25 Iconic 1970s Hairstyles Making a Comeback: Retro Looks You’ll Adore

The 1970s changed the way women wore their hair, and that influence never really faded. Bold volume, feathered layers, and carefree movement took over, and this iconic decade introduced dramatic bouffants and flowing waves that still inspire modern looks today.

Women leaned into natural texture while adding height and swing through clever new styling techniques. From Farrah Fawcett’s legendary feathered cut to soft curtain bangs framing the face, these looks became the language of self-expression and glamour. These two signatures defined an entire generation’s idea of beautiful hair.

Disco culture pushed everything bolder — more shimmer, more shine, more statement volume. Silk scarves, floral headbands, and oversized bows turned into essential pieces of the 1970s hair wardrobe.

You can lean polished with a sleek high ponytail or go bohemian with loose, touchable waves — these retro styles genuinely offer something for everyone. Hairstylists today keep recreating them with fresh, modern twists.

Learning the techniques behind 1970s hair helps you capture that authentic vintage glamour and adapt it to your own style and face shape. A little know-how goes a long way here, and the results photograph beautifully.

1. Glamorous Hollywood 1970s Waves

Few looks say 1970s sophistication like these golden blonde waves. Luxurious length cascades past the shoulders with real drama and movement. A deep side part brings classic appeal, while soft curls frame the face in the most flattering way.

Each wave melts into the next with that expert, salon-finished feel. Honey tones catch the light beautifully, adding depth and dimension throughout. To hold this kind of volume, you will want hot rollers and a reliable setting spray.

Women wore this glamorous style to disco nights and special occasions all decade long. The flowing length emphasizes femininity and grace. Keep the curls bouncy and shiny with regular deep conditioning.

Today’s brides and party-goers still reach for this retro look. Its staying power proves one thing — truly great style never really leaves the fashion conversation.

2. 1970s Sleek Straight with Bangs

Understated elegance lives in this smooth, glossy style. Straight hair with full bangs falls in a clean, simple line, and the rich chocolate brown color looks incredibly healthy and lustrous.

Blunt bangs sweep across the forehead for a youthful, fresh feel. The hair lands just below the shoulders in one sleek curtain. That ultra-straight texture came from careful blow-drying and flat-iron work.

This look worked as beautifully for daytime errands as for evening plans. Side-swept bangs soften the features and draw all the attention to the eyes. Regular trims kept everything sharp and polished.

Women loved how easy it was next to more elaborate styles. Shine was everything, so quality products and a solid care routine mattered. This pared-back approach still shapes contemporary hair trends. A shine serum on the ends keeps this sleek style looking expensive.

3. Elevated Bouffant 1970s Updo

The bouffant ruled formal 1970s occasions, and this version shows why. Dramatic height at the crown pairs with smooth, swept-back sides. A white headband adds a mod touch while holding the structure. Hair is teased and pinned into impressive volume. Brushing the finished shape with a soft boar brush gives it that smooth shell.

The back twists into an elegant chignon that keeps everything polished. This one demanded serious hairspray and skillful backcombing. Women chose it for weddings, galas, and big social nights. The lifted crown lengthens the face and adds a regal bearing.

Building this style took time, patience, and often a professional’s hands. The vintage charm channels old Hollywood with a 1970s sensibility. Accessories like the headband complete the picture. It still inspires formal hairstyling today. The white headband here can be swapped for any color that matches your outfit.

4. Feathered Layers with Side Sweep 1970s Hairstyle

Feathered layers are the very definition of casual 1970s hair. Warm brown strands carry gentle highlights for natural dimension. Layers flip outward at the ends for that signature feathered effect, while long side bangs sweep across the forehead. The side-swept bangs here also hide a high forehead beautifully.

This style looked polished with surprisingly little effort. Round brushes and blow dryers created those flipped ends. Shoulder length kept everything manageable while still feeling feminine and flowing.

Women wore it daily — to work, to school, everywhere. The movement and texture made hair look fuller and more dynamic. Regular layered trims kept it fresh and light.

This approach shaped hairstyling for generations after. Its natural, simple beauty holds up just as well decades later.

5. 1970s Half Up Bouffant Hairstyle

Romance meets structure in this half-up bouffant. The crown gets teased and pinned back for soft height. The rest flows down in loose, bouncy waves. Hair stays off the face while everything keeps its feminine softness. Slightly day-old hair grips better, so this is a great second-day style.

Day or night, this versatile look fits in everywhere. Gentle waves add texture and movement through the length. You will need a teasing comb, bobby pins, and finishing spray. Women loved how it balanced sophistication with warmth. This half-up style survives windy days better than fully loose hair does.

