The Feathered Flip
Popularized by 'Charlie’s Angels' star Farrah Fawcett, this was arguably the most requested style of the decade. The look is defined by soft, sweeping layers that flick outwards, away from the face, creating a windblown effect with incredible volume and
movement. While Fawcett's hair was not tightly curled, the 'flick' was created with heat and has become synonymous with the era's glamorous, bouncy styles. To get this look today, start with a layered cut. Use a round brush while blow-drying to create the outward curve, or for a more authentic approach, use hot rollers. Curl sections away from your face, let them cool completely, and then brush them out for that signature soft, feathered finish.
The Disco Diva Cloud
When you think of disco, you think of icons like Diana Ross and Donna Summer, whose hair was as legendary as their vocals. This style celebrates natural texture with a glorious, voluminous halo of curls or a full-bodied afro. It was a powerful statement of identity and a rejection of previous beauty standards that favoured straightened hair. For those with naturally coily or afro-textured hair, this look is about nourishing your curls to achieve maximum health and volume. For those with looser curls, the effect can be achieved by using a small-barrel curling iron (around ¾ inch or 1 inch) on small sections of hair. After curling, let the hair cool, then gently separate the ringlets with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to build that iconic, cloud-like shape.
The Curly Shag
The shag was the quintessential unisex cut of the 70s, worn by rock stars and movie icons alike, including Jane Fonda and Joan Jett. It’s a heavily layered cut that’s shorter on top and longer at the sides and back, creating a choppy, textured look that works beautifully with natural waves and curls. The curly shag is all about embracing a messy, lived-in feel. It’s a low-maintenance style that enhances the hair's natural movement. To style, apply a curl cream or texture spray to damp hair and either air-dry or use a diffuser to encourage volume and definition without creating frizz. The goal is an effortlessly cool, rock-and-roll vibe.
Brushed-Out Roller Curls
Before advanced curling wands became a household staple, hot rollers were the tool of choice for creating big, bouncy curls. This method was central to achieving many of the era's voluminous looks. The technique involved setting the hair in rollers, often after applying a setting lotion, and allowing the curls to cool completely. The magic happened when the rollers were removed and the curls were brushed out vigorously to create a soft, fluffy, and incredibly voluminous mane. This brushing technique is what separates the look from defined, modern curls, giving it that distinct '70s feel. A modern take involves using a large-barrel curling iron, pinning each curl to set, and then brushing through with a paddle brush once cool.
Getting the Look Today
Recreating these styles starts with the right foundation. A volumizing shampoo and mousse are your best friends for building the necessary height. Always use a heat protectant before reaching for a curling iron or blow dryer. Modern tools make achieving these styles easier than ever. A ¾-inch or 1-inch curling wand is perfect for creating tight ringlets that can be brushed out into a disco cloud. For the Farrah Fawcett flip, a hot air brush or a large-barrel curling iron will help you create those sweeping wings. The most important final touch for any of these styles is a strong-hold hairspray to ensure your voluminous creation lasts all night on the dance floor, or just through your day.
