The 1970s was a decade of bold fashion experiments, and hair was no exception. While some styles have stood the test of time, others have become infamous for their eccentricity.
Let’s explore 28 of the most unforgettable and regrettable hair trends from the ’70s, illustrating the era’s unique sense of style and adventure.
1. The Shag Mullet
The shag mullet combined two daring styles: shaggy layers and a mullet’s dramatic length. It was both edgy and awkward, leaving wearers with a disheveled look.
In a disco-lit room, this hairstyle turned heads, but not always for the right reasons. Its uneven layers often required constant upkeep to maintain any semblance of style.
2. Feathered Bangs
Feathered bangs swept gracefully yet unpredictably across the forehead, creating a halo of wispy layers. While aiming for elegance, the style could quickly descend into chaos.
Despite its charm, it often proved impractical for everyday wear.
3. Permed Poodle
The permed poodle curls were a tight, voluminous style reminiscent of a poodle’s coat. Popular among women seeking dramatic flair, it often resulted in frizzy, unmanageable locks.
Also, it required extensive care to avoid resembling a tumbleweed.
4. Frosted Tips
Frosted tips added a touch of color to men’s hair, creating a sun-kissed effect. While trendy, the style often appeared unnatural and patchy.
Despite the allure of a sunlit glow, it was challenging to maintain without frequent salon visits.
5. The Bowl Cut
The bowl cut, defined by its evenly cut edges, was a staple for many young boys. Intended as a simple, neat style, it often resembled an upturned bowl placed on the head.
Seen outside school buildings, it was both practical and unfortunate. Its lack of creativity made it a hairstyle many were eager to outgrow.
6. Pageboy Flip
The pageboy flip featured sleek, straight hair with ends flipped outward, reminiscent of a pageboy’s cap. While aiming for sophistication, it often bordered on cartoonish.
In bustling marketplaces, this hairstyle stood out for its bold silhouette. Although chic in theory, the necessary daily styling often made it a cumbersome choice for busy individuals.
7. The Afro Puff
The afro puff, a variation of the traditional Afro, featured hair pulled into a large, voluminous puff. It was a statement of cultural pride but could be difficult to manage.
In wood-paneled libraries, students showcased this eye-catching style. Despite its boldness, maintaining the puff’s shape and volume was a constant challenge for wearers.
8. Curly Mop Top
The curly mop top was a wild, unkempt look characterized by loose curls cascading in all directions. Musicians often sported it on stage, adding an air of creative chaos.
While perfect for performances, in everyday life it translated to a messy appearance. The sheer volume of curls called for significant effort to tame and style.
9. Center-parted Waves
Center-parted waves were designed to frame the face gracefully, offering a touch of elegance. However, this style required diligent styling to avoid looking limp.
Yet, the effort needed to maintain the perfect wave balance often proved a daunting task for many party-goers.
10. The Wedge Cut
The wedge cut, characterized by angled layers and dramatic volume, was a bold statement. It required precision to achieve its signature shape.
In department stores, shoppers flaunted this daring style. Despite its striking silhouette, the maintenance involved made it hard to manage, often resulting in a haphazard appearance when neglected.
11. Sideburn Mania
Sideburn mania saw exaggerated sideburns taking center stage, offering a rugged look. While trendy, the style could easily become overbearing.
In plush lounges, it was a common sight among those favoring a rebellious image. Maintaining the perfect length and shape was crucial, else risk appearing comically outdated or unkempt.
12. The Beehive Reinvented
The beehive reinvented brought back the towering hairdo, with added complexity and flair. It aimed to impress but often looked over-the-top.
While undoubtedly attention-grabbing, the structural integrity required an abundance of hairspray, leading to a stiff, helmet-like feel that was far from comfortable.
13. Long and Lank
Long and lank hair epitomized a carefree, natural look but often appeared lifeless and flat. Along beach boardwalks, this style was popular among those embracing simplicity.
However, the absence of volume frequently resulted in a lackluster appearance. Regular trims and conditioning were essential to prevent it from looking overly neglected or shabby.
14. Gelled Spikes
Gelled spikes offered a punk-inspired edge, with hair sculpted into sharp points. Clubs with vivid lights showcased this audacious look.
However, the style was notorious for its sticky, crispy texture, leading to discomfort. Despite its rebellious charm, achieving and maintaining the spiky appearance often demanded excessive amounts of styling gel.
