Hairstyles Of The 1960s - Hairstyle

Hairstyles of the 1960s emerged as a powerful expression of cultural change, reflecting the era’s social movements, artistic innovations, and evolving gender roles. From the iconic beehive to the rebellious pixie cut, hairstyles became a canvas for self-expression, challenging societal norms and leaving a lasting legacy on fashion and culture.

Influenced by factors such as the rise of youth culture, the Vietnam War, and the Civil Rights Movement, hairstyles of the 1960s transcended mere aesthetics, becoming symbols of identity, protest, and liberation. This exploration delves into the fascinating world of 1960s hairstyles, examining their cultural significance, regional variations, and enduring impact.

Table of Contents

Iconic Hairstyles

The 1960s was a decade of experimentation and change, and this was reflected in the hairstyles of the time. From the iconic beehive to the sleek bob, there were a wide range of popular styles to choose from.

One of the most iconic hairstyles of the 1960s was the beehive. This style was characterized by its high, rounded shape, and was often worn with a bouffant or teased hair at the front. The beehive was popularized by celebrities such as Jackie Kennedy and Audrey Hepburn, and quickly became a symbol of the decade.

Another popular hairstyle of the 1960s was the bob. This style was characterized by its short, blunt cut, and was often worn with a fringe or bangs. The bob was popularized by celebrities such as Twiggy and Mary Quant, and quickly became a symbol of the mod movement.

In addition to the beehive and the bob, there were a number of other popular hairstyles in the 1960s, including the pixie cut, the pageboy, and the flip. These styles were all characterized by their short, simple lines, and were often worn with a variety of accessories, such as headbands, scarves, and barrettes.

Cultural Influences

The 1960s was a decade of significant societal and cultural change, and hairstyles reflected these transformations. The rise of social movements and countercultures had a profound impact on hair trends, as people sought to express their individuality and challenge societal norms.

The civil rights movement and the fight for racial equality influenced hairstyles, with many African Americans embracing natural hairstyles as a symbol of pride and self-acceptance. The anti-war movement and the hippie counterculture also shaped hair trends, with long, flowing hair becoming a symbol of rebellion and nonconformity.

Influence of British Invasion

The British Invasion of the mid-1960s brought a new wave of musical and cultural influences to the United States, and this had a significant impact on hairstyles. The Beatles, in particular, became style icons, and their mop-top haircuts were widely imitated by young people around the world.

Regional Variations

Hairstyles in the 1960s varied significantly across different regions of the United States and Europe. Local fashion trends, cultural influences, and social norms shaped the way people styled their hair.

United States

East Coast: Preppy styles, such as the bouffant and beehive, were popular among affluent women in the East Coast.
West Coast: California was known for its laid-back, bohemian style, with beachy waves and long, flowing locks.
Midwest: Women in the Midwest often favored more conservative styles, such as the pageboy or flip.
South: Big, voluminous hair was a staple in the Southern states, with styles like the bouffant and teased curls.

Europe

France: French women were known for their chic, sophisticated styles, such as the bob and the French twist.
England: British hairstyles were influenced by the swinging sixties, with mod styles like the pixie cut and the bob.
Italy: Italian women often opted for glamorous, feminine styles, such as the Italian roll and the ponytail.
li>Germany: German hairstyles were often practical and understated, with styles like the bob and the pageboy.

Hair Care and Products

The 1960s witnessed a significant transformation in hair care practices and products. This era marked the rise of new hairstyles and styling techniques, which required innovative products and tools to achieve the desired looks.

Shampooing became more frequent during this period, with individuals washing their hair every few days. Shampoos were formulated with harsh detergents that effectively removed dirt and oil, but could also be drying to the hair. Conditioners, which were still relatively new, were used to restore moisture and improve hair manageability.

Styling

Hair styling played a crucial role in shaping the iconic looks of the 1960s. Blow-drying became a popular method for achieving volume and smoothness. Curling irons and hot rollers were used to create curls and waves, while setting lotions and hairspray helped to hold styles in place.

Hair Products

The 1960s saw the introduction of a wide range of hair products, including shampoos, conditioners, styling gels, and hairsprays. These products were often marketed with glamorous advertising campaigns featuring celebrities and fashion icons, which further influenced their popularity.

The use of hair care and styling products reflected the cultural and social trends of the 1960s. The emphasis on personal expression and individuality encouraged experimentation with different hairstyles and colors. Hair care and styling became a way for individuals to express their creativity and assert their own unique style.

