The 20 Best ’70s Hairstyles to Try in 2024
From feathered flips to curtain bangs and disco curls, discover 20 iconic ‘70s hairstyles making a major comeback in 2024.
20 Iconic ’70s Hairstyles Making a Comeback in 2024
The 1970s were a revolutionary decade for both fashion and beauty, with hairstyles reflecting a spirit of individuality and bold experimentation. From feathered, bouncy layers to glamorous disco curls and effortless middle parts, the hair trends of the ’70s have proven to be enduring sources of inspiration. In 2024, these vintage styles are enjoying a powerful resurgence on runways, celebrity red carpets, and social media. Whether you love the drama of the Fawcett Flip or the laid-back vibe of curtain bangs, there is a ’70s hairstyle perfect for every hair type and personality.
Table of Contents
- 1. Feathered Hair (The Fawcett Flip)
- 2. Shag Haircut
- 3. Curtain Bangs
- 4. Sleek and Straight
- 5. Wispy Bangs
- 6. Bixie
- 7. Voluminous Bob
- 8. Disco Curls
- 9. Inverted Bob
- 10. Middle Part
- 11. Natural Afro
- 12. Mermaid Length
- 13. Old Hollywood Waves
- 14. Rolled Flip
- 15. High Ponytail
- 16. Boho Braids
- 17. Half-Up, Half-Down
- 18. Headscarves
- 19. Pinned-Back Front
- 20. Fluffy Hair
1. Feathered Hair (The Fawcett Flip)
The feathered hairstyle, immortalized by Farrah Fawcett in Charlie’s Angels, features voluminous, bouncy layers flipped away from the face. The signature “Fawcett Flip” became the hair aspiration for millions and is experiencing a renewed popularity, especially with the blowout revival on social platforms.
- Best for: Medium to long hair
- Styling tips: Use a round brush and blow dryer to curl layers outwards. Finish with a volumizing spray for movement.
- Modern touch: Try curtain or bottleneck bangs for a softer, contemporary twist.
2. Shag Haircut
The shag haircut dominated the ‘70s with its choppy layers, full bangs, and rock-n-roll energy. Popularized by icons like Joan Jett and Jane Fonda, the modern shag suits every hair texture and length, bringing effortless volume and stylish edge.
- Best for: Wavy, curly, or straight hair
- Styling tips: Use texturizing spray or mousse. Let hair air dry or diffuse for natural movement.
- Modern touch: Pair with balayage or bold color for an updated look.
3. Curtain Bangs
Inspired by stars like Goldie Hawn and Brigitte Bardot, curtain bangs were a burgeoning trend in the late ‘60s that exploded in the ‘70s. These face-framing, parted bangs are flattering for nearly everyone and suit both long and short styles.
- Best for: Most face shapes; compatible with various lengths
- Styling tips: Blow dry with a round brush and sweep the bangs outward and down.
- Modern touch: Combine with a messy bun or ponytail for a chic, effortless vibe.
4. Sleek and Straight
Sleek, straight hair became the signature of pop icons such as Cher. Extra-long, glass-like strands reflect health and polish while feeling glamorous and easy to personalize.
- Best for: Long, healthy hair
- Styling tips: Use a flat iron and lightweight shine serum. A center part completes the iconic Cher-inspired look.
- Modern touch: Add subtle face layers or color for dimension.
5. Wispy Bangs
Wispy bangs offer a softer alternative to heavy fringe. Light and feathered, this style works seamlessly with mid-length or long cuts, reminiscent of stars like Jane Birkin and Stevie Nicks.
- Best for: Fine to medium textures
- Styling tips: Dry bangs with a small round brush for subtle curve and definition.
6. Bixie
A blend of the bob and pixie, the bixie features short, choppy layers that channel ‘70s energy. With a lived-in finish and tousled ends, it’s a modern update to classic retro styles.
- Best for: Those who embrace short hair
- Styling tips: Tousle with sea salt spray for volume and texture.
7. Voluminous Bob
The voluminous bob takes cues from Jackie Kennedy Onassis’s iconic look—think rounded ends, generous lift, and a polished finish. This sophisticated style elevates both short and mid-length hair.
- Best for: Straight or slightly wavy hair
- Styling tips: Blow out with a round brush, tucking ends under for a smooth, flipped finish.
8. Disco Curls
Disco curls defined the dancefloor, with Donna Summer and Diana Ross leading the charge. Big, bouncy, and full of attitude, these curls are all about volume and shine.
- Best for: Naturally curly hair
- Styling tips: Use curl-defining creams and a diffuser; tease gently for maximum body.
- Modern touch: Highlight natural texture and add light-reflecting gloss products.
9. Inverted Bob
The inverted bob offered a structured yet playful look in the ‘70s, blending longer pieces in front with shorter back layers. This bold shape allows for creative styling and color placement.
- Best for: Straight or slight waves
- Styling tips: Smooth with a flat iron and use a shine spray for definition.
10. Middle Part
An easygoing, center part laid the foundation for numerous ‘70s looks. Worn by stars like Maureen McCormick and Meryl Streep, the middle part complements virtually every hair type and length.
- Best for: All lengths and textures
- Styling tips: Simply part straight down the center, and enhance with subtle waves or left sleek and shiny.
11. Natural Afro
Natural afros were a symbol of pride and individuality in the ‘70s, embraced by influential icons like Pam Grier and Diana Ross. This bold, rounded style celebrates and enhances natural curl patterns.
- Best for: Kinky and coily textures
- Styling tips: Moisturize and use a wide-tooth comb to shape. Pick hair at the roots for extra lift.
