Mens 70’s haircuts – Step back in time with us as we delve into the captivating world of men’s 70’s haircuts, a time when style and individuality took center stage. From the iconic shag to the rebellious mullet, these hairstyles defined an era and continue to inspire fashion-forward men today.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the historical context, defining characteristics, and cultural significance of men’s 70’s haircuts. We’ll also provide step-by-step styling tips, showcase iconic styles, and discuss modern interpretations, ensuring you have all the knowledge you need to embrace this timeless trend.
Historical Context
The 1970s was a decade of significant cultural and societal change, which had a profound impact on men’s fashion and grooming habits.
The decade was marked by the rise of counterculture movements, such as the hippie movement, which rejected traditional values and norms. This led to a more relaxed and experimental approach to fashion, including hairstyles.
Influence of Counterculture
The hippie movement, with its emphasis on individuality and self-expression, encouraged men to experiment with different hairstyles that broke away from traditional norms.
- Long, flowing hair became popular, as it symbolized freedom and rebellion against societal expectations.
- Men also began to grow facial hair, such as beards and mustaches, as a way to express their individuality and challenge conventional grooming standards.
Influence of Rock and Roll
The 1970s also saw the rise of rock and roll music, which had a significant influence on men’s fashion and hairstyles.
- Rock stars, such as David Bowie and Mick Jagger, became style icons for young men, and their hairstyles were widely imitated.
- Hairstyles such as the shag and the mullet became popular, as they were seen as edgy and rebellious.
Defining Characteristics
Men’s 70s haircuts were characterized by their long, layered, and textured styles. They often featured feathered or razor-cut ends, creating a voluminous and shaggy appearance. Unlike the clean-cut and conservative styles of the previous decades, 70s haircuts embraced individuality and self-expression.
Variations of 70s Haircuts
- Shag: A layered haircut with feathered ends, often reaching shoulder length or longer.
- Mullet: A controversial style featuring short hair in the front and long, flowing hair in the back.
- Afro: A large, rounded hairstyle created by natural or chemically processed hair.
Popular Styles
The 1970s were a decade of bold and iconic hairstyles for men. From the shaggy layers of the shag to the feathered fringe of the mullet, and the voluminous curls of the afro, there was a hairstyle to suit every taste and personality.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular men’s haircuts of the 70s:
The Shag
The shag was a long, layered haircut with a feathered fringe. It was typically worn with a side parting and could be styled with or without bangs. The shag was a versatile style that could be adapted to suit different face shapes and hair types.
- Variations: Short, medium, or long; with or without bangs
The Mullet
The mullet was a short haircut on the top and sides, with long hair in the back. It was often worn with a feathered fringe and could be styled with or without a side parting. The mullet was a popular style among rock stars and athletes in the 70s.
- Variations: Short or long; with or without a fringe
The Afro
The afro was a short, tightly curled haircut. It was typically worn natural or permed and could be styled with or without a fade. The afro was a symbol of black pride and identity in the 70s.
- Variations: Natural or permed; with or without a fade
| Style | Key Characteristics | Variations |
|---|---|---|
| Shag | Long, layered hair with a feathered fringe | Short, medium, or long; with or without bangs |
| Mullet | Short hair on the top and sides, with long hair in the back | Short or long; with or without a fringe |
| Afro | Short, tightly curled hair | Natural or permed; with or without a fade |
Hair Products and Tools
Hair products and tools played a significant role in shaping the 70s hairstyles. Pomades, gels, and hairsprays were widely used to achieve the desired hold, texture, and volume.
Pomades
Pomades were thick, oil-based products that provided a strong hold and a sleek, shiny finish. They were particularly popular for slicked-back styles, such as the pompadour and the quiff.
Gels
Gels were water-based products that provided a medium hold and a more natural finish. They were often used to style shorter haircuts, such as the shag and the crew cut.
Hairsprays
Hairsprays were used to set and hold hairstyles in place. They were available in a variety of strengths, from light to extra hold. Hairsprays were essential for maintaining the volume and shape of 70s hairstyles throughout the day.
Brushes and Combs
Brushes and combs were also essential tools for styling 70s haircuts. Wide-tooth combs were used to detangle hair and distribute products evenly. Round brushes were used to create volume and shape, while paddle brushes were used to smooth and flatten hair.
Cultural Influences: Mens 70’s Haircuts
The 1970s witnessed a cultural revolution that profoundly influenced men’s fashion, including hairstyles. Music, movies, and television played pivotal roles in shaping the popularity and perception of different haircuts.
Music
The rise of rock and roll and hippie culture had a significant impact on men’s hairstyles. Long, flowing hair, sideburns, and mullets became synonymous with the counterculture movement, symbolizing rebellion and freedom.
- The Beatles: The iconic mop-top haircuts of the Beatles popularized long hair among young men.