Hairstyles for Men

The 1960s witnessed a significant transformation in men’s hairstyles, reflecting the social and cultural shifts of the era.

The Beatles Cut

The Beatles haircut, with its distinctive mop-top silhouette, became a global phenomenon. Influenced by the iconic band, it featured a long, shaggy fringe and a layered back, epitomizing the rebellious and carefree spirit of the time.

Flat-Top, Hairstyles of the 1960s

The flat-top, a short and square-cut hairstyle, gained popularity among young men. It symbolized masculinity and authority, often associated with military personnel and the crew cuts of the 1950s.

Ivy League Cut

The Ivy League cut, a preppy and sophisticated style, emerged as a symbol of the educated elite. Characterized by short sides and a slightly longer top, it reflected the clean-cut and conservative values associated with Ivy League universities.

Influence of Icons

These hairstyles were heavily influenced by male icons of the time. The Beatles, with their rebellious image, popularized the mop-top. James Dean’s slicked-back style and Cary Grant’s classic elegance inspired the flat-top and Ivy League cuts, respectively.

Modern Adaptations

In recent times, these classic hairstyles have experienced revivals. The Beatles cut has been adopted by indie and rock musicians, while the flat-top has found a niche in the military and fashion communities. The Ivy League cut remains a timeless choice for professionals and those seeking a polished appearance.

Hairstyles for Women: Hairstyles Of The 1960s

Women’s hairstyles in the 1960s were characterized by diversity and experimentation. Influenced by fashion designers and models, these trends ranged from elegant bouffants to playful pixie cuts.

Bobs and Bouffants

Bob haircuts, with their sleek lines and above-the-shoulder length, became immensely popular. Bouffants, created by teasing the hair at the crown, added height and volume, becoming a signature style of the decade.

The Pixie Cut

Short, choppy pixie cuts emerged as a bold and rebellious statement. Popularized by actress Mia Farrow in the film “Rosemary’s Baby,” this style became a symbol of the changing social norms of the era.

Long and Layered

Long, layered hairstyles were also prevalent. Layers added movement and texture, creating a natural and effortless look. Bangs, often side-swept or blunt, complemented these styles.

Influence of Fashion Icons

Fashion designers like Mary Quant and Twiggy played a significant role in shaping these trends. Quant’s youthful and playful designs encouraged women to experiment with bolder hairstyles, while Twiggy’s iconic pixie cut became a symbol of the mod fashion movement.

Hairstyles for African Americans

African Americans in the 1960s embraced hairstyles that reflected their cultural identity and political stance. These hairstyles were often bold and expressive, challenging societal norms and embracing their African heritage.

The Afro

The Afro became an iconic symbol of the Black Power movement, representing pride, self-acceptance, and a rejection of Eurocentric beauty standards. It was characterized by its large, rounded shape, and was often worn by both men and women.

The Fade

The fade, a shorter style that gradually transitioned from short hair at the sides and back to longer hair on top, was popular among African American men. It was often paired with a sharp line-up along the hairline, creating a clean and sophisticated look.

Cornrows

Cornrows, a traditional African hairstyle, gained popularity in the 1960s as a way to celebrate African culture and heritage. These intricate braids were often worn in geometric patterns and could be adorned with beads or other accessories.

Historical Events and Hairstyles

The tumultuous events of the 1960s left an indelible mark on the hairstyles of the era. The Vietnam War, the Civil Rights Movement, and the counterculture movement all played a role in shaping the way people wore their hair.

The Vietnam War

The Vietnam War had a significant impact on hairstyles, particularly among young men. As more and more American soldiers were sent to fight in the war, the short, military-style haircut became increasingly popular. This haircut was easy to maintain in the field and helped to distinguish soldiers from civilians.

However, the Vietnam War also gave rise to the anti-war movement, which was often associated with long hair and other non-conformist styles. Long hair became a symbol of rebellion against the war and the establishment, and it was often worn by young people who were opposed to the war.

The Civil Rights Movement

The Civil Rights Movement also had a significant impact on hairstyles. African Americans began to wear their hair in natural styles, such as Afros and braids, as a way to embrace their cultural identity and challenge the prevailing beauty standards of the time.

These natural hairstyles became a symbol of pride and self-acceptance, and they helped to break down the barriers between black and white Americans.