The flowing lower section delivers that glamorous finish. Modern brides still recreate this vintage-inspired look for ceremonies. Its appeal crosses decades and trends. This is a beautiful option for many face shapes and hair types. This is one of those rare styles that suits both straight and wavy hair.

6. Big Voluminous 1970s Curls

Maximum drama lives in these big, voluminous curls. Large, loose curls build incredible fullness and movement. Honey blonde color warms every curl and adds dimension. Bigger really was better — this style was never meant to be subtle.

Roots get teased for serious lift and drama. The glamorous finish called for hot rollers, teasing, and generous hairspray. Women wore it to make bold fashion statements. Cascading curls frame the face with romantic softness. Working from the bottom layers upward keeps the teasing even and controlled.

Holding this volume all day took work, but the payoff was worth it. The era was all about big hair and unapologetic glamour. Every curl sits carefully placed for balanced, harmonious flow.

Confidence and feminine allure radiated from this style. Modern interpretations still borrow its lavish, go-big energy.

7. 1970s Classic Bob with Waves

Elegant simplicity defines this wavy chin-length bob. Soft waves run throughout for gentle texture. A side part adds asymmetry while the waves bring sophisticated movement. Rich brown tones keep it healthy and glossy. This bob also styles beautifully with just a deep side part and air drying.

Professional settings and casual outings both suit this cut. The shorter length made daily styling easier than longer options. Women appreciated the polished yet approachable feel. Tucking one side behind the ear gives it a chic, asymmetrical finish.

Rollers or a curling iron with good technique set the waves. The bob length frames the face without overwhelming it. Regular trims kept the shape sharp and the ends healthy. A deep side part gives this bob a completely different personality instantly.

This classic never truly disappears. Its understated elegance appeals to anyone who prefers refined, wearable style over drama.

8. Feathered Shag 1970s Hairstyle

Texture and movement reach their peak in this carefree shag. Heavily layered sections create incredible dimension. Feathered ends flip outward for a light, airy feel. Golden blonde color brightens everything and shows off the layers. Ask for plenty of layers through the ends to get that signature feathered flip.

The free-spirited attitude of the decade lives in this cut. Skilled cutting and proper blow-drying made it work. Women loved how effortlessly cool it looked while staying easy to maintain. A good shag cut practically styles itself with a little product and scrunching.

The layers keep hair from falling flat or heavy. Face-framing pieces add softness and show off the cheekbones. Natural texture thrives in this cut.

The shag topped request lists all era long. Its influence keeps surfacing in modern cuts today. Every few years, a celebrity brings it back and salons see a fresh wave of requests.

9. Glamorous 1970s Finger Waves

Vintage elegance shines in these sculptural finger waves. Deep S-curves sweep along the crown and sides. Sparkling accessories nestle into the waves perfectly. The remaining hair falls in loose curls that balance structure with softness. A center part keeps the symmetry formal, while a side part makes it more modern.

This labor-of-love style needed setting lotion, clips, and real skill. Women saved it for their most glamorous occasions. The waves catch light beautifully, creating dimension and visual interest. Golden brown tones enhance the sculptural quality. Setting the waves the night before lets them cool into their shape fully.

The look nods to Hollywood’s golden age styling. Finger waves demanded patience and expertise. The breathtaking result justified every minute invested. Brides and event-goers still draw inspiration from this timeless elegance. Finger waves pair beautifully with vintage drop earrings for full effect.

10. High 1970 Beehive with Bow

Pure architectural drama defines this towering beehive. It rises impressively from the crown for maximum height. Smooth, polished sides contrast with the textured volume on top. A large black bow adds playful sophistication to the structure. A bow in a contrasting color makes the whole look pop in photographs.

Extensive teasing, pinning, and strong-hold hairspray built this look. Women wore it to make unforgettable statements at parties. The height lengthens the silhouette and commands the room.

Construction took real time and often a stylist’s help. Sleek sides kept all eyes on the dramatic crown. This style embodied the era’s bold, unapologetic glamour. Bridesmaids in the 1970s often wore scaled-down versions for wedding parties.

Touch-ups kept it perfect through the evening. The silhouette stays instantly recognizable decades later. Costume parties and themed weddings still lean on this unmistakable shape.

11. Victory Roll Pin Curls 1970 Hairstyle

Victory rolls bring authentic 1970s glamour to modern styling. Two sculptural rolls sit above the crown with dramatic height and vintage sophistication. Slicked sides contrast beautifully with loose waves falling down the back. Smoothing the sides with a little gel gives that signature contrast.

