13 Hairstyles Straight From The '70s That Are Making A Comeback
It's no secret that fashion and beauty trends come back every couple of decades, and right now, plenty of styles from the '70s are having a major revival. From flare jeans to classic boho and maximalism, the decade that redefined style, music, and conventional worldviews has plenty to offer, and today, we're focusing on the hairstyles that were popular back then and are just as popular right now.
To ensure we explain the hairstyles to you properly, we reached out to beauty influencer Amber Renee, who has almost half a million followers on TikTok, as well as fashion and red-carpet hair and makeup artist Luna Viola. Together, they have painted a very clear picture for us of which hair trends from the '70s we can expect to see again. In fact, Renee clarified exclusively to Glam that the reasons these hairstyles are having their moment again include nostalgia, because "people are revisiting iconic eras for inspiration," social media, since "platforms showcase vintage styles, fueling interest," and celebrity influence, as "stars like Harry Styles, Emma Stone, and Zendaya sport retro-inspired looks." Now, if you're looking for a hair change to welcome in the new year, here are some stunning options from the '70s that have made their way into modern hair trends. From very low-maintenance styles to those that take a bit more time to perfect — there is truly something from the '70s that suits everyone!
The wolf cut will remain in style for a while
A popular hairstyle in the '70s was messy layers on short to mid-length hair — something most hairstylists refer to as the wolf cut today. "Featuring a shorter, voluminous crown with longer and shaggier layers at the back, it's a textured and jagged rebellious look that channels the early Blondie era," Luna Viola explains exclusively to Glam. "Great for dead-straight and curly hair types, the wolf cut looks the best with messy styling and some dry wax to highlight those choppy, razor-cut ends."
Keep in mind that a wolf cut will always give off a punk-rock vibe, so if that isn't your style, consider skipping this trend. However, if you are looking for an easygoing hairstyle that will always be voluminous and won't take hours to style — the messy wolf is a perfect choice. Not to mention that it often looks best with slightly greasy second or third-day hair, so it is truly low-maintenance.
Afro texture and volume are having a major moment
Current beauty trends are gravitating towards natural beauty, and for anyone with curly and textured hair, this means embracing all of its glory! "The 1970s Afro is back, embracing natural texture and volume," Amber Renee tells us exclusively. "This trend celebrates diversity and self-expression." And for anyone who is tired of constant hair changes, embracing their natural locks is the way to go.
While everyone's hair is different, there are two universal tips that those who want to embrace their hair texture should follow. The first one is to take care of your hair and nourish it so those curls can meet their full potential. Regular moisturizing masks and avoiding harsh products and heat will help your curl pattern shine. The second, and perhaps even more important tip is finding a hairstyle and cut that complements your super-curly hair texture. This, of course, requires some research and finding a hairstylist who knows what they're doing. But with hair that has texture, the right cut is what can easily make it look more fabulous than ever.
The curled bob is a fun way to embrace volume
Bob haircuts have had their big moment recently, and it doesn't seem like the hype will go anywhere anytime soon. Instead, our expert says that a slightly messier and carefree version of the sleek bob is rising in popularity. "It's the '70s take on the Italian bob, just curled and side-swept," Luna Viola explains exclusively to Glam. "This look is defined by relaxed, bouncy, voluminous waves. This glamorous soft style is an ode to Bianca Jagger and Studio 54."
Anyone who has ever had a bob haircut knows that it usually does take some time in the morning to style it. However, if your hair is naturally wavy, this cut might be a perfect choice as you'll probably only need to fix a couple of face-framing pieces every morning — if even that! After all, the slight messiness is part of its appeal. However, do keep in mind that bob haircuts — if you want to stick to them — need regular trims. Otherwise, they quickly turn into lobs. Of course, those are really cute, too!
Headbands and bandanas are an easy way to bring a retro touch to your look
If you want to hop onto '70s hair trends without really committing to a full haircut, headbands are a great option. "Wide, colorful headbands, popularized by hippie-chic and disco eras, add a retro touch to modern outfits," Amber Renee shares exclusively with Glam.
