Mens hairstyles 70’s – Embark on a captivating journey through the iconic hairstyles that defined the groovy era of the 1970s. From the shaggy locks of rock stars to the polished pompadours of leading men, this era witnessed a kaleidoscope of hairstyles that reflected the cultural and societal shifts of the time.
Prepare to delve into the history, evolution, and enduring influence of men’s hairstyles in the 70s, exploring their cultural significance and how they continue to inspire contemporary trends.
Historical Context of 70’s Mens Hairstyles
The 1970s was a decade of significant cultural and social change, which was reflected in the fashion and hairstyles of the time. The decade saw the rise of the hippie counterculture, which emphasized individuality and a rejection of traditional norms. This led to a more relaxed and experimental approach to men’s hairstyles, with longer hair and more casual styles becoming popular.
In addition to the hippie influence, the 1970s also saw the rise of disco music and the glam rock movement. These trends led to more flamboyant and theatrical hairstyles, with big hair and lots of volume becoming popular. Overall, the 1970s was a decade of great change and experimentation in men’s hairstyles, with a wide range of styles to choose from.
Fashion Trends
The 1970s was a decade of great change and experimentation in fashion. Some of the most popular fashion trends of the decade included:
- Flared pants
- Platform shoes
- Tie-dye shirts
- Bell-bottom jeans
- Big hair
These trends were all reflected in the hairstyles of the time, with longer hair and more casual styles becoming popular.
– Identify and describe the different types of men’s hairstyles that were prevalent in the 1970s, including
The 1970s was a decade of great change and experimentation in men’s fashion, and hairstyles were no exception. Men began to break away from the clean-cut styles of the 1950s and 1960s, and embraced longer, more flowing looks. Afros and textured styles also became popular, as men of color began to assert their cultural identities.
Short and Medium Length Styles
Short and medium length styles were popular among men of all ages in the 1970s. These styles were typically cut close to the head on the sides and back, with longer hair on top. The hair could be styled in a variety of ways, including slicked back, parted, or combed over.
- The crew cut was a short, close-cropped style that was popular among young men. It was often worn with a flat top or a side part.
- The ivy league was a slightly longer style that was popular among college students. It was typically parted on the side and combed over.
- The shag was a medium length style that was popular among both men and women. It was typically cut in layers and styled with a lot of volume.
Long and Flowing Styles
Long and flowing styles were also popular in the 1970s, especially among young men. These styles were often worn with a center part or a side part. The hair could be styled straight, wavy, or curly.
- The long bob was a shoulder-length style that was popular among both men and women. It was often worn with a center part or a side part.
- The mullet was a longer style that was popular among rock stars and other counterculture figures. It was typically cut short on the sides and back, with longer hair on top.
- The afro was a large, rounded style that was popular among men of color. It was often worn with a pick or a comb.
Afro and Textured Styles
Afros and textured styles were popular among men of color in the 1970s. These styles were often worn as a way to assert cultural identity and pride.
- The afro was a large, rounded style that was popular among both men and women of color. It was often worn with a pick or a comb.
- The dreadlocks were a long, matted style that was popular among Rastafarians. They were often worn with a tam or a beanie.
- The cornrows were a braided style that was popular among African Americans. They were often worn in a variety of patterns.
Key Characteristics of 70’s Mens Hairstyles: Mens Hairstyles 70’s
Men’s hairstyles in the 1970s were characterized by a distinct blend of length, texture, and volume. Long, flowing locks and shaggy, layered cuts were prevalent, often accompanied by prominent sideburns. Styling techniques such as blow drying, perming, and the use of hairspray and mousse contributed to the signature looks of the era.
Length and Texture
The length of men’s hair in the 1970s ranged from short to long. Long, flowing locks were popular, often reaching the shoulders or even longer. Shaggy, layered cuts were also common, creating a more textured and voluminous look. These hairstyles were often paired with sideburns, which could be short or long and often extended to the jawline.
Volume and Styling
Volume was a key element of 1970s men’s hairstyles. Blow drying and perming were popular techniques used to create lift and texture. Hairspray and mousse were also widely used to hold styles in place. These styling products allowed men to achieve the desired volume and hold, from natural-looking waves to dramatic, voluminous curls.
Social and Cultural Influences
The hairstyles of the 1970s were influenced by various social and cultural factors. Rock and roll music played a significant role, with many musicians sporting long, flowing hair and sideburns. The hippie movement also influenced hairstyles, promoting a more natural and bohemian look. Changing fashion trends, such as the rise of disco and the popularity of bell-bottom pants, further shaped the hairstyles of the era.
