10 Hairstyles From the 1970s Everyone Tried Once

The 1970s were a decade of bold self-expression and experimental style, especially when it came to hair. Many hairstyles became cultural icons, inspiring fashion, music, and even personal identity for millions.

Tricia Quitales
November 13, 2025
4 min read

10 Hairstyles From the 1970s Everyone Tried Once — Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels

Hair in the 1970s was more than just grooming; it was a statement of personality, rebellion, and creativity. From voluminous curls to sleek straight styles, trends reflected the era’s free-spirited and diverse cultural landscape. Revisiting these hairstyles offers insight into the decade’s unique aesthetic and enduring influence on fashion today.

1. 1. The Farrah Fawcett Flip

The Farrah Fawcett flip became a defining hairstyle of the 1970s, popularized by the actress herself. Characterized by voluminous, feathered layers that framed the face, it exuded glamour and effortless style. Many teens and young adults rushed to replicate it with curling irons and hairspray. The look symbolized both Hollywood sophistication and everyday chic.

2. 2. The Afro

The Afro was more than a hairstyle; it was a cultural statement, especially within the Black community. It featured natural, rounded volume that celebrated texture and identity. Celebrities and activists alike embraced the style, giving it widespread visibility. Teens and young adults experimented with Afros to express individuality and pride.

3. 3. Feathered Layers

Feathered layers involved cutting hair in long, soft layers that flared outward at the ends. This versatile style worked for both short and long hair, creating a dynamic, flowing appearance. It became a go-to look for those seeking casual yet polished hair. The style emphasized movement and lightness, making it ideal for the decade’s relaxed aesthetic.

4. 4. Shag Haircut

The shag haircut was a favorite among rock stars and rebels in the 1970s. It featured choppy layers, textured ends, and sometimes bangs, offering a deliberately messy look. Men and women embraced it as a low-maintenance yet edgy style. It became a symbol of youth rebellion and counterculture influence.

5. 5. Long, Straight Hair

Long, straight hair epitomized the bohemian vibe of the 1970s, often parted in the center for a natural effect. Women wore it sleek or slightly tousled to reflect a carefree lifestyle. It was heavily associated with hippie culture and folk music movements. Teens flocked to salons to achieve glossy, straight locks with minimal styling. Its simplicity and elegance made it a timeless representation of the era.

6. 6. Mullet

The mullet, famously described as “business in the front, party in the back,” became a daring hairstyle choice. Shorter hair on top, combined with longer layers at the back, created a striking contrast. Musicians and athletes made the style mainstream despite its unconventional look. Over time, it became a humorous yet iconic symbol of 1970s and 1980s hair trends.

7. 7. Crimped Hair

Crimped hair gained popularity in the late 1970s as a playful, textured look. Using crimping irons, teens created zigzag waves that added volume and flair. It was often worn in half-up styles or loose waves for casual and festive occasions. The style represented creativity and fun experimentation with personal appearance. Crimped hair eventually influenced later trends in the 1980s and beyond.

8. 8. Pageboy

The pageboy cut was a smooth, rounded hairstyle that curled slightly under at the ends. It provided a polished and structured alternative to the free-flowing styles of the decade. Women often paired it with bangs or face-framing layers to soften the look. It was popular among both working professionals and young teens seeking a sophisticated style.

9. 9. Wedge Cut

The wedge cut, made famous by celebrities and models, featured stacked layers at the back with shorter lengths near the crown. This created a geometric and voluminous shape that added height and movement. Teens loved it for its dramatic yet manageable styling options. It became a must-have look for those following fashion magazines and television trends.

10. 10. Afro Puffs

Afro puffs were a playful variation of the traditional Afro, where hair was gathered into two or more rounded sections. They were practical, stylish, and celebrated natural hair texture. Teens experimented with puffs for both everyday wear and special occasions. Afro puffs remain a nostalgic and empowering hairstyle from the 1970s.