Embark on a nostalgic journey into the captivating world of 70’s hairstyles male, where iconic looks defined a generation. From the shaggy locks of rock stars to the polished pompadours of disco kings, this era witnessed a myriad of hairstyles that left an enduring mark on fashion and culture.
Prepare to be transported back to the days of bell-bottoms and platform shoes, where hair took center stage, expressing individuality, rebellion, and the pursuit of self-expression. Get ready to explore the evolution of 70’s hairstyles male, uncovering the stories behind each iconic look.
Iconic Hairstyles of the ’70s
The 1970s was a decade of bold fashion and hairstyles, and men’s hairstyles were no exception. From the shaggy locks of rock stars to the feathered hair of disco dancers, there was a hairstyle for every taste and personality. The hairstyles of the ’70s were influenced by a variety of factors, including the rise of rock music, the disco era, and the hippie counterculture.
One of the most iconic hairstyles of the ’70s was the shaggy mullet. This hairstyle was characterized by long, layered hair at the back and shorter hair at the front. The mullet was popularized by rock stars such as David Bowie and Rod Stewart, and it quickly became a symbol of the decade.
The Shag
The shag was a popular hairstyle for both men and women in the 1970s. It was characterized by short, layered hair with a lot of volume. The shag was often styled with a side part and feathered ends. The shag was a versatile hairstyle that could be worn in a variety of ways, from casual to formal.
The Afro
The afro was a popular hairstyle for African American men in the 1970s. It was characterized by a large, round shape and natural texture. The afro was a symbol of black pride and identity, and it was often worn by activists and musicians.
Long and Flowing Locks
Long, flowing hair became a symbol of the counterculture movement in the ’70s. Men grew their hair long as a way to express their individuality and reject societal norms. This hairstyle was also popular among rock musicians, who often had long, flowing locks that added to their rebellious image.
The Shag
The shag was a popular long hairstyle for men in the ’70s. It was characterized by layers of hair that were cut to create a shaggy, textured look. The shag could be worn with or without bangs, and it was often styled with a feathered or layered look.
The Mullet
The mullet was another popular long hairstyle for men in the ’70s. It was characterized by short hair on the top of the head and long hair in the back. The mullet was often worn with a feathered or layered look, and it was sometimes styled with a perm.
Famous Musicians and Celebrities with Long Hair
Some of the most famous musicians and celebrities who sported long, flowing locks in the ’70s include:
* David Bowie
* Mick Jagger
* Elton John
* Rod Stewart
* Farrah Fawcett
* Cher
Shaggy and Layered Styles
In the 1970s, shaggy and layered haircuts emerged as popular choices for men. These styles featured long, layered hair that was often cut with a razor to create a textured, feathered look. The shaggy style was characterized by its messy, unkempt appearance, while the layered style was more polished and refined.
Both shaggy and layered styles were achieved by cutting the hair in long layers, with the shorter layers framing the face and the longer layers falling down the back. The razor was used to create texture and movement in the hair, giving it a feathered, “piecey” appearance.
Shaggy Style
The shaggy style was particularly popular among rock musicians and other counterculture figures. It was seen as a symbol of rebellion and individuality, and it quickly became a staple of the 1970s rock and roll scene.
Layered Style
The layered style was more versatile and could be adapted to suit a variety of tastes. It was popular among both men and women, and it could be worn in a variety of ways, from sleek and polished to messy and casual.
Mustaches and Sideburns: 70’s Hairstyles Male
Mustaches and sideburns were essential elements of men’s hairstyles in the 1970s, reflecting the decade’s experimentation and individuality. From the iconic handlebar mustache to the shaggy sideburns, these facial hair styles evolved throughout the decade, mirroring cultural shifts and becoming symbols of the era.
Types of Mustaches
- Handlebar mustache: This exaggerated mustache featured long, curled ends that extended past the corners of the mouth. It was popularized by celebrities like Tom Selleck and Burt Reynolds.
- Fu Manchu mustache: A long, drooping mustache that extended past the chin. It gained popularity in the 1970s due to the popularity of martial arts films.
- Pencil mustache: A thin, narrow mustache that ran along the upper lip. It was often associated with intellectuals and artists.
- Horseshoe mustache: A mustache that connected to sideburns, forming a horseshoe shape around the mouth. It was popular among cowboys and bikers.
Types of Sideburns
- Muttonchops: Long, bushy sideburns that extended down to the jawline. They were popularized by rock stars like ZZ Top.
