural and androgynous aesthetic. This change in perception led to the popularity of hairstyles that were less focused on artificial enhancements and more on showcasing the natural beauty of hair.
Evolution of Hair Care Products and Techniques
The 1970s witnessed a revolution in hair care, with the introduction of new products and techniques that transformed hairstyling.
Hair Dryers
The invention of portable hair dryers in the early 1970s allowed for faster and easier hair drying, reducing styling time and damage. Hair dryers became an essential tool for creating volume and curls.
Curling Irons
Curling irons, once only available in salons, became widely accessible in the 1970s. They enabled individuals to create defined curls and waves at home, popularizing styles like the Farrah Fawcett flip.
Volumizing Products
New volumizing products, such as mousses and sprays, emerged in the 1970s. These products provided instant volume and lift, creating the illusion of thicker, fuller hair.
Hair Salons
The 1970s saw the rise of hair salons, where professional stylists offered a range of services, including cuts, styling, and hair care treatments. Salons became hubs for experimenting with new hairstyles and techniques.
Timeline of Hair Care Innovations
* 1970: Introduction of portable hair dryers
* 1972: Invention of the curling iron
* 1974: Launch of volumizing mousse by Vidal Sassoon
* 1975: Emergence of hair salons as style centers
Impact on Hair Styling Trends
The availability of these new hair care products and techniques had a profound impact on hair styling trends in the 1970s:
* Volume became a defining characteristic of the era, with hairstyles featuring exaggerated height and lift.
* Curls and waves were popular, thanks to the ease of creating them with curling irons.
* Elaborate styles, such as the bouffant and beehive, became more accessible with the use of volumizing products.
Advertising and Media Influence
Advertising and media played a significant role in promoting new hair care products and techniques. Magazines, television commercials, and celebrity endorsements popularized the latest hairstyles and encouraged consumers to experiment with different looks.
Hairstyles by Decade
The hairstyles of the 1970s can be divided into three distinct decades: early 1970s, mid-1970s, and late 1970s. Each decade had its own unique set of popular hairstyles that reflected the changing social and cultural landscape of the time.
In the early 1970s, long, flowing hair was all the rage. Both men and women wore their hair long and loose, often with a center part. This style was inspired by the hippie movement of the 1960s and represented a rejection of traditional values and a desire for freedom and individuality.
Mid-1970s
In the mid-1970s, hair began to get shorter and more structured. Women began to wear their hair in bobs and shags, while men opted for shorter, more tailored styles. This change in hairstyle reflected the growing popularity of disco music and the rise of the disco culture.
Late 1970s
In the late 1970s, hair continued to get shorter and more punk-inspired. Women began to wear their hair in short, choppy styles, while men adopted the Mohawk and other edgy hairstyles. This change in hairstyle reflected the growing popularity of punk rock music and the rise of the punk subculture.
Hairstyles for Different Hair Types
The 1970s was a decade of experimentation and individuality, and this was reflected in the wide range of hairstyles that were popular. From long, straight hair with bangs to short, curly styles, there was a hairstyle to suit every woman.
Straight Hair
Straight hair was very popular in the 1970s, and there were a number of different ways to style it. One popular style was long, straight hair with bangs. This style was often worn with a center part, and the bangs were usually cut to just above the eyebrows. Another popular style was the feathered haircut. This style was created by cutting the hair into layers, with the shorter layers at the top of the head and the longer layers at the bottom. The layers were then feathered, or blended, together to create a soft, flowing look.
Curly Hair
Curly hair was also very popular in the 1970s, and there were a number of different ways to style it. One popular style was the afro. This style was created by combing the hair out from the roots and then shaping it into a round shape. Another popular style was the perm. This style was created by chemically treating the hair to make it curly. Perms could be done on all types of hair, but they were especially popular on short hair.