This iconic look owned disco dance floors and formal events. Setting lotion, bobby pins, and patience mold each spiral. Roots must stay perfectly smooth for that signature polished finish. Practicing the roll shape on a wig head first saves a lot of frustration.

Long lengths work best, letting the lower sections move freely. Golden blonde tones enhance each curl’s dimension. Women loved feeling confident and camera-ready in this style.

Modern brides and vintage lovers still recreate this design for special occasions. Finishing spray locks everything in through hours of dancing.

12. Voluminous Disco 1970s Curls

Disco curls bring maximum drama and movement. Massive waves build outward from the scalp into an impressive silhouette. Each ringlet keeps its shape and bounce for consistent, full-bodied texture. Dancing was practically mandatory with this much bounce built into the hair.

Hot rollers were the essential tool for this much volume. Women teased roots relentlessly for that coveted crown height. Honey blonde highlights add depth to every curl layer. Letting the rollers cool fully before removing them makes the curls last much longer.

This glamorous look demanded commitment all evening. Hairspray was a necessity, not an option. Studio lights made these styles shimmer and glow in photos. Touch-ups between dances were part of the ritual, not an afterthought.

Large-barrel curling irons recreate this today. The sheer size made women feel powerful and beautiful on any occasion.

13. Feathered Layers with Center Part 1970 Hairstyle

Feathered layers with a center part capture 1970s sophistication and natural movement. Soft waves frame the face while longer pieces flow past the shoulders. Each section flips outward slightly for that signature feathered finish. A middle part suits round faces best with this particular cut.

Blow dryers and round brushes made this look doable at home. Women found it flattering across face shapes and ages. Golden blonde with subtle highlights showed off the dimension beautifully. A large round brush was the decade’s most important styling tool for a reason.

Regular trims kept the layers fresh and the ends healthy. This versatile cut worked for casual days and evening events alike. Hair moved naturally with every turn of the head — carefree yet polished. Stylists still reference this era for layered cuts. Ask your stylist for long layers specifically, since short ones kill the flip.

14. Romantic Braided 1970s Updo

Intricate weaving meets loose curls in this romantic updo. Multiple braids wind around the crown while pin curls cluster at the back. Each section is pinned carefully for lasting hold. Pre-curling the lower sections before braiding saves time during assembly.

Advanced skills — and often a professional — built this style. Brides and formal guests favored it through the decade. Soft tendrils frame the face with romance and delicate beauty. Booking a stylist who specializes in vintage work made all the difference.

Blonde tones contrast beautifully between braided sections and voluminous curls. Hair needs enough length for both braiding and curling. Setting the curls first made assembly easier and more stable. U-shaped pins hold better than bobby pins for the heavier braided sections.

This design still appears at weddings today. Strong-hold hairspray keeps everything secure through hours of celebration. Modern brides often pair this updo with a birdcage veil for vintage charm.

15. Big Bouncy 1970s Afro Curls

Big, bouncy afro curls celebrate the free-spirited energy of the 1970s with magnificent volume. Tight ringlets spring outward in every direction, forming a glorious halo of texture. Copper and auburn tones warm each individual curl. Women with natural curls embraced their texture in this revolutionary decade. A wide-tooth comb keeps the halo shape full without disturbing the coils.

Picks lifted the roots for maximum height and drama. Moisture-rich products kept curl definition strong and frizz away. Each coil catches light differently, creating gorgeous visual interest from every angle. Refreshing with a water spritz in the morning revives the curl pattern fast.

Styling took time, but the results were absolutely worth it. This look made powerful statements about beauty and identity. Modern curl care has evolved, though the iconic shape endures. Strong curl creams and gels hold the shape all day. A silk scarf tied over the style overnight protects the shape while you sleep.

16. Bohemian Braided Crown 1970s Hairstyle

A braided crown delivers effortless romance with natural appeal. One braid wraps across the crown like a delicate headband over flowing waves. Loose strands cascade down the back with beautiful movement. This braid doubles as a pretty fix for bangs that are growing out.

This style captured the decade’s carefree, nature-inspired spirit and hippie influence. Women loved its simple elegance for everyday wear. Honey blonde highlights bring out the woven pattern with sun-kissed dimension. Small wildflowers tucked into the braid make this festival-ready in seconds.

Section off the front hair, then weave it smoothly backward. Tiny elastics or bobby pins hide both ends in the remaining hair. Beach waves or natural texture suit this laid-back approach perfectly. Starting the braid just behind the hairline keeps it from looking too severe.