12. Mermaid Length
Mermaid-length hair—think ultra-long, flowing locks reminiscent of Cher—was a major ‘70s trend. Sleek, well-conditioned hair is the beauty ideal here, and the style continues to captivate today.
- Best for: Long hair
- Styling tips: Deep condition weekly and trim ends regularly to maintain length and health.
13. Old Hollywood Waves
Muse Bianca Jagger revived Old Hollywood waves in the ‘70s with a glamorous, retro twist. Large, sculpted waves add timeless sophistication to short and long styles alike.
- Best for: Medium to long hair
- Styling tips: Set hair in large rollers or use a curling iron; brush out gently for smooth, uniform waves.
14. Rolled Flip
The rolled flip, seen often on Jackie O and fellow style icons, captures playful sophistication with ends flipped confidently up. It works beautifully with bobs and mid-length cuts.
- Best for: Short to medium hair
- Styling tips: Curl under with a round brush or flip outwards with a flat iron.
15. High Ponytail
High ponytails exuded spirited, youthful glamour in the ‘70s, often accessorized with ribbons or scrunchies. The style flatters all hair types and pairs well with statement bangs or waves.
- Best for: All lengths (longer hair preferred)
- Styling tips: Secure high on the crown, wrap a strand of hair around the elastic, and backcomb for volume.
16. Boho Braids
The bohemian braid trend gained ground with the hippie movement. Think loose, imperfect plaits framing the face or woven throughout longer hair for a festival-ready vibe.
- Best for: Medium to long hair
- Styling tips: Create one or two little braids at the temples or incorporate multiple plaits for a carefree finish.
17. Half-Up, Half-Down
The half-up, half-down style was a staple for versatility—combining the polish of an updo with the movement of loose hair. Add a bow or barrette for a true vintage feel.
- Best for: All lengths
- Styling tips: Tease the crown for lift before securing the top half back.
18. Headscarves
Headscarves served as a must-have accessory for ‘70s hair, often tied around voluminous blowouts, afros, or loose curls. They added color, pattern, and a touch of bohemian spirit.
- Best for: All hair types
- Styling tips: Fold a silk scarf and knot at the nape or crown, leaving ends long or tucked behind the ears.
19. Pinned-Back Front
Another easy ‘70s style, pinned-back front sections keep hair away from the face while offering a retro touch. Perfect for everyday wear or special occasions alike.
- Best for: Any hair texture
- Styling tips: Twist or braid face-framing pieces before pinning at the crown or nape.
20. Fluffy Hair
Fluffy hair encapsulates the volume and softness that defined ‘70s aesthetics. This style is about embracing natural body and avoiding heavy product, allowing hair to move freely.
- Best for: Thick or layered hair
- Styling tips: Blow out with a large round brush and shake at the roots for a cloud-like finish.
Quick Comparison Table: ’70s Hairstyles
| Style | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Feathered Hair | Bouncy, voluminous layers flipped away from the face | Medium-long, straight/wavy hair |
| Shag Cut | Choppy, textured layers, full bangs | All lengths, wavy or curly |
| Curtain Bangs | Soft fringe parted down the middle | Most shapes and textures |
| Disco Curls | Full, bouncy ringlets, lots of volume | Curly or coily hair |
| Sleek & Straight | Super-straight, mirror-shine | Long, straight hair |
Frequently Asked Questions About ’70s Hairstyles
Q: Are ‘70s hairstyles suitable for modern hair types?
Absolutely. Many ‘70s styles are easily adapted for all hair types, including straight, wavy, curly, and coily textures. Stylists today use modern products and techniques to recreate these looks with less effort and greater hair health.
Q: How do I choose the right ‘70s hairstyle for my face shape?
Classic ‘70s shapes like curtain bangs and shag layers flatter a wide range of face shapes, while specific styles—like rounded afros or feathered side layers—can be tailored with your stylist for your individual features.
Q: What modern products help achieve retro volume and shine?
Use lightweight volumizing mousses, root-lifting sprays, and texturizing powders for bounce. Shine serums and anti-frizz oils add the glossy finish associated with iconic ‘70s looks.
Q: Which ‘70s hair accessories are trending again?
Headscarves, barrettes, and statement hair combs are trending along with retro waves and fluffy blowouts. Ribbons and scrunchies also add a vintage touch to ponytails and half-up styles.
Retro Revival: Final Tips for Embracing ‘70s Hair Trends
- Consult your hairstylist for tailored cuts to flatter your features while channeling authentic ‘70s flair.
- Embrace natural texture and volume; avoid overloading hair with heavy products.
- Add subtle color—like sun-kissed highlights or bold streaks—for extra dimension.
- Experiment with accessories to complete your retro-inspired look.
Whether you’re revisiting old-school classics or debuting ‘70s-inspired trends for the first time, these hairstyles provide endless opportunities for self-expression and fun in 2024.
References
- https://www.hellomagazine.com/hfm/beauty-trends/518364/most-iconic-70s-hairstyles/
- https://www.harpersbazaar.com/beauty/hair/g39034982/1970s-hairstyles/
- https://www.purewow.com/beauty/70s-hairstyles
- https://www.purewow.com/stories/70s-hairstyles-making-a-comeback-in-2023/
- https://www.aol.com/5-best-haircuts-gray-hair-000000721.html
- https://www.purewow.com/beauty/women-on-going-gray
- https://www.monadermatology.com/at-home-laser-hair-removal-devices-2/
- https://www.purewow.com