- Jimi Hendrix: His signature Afro and headband became symbols of the psychedelic rock era.
Movies
The popularity of war films and Westerns during the 1970s influenced men’s haircuts towards shorter, clean-cut styles.
- “M*A*S*H”: The short, military-inspired haircuts of the characters in the popular TV series became a trend.
- “Dirty Harry”: Clint Eastwood’s iconic flat-top haircut became associated with tough, no-nonsense characters.
Television
African American sitcoms and music videos popularized the Afro and Jheri curl hairstyles.
- “The Jeffersons”: George Jefferson’s large Afro became a symbol of Black pride and empowerment.
- Michael Jackson: His Jheri curls became a defining feature of his signature look during the 1980s.
Variations and Adaptations
Throughout the 1970s, the iconic haircuts of the era underwent various transformations and adaptations to cater to diverse tastes and preferences. These variations ranged from subtle tweaks to radical reinventions, each reflecting the changing social and cultural landscape of the time.
One notable adaptation was the emergence of longer hairstyles, influenced by the counterculture movement and the rise of rock and roll. Musicians such as Jimi Hendrix and David Bowie popularized long, flowing locks, often accompanied by sideburns and facial hair.
Subtle Variations
Within the realm of shorter haircuts, subtle variations emerged to suit individual styles. The classic crew cut, for instance, was often modified with longer bangs or a slightly longer top, creating a more textured and contemporary look.
Extreme Adaptations
At the other end of the spectrum, extreme adaptations of 70s haircuts pushed the boundaries of conventional styling. The “Afro,” popularized by the Black Power movement, became a symbol of cultural pride and liberation. Its voluminous shape and natural texture challenged traditional beauty standards.
Mullets and Shags, Mens 70’s haircuts
Two other notable variations were the mullet and the shag. The mullet, characterized by short hair on the top and sides and longer hair in the back, became synonymous with Southern rock culture. The shag, with its layered and feathered texture, exuded a more bohemian and carefree vibe.
Iconic Haircuts
The 1970s were a time of experimentation and change, and this was reflected in the hairstyles of the era. Men’s haircuts were often long and shaggy, with sideburns and mustaches. Some of the most iconic men’s 70s haircuts include the following:
The Mullet
The mullet is a haircut that is short in the front and long in the back. It was popularized by rock stars like David Bowie and Rod Stewart, and it quickly became a symbol of the 70s. The mullet is a versatile haircut that can be styled in a variety of ways, and it remains popular today.
The Shag
The shag is a haircut that is characterized by its long, layered hair. It was popularized by actresses like Farrah Fawcett and Jane Fonda, and it quickly became a symbol of the 70s. The shag is a flattering haircut that can be worn by people of all ages, and it remains popular today.
The Afro
The afro is a haircut that is characterized by its large, rounded shape. It was popularized by black activists and musicians, and it quickly became a symbol of the 70s. The afro is a powerful haircut that can be worn by people of all ages, and it remains popular today.
The Flat Top
The flat top is a haircut that is characterized by its flat, even top. It was popularized by military personnel, and it quickly became a symbol of the 70s. The flat top is a versatile haircut that can be styled in a variety of ways, and it remains popular today.
| Haircut | Picture | Celebrity or Cultural Figure |
|---|---|---|
| The Mullet |  |
David Bowie |
| The Shag |  |
Farrah Fawcett |
| The Afro |  |
James Brown |
| The Flat Top |  |
Tom Selleck |
Impact on Modern Styles
The 70s hairstyles for men have had a significant impact on modern hairstyling, with elements of these retro looks being revived and reinterpreted in contemporary fashion.
The resurgence of 70s-inspired haircuts can be attributed to the cyclical nature of fashion, where trends from the past are often revived and adapted to suit current tastes and aesthetics.
Mullets
The mullet, a signature hairstyle of the 70s, has made a comeback in recent years. This hairstyle, characterized by short hair at the front and sides and longer hair at the back, has been updated with modern variations, such as the “modern mullet” with shorter sides and a more blended transition between lengths.
Shags
Shags, another popular 70s haircut, have also been revived in contemporary hairstyling. Shags are characterized by layers and texture, creating a voluminous and carefree look. Modern shags often incorporate shorter layers and more subtle texture, making them suitable for a wider range of hair types and face shapes.
Afros and Jheri Curls
Afros and Jheri curls, iconic hairstyles of the 70s, have also seen a resurgence in recent years. These hairstyles, which celebrate natural hair textures, have been embraced by people of all backgrounds, reflecting a growing appreciation for diversity and inclusivity in hair fashion.
Long Hair
Long hair for men, a staple of the 70s, has also made a comeback in modern hairstyling. Long hair can be styled in various ways, from loose and flowing to tied up in a ponytail or bun. Modern interpretations of long hair often incorporate elements of layering and texture, creating a more contemporary and versatile look.