Long Hairstyles in the 70’s
Long hair was a defining characteristic of the 1970s, and men embraced it in various styles. These hairstyles often conveyed a sense of freedom and rebellion, aligning with the counterculture movement of the era.
Layered Cuts
Layered cuts involved cutting the hair into different lengths, creating a cascading effect. This style added volume and movement to the hair, giving it a shaggy and natural look.
Feathered Hair
Feathered hair was characterized by long, flowing locks that were cut at an angle, creating a feathered appearance. This style was popular among rock stars and musicians, and it added a touch of glamour and sophistication to the long hair trend.
Shag Haircuts
Shag haircuts were a combination of layered and feathered cuts. They featured short, choppy layers on top and longer, flowing layers on the sides and back. This style was versatile and could be customized to suit different face shapes and hair textures.
Medium-Length Hairstyles in the 70’s
In the 1970s, medium-length hairstyles for men offered a balance between the extreme lengths of long and short styles. These versatile cuts allowed for both style and practicality, making them popular among men of all ages.
Bob Cut
The bob cut, typically falling around the chin or shoulder length, was a popular choice for men in the 70s. Variations included the classic bob, with its blunt ends and even length, the inverted bob, with shorter layers in the back and longer in the front, and the A-line bob, with a longer front and shorter back, creating an A-shaped silhouette.
Wedge Cut
The wedge cut, characterized by its triangular shape, was another iconic medium-length hairstyle of the 70s. It featured shorter hair on the sides and back, gradually increasing in length towards the front, creating a dramatic and voluminous effect.
Mullet
The mullet, known for its distinct “business in the front, party in the back” style, became a symbol of the 70s. Variations included the classic mullet, with short hair on the top and long hair in the back, the party mullet, with exaggerated length in the back, and the hockey mullet, with shorter sides and a longer back that resembled the hairstyle worn by hockey players.
Hairstyle | Length | Shape | Styling Tips |
---|---|---|---|
Bob Cut | Chin to shoulder length | Blunt, inverted, or A-line | Blow dry straight or add curls, use volumizing products |
Wedge Cut | Shorter sides and back, longer front | Triangular | Use mousse or gel to create volume, blow dry with a round brush |
Mullet | Short top, long back | Asymmetrical | Use hairspray or pomade to hold shape, tease or backcomb for extra volume |
Short Hairstyles in the 70’s
The 1970s witnessed a significant shift in men’s hairstyles, with shorter cuts gaining popularity. This trend was influenced by a combination of factors, including the rise of the crew cut, the influence of military haircuts, and the impact of rock stars and celebrities.
Influence of Military Haircuts and the Crew Cut
The Vietnam War had a profound impact on American society, and this was reflected in the hairstyles of the time. Military haircuts, such as the crew cut, became increasingly popular among young men. The crew cut is characterized by its short, uniform length all around the head, and it was seen as a symbol of discipline and masculinity.
Rise of the Crew Cut
The crew cut became a defining hairstyle of the 1970s, worn by both civilians and military personnel. It was a versatile cut that could be styled in a variety of ways, from short and spiky to longer and more relaxed. The crew cut was often paired with sideburns, which added a touch of individuality to the look.
Impact of Rock Stars and Celebrities
Rock stars and celebrities played a significant role in popularizing short hairstyles in the 1970s. Musicians such as David Bowie and Iggy Pop sported short, edgy cuts that reflected their rebellious and countercultural attitudes. These hairstyles were quickly adopted by young men who wanted to emulate their idols.
Iconic Short Hairstyles from the 70s
Some of the most iconic short hairstyles from the 1970s include:
- The crew cut: A short, uniform cut all around the head, often paired with sideburns.
- The flat top: A short, flat cut on top of the head, with slightly longer sides and back.
- The Caesar cut: A short, blunt cut with straight bangs across the forehead.
- The Ivy League cut: A short, tapered cut with a side part and slightly longer hair on top.
Comparison with Other Decades
Short hairstyles in the 1970s were significantly shorter than those of the 1960s. The long, flowing hair of the hippie era gave way to shorter, more practical cuts. Short hairstyles in the 1970s were also more varied than in previous decades, with a wider range of styles to choose from.
