Short Hair, Big Attitude
Short hair in the '70s was anything but timid. The era proved that you didn't need long locks to make a statement. One of the most iconic short styles was the 'Wedge'. Popularized by Olympic figure skater Dorothy Hamill in 1976, this cut featured a shorter
back that gradually lengthened toward the front, creating a bouncy, liberating style that moved as gracefully as she did on the ice. It was a low-maintenance look that packed a punch, perfect for the modern woman on the go. Another short-hair hero was the Shag, a unisex cut worn by rockstars like Joan Jett and Suzi Quatro. While many associate the shag with longer hair, its heavily layered, choppy texture worked wonders on shorter lengths, creating a rebellious, undone look that screamed cool. Even the pixie cut, a '60s holdover, found its groove in the '70s, often worn with softer, feathered edges.
The Versatile Mid-Length
Medium-length hair was perhaps the most versatile canvas for 70s creativity. This is the territory of the quintessential 'Feathered' look, made world-famous by 'Charlie's Angels' star Farrah Fawcett. This style involved layers brushed back and away from the face, creating voluminous 'wings' that framed the features beautifully. Achieving this look often required hot rollers or a round brush and a blow dryer to get that signature flick. The Shag also thrived at this length, famously worn by Stevie Nicks, whose wavy, layered cut defined a generation of bohemian style. The style’s choppy layers, often paired with curtain bangs, were perfect for adding texture and movement. For those wanting a sleeker look, the rounded bob, sometimes with a heavy fringe, offered a chic and polished alternative that still felt very of the decade.
Long, Flowing and Free
Long hair in the 1970s often symbolized two distinct aesthetics: the natural, free-spirited hippie and the glamorous disco queen. On one end of the spectrum was the iconic 'Cher hair': ultra-long, pin-straight, and parted down the middle. This sleek, glossy style was deceptively simple but exuded a powerful, elegant confidence. It was a look that celebrated natural beauty with a high-fashion edge. On the other end was the carefree, bohemian look. Think long, flowing waves, often accessorized with headbands, scarves, or small, subtle braids, as seen on icons like Joni Mitchell. This style was all about embracing natural texture and a relaxed vibe. For a touch of disco glamour, long hair was often set in voluminous curls or styled into a bouncy blowout, turning heads on and off the dance floor.