15. Bouffant Bonanza
The bouffant bonanza, characterized by its grand volume, was a staple at formal events. While visually impressive, it required meticulous styling.
However, the amount of teasing and spraying necessary often resulted in hair damage, leaving wearers with a difficult recovery post-celebration.
16. Messy Bob
The messy bob aimed for an effortlessly chic vibe, with its tousled layers suggesting a carefree attitude. At art exhibits, this look was a common choice.
However, the fine line between stylishly unkempt and simply messy was thin. Achieving the right texture required careful styling, or it risked appearing chaotic and unflattering.
17. The Flick
The flick hairstyle featured outward-turned ends, giving hair a playful bounce. In retro cafés, it added a touch of whimsy.
While charming, the style needed regular maintenance to avoid drooping. The use of curling irons and hairspray was essential to keep ends perky. Without attention, the flick’s lively appeal quickly faded.
18. Massive Headbands
Massive headbands swallowed hair in bold, broad sweeps, often overpowering the wearer’s features. At outdoor concerts, they were a staple accessory.
While convenient for keeping hair in place, their size could dominate an outfit. Achieving balance between hair and headband was crucial. Otherwise, it risked appearing more as a costume than style.
19. Asymmetrical Cuts
Asymmetrical cuts played with balance, offering an edgy twist on conventional styles. Urban street settings highlighted this adventurous choice.
However, the uneven lengths required regular attention to maintain their sharp appeal. Without frequent touch-ups, the style could appear disjointed and sloppy, diminishing its intended modernist charm and artistic flair.
20. Halo Perm
The halo perm encircled the head with tight curls, creating an angelic aura. At garden weddings, it added an ethereal touch. However, the style’s intensity often overwhelmed facial features.
Managing frizz and maintaining the defined curl pattern demanded considerable effort. Without careful styling, the halo could quickly devolve into an unruly, fluffy mess.
21. Overgrown Shag
The overgrown shag featured long, layered hair that often seemed untamed. Flea markets saw many adopt this relaxed style.
However, the unkempt appearance could veer into scruffiness without proper care. Regular trims and styling efforts were crucial to avoid appearing neglected. Despite its laid-back charm, the overgrown shag demanded attention to detail.
22. The Flipped Bob
The flipped bob was structured yet playful, with ends flipped outward for flair. Business meetings witnessed this polished look.
However, achieving the perfect flip required daily styling. Without careful management, the ends risked drooping, losing their distinctive bounce. Consistent use of hairspray and curling methods were necessary to maintain its lively charm.
23. Crimped Chaos
Crimped chaos involved creating tiny, zigzag patterns throughout the hair, adding volume and texture. Disco lights made this style a dazzling choice.
However, the process often left hair dry and brittle. Managing crimped locks demanded intensive care to prevent damage. Despite its eye-catching appeal, the style was a high-maintenance endeavor for many.
24. The Permed Bob
The permed bob married tight curls with the classic bob shape, resulting in a voluminous look. Family gatherings often saw this playful style.
However, the curls required constant maintenance to avoid frizz. Regular conditioning was essential to preserve the bob’s bounce and structure, preventing it from morphing into an unruly, frizzy situation.
25. Floppy Hippie Hair
Floppy hippie hair epitomized the free-spirited ethos of the era, often left unstyled and flowing. Communes embraced this natural look. Yet, the lack of definition risked appearing unkempt. Regular washing and detangling were essential to maintain its health.
Despite its nonchalant vibe, achieving a presentable appearance required more effort than it seemed.
26. Chunky Highlights
Chunky highlights added broad streaks of contrasting color to hair, creating a bold statement. Fashion shows loved this vibrant look.
Yet, the harsh lines often appeared artificial without skillful blending. Regular touch-ups were crucial to maintain the style’s vibrancy. Without them, the highlights risked fading into a patchy, unattractive mess.
27. The Razor Cut
The razor cut featured sharply defined edges, creating a sleek, modern look. Urban parks saw many sporting this edgy style.
Yet, the precision needed for its execution often led to styling mishaps. Regular trims were essential to maintain its sharpness. Without them, the cut risked looking uneven and losing its bold, contemporary appeal.
28. Textured Layers
Textured layers added depth and movement to hair, aiming for a lively effect. Cafés buzzed with this popular choice.
However, keeping layers distinct required constant attention. Regular cuts and styling products were necessary to prevent them from blending into a shapeless mass. Despite its dynamic intent, the style was high-maintenance for lasting allure.