Reflection of Social and Cultural Changes
The popularity of short hairstyles in the 1970s reflected the social and cultural changes of the time. The rise of the counterculture and the rejection of traditional values led to a desire for hairstyles that were more individualistic and less conforming.
Key Characteristics and Variations
The key characteristics of short hairstyles in the 1970s include:
- Short length: Most short hairstyles in the 1970s were cut short, with the hair length typically ranging from one to three inches.
- Variety of styles: There was a wide range of short hairstyles to choose from in the 1970s, including the crew cut, flat top, Caesar cut, and Ivy League cut.
- Sideburns: Sideburns were often worn with short hairstyles in the 1970s, adding a touch of individuality to the look.
Styling Techniques for 70’s Mens Hairstyles
Styling men’s hairstyles in the 1970s involved various techniques that aimed to create volume, texture, and movement. Essential tools included hair dryers, curling irons, and pomades.
Blowouts
Blowouts were a popular styling technique that added volume and shape to long or medium-length hair. Hair was blow-dried using a round brush, lifting the roots and creating a voluminous look. Blowouts could be styled with or without a part, and the ends could be curled or flipped out for added texture.
Curls
Curls were another iconic 70’s hairstyle, often seen on men with longer hair. Curls were created using a curling iron or perm, and could range from loose, beachy waves to tight, spiral curls. Hair was often parted in the middle or to one side, and curls could be styled with a variety of products, including gels, mousses, and pomades.
Pompadours
Pompadours were a classic 70’s hairstyle that involved slicking back the hair from the forehead, creating a voluminous, quiff-like style. The pompadour was typically styled with a strong-hold pomade or gel, and could be customized with variations in height and volume. Sideburns were often worn with pompadours, and the hairstyle could be paired with a beard or mustache.
Identify the hair products and accessories that were commonly used in the 1970s.
Hair products and accessories played a significant role in shaping the diverse hairstyles of the 1970s. Men used a variety of products to style their hair, including hairspray, gels, and pomades. Headbands and scarves were also popular accessories, adding a touch of flair to many hairstyles.
Hairspray, Mens hairstyles 70’s
Hairspray was one of the most important hair products of the 1970s. It was used to hold hairstyles in place, giving them a polished and finished look. Hairspray was available in a variety of strengths, from light hold to extra hold. Men with long or medium-length hair often used hairspray to keep their hair from becoming frizzy or unruly.
Gels
Gels were another popular hair product in the 1970s. They were used to create a wet or slick look, which was popular for both short and long hairstyles. Gels were also used to tame flyaways and add definition to curls.
Pomades
Pomades were a type of hair grease that was used to create a shiny, slick look. Pomades were popular for short hairstyles, such as the pompadour and the slicked-back look.
Headbands and Scarves
Headbands and scarves were popular hair accessories in the 1970s. They were often used to add a touch of color or pattern to a hairstyle. Headbands were also used to keep long hair out of the face.
Cultural Significance of Hair Products and Accessories
Hair products and accessories played a significant role in the cultural landscape of the 1970s. They were a way for men to express their individuality and style. Hair products and accessories were also a way for men to connect with the counterculture movement of the time.
Cultural Impact of 70’s Mens Hairstyles
The 1970s were a time of great social and political change, and the hairstyles of the era reflected this. The long, flowing locks of the hippies symbolized a rejection of traditional values, while the shorter, more conservative styles of the disco era reflected a return to order and conformity.
The changing hairstyles of the 1970s also reflected the growing influence of African-American culture on mainstream society. The Afro, a style that had been popular among African-Americans for centuries, became a symbol of black pride and power in the 1970s. Other African-American hairstyles, such as the Jheri curl and the cornrow, also became popular among white men.
The cultural impact of 70’s mens hairstyles was profound. They helped to shape the way that people thought about gender, race, and individuality.
Influence on Contemporary Men’s Hairstyles
The resurgence of 1970s fashion trends in recent years has had a significant impact on contemporary men’s hairstyles. Many of the iconic styles from the era, such as the shag, mullet, and afro, have made a comeback in updated forms.
Modern Adaptations of 70’s Hairstyles
Modern interpretations of 70’s hairstyles often incorporate elements of contemporary styling techniques and products. For example, the modern shag features shorter layers and less volume than its 70’s predecessor, while the modern mullet is often styled with a more textured and less severe cut.
Techniques and Products for 70’s-Inspired Hairstyles
To achieve a 70’s-inspired hairstyle, it is important to use the right techniques and products. Layering and texturizing are key for creating volume and movement. Pomades, gels, and mousses can be used to style and hold the hair in place.
