70’s men’s haircuts were a bold and iconic fashion statement that defined an era of cultural change and self-expression. From the shaggy locks of rock stars to the feathered layers of disco dancers, these hairstyles captured the spirit of the time and continue to inspire modern trends. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the key characteristics, variations, and cultural impact of 70’s men’s haircuts, providing you with all the information you need to recreate these timeless styles.
Whether you’re looking to embrace the nostalgia of the 70s or simply want to add a touch of retro flair to your current look, this guide has something for you. We’ll explore the defining features of 70’s men’s haircuts, from their signature length and volume to the styling techniques that created their iconic shapes. We’ll also discuss the different variations of the style, including the shag, mullet, and afro, and provide step-by-step instructions on how to achieve each look.
Introduction
The “70’s men’s haircut” refers to a range of hairstyles that were popular among men during the 1970s. These haircuts were characterized by their length, volume, and often elaborate styling. They reflected the era’s cultural and social changes, including the rise of the hippie movement and the growing popularity of rock and roll music.
Cultural Influences
The 70’s men’s haircut was heavily influenced by the hippie counterculture. Hippies rejected traditional societal norms and embraced a more natural, bohemian lifestyle. This was reflected in their fashion choices, including their hairstyles. Hippie haircuts were often long and flowing, with minimal styling.
Another major influence on the 70’s men’s haircut was the rise of rock and roll music. Rock stars like Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and David Bowie became cultural icons, and their hairstyles were emulated by fans around the world. Rock star haircuts were often more elaborate than hippie haircuts, with longer hair, more volume, and more styling.
Key Characteristics
70’s men’s haircuts were characterized by their length, volume, and styling techniques. These features set them apart from other haircuts of the time, creating a distinctive and iconic look.
The length of 70’s men’s haircuts varied, but they were typically longer than the short, cropped styles popular in the 1950s and 1960s. This longer length allowed for more volume and styling options.
Volume was a key element of 70’s men’s haircuts. Hair was often styled with a blow dryer to create lift and fullness. This volume gave the hair a more dramatic and textured appearance.
Styling techniques also played a role in defining 70’s men’s haircuts. Hair was often parted in the middle or to the side, and it was frequently styled with a variety of products, including gels, pomades, and hairsprays.
Sideburns
Sideburns were another defining characteristic of 70’s men’s haircuts. They were typically long and bushy, and they often extended down to the jawline or even below. Sideburns added a touch of masculinity to the look and helped to frame the face.
Mustaches
Mustaches were also popular among men in the 1970s. They came in a variety of styles, from thin and pencil-thin to thick and bushy. Mustaches added a touch of personality to the look and helped to complete the overall 70’s aesthetic.
Variations and Subtypes
The 70s men’s haircut was a time of experimentation and individuality, with a wide range of variations and subtypes emerging. Some of the most popular and iconic styles included the shag, mullet, and afro.
Each of these subtypes had its own unique characteristics and styling methods. The shag, for example, was characterized by its long, layered hair that was often parted in the middle and styled with a blow dryer. The mullet, on the other hand, was a shorter style with long hair in the back and shorter hair on the sides and top. The afro was a voluminous, rounded style that was often worn by African-American men.
Shag
The shag was a popular hairstyle for men in the 1970s. It was characterized by long, layered hair that was often parted in the middle and styled with a blow dryer. The shag could be worn with a variety of different lengths and textures, and it was often accessorized with headbands or scarves.
Mullet
The mullet was another popular hairstyle for men in the 1970s. It was characterized by long hair in the back and shorter hair on the sides and top. The mullet could be worn with a variety of different lengths and textures, and it was often styled with a blow dryer or curling iron.
Afro
The afro was a voluminous, rounded hairstyle that was often worn by African-American men. It was characterized by its natural texture and its lack of styling products. The afro could be worn with a variety of different lengths and shapes, and it was often accessorized with headbands or scarves.
Styling Products and Techniques
To achieve the signature look of 70’s men’s haircuts, a variety of styling products and techniques were employed. These products and techniques helped create volume, hold, and the desired shape and texture.
One of the most important products used was hairspray. Hairspray provided strong hold and helped keep the hair in place all day long. Mousse was another popular product, as it added volume and body to the hair. Blow dryers were also commonly used to style 70’s men’s haircuts. Blow dryers helped to create volume and shape, and they could also be used to straighten or curl the hair.