- Burnsides: Shorter, more trimmed sideburns that extended from the ears to the corners of the mouth. They were named after Union General Ambrose Burnside.
- Favoris: Small, pointed sideburns that extended from the ears to the corners of the mouth. They were popular in the early 1970s.
Cultural Significance
“Mustaches and sideburns in the 1970s were more than just facial hair; they were expressions of individuality and rebellion.” – Fashion historian Valerie Steele
Mustaches and sideburns in the 1970s represented a break from the clean-shaven norms of the previous decade. They symbolized a desire for self-expression, creativity, and a rejection of conformity. These facial hair styles were also influenced by the rise of rock music and the counterculture movement.
Short Story
In the heart of the 1970s, amidst the disco lights and bell-bottom jeans, two friends, John and Peter, sat in a local bar discussing their latest facial hair adventures. John sported a thick handlebar mustache, while Peter had grown out his muttonchops.
“Man, I love my ‘stache,” John said. “It makes me feel like a rock star.”
Peter nodded. “Yeah, and these sideburns are perfect for headbanging. They’re like my own personal windshields.”
As they sipped their beers, they watched a group of guys enter the bar, each with their own unique facial hair style. There was a Fu Manchu, a pencil mustache, and even a horseshoe.
“Look at that,” Peter said. “The 70s are all about embracing your individuality. Mustaches and sideburns are just another way to show who you are.”
John raised his glass. “To the power of facial hair!”
Afro and Dreadlocks
The afro and dreadlocks hairstyles became iconic symbols of the 1970s, representing the civil rights movement and African American culture.
The afro, a large, rounded hairstyle, gained popularity as a symbol of Black pride and liberation. It was often worn by activists and members of the Black Panther Party.
Dreadlocks
Dreadlocks, long, tangled strands of hair, also became a popular hairstyle in the ’70s. They were often associated with Rastafarianism, a spiritual movement that originated in Jamaica.
Pompadour and Slicked-Back Styles
The pompadour and slicked-back hairstyles were two of the most popular men’s hairstyles in the 1970s. The pompadour is characterized by its height and volume on top, while the sides are kept short. The slicked-back style is similar to the pompadour, but the hair is slicked back from the forehead instead of being styled upwards.
Both of these styles were achieved using a combination of products and styling techniques. The pompadour required a strong hold hairspray or gel to keep the hair in place, while the slicked-back style could be achieved using a pomade or wax.
These styles were popular among men of all ages, but they were particularly popular among young men who wanted to emulate the look of their favorite rock stars. The pompadour was a signature style of Elvis Presley, while the slicked-back style was popularized by James Dean.
Pompadour
The pompadour is a classic hairstyle that has been around for centuries. It was popularized in the 1950s by Elvis Presley, and it has remained a popular choice for men ever since. The pompadour is characterized by its height and volume on top, while the sides are kept short.
There are many different ways to style a pompadour. Some men prefer to keep it simple, with just a little bit of height and volume on top. Others prefer to go for a more dramatic look, with a lot of height and volume. No matter how you style it, the pompadour is a surefire way to turn heads.
Slicked-Back
The slicked-back hairstyle is another classic that has been around for centuries. It was popularized in the 1920s by Rudolph Valentino, and it has remained a popular choice for men ever since. The slicked-back style is characterized by its sleek, polished look. The hair is slicked back from the forehead, and it is often held in place with a pomade or wax.
The slicked-back style is a versatile hairstyle that can be worn by men of all ages. It is a great choice for formal occasions, but it can also be dressed down for more casual settings.
Mullets and Undercuts
The mullet and undercut hairstyles were two of the most popular and controversial hairstyles among men in the 1970s. The mullet was characterized by long hair in the back and short hair on the sides and top, while the undercut was characterized by short hair on the sides and back and longer hair on top.
The mullet was achieved by growing the hair long in the back and then cutting the sides and top short. The undercut was achieved by shaving the sides and back of the head and then leaving the hair on top longer. Both hairstyles were often styled with a blow dryer and hairspray.
The mullet and undercut were controversial because they were seen as being too extreme. Many people thought that the mullet was too long and shaggy, while the undercut was too short and severe. However, both hairstyles were also popular because they were seen as being stylish and rebellious.
Mullets
- Worn by rock stars and celebrities like David Bowie and Mick Jagger
- Symbolized rebellion and nonconformity
- Required regular trims to maintain the length and shape
Undercuts
- Popularized by punk rockers and skinheads
- Represented a break from traditional hairstyles
- Often styled with spiked or gelled hair on top
Hair Products and Styling Techniques
The ’70s were a time of experimentation and innovation in hair styling. New products and techniques emerged, allowing people to create a wide range of looks, from the natural and flowing to the glamorous and over-the-top.