The Counterculture Movement

The counterculture movement of the 1960s also had a major influence on hairstyles. Young people who were part of the counterculture movement often wore long, flowing hair as a way to express their individuality and reject the values of the establishment.

These hairstyles were often seen as a symbol of freedom and creativity, and they helped to define the look of the counterculture movement.

Hairstyles in Film and Television

The 1960s witnessed an explosion of creativity and innovation in film and television, and hairstyles played a significant role in shaping the visual aesthetics of the era. Iconic hairstyles featured in popular films and television shows became symbols of the decade and had a profound influence on fashion trends and popular culture.

One of the most iconic hairstyles of the 1960s was the beehive, popularized by Audrey Hepburn in the 1961 film “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” This elaborate updo, characterized by its towering height and rounded shape, became a symbol of glamour and sophistication and was widely imitated by women around the world.

The Bouffant

Another iconic hairstyle of the era was the bouffant, a voluminous and teased style that created an exaggerated height at the crown of the head. This hairstyle was popularized by Jackie Kennedy and became a signature look for the First Lady. The bouffant was often paired with a teased ponytail or a chignon and was a symbol of elegance and femininity.

The Flip

The flip, a hairstyle characterized by its flipped-out ends, was another popular style of the 1960s. This versatile hairstyle could be worn short or long and was often paired with bangs. The flip was popularized by Mary Tyler Moore in the television show “The Dick Van Dyke Show” and became a symbol of youthful exuberance and style.

These are just a few of the many iconic hairstyles that emerged in the 1960s. These hairstyles not only reflected the changing social and cultural norms of the era but also had a lasting impact on fashion and popular culture.

Hairstyles in Music

The 1960s witnessed a significant impact of musicians on hairstyles, who became trendsetters and icons of self-expression through their distinctive looks.

Musicians’ hairstyles often reflected their musical styles and personal identities. Rock and roll stars, such as The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, popularized long, shaggy hair that symbolized rebellion and freedom. Folk singers like Bob Dylan and Joan Baez opted for more natural, unkempt styles that aligned with their bohemian and countercultural ethos.

Influence on Fashion and Society

Musicians’ hairstyles had a profound influence on mainstream fashion and society. The Beatles’ mop-top became a global phenomenon, imitated by countless young people worldwide. The long, flowing hair of rock stars became a symbol of youth rebellion and individuality, challenging societal norms.

Self-Expression and Identity

Hairstyles became a powerful tool for musicians to express their individuality and creativity. They used their hair as a canvas to convey their artistic vision and connect with their audiences on a personal level. The eccentric hairstyles of artists like Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin reflected their unconventional personalities and musical styles.

Cultural Impact

The hairstyles of musicians in the 1960s left a lasting impact on popular culture. They became symbols of a generation, representing the social and cultural changes of the era. The influence of these hairstyles continues to resonate in contemporary fashion and music, inspiring new generations of artists and fans.

Hairstyles and Identity

Hairstyles in the 1960s were not just a matter of fashion but also a form of self-expression and a reflection of personal identity. In this decade of social and cultural change, hairstyles became a way for individuals to express their values, beliefs, and aspirations.

Subcultures and Hairstyles

Different hairstyles were associated with different subcultures and identities in the 1960s. For example, the bouffant and beehive hairstyles were popular among women who wanted to project an image of glamour and sophistication. On the other hand, the pixie cut and the bob were associated with women who embraced a more androgynous or rebellious style.

The long, flowing hair of hippies symbolized their rejection of mainstream values and their embrace of peace and love. The Afro hairstyle, popular among African Americans, became a symbol of racial pride and identity.

Self-Expression and Resistance

Hairstyles were also used as a form of self-expression and resistance during the 1960s. Women who wore short, boyish haircuts were challenging traditional gender roles. African Americans who wore Afros were asserting their cultural identity and challenging racial stereotypes.

The following table summarizes some of the popular hairstyles of the 1960s and their associated subcultures and meanings:

Hairstyles and Social Class

In the 1960s, hairstyles were closely tied to social class. They indicated status, wealth, and social mobility. Hairstyles were also used as a form of social commentary or protest, and the media and popular culture played a significant role in shaping hairstyle trends.

Table: Hairstyles and Social Classes

Social Class	Hairstyles
Upper Class	Bouffant, chignon, pageboy
Middle Class	Bob, pixie cut, beehive
Working Class	Ponytail, braids, Afro

Hairstyles as Social Commentary

Hairstyles were often used as a form of social commentary or protest in the 1960s. For example, the Afro hairstyle was adopted by many African Americans as a symbol of pride and identity. The long, flowing hair of hippies was a symbol of rebellion against the establishment.

