An Emblem of Freedom
The long, centre-parted hair of the 1970s was more than just a style; it was a symbol. Moving away from the rigid, heavily sprayed hairdos of the 1960s, this look embraced a more natural and individualistic spirit. It was part of the counterculture movement,
reflecting a desire for freedom and authenticity. Icons of the era, like Cher with her famously sleek, waist-skimming locks, and Ali MacGraw with a softer, more bohemian version, popularised the style and cemented its place in fashion history. It rejected perfectionism in favour of hair that could move freely, aligning with the bohemian and feminist movements that celebrated natural beauty.
Why the Look Is Trending Now
Fashion is cyclical, and the '70s are having a major revival. The appeal of the long, centre-parted style today lies in its versatility and understated elegance. It fits perfectly with modern aesthetics that favour effortless beauty. It has been spotted on modern style icons and celebrities on the red carpet, often as a direct nod to the '70s aesthetic. The look feels both nostalgic and fresh, offering a polished yet relaxed frame for the face. Its simplicity is its strength; it allows natural hair texture and shine to take centre stage, making a statement without complex styling.
Getting the Cut
Achieving this look starts with the right haircut. The key element is, of course, a clean centre part. Ask your stylist for long hair, ideally with minimal layering to maintain a sense of length and weight. For a more modern and softer take, you can incorporate very long, subtle layers or soft feathering around the face to add movement. This prevents the style from feeling too heavy and flat. If you want to lean into the '70s vibe even more, consider curtain bangs, which part in the middle and sweep to the sides, beautifully framing the face. The goal is a cut that looks healthy and intentional but doesn't require constant upkeep.
How to Style It Sleek
The classic 'Cher hair' is all about a super-sleek, glossy finish. To achieve this, start with a smoothing shampoo and conditioner. Apply a heat protectant serum before blow-drying your hair straight with a paddle brush. For that pin-straight look, you will need to use a flat iron. Work in small sections, passing the iron from roots to ends. Before flat irons were common, some people famously used actual clothing irons, but modern tools are much safer and more effective. Finish with a shine spray or a lightweight anti-frizz serum to tame flyaways and get that signature glossy sheen that catches the light.
Embracing a Softer Wave
Not everyone wants a pin-straight finish. The '70s also celebrated a softer, wavier version of the long-haired look, often associated with icons like Joni Mitchell and Stevie Nicks. This bohemian style embraces natural texture. If your hair has a natural wave, you can enhance it with a sea salt spray for a more 'lived-in' feel. For those with straighter hair, use a large-barrel curling wand on large sections of hair, curling away from the face to create loose, flowing waves. The key is to keep the waves soft and not too defined. Gently brush them out with your fingers to create a more natural, tousled effect that embodies that carefree '70s spirit.