Hair Products
Some of the most popular hair products used in the ’70s included:
- Hairspray: Hairspray was essential for keeping ’70s hairstyles in place. It was available in a variety of strengths, from light hold to extra hold.
- Mousse: Mousse was a new product in the ’70s that added volume and body to hair. It was also used to create curls and waves.
- Gel: Gel was used to slick back hair or create wet looks. It was also used to define curls and waves.
- Pomade: Pomade was a greasy product that was used to slick back hair or create pompadours.
- Conditioner: Conditioner was not as common in the ’70s as it is today, but it was still used to keep hair soft and manageable.
Styling Techniques
Some of the most popular styling techniques used in the ’70s included:
- Blow drying: Blow drying was a new technique in the ’70s that allowed people to create a variety of styles, from smooth and straight to voluminous and curly.
- Teasing: Teasing was a technique used to add volume to hair. It was done by backcombing the hair with a comb or brush.
- Roller setting: Roller setting was a technique used to create curls and waves. It was done by wrapping the hair around rollers and then drying it under a hair dryer.
- Crimping: Crimping was a technique used to create a crimped texture in the hair. It was done by using a crimping iron.
- Braiding: Braiding was a popular way to style hair in the ’70s. There were many different types of braids, from simple three-strand braids to more elaborate cornrows and French braids.
Celebrities and Hairstyles
The ’70s was a decade of iconic hairstyles, and celebrities played a major role in popularizing these styles. Male celebrities with distinctive hairstyles became style icons, inspiring countless fans to adopt similar looks.
One of the most influential celebrities of the era was Elvis Presley. His signature pompadour hairstyle, with its slicked-back sides and voluminous top, became a symbol of rock and roll and was widely imitated by men around the world.
Other Influential Celebrities
- David Bowie: Known for his androgynous style and flamboyant hairstyles, including his signature mullet.
- John Travolta: Popularized the disco era hairstyle with his feathered hair and sideburns in the movie “Saturday Night Fever”.
- Robert Redford: His shaggy, layered hair became a symbol of the laid-back California surfer style.
- Bruce Lee: His short, cropped hair with a long fringe was a reflection of his martial arts persona.
- Elton John: Known for his extravagant hairstyles, including his feathered hair and oversized glasses.
These celebrities, among others, helped to shape the hairstyles of the ’70s and left a lasting impact on fashion and popular culture.
Cultural Impact
The hairstyles of the 1970s had a profound cultural impact, reflecting the social and political changes of the era. The counterculture movement, with its emphasis on individuality and self-expression, played a major role in popularizing long hair, shaggy styles, and afros. These hairstyles challenged traditional norms and became symbols of rebellion and nonconformity.
The rise of disco music in the mid-1970s also influenced hairstyles. Disco hairstyles were characterized by volume, curls, and elaborate styling, often using hairspray and other products to achieve the desired look. These hairstyles exuded glamour and extravagance, reflecting the hedonistic and celebratory atmosphere of the disco era.
Modern Influence
The hairstyles of the 1970s continue to influence contemporary hairstyles, with many modern styles drawing inspiration from the era. Long, flowing locks, shaggy layers, and textured bobs are all popular styles today that have their roots in the 1970s. Modern interpretations of these hairstyles often incorporate contemporary techniques and products to create a more polished and updated look.
Popular Culture
The hairstyles of the 1970s have had a lasting impact on popular culture, appearing in countless films, television shows, and music videos. Iconic hairstyles such as Farrah Fawcett’s feathered hair and John Travolta’s slicked-back look have become synonymous with the era and continue to be referenced in popular culture today.
Analyze the average hair length and volume of male hairstyles in the ’70s, considering factors such as age, social class, and occupation
In the 1970s, male hairstyles varied greatly in length and volume, influenced by factors such as age, social class, and occupation. Younger men and those involved in the counterculture movement often sported longer, more voluminous hairstyles, while older men and those in more conservative professions typically opted for shorter, neater styles.
Age
Younger men in the ’70s were more likely to have longer hair than older men. This was partly due to the influence of rock and roll musicians and other counterculture figures, who often had long, flowing locks. Longer hair was also seen as a symbol of rebellion and individuality.
Social class
Men from higher social classes were more likely to have shorter, neater hairstyles than men from lower social classes. This was because shorter hair was seen as more professional and respectable. Men from lower social classes were more likely to have longer hair, which was often seen as a sign of rebellion.