Styling Techniques
Styling men’s 70s haircuts required a combination of products and techniques to achieve the desired look. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to style some popular 70s haircuts:
Long, Flowing Hair:
- Wash and condition hair regularly to maintain its health and shine.
- Apply a leave-in conditioner to damp hair to detangle and prevent frizz.
- Use a wide-tooth comb to gently brush hair, starting from the ends and working your way up.
- Create a center or side part using a comb or your fingers.
- Add a small amount of mousse or hairspray to the roots for volume and hold.
Shag Haircut:
- Wash and condition hair using a volumizing shampoo and conditioner.
- Towel dry hair and apply a root lifter to the roots for extra volume.
- Use a blow dryer with a diffuser attachment to dry hair, lifting it at the roots and scrunching it to create texture.
- Apply a small amount of hairspray or mousse to hold the style.
Afro:
- Wash and condition hair regularly using products specifically designed for afro hair.
- Detangle hair using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers.
- Apply a curl activator or leave-in conditioner to damp hair.
- Use a pick or Afro comb to lift and separate curls.
- Finish with a light hold hairspray to prevent frizz.
Grooming Tips
Proper grooming is essential for men in their 70s to maintain a polished appearance. It complements the overall hairstyle and enhances the face’s features. Regular grooming, including beard and mustache care, is crucial for a well-groomed look.
Beard Care
Beard care involves trimming, shaping, and conditioning to maintain a neat and stylish appearance. Choose a beard style that suits your face shape and personal style. For example, a short, trimmed beard can complement an oval face, while a fuller beard can balance a round face.
- Trimming: Use sharp beard trimmers or scissors to trim your beard regularly, removing any stray hairs and maintaining the desired length and shape.
- Shaping: Define the edges of your beard using a razor or beard shaper to create clean lines and enhance the overall look.
- Conditioning: Apply beard oil or balm to keep your beard soft, hydrated, and manageable. This helps prevent dryness, itching, and split ends.
Mustache Styling
Mustache styling involves trimming, shaping, and grooming to achieve the desired look. Consider the shape of your face and lip line when choosing a mustache style.
- Trimming: Use mustache scissors or trimmers to trim the mustache to the desired length and shape. Remove any stray hairs and define the edges.
- Shaping: Use a mustache comb and wax to style and shape the mustache. Apply wax to the mustache and comb it into the desired shape.
- Grooming: Regularly wash and brush your mustache to keep it clean and tidy. Use mustache oil or balm to condition and moisturize the hairs.
Products and Tools
Various products and tools can assist with grooming. Beard oil, mustache wax, and combs are essential for maintaining a well-groomed beard and mustache.
- Beard oil: Nourishes and conditions the beard, preventing dryness and itching.
- Mustache wax: Provides hold and shape to the mustache, allowing for various styling options.
- Combs: Used for trimming, shaping, and styling both beards and mustaches.
Classic and Modern Styles
Classic and modern beard and mustache styles can complement men in their 70s. Choose a style that suits your face shape, personal style, and lifestyle.
- Classic beard styles: Full beard, goatee, Van Dyke beard
- Modern beard styles: Short beard, designer stubble, beardstache
- Classic mustache styles: Handlebar mustache, pencil mustache, walrus mustache
- Modern mustache styles: Chevron mustache, horseshoe mustache, biker mustache
Summary Table: Grooming Tips for Men in their 70s
| Aspect | Tips |
|---|---|
| Beard Trimming | Use sharp trimmers or scissors, trim regularly to maintain desired length and shape. |
| Beard Shaping | Define edges with a razor or beard shaper, create clean lines and enhance overall look. |
| Beard Conditioning | Apply beard oil or balm to keep beard soft, hydrated, and manageable. |
| Mustache Trimming | Use mustache scissors or trimmers, trim to desired length and shape, remove stray hairs. |
| Mustache Shaping | Use mustache comb and wax to style and shape, apply wax and comb into desired shape. |
| Mustache Grooming | Wash and brush regularly, use mustache oil or balm to condition and moisturize hairs. |
Closing Summary
Whether you’re a seasoned style enthusiast or simply curious about the past, this guide to men’s 70’s haircuts will leave you inspired and ready to experiment with a piece of fashion history. So, let’s dive in and explore the bold and unforgettable styles that shaped a generation.
Expert Answers
What are some popular men’s 70’s haircuts?
The shag, mullet, and afro were some of the most popular men’s 70’s haircuts.
How can I style a men’s 70’s haircut?
Use a blow dryer and round brush to create volume and shape. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep your style in place.
What are some modern interpretations of men’s 70’s haircuts?
Modern interpretations of men’s 70’s haircuts often incorporate elements of contemporary styles, such as fades, undercuts, and textured layers.