Cultural Factors Contributing to the Resurgence of 70’s Hairstyles
The resurgence of 70’s hairstyles in contemporary fashion can be attributed to a number of cultural and societal factors. The rise of retro fashion trends in general has played a role, as well as the popularity of 70’s-inspired music and film. Additionally, the current emphasis on individuality and self-expression has made 70’s hairstyles, with their bold and unique styles, more appealing to men.
Table of 70’s Hairstyles and Their Modern Counterparts
| 70’s Hairstyle | Modern Hairstyle | Key Features |
|—|—|—|
| Shag | Modern Shag | Layered, textured cut with bangs |
| Mullet | Modern Mullet | Short in front, long in back |
| Afro | Modern Afro | Full, rounded shape |
| Pompadour | Modern Pompadour | Slicked-back, voluminous top |
| Sideburns | Modern Sideburns | Long, bushy sideburns |
Tips for Incorporating 70’s Elements into Modern Hairstyles
* Use layering and texture to create volume and movement.
* Experiment with different lengths and shapes to achieve a unique look.
* Use pomades, gels, and mousses to style and hold your hair in place.
* Don’t be afraid to embrace the retro vibe!
Styling Tips for Modern Men
Incorporating 70s influences into contemporary hairstyles requires a mindful approach. Choose a haircut that embodies the era’s aesthetic, such as the shag, mullet, or feathered layers. To achieve the desired texture and volume, experiment with styling products like mousse, pomade, or sea salt spray.
Haircuts
- Shag: Layered and shaggy, framing the face with bangs.
- Mullet: Short in the front and long in the back, often with feathered layers.
- Feathered Layers: Long or medium-length hair with layers cut at different angles to create movement and volume.
Styling Products
- Mousse: Adds volume and hold without weighing hair down.
- Pomade: Provides a slick, polished look with medium hold.
- Sea Salt Spray: Creates beachy waves and texture.
Accessories
- Headbands: Fabric or leather bands worn around the forehead.
- Bandanas: Square scarves tied around the head or neck.
- Beanies: Knitted or crocheted hats that cover the head and ears.
Adapt the 70s look to suit your hair type and face shape. For example, if you have fine hair, use volumizing products and avoid heavy styling. If you have a round face, opt for hairstyles that create height and balance, such as a shag with bangs.
Celebrities with Iconic 70’s Hairstyles
The 1970s were a time of great change and experimentation in fashion and hairstyles. Men’s hairstyles were no exception, with a wide range of styles emerging, from long and flowing to short and cropped.
Some of the most iconic 70’s hairstyles were worn by celebrities, who helped to popularize these looks and make them synonymous with the era.
Long Hairstyles
- David Bowie: Bowie was known for his androgynous style and long, flowing hair, which he often wore in a mullet or shag style.
- Mick Jagger: The Rolling Stones frontman was another icon of the 70’s, with his long, shaggy hair and signature sideburns.
- Elton John: Elton John’s flamboyant style included long, feathered hair that he often wore with oversized sunglasses.
Medium-Length Hairstyles
- John Travolta: Travolta’s iconic disco hairstyle, known as the “Jheri curl,” was a popular style in the 70’s.
- Tom Selleck: Selleck’s mustache and medium-length hair, which he wore in a style known as the “Magnum, P.I.,” became synonymous with the character he played on the popular TV show.
- Farrah Fawcett: Fawcett’s feathered hair, which she wore in the popular TV show “Charlie’s Angels,” was one of the most iconic hairstyles of the 70’s.
Short Hairstyles
- Steve McQueen: McQueen’s short, cropped hair was a popular style in the 70’s, and it remains a classic look today.
- Paul Newman: Newman’s short, slicked-back hair was another popular style in the 70’s, and it is still a popular choice for men today.
- Clint Eastwood: Eastwood’s short, rugged hair was a signature part of his tough-guy persona, and it is still a popular style for men today.
Evolution of 70’s Mens Hairstyles
The 1970s witnessed a significant evolution in men’s hairstyles, reflecting the changing social and cultural landscape of the decade. From the long, flowing locks of the early years to the shorter, more conservative styles of the late 70s, men’s hairstyles underwent a series of transformations.
Key milestones in the evolution of 70’s mens hairstyles include:
1970-1972: The Long Hair Era
The early 1970s were characterized by long, flowing hairstyles, influenced by the hippie counterculture and rock and roll stars like Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin. Men grew their hair long, often past their shoulders, and wore it loose or tied back in a ponytail.