Wavy Hair
Wavy hair was also very popular in the 1970s, and there were a number of different ways to style it. One popular style was the layered haircut. This style was created by cutting the hair into layers, with the shorter layers at the top of the head and the longer layers at the bottom. The layers were then styled to create soft, flowing curls.
| Hair Type | Flattering Hairstyles |
|---|---|
| Straight | Long, straight hair with bangs Feathered haircut |
| Curly | Afro Perm |
| Wavy | Layered haircut with soft curls |
Hairstyles in Fashion and Media
The 1970s was a time of great social and cultural change, and fashion played a major role in reflecting these changes. Hairstyles were no exception, and the decade saw a wide variety of popular looks, from long and flowing to short and sassy.
Fashion magazines, television shows, and movies were all instrumental in popularizing 1970s hairstyles. Magazines like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar featured models with the latest hairstyles, and television shows like Charlie’s Angels and Starsky & Hutch showcased iconic looks that were quickly adopted by the general public.
Celebrity Hairstyles, 1970 women’s hairstyles
Celebrity hairstyles had a major influence on the popularity of particular styles in the 1970s. Farrah Fawcett’s feathered hair, for example, became a huge hit after she starred in the television show Charlie’s Angels. Other popular celebrity hairstyles included Cher’s long, flowing locks, Diana Ross’s short, curly Afro, and Twiggy’s androgynous pixie cut.
Advertising Campaigns
Advertising campaigns also played a role in the popularity of particular hairstyles. Shampoo and hair care product companies often featured models with the latest hairstyles in their ads, which helped to create demand for these looks.
Cultural and Social Factors
Cultural and social factors also influenced the acceptance and rejection of certain hairstyles in the 1970s. The feminist movement, for example, led to a growing acceptance of shorter, more androgynous hairstyles for women. The rise of the counterculture also led to a rejection of traditional hairstyles in favor of more bohemian and eclectic looks.
Hairstyles of Notable Women
The 1970s was a decade of experimentation and change, and this was reflected in the hairstyles of the time. Notable women from all walks of life embraced a wide range of styles, from the natural Afro to the glamorous Farrah Fawcett flick.
These hairstyles often reflected the individual’s personality and style. For example, Angela Davis’s Afro was a symbol of her political activism, while Cher’s long, flowing hair was a reflection of her free-spirited nature.
Examples of Hairstyles Worn by Notable Women in the 1970s
| Name | Occupation | Hairstyle | Significance |
|—|—|—|—|
| Angela Davis | Activist | Afro | Symbol of political activism |
| Cher | Singer and actress | Long, flowing hair | Reflection of free-spirited nature |
| Farrah Fawcett | Actress | Feathered hair | Popularized by the TV show “Charlie’s Angels” |
| Grace Jones | Singer and model | Short, cropped hair | Androgynous and edgy |
| Janis Joplin | Singer | Long, unkempt hair | Symbol of counterculture movement |
| Joan Jett | Singer and guitarist | Shaggy, layered hair | Pioneered the punk rock look |
| Patti Smith | Singer and songwriter | Long, straight hair | Symbol of androgyny and rebellion |
Summary of Hairstyle Trends in the 1970s
The 1970s was a decade of great diversity in hairstyles, with women embracing a wide range of styles. Some of the most popular trends included the Afro, feathered hair, short cropped hair, and long, flowing hair. These hairstyles often reflected the individual’s personality and style, and they continue to be popular today.
Hairstyles in Different Countries
The 1970s was a decade of bold and diverse fashion, and hairstyles were no exception. Across different countries and cultures, unique influences and trends shaped the way people wore their hair.
Europe
- In London, the punk subculture emerged, inspiring short, spiky hairstyles with vibrant colors.
- Parisian women embraced the chic bob, a shoulder-length cut with soft layers and bangs.
- In Italy, long, flowing hair with natural curls or waves was the epitome of glamour.
Asia
- In Japan, traditional hairstyles like the chignon and the geisha bun remained popular, while Western influences also gained traction.
- In India, long, braided hair adorned with flowers and ornaments was a symbol of beauty and femininity.
