14 Retro Hairstyles That Defined an Entire Generation
These 14 throwback hairstyles weren’t just trends, they were statements that captured the spirit of their time.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
Hair has always been a cultural marker, and some styles go beyond fashion to define an era. These looks became symbols of identity and rebellion. Here are 14 retro hairstyles that helped shape the look and feel of entire generations.
1. The Beehive (1960s)
John Sargent on Flickr
This gravity-defying style stacked hair high and proud, often held together with enough hairspray to survive a windstorm. Popularized by stars like Dusty Springfield, it was bold, elegant, and utterly unforgettable.
2. The Mullet (1980s)
Tony Alter on Flickr
“Business in the front, party in the back” became a lifestyle with this split-personality haircut. Rockers and rebels made it famous, but even dads got in on the action.
3. Feathered Hair (1970s)
PxHere
Think Farrah Fawcett and flowing, winged layers that framed the face like soft halos. This look screamed freedom and flirtiness without trying too hard.
4. The Bowl Cut (1990s)
Anonuser4545 on Wikimedia Commons
Cut straight across with zero fade, this look was often inflicted on kids by budget-conscious parents. Somehow, it made its way into mainstream style thanks to boy bands and sitcoms.
5. The Afro (1960s–1970s)
PxHere
More than just a hairstyle, the Afro became a symbol of Black pride and cultural identity. Full, round, and unapologetic, it stood tall in more ways than one.
6. Victory Rolls (1940s)
Etsy Ketsy on Flickr
This wartime classic involved rolling sections of hair into elegant coils, often topped with scarves or pins. It was equal parts glam and practical for working women.
7. Crimped Hair (1980s)
Edslan Silva on Pexels
Achieved with a hot iron that zigzagged strands into ridged perfection, crimped hair was all about volume and flair. It was a party look, a school look, a look look.
8. The Rat Tail (1980s–1990s)
Ieatmycookiesverygood on Wikimedia Commons
A short haircut with a single long strand left hanging in the back, this style turned heads for all the wrong reasons. Popular among rebellious teens and action movie fans.
9. Slicked-Back Greaser Hair (1950s)
phantom of the flicks on Flickr
With pomade and a comb, guys sculpted their hair into a shiny, perfectly molded masterpiece. Think James Dean or John Travolta in Grease.
10. The Shag Cut (1970s)
dackelprincess on Flickr
Layered, choppy, and full of rock-and-roll energy, the shag gave hair a messy, lived-in feel. Joan Jett made it iconic.
11. The Pixie Cut (1960s)
Jamie on Wikimedia Commons
Audrey Hepburn and Twiggy helped launch this short, chic cut into fame. It broke beauty norms and embraced a fresh, minimalist look.
12. Cornrows (Ancient–Modern)
Anthony Spates on Flickr
While their roots go back centuries, cornrows gained major pop culture attention in the ’90s and early 2000s. Intricate and expressive, they’re both practical and artistic.
13. The Mohawk (1970s–1980s)
Oxfordian Kissuth on Wikimedia Commons
Spiked and shaved on the sides, the Mohawk screamed rebellion and punk rock. It wasn’t for the faint of heart, but that was the point.
14. Flipped-Out Ends (1960s–1970s)
Felix Rivera MEX on Wikimedia Commons
Popularized by sitcom stars and magazine models, this style involved curling the tips of your hair outward. Sleek and bouncy, it gave even a basic bob some extra flair.