The 1970s was a decade of social and cultural upheaval, reflected in the fashion and style of the time. Nowhere was this more evident than in men’s hairstyles. The 70s saw a dramatic departure from the clean-cut, conservative looks of the previous decade, giving way to a more free-spirited and expressive approach to hair.
Key 70s Hairstyles for Men
- The Shaggy Mullet: Perhaps the most iconic 70s hairstyle, the mullet was characterized by long, flowing hair at the back and sides, contrasted with a shorter top. This style was popularized by rock stars like David Bowie and Rod Stewart, and it remains a controversial choice today.
- The Afro: The Afro was a symbol of Black pride and empowerment during the 70s. It was achieved by letting the hair grow naturally and then styling it into a large, round shape. The Afro was often associated with political activism and cultural change.
- The Sideburns: Long, bushy sideburns were another defining feature of 70s men’s hairstyles. They could be worn in various lengths and styles, from the classic “Fu Manchu” to the more exaggerated “Elvis Presley” look.
- The Layered Cut: The layered cut was a popular alternative to the mullet for men who wanted a more understated look. It involved cutting the hair in layers to create a textured, feathered effect. This style was often paired with a side part or a fringe.
- The Perm: Perms were a popular way to add volume and texture to men’s hair in the 70s. They were often used to create the “curly Q” look, which was characterized by small, tight curls.
- The Bowl Cut: The bowl cut was a simple, practical hairstyle that was popular among boys and young men. It involved cutting the hair straight across around the head, creating a bowl-shaped silhouette.
- The Feathered Hair: Feathered hair was a popular style for men who wanted a soft, feminine look. It involved cutting the hair in layers and then teasing it out to create a feathery effect.
Factors Influencing 70s Hairstyles
Several factors contributed to the popularity of these hairstyles in the 1970s:
- Cultural and Social Changes: The 70s was a time of great social and cultural change. The counterculture movement, the rise of feminism, and the civil rights movement all had a significant impact on fashion and style.
- Music and Pop Culture: Music played a major role in popularizing 70s hairstyles. Rock stars like David Bowie, Elton John, and Led Zeppelin were often seen sporting the latest trends.
- Television and Film: Television and film also helped to shape men’s hairstyles in the 70s. Shows like “All in the Family” and “Happy Days” featured characters with iconic 70s looks.
The 70s Hairstyle Revival
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in 70s fashion and style. This has led to a revival of many classic 70s hairstyles, including the mullet, the Afro, and the sideburns. While these styles may seem outdated to some, they have a nostalgic appeal that continues to resonate with people of all ages.
Tips for Styling 70s Hairstyles
If you’re considering trying a 70s hairstyle, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Do Your Research: Before you commit to a particular style, do your research and find examples of how it looks on different people.
- Consider Your Face Shape: Certain hairstyles are more flattering for different face shapes.
- Use the Right Products: The right products can help you achieve the desired look and maintain your hairstyle.
- Be Patient: It may take some time to get used to a new hairstyle. Be patient and experiment with different styling techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions About 70s Men’s Hairstyles
What was the most popular men’s hairstyle in the 1970s?
The shaggy mullet was arguably the most iconic 70s hairstyle, characterized by long, flowing hair at the back and sides contrasted with a shorter top.
Why were mullets so popular in the 70s?
Mullets were popularized by rock stars like David Bowie and Rod Stewart, and they represented the free-spirited and expressive culture of the time.
What other popular men’s hairstyles were there in the 70s?
Other popular styles included the Afro, sideburns, layered cuts, perms, bowl cuts, and feathered hair.
What factors influenced the popularity of 70s hairstyles?
Cultural and social changes, music and pop culture, and television and film all played a significant role in shaping men’s hairstyles in the 70s.
Are 70s hairstyles still popular today?
Yes, there has been a resurgence of interest in 70s fashion and style, leading to a revival of many classic 70s hairstyles.
How can I style a 70s hairstyle?
To style a 70s hairstyle, do your research, consider your face shape, use the right products, and be patient.
Are there any modern variations of 70s hairstyles?
Yes, many modern hairstyles are inspired by 70s trends. For example, the undercut, which combines a short back and sides with a longer top, is a modern take on the mullet.
Is it difficult to maintain a 70s hairstyle?
The level of maintenance required for a 70s hairstyle depends on the specific style. Some styles, like the mullet, may require more effort than others.
What products were commonly used to style 70s hair?
Hair gels, pomades, and hairspray were commonly used to style 70s hair.
Can I wear a 70s hairstyle if I have curly hair?
Yes, there are many 70s hairstyles that are suitable for curly hair. The Afro, for example, is a classic 70s style that is perfect for curly hair.
Conclusion
The 70s was a decade of bold and expressive hairstyles for men. From the shaggy mullet to the feathered hair, there was a style to suit every taste. While many of these hairstyles may seem dated by today’s standards, they continue to inspire and influence modern trends. Whether you’re a fan of retro fashion or simply looking for a new look, there’s no denying the iconic appeal of 70s men’s hairstyles.
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