Why 70s Volume is Trending Now
Like all great fashion, hair trends are cyclical. After years of sleek, straight styles, there's a collective craving for something with more personality and movement. The 1970s were a decade of self-expression, and the hairstyles reflected that spirit
of individuality and freedom. Today, we're seeing a similar desire to break free from rigid beauty standards. From social media feeds to runways, big, bouncy hair is being embraced as a symbol of confidence. Modern icons are channeling the glamour of 70s stars, reinterpreting these classic looks for a new generation.
The Era of Iconic Silhouettes
In the 1970s, volume at the crown wasn't just a style choice; it was a statement. Hairstyles moved away from the stiff, heavily set looks of the 60s towards softer, more fluid shapes that celebrated natural texture and movement. Two cuts in particular defined the decade's love for volume: the shag and the feathered flip. The shag, made famous by stars like Jane Fonda and Joan Jett, featured choppy layers that were shorter around the crown to create height and texture. Meanwhile, the 'Farrah Fawcett flip' became one of the most requested styles, known for its sweeping curtain bangs and voluminous, winged-out layers.
The Modern Shag: Effortless and Edgy
The shag haircut is perhaps the most versatile of the 70s revivals. Its defining feature is layers that are heavily concentrated around the crown, creating natural lift and an effortlessly 'undone' look. The modern take on the shag is often softer and more blended than its rebellious 70s predecessor. It works on almost any hair length and texture, from short bobs to long, flowing locks. The key is the haircut's ability to create movement and a lived-in feel, making it a low-maintenance option for those who want style without spending hours in front of the mirror.
Achieving the Farrah Fawcett Flip
The Farrah Fawcett hairstyle is the epitome of 70s glamour. The style is defined by its signature feathered layers that flip away from the face, combined with major volume at the crown. Achieving this look starts with the right cut—long, sweeping layers are essential. To style, use a volumizing mousse on damp hair and a round brush while blow-drying, focusing on lifting the roots at the crown. For that classic 'flip', use a large-barrel curling iron or hot rollers on the front sections, curling the hair away from your face. Brushing the curls out afterward helps create that soft, bouncy finish.
Your Toolkit for 70s Volume
You don't need a professional stylist on call to get that retro lift. The secret often lies in a few key products and techniques. Start with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to create a good foundation. A lightweight mousse or a root-lifting spray applied before blow-drying is crucial. For tools, a round brush is your best friend for creating lift while you dry. To make the volume last, try setting your hair with velcro rollers after drying. Let them cool completely before taking them out. A gentle backcombing or teasing at the crown can also add instant height, and a light mist of hairspray will help hold everything in place without making it stiff.