Key Styling Products
The following table summarizes the key styling products used for 70’s men’s haircuts, along with their benefits and drawbacks:
| Product | Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Hairspray | – Strong hold – Keeps hair in place all day |
– Can make hair stiff and crunchy – Can be difficult to brush out |
| Mousse | – Adds volume and body to hair – Helps create a natural look |
– Can weigh hair down – Can make hair look greasy |
| Blow dryer | – Creates volume and shape – Can be used to straighten or curl hair |
– Can damage hair if used on high heat – Can make hair frizzy |
Before-and-After Photos
The following before-and-after photos demonstrate the effects of using styling products and techniques to achieve the signature look of 70’s men’s haircuts:
Video Tutorial
The following video tutorial provides step-by-step instructions on how to achieve the signature look of 70’s men’s haircuts using styling products and techniques:
- Step 1: Wash and condition your hair.
- Step 2: Apply mousse to your hair and comb it through.
- Step 3: Blow dry your hair using a round brush.
- Step 4: Apply hairspray to your hair and style it as desired.
Cultural Impact
The 70s men’s haircuts were not just a style; they were a cultural phenomenon. The long, flowing locks and sideburns became synonymous with the era’s music, film, and television.
In music, the 70s saw the rise of rock and roll, and the long hair and sideburns of musicians like Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and The Beatles became iconic symbols of the genre. The style also became associated with the counterculture movement, as it was seen as a rejection of the clean-cut, conservative styles of the previous generation.
Film and Television
In film and television, the 70s men’s haircut was often used to create characters who were rebellious, nonconformist, and anti-establishment. Actors like Jack Nicholson, Al Pacino, and Robert De Niro all sported long hair and sideburns in their iconic roles from the era.
The style also reflected the changing social and political landscape of the 70s. The Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal led to a widespread loss of faith in authority, and the long hair and sideburns of the era became a symbol of this disillusionment.
Evolution and Legacy
The 70s men’s haircut emerged as a departure from the clean-cut styles of the 1950s and 1960s, reflecting the counterculture and rebellious spirit of the era. Its evolution was influenced by rock and roll icons, the rise of the hippie movement, and the growing popularity of long hair.
The iconic shag haircut, with its layers, volume, and texture, became synonymous with the 70s. It evolved from the earlier Beatle haircut, adding more layers and volume to create a carefree, shaggy appearance. The mullet, another popular style, featured short hair on top and long hair in the back, symbolizing the era’s eclectic and non-conformist attitudes.
Enduring Popularity
Certain elements of the 70s men’s haircut have endured over time, influencing subsequent hairstyles. The emphasis on volume and texture remains popular, with modern styles incorporating layered cuts and styling techniques to achieve a similar effect. The shag haircut, in particular, has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, with celebrities and fashion icons embracing its retro charm.
Modern Interpretations
The 70s men’s haircuts have made a significant comeback in recent years, with modern interpretations adapting the classic styles to suit contemporary fashion. Stylists are incorporating elements of the 70s into current trends, creating fresh and updated versions of these iconic looks.
One of the most popular modern interpretations is the textured mullet, which combines the shaggy layers and volume of the original mullet with a more refined and polished finish. The sides and back are typically shorter, while the top is left longer and styled with texture and movement.
Examples of Modern 70s-Inspired Hairstyles
- The Modern Mullet: As mentioned earlier, this style combines the shaggy layers and volume of the original mullet with a more refined and polished finish.
- The Shaggy Bob: This hairstyle features shorter layers at the back and longer layers at the front, creating a shaggy and textured look. It is often paired with a fringe or bangs for added style.
- The Feathered Hair: This style involves layering the hair with shorter and longer sections, creating a feathered effect. It was popular in the 70s and has been making a comeback in recent years.
These modern interpretations of 70s haircuts share some similarities with the original styles, such as the emphasis on volume and texture. However, they also incorporate more modern elements, such as refined finishes and tailored cuts. This allows them to appeal to a wider range of men and fit seamlessly into contemporary fashion trends.
The resurgence in popularity of these 70s hairstyles can be attributed to several factors, including the cyclical nature of fashion and the influence of social media and fashion influencers. Celebrities and models have been spotted sporting these updated looks, which has helped to popularize them among the general public.
Hairstyle Table: 70’s Men’s Haircut
The 1970s were a time of great experimentation and diversity in men’s hairstyles. From short and slicked-back to long and flowing, there was a haircut to suit every taste. The following table provides a comparison of some of the most popular variations:
| Variation | Length | Styling Techniques | Key Characteristics | Image |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comb-Over | Short to medium | Combed over to one side, often with a part | Sideburns, bangs | [Image of a comb-over haircut] |
| Pompadour | Medium to long | Swept back from the forehead, with a high volume at the crown | Sideburns, slicked-back sides | [Image of a pompadour haircut] |
| Afro | Long | Natural, uncombed | Full, bushy | [Image of an Afro haircut] |
Celebrity Examples
The 70s men’s haircut was popularized by several iconic celebrities, including musicians, actors, and other cultural figures.
One of the most famous examples is David Bowie, who sported a variety of 70s haircuts, including the iconic “Ziggy Stardust” style. Other musicians who embraced the style included Elton John, Marc Bolan, and Rod Stewart.