- In China, the Cultural Revolution led to a suppression of Western hairstyles, promoting shorter, more conservative cuts.
North America
- In the United States, the hippie movement popularized long, flowing hair with a natural, bohemian aesthetic.
- The disco era brought about glamorous, voluminous hairstyles with curls, waves, and feathered layers.
- African American women embraced the Afro, a symbol of pride and empowerment.
South America
- In Brazil, long, loose hair with natural waves was the epitome of beachy beauty.
- In Argentina, the tango inspired elegant hairstyles with intricate buns and curls.
- In Peru, traditional Andean hairstyles, such as braids and colorful headwear, were proudly worn.
Hairstyles and Personal Identity in the 1970s
In the 1970s, hairstyles played a significant role in expressing personal identity. The decade was marked by a spirit of individuality and experimentation, and hairstyles were a key way for people to showcase their creativity and sense of style.
Long, flowing hair was a popular choice for both men and women in the 1970s. This style was often associated with the hippie counterculture, and it symbolized freedom and individuality. Short, cropped hair was also popular, especially among women. This style was often seen as a symbol of rebellion and independence.
Hairstyles as a Reflection of Personal Identity
Hairstyles were often used to convey a person’s personality and beliefs. For example, people who wanted to express their creativity might choose a hairstyle that was unique and eye-catching. People who wanted to express their individuality might choose a hairstyle that was different from the mainstream.
Hairstyles could also be used to convey a person’s sense of belonging. For example, people who were part of a particular subculture might choose a hairstyle that was popular within that subculture. This hairstyle would help them to identify with other members of the group and to feel a sense of community.
Popular Hairstyles of the 1970s
Some of the most popular hairstyles of the 1970s included:
- The Farrah Fawcett flip
- The Cher bob
- The feathered hair
- The shag
- The mullet
These hairstyles were all unique and eye-catching, and they helped to define the decade. They were also a reflection of the social and cultural changes that were taking place at the time.
Social and Cultural Influences on Hairstyles
The popularity of certain hairstyles in the 1970s was influenced by a number of social and cultural factors. These factors included:
- The rise of the hippie counterculture
- The feminist movement
- The popularity of rock and roll music
- The invention of new hair care products
These factors all contributed to the creation of a unique and diverse range of hairstyles in the 1970s.
Short Story
In the 1970s, a young woman named Sarah decided to cut her long hair short. She had always had long hair, and she was nervous about how people would react to her new look. But she was tired of her long hair, and she wanted to try something different.
When Sarah got her hair cut, she was surprised at how much she loved it. She felt more confident and independent with her new short hair. She also found that people were more receptive to her when she had short hair. She felt like she could finally be herself.
Sarah’s story is an example of how hairstyles can be used to express personal identity. By cutting her hair short, Sarah was able to express her individuality and her sense of style. She also found that her new hairstyle helped her to feel more confident and independent.
Hairstyles and Social Class
Hairstyles in the 1970s were not just about fashion; they were also a reflection of social class. Different hairstyles could indicate a person’s socioeconomic status and social aspirations. For example, the bouffant, a large, teased hairstyle popular in the early 1970s, was often associated with wealthy women. On the other hand, the Afro, a natural hairstyle worn by many African Americans, was seen as a symbol of Black pride and resistance.
Hairstyles as a Form of Resistance
In the 1970s, hairstyles could be used as a form of resistance or rebellion against social norms. For example, the punk subculture adopted spiky, brightly colored hairstyles as a way to express their rejection of mainstream society. Similarly, the hippie counterculture often wore long, flowing hair as a symbol of their free-spirited lifestyle.
Hairstyles and Gender Roles
In the 1970s, hairstyles played a significant role in expressing and challenging traditional gender roles. Women’s hairstyles, in particular, underwent a transformation, reflecting the growing feminist movement and the rejection of societal norms.