Occupation
Men’s hairstyles in the ’70s were also influenced by their occupation. Men who worked in more conservative professions, such as law or finance, typically had shorter, neater hairstyles. Men who worked in more creative professions, such as music or art, were more likely to have longer, more voluminous hairstyles.
| Age Group | Average Hair Length | Average Hair Volume |
|---|---|---|
| Teenagers | Shoulder-length to mid-back | Full and voluminous |
| Young Adults (20s-30s) | Chin-length to shoulder-length | Moderate volume |
| Middle-Aged Adults (40s-50s) | Short to medium-length | Less volume |
| Older Adults (60s+) | Short and neat | Minimal volume |
“In the ’70s, hair was a way to express yourself,” says fashion historian Valerie Steele. “Longer hair was seen as a symbol of rebellion and individuality, while shorter hair was seen as more professional and respectable.”
Hair Color and Highlights
In the ’70s, men experimented with various hair colors and highlights to express their individuality and style. These bold and vibrant shades reflected the era’s embrace of freedom and self-expression.
The most popular hair colors included golden blonde, copper red, and rich brown. Highlights, often in contrasting shades, were also common, adding depth and dimension to hairstyles. These colors were achieved using a variety of techniques, including bleaching, tinting, and dyeing.
Techniques for Achieving Hair Color and Highlights
- Bleaching: This process involved using a chemical solution to remove the natural pigment from the hair, allowing it to be dyed a lighter color.
- Tinting: A less permanent method than bleaching, tinting involved applying a colored glaze to the hair to enhance or alter its natural shade.
- Dyeing: This technique used a chemical dye to permanently change the hair’s color. Dyes were available in a wide range of shades, from natural to vibrant hues.
Popularity of Hair Color and Highlights
The popularity of hair color and highlights in the ’70s can be attributed to several factors. First, the era’s emphasis on self-expression and individuality encouraged people to experiment with their appearance. Second, the development of new hair care products and techniques made it easier to achieve and maintain desired hair colors.
Celebrities such as David Bowie, Mick Jagger, and Rod Stewart popularized various hair colors and highlights, inspiring fans to adopt similar styles.
Cultural and Social Significance
Hair color and highlights in the ’70s had a significant cultural and social impact. They symbolized a break from traditional norms and a celebration of personal style. The bold and vibrant shades reflected the era’s optimistic and experimental spirit.
Hair color and highlights also became associated with different subcultures and social groups. For example, long, flowing hair with highlights was often associated with the hippie counterculture, while shorter, slicked-back styles with darker colors were more common among businessmen and professionals.
Bangs and Fringes
In the 1970s, bangs and fringes were ubiquitous among men, transcending age, social class, and occupation. These fringes added an element of individuality and style to the overall shaggy and layered hairstyles that defined the era.
Types of Bangs and Fringes, 70’s hairstyles male
The most popular types of bangs and fringes included:
- Long, Straight Bangs: These bangs reached the eyebrows or slightly below, framing the face and creating a youthful and carefree look.
- Side-Swept Bangs: Swept to one side, these bangs added a touch of asymmetry and sophistication.
- Curtain Bangs: Parted in the middle, curtain bangs fell in two even sections, creating a soft and feminine effect.
- Feathered Bangs: Layered and textured, feathered bangs added volume and movement to the hair.
Styling and Popularity
Bangs and fringes were typically styled with a blow dryer and round brush to create volume and shape. Hairspray was essential for keeping the bangs in place throughout the day.
Their popularity was influenced by the bohemian and counterculture movements of the time, which emphasized individuality and self-expression. Bangs and fringes became a way for men to break away from traditional hairstyles and experiment with their appearance.
Cultural and Fashion Trends
The rise of rock and roll and the popularity of bands like Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones played a significant role in popularizing bangs and fringes. These musicians often sported long, flowing hair with bangs, setting a trend that countless fans emulated.
Celebrity Examples
Some of the most iconic celebrities who popularized bangs and fringes in the 1970s included:
- Mick Jagger
- David Bowie
- Rod Stewart
- Paul McCartney
Cultural Significance
Bangs and fringes in the 1970s symbolized rebellion, individuality, and a desire to break away from societal norms. They became a defining characteristic of the era, representing the free-spirited and experimental nature of the time.
Facial Hair Trends
During the 1970s, facial hair trends for men underwent significant evolution, reflecting the changing social and cultural landscape of the era. The decade witnessed the rise of various styles, from the iconic sideburns and mustaches to the more flamboyant and experimental looks.
