15 Hairstyles From the 1960s That Were Revolutionary

The 1960s transformed the world of hair, bringing bold, creative styles that broke traditions and celebrated individuality like never before.

Sophia Zapanta
November 15, 2025
5 min read

15 Hairstyles From the 1960s That Were Revolutionary — pedro furtado on Pexels

The 1960s was a decade of change — and hair was part of that revolution. From big, sculpted looks to free-flowing natural waves, every hairstyle expressed freedom, identity, and confidence. These iconic styles didn’t just follow fashion; they helped define an entire generation’s attitude toward beauty and self-expression.

1. 1. The Beehive

The beehive was one of the most famous looks of the 1960s, towering high above the head. Women teased and sprayed their hair into dramatic shapes that symbolized glamour and sophistication. It was made popular by stars like Audrey Hepburn and Dusty Springfield. Though over-the-top, it became a lasting icon of the decade’s fearless fashion.

2. 2. The Pixie Cut

Short, bold, and incredibly chic, the pixie cut broke traditional beauty norms. Actresses like Mia Farrow and Twiggy made the look famous, showing that femininity didn’t require long hair. The cut highlighted natural beauty and confidence. It remains one of the most empowering hairstyles ever introduced.

3. 3. The Bouffant

The bouffant added height and volume, creating an elegant, rounded silhouette. It was polished and perfect for formal occasions, often worn by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy. The look required patience, teasing, and lots of hairspray. It represented poise and grace, becoming a true symbol of 1960s refinement.

4. 4. The Mod Bob

The mod bob was sharp, geometric, and full of attitude. It became a favorite in London’s swinging fashion scene, thanks to Vidal Sassoon’s genius cuts. This style was sleek and futuristic, often paired with bold eyeliner and short skirts. It reflected the decade’s youthful, modern spirit.

5. 5. The Afro

The Afro became a symbol of pride, power, and natural beauty during the 1960s civil rights movement. It celebrated Black identity and rejected the idea of straightening hair to fit Western standards. Icons like Angela Davis made it a statement of strength and freedom. The Afro wasn’t just a hairstyle — it was a movement.

6. 6. The Flipped Bob

This fun and flirty style featured ends that curled outward, framing the face. Women loved its polished yet playful look, often paired with headbands or ribbons. TV stars like Mary Tyler Moore helped make it popular. It brought a touch of joy and lightness to everyday fashion.

7. 7. The Mop-Top

Made famous by The Beatles, the mop-top became a cultural phenomenon among young men. The soft, shaggy cut broke away from stiff, traditional styles. It gave a relaxed and rebellious edge that fit perfectly with the spirit of the times. The hairstyle became as iconic as the band itself.

8. 8. The Long, Straight Look

Mathilde Boe Photography on Wikimedia Commons

By the late 1960s, long, straight hair became the face of youth culture. It was simple, natural, and free-flowing — a symbol of peace and individuality. This look reflected the rise of the hippie movement and a rejection of polished glamour. It celebrated authenticity over perfection.

9. 9. The Shag Cut

ABC Television Network on Wikimedia Commons

The shag was a layered, textured hairstyle that worked for both men and women. It offered movement and freedom, breaking away from structured looks. Musicians and actors embraced it for its effortless style. The cut’s relaxed vibe captured the creative energy of the late 1960s.

10. 10. The Bubble Cut

BAYE_Nathalie-24x30-1994 on Wikimedia Commons

This rounded style hugged the head, creating a soft, neat shape. It was popular among working women who wanted something stylish yet manageable. Actresses like Lucille Ball helped make it trendy. The bubble cut was a balance of elegance and practicality.

11. 11. The Pageboy

The pageboy was sleek, shiny, and gently curved at the ends. It framed the face perfectly and worked well with bangs or headbands. The style was fashionable yet easy to maintain. It gave women a polished, confident look that felt both modern and classic.

12. 12. The Bouffant Ponytail

This hairstyle combined volume with fun by teasing the crown and tying the rest back. It was often paired with big bows or ribbons. Girls wore it to dances, school, and even formal events. It gave the simple ponytail a glamorous 1960s twist.

13. 13. The Brushed-Out Curls

Soft, brushed-out curls created a romantic and feminine style. Women used rollers or curlers to achieve the perfect bounce and shape. It was graceful and movie-star beautiful, often seen on screen icons like Elizabeth Taylor. The look defined elegance in motion.

14. 14. The Hippie Braids

As the decade progressed, simple braids became a favorite among free spirits. They often included flowers, beads, or ribbons woven in. The style reflected nature, peace, and self-expression. It was effortless yet meaningful, representing a generation’s love for freedom.

15. 15. The Helmet Hair

This ultra-structured style was all about control and precision. Hair was styled to stay perfectly in place, no matter the weather. It was formal and sophisticated, often worn by older women in the 1960s. Though rigid by today’s standards, it reflected the decade’s polished ideals.