Folk festivals and outdoor concerts were made for this hairstyle. Modern bohemian brides still choose this design for their wedding day. It also makes a lovely flower-girl style for rustic outdoor ceremonies.

17. Sculptural Pin Curl Updo

This sculptural updo showcases the technical artistry of 1970s hair at its most precise. Perfectly formed spirals stack vertically along the back of the head. Each curl is shaped and secured for flawless symmetry and hold. Each spiral needs to cool completely before you remove the pins.

Expert hands and hours of work built this dramatic style. Special occasions called for this level of hair artistry. Smooth, tightly pulled sides emphasize the sculptural curls. Setting lotion created crisp, defined spirals that held. Salon visits for this style could stretch well past two hours from start to finish.

Women felt truly special wearing such sophisticated styling. Strong salon lighting helped stylists perfect every detail before finishing. Walking out of the salon in this updo felt like stepping onto a red carpet.

This vintage technique still wows at retro events and fashion shows. Generous hairspray keeps the style intact through long celebrations. Vintage fashion shows often feature this updo as the centerpiece of the whole look.

18. Dramatic Pompadour Quiff 1970s Hairstyle

The pompadour quiff brought daring height to 1970s hair with rock-and-roll attitude. Massive volume sweeps up and back from the forehead in a towering wave. Sleek sides let the crown reach its gravity-defying peak. This bold shape suits strong jawlines and confident personal style best.

Serious backcombing and strong styling products built this bold look. Musicians and performers loved its theatrical stage impact. Blonde tones with darker roots add edgy dimension throughout. A little pomade on the fingertips helps smooth the front without flattening it.

Teasing, smoothing, and pinning in layers created the shape. Hair needs length on top for the necessary height. The back flows into loose waves that soften the silhouette beautifully. Working in small sections keeps the teasing controlled instead of chaotic.

Rockabilly fans and vintage lovers still recreate this showstopper. Professional styling keeps the structure solid through performances.

19. Sleek High 1970s Ponytail

A sleek high ponytail brings polished sophistication with timeless appeal. Hair pulls tightly back and secures at the crown for maximum lift. Every strand lies perfectly smooth, with no bumps or flyaways. Angling the ponytail slightly back instead of straight up flatters most faces.

This clean style grew popular as women wanted practical options for active lives. Strong brushing, gel, and careful positioning created the best angle. Tennis players and dancers of the era favored this no-fuss approach.

Glossy blonde tones catch the light along the smooth pulled-back sections. The ponytail falls in a straight cascade with subtle movement at the ends. Face-framing pieces were skipped entirely for this sleek aesthetic. Rubbing a pea-sized amount of serum between palms tames any last flyaways.

Athletic days and elegant evenings both suited this versatile style. Strong elastics kept everything secure without slipping. Today’s versions use the same technique with updated products. Wrapping a small section of hair around the elastic hides it completely.

20. 1970s Half Up Twisted Crown

This romantic half-up style brings timeless elegance to long, flowing hair. Soft twists wrap around the crown with beautiful texture and dimension. Gather hair from both sides, twist it back, and secure gently at the center. This twisted crown also works beautifully as a bridesmaid style.

Loose waves fall down the back with movement and volume. Weddings, proms, and special occasions all suit this glamorous look. Blonde highlights make each twist stand out. Medium to long hair pulls it off best. A light veil of flexible hairspray keeps the waves touchable instead of stiff.

Texture spray beforehand adds grip and hold. The lifted crown flatters most face shapes. Bobby pins hide underneath the twists. Small face-framing pieces soften the whole look. Structure meets carefree beauty in a style that turns heads. A few hidden pins at each twist point keep the crown secure for hours.

21. Feathered 1970s Shag with Curtain Bangs

Curtain bangs frame the face with effortless 1970s charm in this modern shag. Wispy fringe sweeps to each side with soft movement that enhances your features. Layered length falls past the shoulders with subtle waves. This style captures the carefree spirit of the disco era. Curtain bangs grow out gracefully, so the upkeep stays low between trims.

Lighter blonde melts into deeper roots for rich dimension in every strand. Feathered ends keep the hair lightweight and airy, bouncing with movement. A round brush and blow dryer are all you need for styling. The layers flatter textures from straight to wavy. This cut photographs especially well because the layers catch so much light.

Face-framing pieces soften angular features with feminine appeal. Regular trims every six to eight weeks keep the shape intact. The low-maintenance styling suits busy lives while staying polished and chic. Air-drying with a little mousse gives this shag its best lived-in texture.

