70s Hair: Style Guide For A Retro Look

Hey there, groovy cats and kittens! Want to bring back the far-out vibes of the 1970s? Let's dive into the world of 70s hairstyles, a decade known for its iconic and diverse looks. From long, flowing locks to bouncy curls and everything in between, the 70s had it all. This guide will help you channel your inner disco queen or rock god with step-by-step instructions and tips for achieving that perfect retro look.

Understanding 70s Hair: The Key Trends

Before we start styling, let's get a handle on the major hair trends that defined the 70s. This era was all about freedom and self-expression, and hairstyles were no exception. Think natural textures, effortless waves, and a touch of glamour. The key is to embrace your hair's natural beauty while adding a bit of 70s flair.

Long and Flowing Locks

The 70s were synonymous with long hair. Think Farrah Fawcett's iconic feathered style or the sleek, center-parted looks sported by Cher. This style was all about length, volume, and movement. To achieve this look, start with healthy, well-hydrated hair. Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, and consider a weekly deep-conditioning treatment. When styling, use a large-barrel curling iron or hot rollers to create soft waves. For extra volume, flip your head upside down while blow-drying your hair. A center part was a signature element of this style, but you can also experiment with a slight side part for a more modern twist. The key to achieving the long and flowing locks of the 70s lies in maintaining healthy hair and creating soft, natural-looking waves that cascade effortlessly. A leave-in conditioner or hair serum can help tame frizz and add shine, ensuring your locks look their best. Remember, the 70s were all about embracing natural beauty, so don't overdo the styling products. Let your hair's natural texture shine through while adding a touch of 70s glamour with soft waves and a center part.

The Shag

The shag haircut was a total game-changer in the 70s. This versatile style features layers of different lengths, creating a textured, tousled look. Stars like Jane Fonda and Joan Jett rocked the shag, making it a symbol of rebellious cool. The beauty of the shag is that it works on almost any hair type. If you have naturally wavy hair, the shag will enhance your texture. If your hair is straight, layers will add volume and movement. To style a shag, use a texturizing spray or mousse to enhance the layers. You can blow-dry your hair using a diffuser for extra volume or let it air dry for a more natural look. The shag haircut truly embodies the free-spirited vibe of the 70s. Its layered texture and tousled appearance make it a perfect choice for those who want to add a touch of rebellious cool to their style. Whether you have wavy or straight hair, the shag can be adapted to suit your individual hair type and create a look that's both effortlessly chic and undeniably stylish. Don't be afraid to embrace the shag's versatility and experiment with different styling techniques to find the perfect shag for you.

Feathered Hair

No discussion of 70s hair is complete without mentioning Farrah Fawcett's feathered style. This iconic look involved creating soft, face-framing layers that flipped outwards, giving the hair a voluminous, winged effect. Achieving this style requires a bit of skill and the right tools. Start with a layered haircut to create the necessary shape. Use large hot rollers or a curling iron to curl sections of your hair away from your face. Once the curls have cooled, gently brush them out to create soft waves. Hairspray is essential for holding the shape, but be careful not to use too much, as you want to maintain the hair's natural movement. The feathered hair of the 70s is a timeless classic that continues to inspire hairstyles today. Its soft, face-framing layers and voluminous waves create a glamorous yet approachable look that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're attending a disco party or simply want to add a touch of retro flair to your everyday style, feathered hair is a fantastic choice. With the right haircut, styling techniques, and a touch of hairspray, you can achieve this iconic look and channel the effortless elegance of Farrah Fawcett.

Afro

For those with natural curls, the Afro was a powerful statement of self-expression and pride in the 70s. This voluminous hairstyle celebrated natural texture and was often worn as a symbol of Black identity and culture. To achieve a perfect Afro, start with clean, moisturized hair. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle your hair gently. Apply a curl-defining product to enhance your natural texture. You can use a pick to lift your hair at the roots for extra volume. The Afro is more than just a hairstyle; it's a symbol of cultural pride and self-expression. Its voluminous shape and natural texture make it a bold and beautiful statement that celebrates individuality and heritage. Whether you're embracing your natural curls for the first time or have been rocking an Afro for years, this hairstyle is a testament to the power of natural beauty and the importance of cultural identity. With the right products and techniques, you can achieve a stunning Afro that not only looks amazing but also makes a powerful statement.

How to Achieve 70s Hair: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that we've covered the key trends, let's get into the nitty-gritty of how to create these iconic styles. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve your 70s hair goals.

Step 1: Prep Your Hair

• Start with clean, dry hair. If your hair is naturally oily, you may want to shampoo it the day you style it. If your hair is dry, you can skip shampooing and just condition it. Applying a heat protectant is crucial before using any heat-styling tools. This will help prevent damage and keep your hair looking healthy. The key to successful styling lies in proper preparation, so don't skip this essential step. Clean, healthy hair provides the perfect canvas for creating your 70s-inspired look, while heat protectant ensures that your hair remains strong and vibrant throughout the styling process.

