15 Iconic Female Hairstyles of the 70s

The 1970s was a time of dynamic originality, where hairstyles represented individuality, rebellion, and freedom. From disco queens to bohemian goddesses, the women of the ’70s explored a variety of hairstyles that still influence fashion trends today. So, let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit 15 iconic female hairstyles that impacted the decade’s fashion.

The Shag

The shag style spirit of the ’70s counterculture, the shag hairstyle emerged as a rebellious antidote to prim and proper coiffures. Characterized by its choppy layers and tousled texture, the shag epitomized effortless, relaxed, and laid-back chic. Rock icons like Joan Jett and Stevie Nicks popularized this edgy look, inspiring generations of women to embrace their inner rockstars.

Feathered Layers

Exemplifying softness and femininity is what the feathered layers entail, by framing the face with delicate wisps of hair that cascade effortlessly. The playful hairstyle featured feathery layers and flipped-out ends, creating a sense of movement and dynamism. This iconic style, famously worn by stars like Goldie Hawn, added movement and texture, creating a timeless look that remains popular today.

The Farrah Flick 

Farrah Fawcett epitomized the quintessential ’70s bombshell with cascading layers and flipped ends. This iconic hairstyle, popularized by her role in “Charlie’s Angels,” featured soft waves framing the face and a tousled mane that exuded effortless allure. Women flocked to salons in droves to emulate Fawcett’s signature look and capture the essence of feminine glamor.

Shaggy Mullet

Here is a blend of elements of punk rebellion with glam rock flair; the mullet emerged as a daring hairstyle in the 1970s. Known for its short front and sides and longer, shaggier back, this hairstyle defied convention and embraced asymmetry with gusto. Rock icons like David Bowie and Debbie Harry embraced this edgy look, transforming it into a symbol of defiant self-expression.

The Blunt Cut

Defined by its sharp, straight lines and minimalistic aesthetic, the blunt cut was a bold departure from the flowing locks of the previous decade. Popularized by fashion icons like Cher and Debbie Harry, this sleek and sophisticated hairstyle exuded confidence, modernity, and power, making it a favorite among women who wanted to make a bold statement with their hair.

The Glamorous Beehive

Evoking the glamor of Old Hollywood with a modern twist, the beehive hairstyle experienced a resurgence in the 1970s, courtesy of icons like Diana Ross and Dusty Springfield—this towering coiffure, characterized by its voluminous crown and sleek silhouette, exuded sophistication and elegance. Whether adorned with a sparkling headband or left unadorned, the beehive commanded attention and epitomized ’70s glamor.

The Cher Hair Flip

With her larger-than-life persona and signature style, Cher reigned supreme as the queen of ’70s fashion and beauty. One of her most iconic hairstyles was the Cher hair flip, characterized by its sleek, straight strands and dramatic side part. The style epitomized glamor and sophistication while solidifying its status as a legendary ’70s hairstyle.

Half-Up Beehive

It combined the elegance of the classic updo with casual appeal, a half-up beehive style featuring a teased crown and cascading waves. Perfect for formal occasions or laid-back outings, it offered chic yet effortless allure, turning heads with its versatile charm and timeless sophistication.

Voluminous Roller Curls 

These curls, with their luscious waves and bouncy texture, epitomized the glitz and glamor of the disco era. This style is achievable using hot rollers or curling irons. This timeless hairstyle exudes old Hollywood allure, capturing the attention of style mavens and partygoers alike with its irresistible charm and sophistication.

Accent Braids

Accent braids emerged as a playful trend in the ’70s, adding a touch of charm and romance to ’70s hairstyles. From bohemian headbands to subtle braided accents within flowing locks, these whimsical details added depth and character to ’70s hairdos, showcasing a fusion of creativity and style that defined the era’s fashion sense. 

The Afro

A symbol of Black pride and empowerment, the afro surged in popularity during the 1970s, championed by cultural icons like Pam Grier and Angela Davis. This voluminous hairstyle celebrated natural texture and defied conventional beauty standards, becoming a powerful emblem of identity and resistance. With its bold silhouette and unapologetic flair, the afro embodied the spirit of liberation that defined the era.

Wedge

The wedge haircut made a bold statement with its geometric shape and sharp angles, reflecting the era’s fascination with futuristic design and modern aesthetics. Characterized by its short, cropped back and longer layers in the front, this edgy hairstyle exuded confidence and individuality, setting the stage for the bold experimentation and self-expression that would define the decades to come.

Dreadlocks

Rooted in African culture and embraced by the reggae scene, dreadlocks symbolized rebellion and self-expression in the 1970s. They captured the era’s spirit with their unique texture and low-maintenance appeal. Whether worn long and loose or styled into intricate updos, dreadlocks represented freedom, individuality, and nonconformity.

Disco Curls

As disco fever swept through the nation in the 1970s, so did the trend for glamorous, voluminous curls and waves that could withstand hours of skating and dancing. Women spared no effort in achieving the luscious, bouncy curls that defined the era. This glamorous hairstyle, achieved with the help of hot rollers and ample hairspray, exuded disco-ready sophistication and style.

Cornrows

Cornrows are a traditional African hairstyle that gained popularity in the 1970s. Women embraced this intricate and versatile braiding technique as a form of self-expression and cultural pride. Cornrows symbolize beauty, strength, and heritage, whether worn in simple rows or elaborate patterns.