Hair Trends from the 1970’s
The 1970s gave way to the simple hippies with long skirts, flared trousers, scarves and platform shoes. The flower power generation of the 1970s was anti-fashion and focused on freedom to be whatever you wanted to be. With that, the punk age was born. Vivienne Westwood dresses, the Sex Pistols, the coloured hair of Ziggy Stardust, David Bowie’s alter ego and Rod Stewart’s mullet. In 1974, Trevor Sorbie’s wedge cut appeared on the cover of Vogue and was seen as revolutionary for its time. The Purdey cut was a similar style sensation based on Joanna Lumley’s character in the New Avengers. The Bo Derek Braids also became popular after the role she played in the movie ‘10’.
The 1970s saw the rise of the world-famous Studio 54 New York disco bar, where all celebrities flocked. It was also the decade when the volumised, big flick-out hair of the Charlie’s Angels flourished, a look that epitomises most of the consumer market hair styling of this decade: Abba, Elton John, Kate Bush, Cher and Debbie Harry. The denim market exploded in the 1970s and a denim shirt and flared jeans were declared the decade’s ideal casual wear ensemble. Newcomer Debbie Harry caught onto the trend early, just as Blondie took off and the punk era really kicked in. Notable too was the skinhead crop of the 1970s, which was a more menacing and harder look that enabled people to differentiate themselves from the soft, hippie look of the early seventies. And this era cannot forget the intrepid Anthony Mascolo, who covered new ground and brought new possibilities in the world of hair fashion by turning hair into hats.
This year we have noticed a nostalgic resurgence of 1970s hair trends has taken the fashion scene by storm. The iconic styles of the disco era, characterized by voluminous curls, shaggy layers, and bold fringes, are making a bold comeback. People are embracing the free-spirited and carefree vibes of the '70s, with hairstylists incorporating elements like feathered bangs, afros, and sleek, center-parted hairstyles into their repertoire. This retro revival reflects a desire for self-expression and a departure from the sleek and minimalist aesthetics of previous years. As individuals seek to infuse a sense of bohemian flair into their personal style, the 1970s hair trends have become a dynamic and stylish choice in 2024.
Several celebrities are embracing the revival of 1970s hair styles, adding a touch of vintage glamour to their looks. Zendaya has been spotted with cascading, voluminous curls reminiscent of the disco era, channeling a chic '70s vibe. Harry Styles continues to be a trendsetter, effortlessly rocking a shaggy, layered hairstyle that pays homage to the laid-back aesthetic of the '70s. Olivia Wilde has embraced the era with a stylish interpretation of feathered bangs, showcasing the versatility of this classic trend. And not to forget Miley Cyrus at the recent Grammy Awards, sporting an extreme 1970s bouffant.
If you are interested in finding out more about the different eras and the history of hair and fashion, check out our Elements Education Manual where we cover everything from the late 1800s to the 2000s.