Actors
In the world of acting, Robert Redford was known for his shaggy, layered 70s haircut. Other actors who rocked the style included Al Pacino, Clint Eastwood, and Burt Reynolds.
Cultural Impact
These celebrities helped to make the 70s men’s haircut a popular and enduring style. The haircuts reflected the era’s emphasis on individuality and self-expression, and they continue to be associated with the decade.
Styling Tutorial
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Start with clean, dry hair.
2. Apply a small amount of pomade to your palms and rub them together.
3. Work the pomade through your hair, starting at the roots and working your way to the tips.
4. Use a comb or brush to style your hair into the desired shape.
5. Finish with a light hold hairspray to keep your style in place.
Product Recommendations
– Pomade: Baxter of California
– Hairspray: Oribe
Styling Tips
– Use a small amount of product to start with and add more as needed.
– Avoid using too much heat when styling, as this can damage your hair.
– Let your hair cool down completely before touching it, as this will help to set the style.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Using too much product
– Using too much heat
– Not letting your hair cool down completely before touching it
– Styling your hair when it is wet
Troubleshooting Tips
– If your hair is too greasy, try using a clarifying shampoo.
– If your hair is too dry, try using a moisturizing conditioner.
– If your hair is frizzy, try using an anti-frizz serum.
– If your hair is not holding the style, try using a stronger hold product.
Summary
To style a modern interpretation of a 70’s men’s haircut, you will need:
– Pomade
– Hairspray
– Comb or brush
Follow the steps above to achieve the desired style. Be sure to use a small amount of product to start with and add more as needed. Avoid using too much heat when styling, as this can damage your hair. Let your hair cool down completely before touching it, as this will help to set the style.
Timeline of Men’s Hairstyles from the 1950s to the 1980s
Men’s hairstyles have undergone significant transformations throughout history, reflecting changing social and cultural norms. The 1950s to 1980s witnessed a particularly dynamic period in men’s hair fashion, with each decade showcasing distinct styles that defined the era.
1950s
The 1950s was characterized by short, clean-cut hairstyles that exuded a sense of conformity and conservatism. The most iconic style of the era was the crew cut, a short, buzzed cut that was popularized by military personnel and became a symbol of masculinity and patriotism.
1960s
The 1960s brought about a shift towards longer, more relaxed hairstyles that reflected the counterculture movement of the time. The Beatles’ iconic mop-top haircuts became a symbol of the era, while other popular styles included the shag, a layered cut with feathered bangs, and the pixie cut, a short, choppy cut that was often paired with sideburns.
1970s
The 1970s saw a continuation of the long, layered hairstyles of the previous decade, but with a more exaggerated and flamboyant flair. The shag haircut remained popular, but it was often styled with more volume and texture. The perm, a chemical treatment that created loose, curly waves, also gained popularity during this time.
1980s
The 1980s marked a return to shorter, more conservative hairstyles. The flat-top haircut, a short, squared-off cut that was popularized by the military, became a symbol of the era. Other popular styles included the mullet, a short cut in the front and long in the back, and the faux hawk, a short cut with a strip of longer hair in the center.
Regional Variations
The 70’s men’s haircut transcended borders, adapting to various cultural influences and social norms. Its versatility allowed for regional variations, each with unique characteristics.
In Europe, the haircut often featured longer lengths, with sideburns extending to the jawline or below. This style was popular in countries like France, Italy, and Spain, where it exuded a bohemian and artistic flair.
United States
In the United States, the haircut was shorter and more conservative, with sideburns typically ending at the bottom of the earlobe. This variation reflected the more formal and clean-cut aesthetic prevalent in American society.
Asia
In Asian countries like Japan and South Korea, the haircut was often paired with a perm, creating a voluminous and textured look. This variation added height and movement to the hair, reflecting the region’s preference for bold and experimental styles.
South America
In South America, the haircut was influenced by the region’s Latin culture, featuring longer lengths and a more relaxed, laid-back style. Sideburns were often trimmed shorter, and the hair was styled with a touch of pomade for a polished finish.
Social and Economic Factors
The popularity of 70’s men’s haircuts was influenced by a complex interplay of social and economic factors.
One major factor was the changing gender roles of the time. Men were becoming more comfortable with expressing their individuality through their appearance, including their hair. This was reflected in the growing popularity of longer, flowing hair and other styles that challenged traditional notions of masculinity.
Economic Prosperity
The economic boom of the 1970s also played a role in the popularity of 70’s men’s haircuts. The increased disposable income gave people more money to spend on personal grooming, including haircuts. This allowed men to experiment with different styles and to keep their hair well-groomed.