Whether you prefer a preppy headband with pearl embellishments or you're more into the hippie aesthetic of a bandana, '70s hair accessories truly have something for everyone. There are a variety of sizes, colors, and patterns you can explore, so there is really no reason to skip this trend. As a bonus, they provide an easy way to turn a bad (and greasy) hair day into a truly stylish moment. Now, if you are one of those people who think they look weird in headbands, try out this viral TikTok hair hack!
Shaggy layers with bangs are the perfect punk-rock look
Similar to the wolf cut that will continue to trend, our expert also predicts that a shag haircut with bangs will keep its spot in the limelight. "Inspired by icons like Jane Fonda and David Bowie, shaggy layers with bangs offer a nostalgic yet edgy look," Amber Renee tells us exclusively.
Even though a shag haircut can look great on any texture, in order to achieve that nostalgic '70s vibe that our expert confirms is back in style, wavy hair works best. When styling it, think of rockstars getting off the stage with messy and even slightly wet locks. Looking like you don't know what a hairbrush is? That's simply part of this hairstyle — and we mean that in the nicest way possible. If you have straight hair, you can easily achieve some of that wavy texture by simply sleeping with braids — two are usually enough for a subtle yet impactful wave.
The butterfly cut may be retro, but TikTok made it ultra-modern too
If you're familiar with TikTok, chances are that you've come across a butterfly haircut at some point. In fact, cutting your own hair in that style became popular through the app, which resulted in plenty giving the layered haircut a chance. "This soft, flowy layered style is characterized by bouncy layers and textured ends, making the hair feathery and feminine," Luna Viola explains exclusively to us. "Back in the spotlight thanks to Sabrina Carpenter, this '70s classic is versatile and can suit a range of individual hair types."
If you have long hair, getting a butterfly haircut can help get rid of some of that heaviness, giving you lots more volume without really losing any length. And if you don't plan on cutting it yourself (we love TikTok, but we always recommend leaving the hair cutting to the professionals), here's what you need to know in order to ask for the perfect trendy butterfly haircut. If you love having long hair but you're itching for a change, this style is the perfect answer.
If you're looking for a bold change, the fox flip (also known as the Fawcett flip) is perfect
A hairstyle that screams the '70s is definitely the fox flip, popularized by Hollywood divas of the time. "Named after the ever so popular term associated with the '70s, 'foxy,' the fox flip opens up space for the face while bringing volume," Luna Viola tells us exclusively, adding that it "works best on straight and medium wavy hair and includes a few framing layers and a highly suggested curtain bang."
Amber Renee couldn't agree more that this hairstyle is just as modern today as it was 50 or so years ago. "Inspired by Farrah Fawcett, this hairstyle features feathered layers and a subtle, effortless flip," Renee shares, adding that the style is particularly "popular among younger generations due to its timeless, effortless charm." Now, if you're thinking of trying this hairstyle out, keep in mind that in order to get that signature flipped-out look, you will have to do some styling regularly, whether you do overnight heatless curls or use your favorite heat tool.
Curtain bangs are here to stay
Curtain bangs have been dominating hair trends for a couple of years now, and it seems as if they are still just as trendy and popular. In fact, our expert Luna Viola even goes so far as to call them the "hottest trend of the season." So, if you're already rocking them, know that your hairstyle is still super trendy. "These bangs add a touch of softness and elegance to any style," Viola shares exclusively with Glam. "Curtain bangs highlight cheekbones and gracefully frame the face; they can easily be incorporated to various lengths and textures, making them very versatile."
Of course, having any type of bangs usually means regular visits to the hair salon for trims. And while we always prefer that you get your hair done professionally, you can cut and style your curtain bangs at home. Apart from timing, curtain bangs require daily styling, especially if you tend to have unpredictable hair. Luckily, that's not something a round brush and two to three minutes of your time in the morning can't fix. And if that sounds like too much work, an overnight hair roller is always an option, too.
Soft, flowy layers à la Stevie Nicks are the perfect low-maintenance look
Staying in the realm of soft and delicate '70s hairstyles, layers and face-framing pieces will continue to be popular. In fact, a celebrity whose pic many hairstylists can expect to see as a reference photo is rock legend Stevie Nicks. "Stevie Nicks' signature soft, flowy layers are returning," Amber Renee shares exclusively with us, explaining that the hairstyle is "perfect for those with wavy or curly hair."