Role of Media and Popular Culture

The media and popular culture played a significant role in shaping hairstyle trends in the 1960s. Magazines, movies, and television shows all featured celebrities with fashionable hairstyles. This helped to make certain hairstyles more popular and desirable.

Hairstyles and Gender Roles

Hairstyles in the 1960s were not just about fashion; they also played a significant role in reinforcing or challenging traditional gender roles.

In the early 1960s, traditional gender roles were still very much in place. Women were expected to be feminine and demure, while men were expected to be masculine and strong. This was reflected in the hairstyles of the time, with women often wearing long, flowing hair and men wearing short, neat haircuts.

However, as the decade progressed, attitudes towards gender began to change. The feminist movement gained momentum, and women began to challenge traditional expectations. This was reflected in the hairstyles of the time, with women increasingly wearing shorter, more androgynous haircuts.

One of the most iconic hairstyles of the 1960s was the beehive. This hairstyle was popularized by Jackie Kennedy and was seen as a symbol of femininity and sophistication. However, the beehive also required a lot of time and effort to maintain, and it was not practical for women who were working or going to school.

Another popular hairstyle of the 1960s was the pixie cut. This hairstyle was short and androgynous, and it was often worn by women who were challenging traditional gender roles. The pixie cut was popularized by Twiggy, a British model who became known for her androgynous look.

The beehive and the pixie cut were just two examples of the many hairstyles that were popular in the 1960s. These hairstyles reflected the changing attitudes towards gender that were taking place at the time, and they helped to pave the way for a more egalitarian society.

Hairstyle	Gender Association
Beehive	Feminine
Pixie cut	Androgynous
Long, flowing hair	Feminine
Short, neat haircuts	Masculine

Here are some quotes from individuals who experienced these hairstyle trends firsthand:

“I remember when I first got my pixie cut, people were so shocked. They couldn’t believe that a woman would cut her hair so short. But I loved it. It made me feel like I could do anything.”

-Twiggy

“The beehive was a symbol of femininity and sophistication. It was a way for women to show that they were beautiful and elegant.”

-Jackie Kennedy

Hairstyles as a Legacy

The iconic hairstyles of the 1960s have left an enduring mark on contemporary fashion and culture. While hairstyles have evolved over time, they continue to retain elements of the 1960s aesthetic.

Modern Counterparts of 1960s Hairstyles

Many contemporary hairstyles draw inspiration from the 1960s, with updated variations that reflect modern trends.

The beehive, characterized by its towering height, has been reimagined as the bouffant, a more subtle and wearable version.
The pixie cut, a short and edgy style, remains popular today, with modern variations that incorporate layers and texture.
The bob cut, a timeless classic, has evolved into the lob (long bob), a longer and more versatile version.
The afro, a symbol of the Black Power movement, has inspired the natural hair movement, which celebrates the beauty of unprocessed hair.
Long, straight hair, a staple of the 1960s, continues to be popular today, often styled with sleek and shiny finishes.

Cultural Significance of Hairstyles

Hairstyles are not merely aesthetic choices; they reflect and shape societal trends. The 1960s hairstyles symbolized the era’s spirit of rebellion and experimentation. They challenged traditional beauty standards and expressed individual identity. Today, hairstyles continue to play a significant role in self-expression, cultural identity, and social class.

Ending Remarks

Hairstyles of the 1960s continue to inspire contemporary fashion, with elements of the era’s iconic looks reemerging in modern trends. The legacy of these hairstyles lies in their ability to capture the spirit of a transformative era, reflecting the cultural shifts and social changes that shaped the decade. From the bouffant to the pixie cut, hairstyles of the 1960s remain a testament to the power of self-expression and the enduring influence of fashion on our cultural landscape.

Questions and Answers

What were the most iconic hairstyles of the 1960s?

The beehive, pixie cut, bob cut, afro, and long, straight hair were among the most iconic hairstyles of the 1960s.

How did hairstyles reflect the social and cultural changes of the 1960s?

Hairstyles became a form of self-expression, challenging societal norms and reflecting the era’s social movements, artistic innovations, and evolving gender roles.

What is the lasting legacy of 1960s hairstyles?

Hairstyles of the 1960s continue to inspire contemporary fashion, with elements of the era’s iconic looks reemerging in modern trends.