1973-1975: The Medium-Length Transition
As the decade progressed, men’s hairstyles began to transition towards shorter lengths. Medium-length styles, such as the shag and the mullet, became popular. These styles were often layered and feathered, creating a more textured and voluminous look.
1976-1979: The Short Hair Revival
By the mid-to-late 1970s, shorter hairstyles made a comeback. The crew cut, buzz cut, and flat top became popular among men who wanted a more conservative and clean-cut look. These styles were often paired with sideburns, which were also popular throughout the decade.
– Discuss the regional variations in 70’s mens hairstyles around the world.
The 1970s was a time of great cultural and social change, and this was reflected in the hairstyles of the time. Men’s hairstyles in the 1970s varied greatly from region to region, influenced by factors such as climate, culture, and fashion trends.
In the United States, long hair was popular for men, particularly among those who identified with the counterculture movement. Long hair was seen as a symbol of rebellion and individuality, and it was often worn with a beard or mustache.
In Europe, shorter hairstyles were more popular. Men in the United Kingdom often wore their hair in a short, shaggy style, while men in France preferred a more polished look, with their hair neatly combed and parted.
In Asia, men’s hairstyles were typically shorter and more conservative. In Japan, men often wore their hair in a short, bowl-cut style, while in China, men preferred a more traditional style, with their hair combed back and parted.
The following table summarizes the key regional variations in 70’s mens hairstyles:
Region | Popular Hairstyles |
---|---|
United States | Long hair, beards, mustaches |
Europe | Short, shaggy hair, neat and parted hair |
Asia | Short, bowl-cut hair, traditional combed-back hair |
Overall, the 1970s was a time of great experimentation and change in men’s hairstyles. Men were no longer afraid to express themselves through their hair, and they adopted a wide variety of styles, from long and flowing to short and conservative.
The legacy of 70’s mens hairstyles can still be seen today. Many of the styles that were popular in the 1970s have made a comeback in recent years, and they continue to be popular among men of all ages.
70’s Mens Hairstyles in Popular Culture
The 1970s was a decade of significant cultural change, and this was reflected in the hairstyles of the time. Long, flowing hair became a symbol of rebellion and individuality, while shorter, more conservative styles were favored by those who preferred a more traditional look. 70’s mens hairstyles have been widely represented in popular culture, from movies and TV shows to music videos and fashion magazines.
Movies and TV Shows
70’s mens hairstyles were often featured in movies and TV shows of the era. Some of the most iconic hairstyles include the long, flowing locks of Robert Redford in “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” (1969) and the shaggy, layered hair of John Travolta in “Saturday Night Fever” (1977). These hairstyles helped to popularize the long hair trend and became synonymous with the 1970s.
Music Videos
Music videos also played a major role in popularizing 70’s mens hairstyles. The long, flowing hair of rock stars like Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones became a symbol of rebellion and individuality. Shorter, more conservative hairstyles were also popular among pop stars like The Beatles and The Monkees.
Impact on Perception
The representation of 70’s mens hairstyles in popular culture had a significant impact on the perception of these hairstyles. Long, flowing hair became associated with rebellion and individuality, while shorter, more conservative styles were seen as more traditional and respectable. This perception has persisted to this day, and 70’s mens hairstyles continue to be popular among those who want to express their individuality.
Final Conclusion
The hairstyles of the 70s were not merely trends; they were expressions of individuality, rebellion, and a yearning for change. They left an indelible mark on fashion and culture, and their influence continues to resonate today, inspiring modern stylists and fashion enthusiasts alike.
From the shaggy layers of the shag to the feathered bangs of the mullet, the hairstyles of the 70s continue to captivate and inspire, reminding us of an era that celebrated freedom, creativity, and the pursuit of self-expression.
Popular Questions
What were some of the most popular men’s hairstyles in the 70s?
The 70s witnessed a wide range of popular hairstyles for men, including the shag, mullet, Afro, pompadour, and crew cut.
How did the hairstyles of the 70s reflect the cultural and social changes of the time?
The hairstyles of the 70s mirrored the era’s emphasis on individuality, self-expression, and rebellion against societal norms.
What are some modern hairstyles that incorporate elements from the 70s?
Contemporary hairstyles like the modern shag, mullet, and pompadour draw inspiration from the iconic styles of the 70s, combining retro elements with modern techniques and trends.