Somewhere between a shag and a classic voluminous layered haircut, "the Nicks" combines lots of movement and volume without a lot of choppiness that many '70s hairstyles were known for. Similar to other hairstyles from the decade, this one is also very low maintenance, depending on your natural hair texture. Wavy and curly hair (similar to that of Nicks) look stunning cut like this, but those with very curly or very straight hair can also pull it off. Of course, depending on your hair texture, your hairstylist will figure out the way to cut it. Because of this, it's always best to go to the salon when your hair is in its natural state so your stylist can properly assess it.
Disco curls are a '70s staple that looks just as fresh today
Curls were a super-popular hairstyle during the peak of disco, hence the name of the hairstyle today. If you have naturally curly hair, consider yourself lucky, as achieving disco curls is as easy as adding a little bit of volume at the roots and defining a couple of those face-framing tendrils. However, if your hair isn't naturally curly, you can still jump on the disco-diva trend.
"The disco-curl trend is giving extra, over-the-top, and bold, and it's so exciting as a hairdresser to see," celebrity hairstylist Sarah Potempa told Glamour. "If you have naturally textured hair, a diffuser is great to enhance the texture and volume," she explained. If your hair isn't curly, you will have to curl it yourself, and the quickest way to do that is with a curling iron — the thinner, the tighter your curls will be. "Alternating the direction of the curl will help create more texture throughout the curls once we style them," Potempa went on. And, of course, don't forget the hairspray (here are the best hairsprays from the drugstore) to ensure your curls stay intact no matter how much disco dancing you do!
Wispy bangs are a great way to explore a fringe without fully committing
Wispy bangs — also known as versatile, edgy peekaboo bangs — were a major hit in the '90s, but the truth is that they were just as popular in the '70s. And with the recent resurgence of retro hairstyles, they have once again regained their popularity. "If you want something fun that'll incorporate new styles into your regular hair routine, wispy bangs can be a simple way to do just that," hairstylist Megan Giaimo explained to Byrdie.
The best part about wispy bangs is that they are great for anyone who is considering bangs but fears they will hate them afterward. While wispy bangs can be worn straight across or styled like face-framing bottleneck bangs, they can also be completely pushed to the side, which usually makes them blend in with the rest of your hair, giving the illusion that you have no bangs. So, if you're terrified that bangs won't suit you — wispy peekaboo ones are a great panic-free option to try!
The classic and sleek 'Cher hair' is a great choice
While the accent from most of the '70s hair trends has been on volume and texture, those who adore straight and sleek hair don't have to fear. "Cher hair" — named after the iconic musician — is as popular as ever, meaning that shiny and ultra-long locks are the way to go. "Another of the strongest '70s hair trends I still see (even though it's been around for a year or two) is the 'Cher hair' that Kim Kardashian made famous again," international creative director at Color Wow Dom Seeley revealed to Glamour. "Long, middle parted glass hair has still got all the momentum and looks great for any occasion. It makes a statement when it's kept healthy with treatments and shine products."
If you adore the look of this hairstyle, know that shine spray will be your best friend when it comes to achieving that glamorous look. And, of course, healthy hair is a prerequisite. While this style looks best on those who have thicker hair, you can always consider a couple of clip-in extensions that match your hair perfectly if yours is thin and you're worried about volume. After all, the hair is supposed to be sleek and shiny, but you still want some volume at the roots.
The voluminous ponytail is the perfect style for a bad hair day
Ponytails never really go out of style; instead, the types that trend will often change. And currently, big and ultra-voluminous '70s-like ponytails are all the rage. Of course, achieving one if your hair is rather fine and thin might seem impossible, but we are here to tell you that with a couple of tricks, you can be a queen of the '70s pony.
First of all, teasing is your best friend, and while we don't recommend doing it on a daily basis, if done gently, it won't cause much breakage. "I always recommend building an excess amount of volume and then brushing it out to mold the base into the shape you want," celebrity hairstylist Josh Liu explained to InStyle. Of course, there are also other ways to achieve additional volume, such as curling your hair or even adding in some extensions. The best part is that this hairstyle is a great option for second or third-day hair, making it a style that is worth perfecting.