During this time, hairstyles became a means of expressing femininity or androgyny. Long, flowing hair was often associated with traditional notions of femininity, while shorter, more androgynous styles challenged these norms. For example, the iconic “shag” haircut, popularized by celebrities like Jane Fonda, represented a rejection of conventional beauty standards and a desire for self-expression.
Femininity and Long Hair
Long, flowing hair was a symbol of femininity in the 1970s. Women with long hair were often seen as embodying traditional values such as beauty, grace, and nurturing. Long hair was also associated with the hippie movement, which promoted peace, love, and freedom.
Androgyny and Short Hair
Short hair became increasingly popular among women in the 1970s, challenging traditional notions of femininity. Short hair was often associated with androgyny, a combination of masculine and feminine characteristics. Women with short hair were often seen as strong, independent, and confident.
Rejection of Societal Norms
Some women used hairstyles to express their rejection of societal norms. They might have shaved their heads or dyed their hair unnatural colors. These hairstyles were often seen as a way to protest against traditional gender roles and expectations.
Hairstyles in Art and Photography
The distinctive hairstyles of the 1970s were not just a fashion statement but also a subject of artistic expression. Artists and photographers captured the era’s hairstyles in various forms, reflecting the social and cultural changes of the time.
Portraits and Fashion Photography
Portraits and fashion photography often showcased the elaborate hairstyles of the 1970s. Photographers such as Richard Avedon and Irving Penn used hairstyles to convey a sense of glamour and individuality. The feathered hair of Farrah Fawcett and the androgynous shag of David Bowie became iconic symbols of the era, captured in striking portraits that defined the decade’s aesthetic.
Documentary Photography
Documentary photographers used hairstyles to capture the social and cultural diversity of the 1970s. Images by photographers like Diane Arbus and Bruce Davidson documented the hairstyles of different subcultures, from the Afrocentric styles of the Black Power movement to the long, flowing hair of the hippie counterculture. These photographs provided a visual record of the era’s diverse hairstyles and their connection to social identity.
Conceptual Art
Conceptual artists explored the relationship between hairstyles and identity. Artists such as Cindy Sherman and Barbara Kruger used hairstyles as a medium to challenge traditional notions of beauty and gender. Sherman’s photographs, which featured her in various guises with different hairstyles, questioned the constructed nature of identity. Kruger’s collages juxtaposed images of women with hairstyles that defied societal norms, highlighting the role of hairstyles in shaping perceptions of femininity.
Hairstyles as Cultural Markers
Through art and photography, 1970s hairstyles became cultural markers that reflected the era’s social and cultural shifts. They symbolized the liberation of women, the rise of youth culture, and the challenge to traditional beauty standards. The representation of hairstyles in art and photography continues to shape our understanding of the 1970s as a decade of cultural transformation.
– Discuss the legacy of 1970s hairstyles in contemporary fashion and culture.
The 1970s were a decade of bold experimentation and cultural change, and this was reflected in the hairstyles of the time. From the iconic Farrah Fawcett flick to the androgynous pixie cut, 1970s hairstyles were all about expressing individuality and making a statement. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in 1970s hairstyles, as contemporary fashion and culture draw inspiration from the past.
Conclusive Thoughts
The hairstyles of the 1970s continue to inspire and influence contemporary fashion, with elements of the era’s iconic looks being revived and reinterpreted in modern times. From the resurgence of feathered layers to the popularity of voluminous curls, the legacy of 1970s hairstyles is a testament to the enduring power of style to reflect and shape cultural and social change.
Expert Answers
What were the most popular hairstyles of the 1970s?
The most popular hairstyles of the 1970s included the Farrah Fawcett flip, the shag haircut, feathered hair, and disco hair.
How did the rise of feminism influence 1970s hairstyles?
The rise of feminism in the 1970s led to a rejection of traditional beauty standards, which was reflected in the popularity of hairstyles that were more natural and less structured.
What hair care products and techniques were popular in the 1970s?
Popular hair care products and techniques in the 1970s included hair dryers, curling irons, and volumizing products.