Initially, clean-shaven faces were the norm, but as the decade progressed, facial hair became increasingly popular. The Vietnam War played a significant role in shaping these trends, as soldiers returning home often sported facial hair. Additionally, the growing counterculture movement embraced facial hair as a symbol of individuality and rebellion.
Sideburns
Sideburns, also known as muttonchops, were a defining feature of 1970s facial hair. They came in various lengths and shapes, from the conservative “burnsides” to the extravagant “muttonchops” that extended down to the jawline. Sideburns were often paired with mustaches, creating a distinctive and recognizable look.
Mustaches
Mustaches were another popular facial hair style in the 1970s. They ranged from the classic handlebar mustache to the more elaborate “horseshoe” mustache. Mustaches were often grown thick and bushy, adding a touch of masculinity to the wearer’s appearance.
Beards
Beards were less common than sideburns and mustaches in the early 1970s, but they gained popularity towards the end of the decade. Beards were often full and bushy, and they were sometimes paired with mustaches or sideburns. The “full beard” became a symbol of the counterculture movement, representing a rejection of traditional societal norms.
Goatees
Goatees were a relatively new facial hair style in the 1970s. They consisted of a small patch of hair on the chin, often accompanied by a mustache. Goatees were popular among younger men and were seen as a more modern and stylish alternative to traditional beards.
The Evolution of Facial Hair Trends
The evolution of facial hair trends in the 1970s can be attributed to several factors. The Vietnam War, the counterculture movement, and the rise of rock and roll music all played a role in shaping the popularity of facial hair. As the decade progressed, facial hair became increasingly associated with individuality, rebellion, and masculinity.
Hairstyle Evolution
The 1970s witnessed a remarkable evolution in male hairstyles, mirroring the transformative social and cultural landscape of the era. Hairstyles became an expression of individuality, rebellion, and style, reflecting the changing attitudes and aspirations of the time.
Key Hairstyles of Each Year
1970: Long and flowing locks, inspired by the hippie counterculture, dominated the early 1970s. The Beatles, with their iconic shaggy hairstyles, popularized this trend.
1971-1972: Shaggy and layered styles emerged, influenced by the glam rock movement. Bands like Led Zeppelin and Queen showcased these voluminous and textured looks.
1973-1974: Mustaches and sideburns became prominent, reflecting the growing influence of the disco era. John Travolta’s iconic look in “Saturday Night Fever” popularized this style.
1975-1976: Afro and dreadlocks gained popularity, symbolizing the growing Black Power movement. Bob Marley and Jimi Hendrix became icons of these hairstyles.
1977-1978: Pompadour and slicked-back styles made a comeback, influenced by the revival of classic rock and roll. Elvis Presley and David Bowie popularized these retro looks.
1979: Mullets and undercuts became the signature hairstyles of the punk subculture. Bands like the Sex Pistols and the Ramones showcased these edgy and rebellious looks.
Influence of Music, Film, and Fashion
Music, film, and fashion played a significant role in shaping the evolution of hairstyles in the ’70s. Rock stars, movie icons, and fashion designers influenced trends and inspired millions worldwide.
Cultural Significance of Specific Hairstyles
Specific hairstyles became associated with different social groups and movements. Long hair symbolized the hippie counterculture, while mustaches and sideburns represented the disco era. Afro and dreadlocks became symbols of Black Power, and mullets and undercuts embodied the punk subculture.
Closing Summary
As we bid farewell to the groovy era, the legacy of 70’s hairstyles male continues to inspire and influence contemporary trends. From the resurgence of shags and mullets to the reemergence of mustaches and sideburns, the impact of these iconic looks is undeniable. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or simply curious about the past, this journey through 70’s hairstyles male promises to captivate and entertain.
FAQ Guide
What were some of the most popular 70’s hairstyles male?
Long and flowing locks, bell-bottoms and flares, shaggy and layered styles, mustaches and sideburns, pompadours and slicked-back styles, mullets and undercuts, and afros and dreadlocks were all iconic 70’s hairstyles male.
How did 70’s hairstyles male reflect the cultural and social climate of the time?
70’s hairstyles male were influenced by the counterculture movement, the rise of rock music, and the pursuit of individuality and self-expression. They represented a break from traditional norms and a celebration of personal style.
Which celebrities had the most iconic 70’s hairstyles male?
Celebrities like David Bowie, Elton John, Jimi Hendrix, John Travolta, and Elvis Presley were known for their iconic 70’s hairstyles male, which helped popularize these looks.