Counterculture Movement
The rise of the counterculture movement in the 1960s and 1970s also had a significant impact on men’s hairstyles. The counterculture movement encouraged people to break away from traditional norms, including in their appearance. This led to the popularity of long, flowing hair and other styles that were seen as rebellious and anti-establishment.
Influence of Celebrities
Celebrities and fashion icons also played a major role in popularizing 70’s men’s haircuts. Musicians such as David Bowie and Elton John were known for their long, flowing hair and other 70’s styles. These celebrities helped to make these styles more acceptable to the mainstream.
Photographic Timeline
The 1970s witnessed a significant evolution in men’s haircuts, from the shaggy styles of the early years to the more refined and polished looks of the late 1970s. This photographic timeline showcases some of the most iconic haircuts and hairstyles from the era, grouped into distinct periods.
Early 1970s
- Long and Shaggy: Characterized by long, layered hair with a shaggy, natural texture. This style was popularized by rock stars like Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin.
- The Afro: A large, round hairstyle worn by many African American men and women. It became a symbol of Black pride and identity.
- The Mullet: A controversial style with short hair in the front and long hair in the back. It was popularized by rock bands like ZZ Top and Lynyrd Skynyrd.
Mid 1970s
- The Shag: A layered haircut with shorter hair on top and longer hair on the sides and back. It was a popular style for both men and women.
- The Wedge: A short haircut with a triangular shape, with longer hair in the front and shorter hair in the back. It was popularized by actors like Robert Redford and Burt Reynolds.
- The Pompadour: A classic hairstyle with a high, voluminous top and shorter sides. It was popularized by Elvis Presley and other rock ‘n’ roll stars.
Late 1970s
- The Beehive: A tall, voluminous hairstyle worn by women. It was popularized by singers like Diana Ross and Donna Summer.
- The Blowout: A hairstyle with long, straight hair that was blown out for volume. It was popularized by models and actresses like Farrah Fawcett.
- The Jheri Curl: A permanent wave hairstyle for African American men. It was popularized by singer Michael Jackson.
Cultural Iconography
The 70’s men’s haircut became an integral part of popular culture, symbolizing the era’s rebellious and expressive spirit. It was a bold and distinctive style that captured the attention of filmmakers, musicians, and artists.
In film, the 70’s men’s haircut was often associated with counterculture characters, such as the rebellious youth in “Easy Rider” and the bohemian artists in “Midnight Cowboy.” The style conveyed a sense of individuality and nonconformity, challenging traditional norms.
Music, 70’s men’s haircut
In music, the 70’s men’s haircut became synonymous with the rise of rock and roll. Rock stars like David Bowie and Mick Jagger embraced the style, using it to create a flamboyant and androgynous image. The haircut became a symbol of the era’s rock and roll rebellion and sexual liberation.
Art
In art, the 70’s men’s haircut was often depicted in works that captured the spirit of the time. Andy Warhol’s famous silkscreen prints of Elvis Presley and Marilyn Monroe featured subjects with the iconic haircut, immortalizing the style as a symbol of the era.
| Haircut Type | Cultural Significance |
|---|---|
| Mullet | Rebellion, nonconformity |
| Shag | Bohemianism, androgyny |
| Afro | Black pride, cultural identity |
Short Story
In the bustling streets of 1970s New York City, a young man named Jack stood out from the crowd with his shaggy, layered hair. It was a bold statement that reflected his rebellious nature and his desire to break free from society’s expectations.
As Jack navigated the city, his haircut became a conversation starter. People stopped him on the street to admire his style, and it opened doors to new experiences. Through his haircut, Jack found a sense of belonging among like-minded individuals who shared his passion for self-expression.
Concluding Remarks
70’s men’s haircuts were more than just a fashion statement; they were a reflection of the era’s cultural and social changes. These hairstyles embodied the freedom and individuality of the time, and they continue to inspire modern trends today. Whether you’re looking to recreate a classic 70s look or simply want to add a touch of retro flair to your current style, this guide has provided you with all the information you need to achieve the perfect 70’s men’s haircut.
Popular Questions
What are the defining characteristics of 70’s men’s haircuts?
70’s men’s haircuts were typically characterized by their length, volume, and texture. They were often worn long and layered, with sideburns and bangs that framed the face. The hair was often styled with a blow dryer and hairspray to create volume and hold.
What are the different variations of 70’s men’s haircuts?
There were many different variations of 70’s men’s haircuts, including the shag, mullet, and afro. The shag was a layered haircut with bangs that fell over the forehead. The mullet was a short haircut with long hair in the back. The afro was a large, rounded haircut that was popular among African American men.
How can I style a 70’s men’s haircut?
To style a 70’s men’s haircut, you will need a blow dryer, hairspray, and a comb. Start by blow drying your hair until it is dry. Then, use a comb to create volume and shape. Finally, apply hairspray to hold the style in place.