22. 1970s Ponytail with Silk Bow

A luxurious cream silk bow turns a sleek high ponytail into pure 1970s glamour. The oversized accessory sits at the crown with dramatic flair, capturing the decade’s bold aesthetic. Smooth, polished hair pulls tightly back for a sophisticated silhouette. Cream and gold tones in the bow flatter warm skin undertones especially well.

Cascading curls bounce from the ponytail base with voluminous movement and shine. This channels the disco era’s love of statement accessories and polished elegance. The satin bow catches light beautifully as the focal point of the look. The bow looks even more dramatic when it matches an accent in your outfit.

Rich brown melts into warm caramel highlights through the length. Hot rollers or a curling wand build the curls after you secure the ponytail. Strong-hold hairspray keeps everything in place all night.

Formal events, holiday parties, and any occasion needing sophisticated retro glamour suit this hairstyle perfectly.

23. 1970s Voluminous Bouffant with Flip

This classic bouffant shows off dramatic crown height with gorgeous volume throughout. Deep chocolate brown hair gets teased and smoothed into the era’s signature rounded shape. The front sweeps back elegantly for that iconic lifted effect. Sleeping with the crown loosely wrapped preserves the shape until morning.

Long, sleek strands flow past the shoulders with gently flipped ends. This timeless style captures 1970s sophistication and still looks beautiful today. Glossy shine reflects light across every strand for a healthy glow. A cool shot from the dryer locks the flipped ends in place longer.

Teasing combs, smoothing brushes, and plenty of hairspray recreate this look. Backcomb sections at the crown, then smooth the surface layer over them. Working with slightly day-old hair gives the backcombing much better grip.

Face-framing pieces stay sleek and straight, drawing attention to your features. Flipped ends add playful movement to the structured style, balancing elegance with approachable charm that flatters most faces.

24. High Ponytail with Silk Scarf

A colorful silk scarf turns a simple high ponytail into a bold 1970s statement. The printed fabric wraps the base with vibrant color and bohemian flair over blonde waves.

This accessory trend defined a decade of bold patterns and artistic expression. Loose waves flow from the ponytail with natural volume and movement. The scarf’s coral, teal, and cream print brings rich, ornate color. Small tendrils near the ears soften the pulled-back style. Tying the scarf ends into a small bow adds an extra playful touch.

Minutes to create, maximum impact for any casual outing. Vintage scarves or modern reproductions both give you the authentic vibe. The high placement lengthens the neck and highlights your features. You can also thread the scarf through a low braid for a different retro mood.

Gold hoop earrings complete the retro picture. Festivals, brunch dates, and summer gatherings all suit this relaxed, sophisticated style. A woven tote and sandals complete the whole 1970s festival picture.

25. 1970s Bohemian Waves with Floral Headband

Flowing blonde waves meet flower power in this quintessential bohemian look. A delicate headband with tiny fabric flowers sits across the forehead, channeling hippie culture’s free spirit. Natural waves cascade over the shoulders, catching golden sunlight in every strand. This is the ultimate golden-hour hairstyle, made for sunset photos.

This relaxed look defined an era when women traded structure for natural beauty. The headband sits low on the forehead for that signature boho feel — perfect for music festivals and peaceful gatherings. Loose texture adds romance without looking overdone. Letting a few strands escape around the face keeps it relaxed, not messy.

Recreate the waves with a large-barrel curling iron or overnight braids. The flower details bring whimsical charm in white, pink, and orange. Outdoor events, beach days, and relaxed celebrations all suit this style. Felt or silk flowers last far longer than fresh ones in the heat.

Face-framing layers blend into the overall length, adding dimension and movement through the hair.

Best Face Shapes for 1970s Hairstyles

Oval faces carry these retro styles beautifully — the added volume balances natural proportions. Round faces benefit from crown height that creates length and elongates the features.

Heart-shaped faces look lovely with curtain bangs and layers that soften a pointed chin. Square faces suit soft waves and curved lines that ease an angular jawline. Long faces do best with wider styles that build volume at the sides.

Diamond-shaped faces glow with feathered layers that widen through the cheekbones and balance a narrow forehead.

Volume Maintenance Tips for 1970s Hairstyles

Start with volumizing shampoo and conditioner to build body from the roots. Work mousse through damp hair before blow-drying with a round brush for maximum lift. Tease gently at the crown with a fine-tooth comb, then smooth the surface.

Hot rollers or velcro rollers create lasting volume and bounce. Finish with strong-hold hairspray, lifting sections and spraying underneath for support. A silk pillowcase preserves the look overnight. Rolling the top sections away from your face gives the most flattering lift.

Dry shampoo at the roots revives flat areas with instant lift. Trims every six weeks keep ends healthy so they hold volume better.