Step 2: Create Volume

• Volume is key to many 70s hairstyles, so start by applying a volumizing mousse or spray to your roots. Flip your head upside down and blow-dry your hair, using your fingers to lift the roots. This will create instant volume and body. For even more volume, you can use a round brush to lift your hair as you blow-dry. Volume is the secret ingredient to achieving those iconic 70s hairstyles that were all about big, bold, and beautiful hair. Whether you're aiming for feathered waves or a voluminous shag, creating a strong foundation of volume will help you achieve the desired look. Don't be afraid to experiment with different volumizing products and techniques to find what works best for your hair type.

Step 3: Add Waves or Curls

• For soft, flowing waves, use a large-barrel curling iron or hot rollers. Curl sections of your hair away from your face, and then gently brush out the curls for a more relaxed look. If you prefer tighter curls, use a smaller-barrel curling iron. For a more natural look, alternate the direction of your curls. Remember, the 70s were all about effortless style, so don't aim for perfect curls. Soft, tousled waves are the way to go. Adding waves or curls is the key to transforming your hair into a 70s masterpiece. Whether you opt for soft, flowing waves or tighter, more defined curls, the right techniques and tools will help you achieve the perfect retro look. Don't forget to embrace the era's emphasis on natural texture and effortless style by keeping your curls relaxed and tousled.

Step 4: Style Your Part

• A center part was a signature element of 70s hair, but you can also experiment with a slight side part. Use a comb to create a clean part, and then let your hair fall naturally around your face. If you're going for a more dramatic look, you can try a deep side part. The part is a subtle but crucial detail that can significantly impact your overall 70s hairstyle. A center part is a classic choice that perfectly captures the era's aesthetic, while a slight or deep side part can add a touch of modern flair. Experiment with different parts to find what best complements your face shape and desired look.

Step 5: Finish with Hairspray

• To keep your 70s hairstyle in place, finish with a light-hold hairspray. This will help hold the shape without making your hair feel stiff or sticky. If you want to add extra shine, you can use a hair serum or shine spray. Remember, the goal is to create a natural, effortless look, so don't overdo the hairspray. A light misting will provide the necessary hold without sacrificing movement and texture. Hairspray is the final touch that ensures your 70s hairstyle stays put throughout the day or night. By using a light-hold formula, you can maintain the shape and style of your hair without compromising its natural movement and texture. A touch of hair serum or shine spray can add the perfect amount of gloss and polish, completing your retro-inspired look.

Essential Products and Tools for 70s Hair

To achieve authentic 70s hairstyles, you'll need the right products and tools. Here's a rundown of the essentials:

• Volumizing Mousse or Spray: These products will help you create the volume that's essential for 70s hair.
• Large-Barrel Curling Iron or Hot Rollers: These tools are perfect for creating soft, flowing waves.
• Texturizing Spray or Mousse: These products will enhance the layers and texture of shag haircuts.
• Heat Protectant: This is crucial for protecting your hair from heat damage.
• Light-Hold Hairspray: This will help hold your style without making your hair stiff.
• Wide-Tooth Comb: This is perfect for detangling your hair without disrupting your curls.
• Hair Serum or Shine Spray: These products will add shine and tame frizz.

Iconic 70s Hairstyles to Inspire You

Need some inspiration? Check out these iconic 70s hairstyles:

• Farrah Fawcett's Feathered Hair: This is the quintessential 70s hairstyle.
• Cher's Sleek, Center-Parted Hair: A simple yet glamorous look.
• Jane Fonda's Shag: A cool and edgy style.
• Joan Jett's Rocker Shag: A more tousled and rebellious version of the shag.
• Diana Ross's Afro: A bold and beautiful statement.

Tips for Maintaining 70s Hair

Once you've achieved your perfect 70s hairstyle, you'll want to keep it looking its best. Here are a few tips for maintaining your retro look:

• Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner: This will help keep your hair healthy and hydrated.
• Deep-condition your hair regularly: This will add extra moisture and shine.
• Avoid over-washing your hair: Washing your hair too often can strip it of its natural oils.
• Use a heat protectant: This is essential for preventing heat damage.
• Trim your hair regularly: This will help prevent split ends and keep your style looking fresh.

Conclusion: Rocking Your 70s Hair

So there you have it, guys! A comprehensive guide to achieving those far-out 70s hairstyles. Whether you're drawn to the feathered glamour of Farrah Fawcett, the sleek sophistication of Cher, or the rebellious edge of Joan Jett, there's a 70s hairstyle out there for you. Embrace the freedom and self-expression of this iconic decade, and rock your retro look with confidence. Remember, the key to nailing 70s hair is to embrace your natural texture, add some volume, and have fun with it. Now go forth and groove!

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70s Hairstyles: Get the Retro Look