Best 70s Hairstyles – Retro Haircuts Ideas for Women | Iconic Looks from the 1970s to Try Now
The 70s hairstyles – retro haircuts ideas bring back a unique style with plenty of volume, curls, and disco hair and makeup vibes. From hippie waves to cute updos, this decade has something for everyone, whether you have short hair, long hair, or curly hair. So, which of these retro styles will inspire your next look? Let’s dive into some of the most iconic hairstyles of the 1970s that are both simple to recreate and perfect for modern women.
Bandana Style
The bandana style is a perfect fit for 70s hairstyles hippie looks, adding a laid-back touch to long hair or short hair alike. This style works well with hippie braids or loose waves, and suits all hair types. It’s ideal for those who love simple and relaxed styling.
To keep hair smooth, use OGX Renewing Argan Oil of Morocco Extra Penetrating Oil and secure the bandana for a chic, carefree look. Add some natural textures for that ultimate 70s feel.
Shag Cut
The shag cut is a versatile retro style with choppy layers and plenty of texture, perfect for both short hair and medium lengths. This look is ideal for those with fine to medium hair and suits most face shapes, adding dimension and volume for a playful, aesthetic vibe.
Maintain the texture with Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray for added grit and Living Proof Amp² Texture Volumizer to bring out those layers. The shag cut looks best when it’s a little tousled, so don’t over-style it.
Farrah Fawcett Waves
Inspired by the iconic 70s hairstyles, Farrah Fawcett waves offer big, bouncy curls that scream disco glamour. This style is perfect for long hair and suits those with curly hair or straight hair willing to use a curling iron. It’s a look that flatters most face shapes by adding volume and softness.
For styling, apply TRESemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray before using a large-barrel curling iron. Finish with Oribe Superfine Hair Spray to hold the curls in place without stiffness.
Classic Bowl Cut
The classic bowl cut offers a bold, simple look that’s perfect for short hair. This retro style is characterized by its sharp, even lines, which suit those with straight hair and a preference for unique hairstyles. It’s ideal for square and oval faces, as it highlights strong facial features.
Keep it sleek with Bumble and Bumble Grooming Creme for a touch of shine, and use Mizani 25 Miracle Milk to keep hair soft and manageable. This style is all about precision, so regular trims are essential.
Fluffy Bangs
Fluffy bangs bring volume and aesthetic appeal to short hair or long hair, adding a soft frame to the face. This style suits most face shapes and adds a bit of flair to everyday looks, making it perfect for a relaxed retro style.
Use Redken Full Frame 07 All-Over Volumizing Mousse and Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray to keep bangs looking light and airy. This style pairs well with loose waves or a sleek lob.
Flipped Ends
Flipped ends bring a playful twist to the late 70s disco era. Perfect for long hair or shoulder-length cuts, this look suits those with straight hair or slight waves. It’s a cute style that’s simple to achieve and adds a bit of retro flair to any outfit.
For styling, use GHD Classic Styler to flip the ends out and finish with Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum for a glossy shine. This look pairs well with voluminous roots for extra impact.
Afro
The afro is a timeless symbol of black women embracing natural beauty. This style is ideal for those with tight curly hair and works best with long hair 1970s volume. The afro flatters all face shapes, emphasizing the natural texture and offering a bold statement.
Maintain the afro with SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie and Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner for hydration and definition. A pick comb will help keep the shape full and rounded.
Beehive Updo
The beehive updo is a classic retro look that adds height and sophistication to any 70s hairstyles collection. Ideal for long hair or medium lengths, this style suits round and square face shapes, adding an element of drama perfect for special occasions.
For styling, use Big Sexy Hair Spray & Play Volumizing Hairspray for hold and Tigi Bed Head After Party Smoothing Cream to keep the beehive smooth and sleek. A teasing comb is essential to build the volume.
Straight and Sleek
The straight and sleek look brings a polished retro vibe to long hair or medium lengths. Perfect for those with straight hair or those who love flat ironing, this look suits most face shapes and provides a sophisticated edge.
For a smooth finish, start with GHD Platinum+ Styler and use Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum for added shine. Keep it frizz-free with Oribe Imperméable Anti-Humidity Spray to maintain the sleek look.
Choppy Bangs
Choppy bangs bring a playful aesthetic to short hair or medium-length styles. These bangs suit those with straight hair or slight waves, adding a unique, edgy look that frames the face beautifully.
Use Ouai Matte Pomade for definition and Verb Volume Dry Texture Spray to add lift. This style thrives on a little messiness, so avoid over-styling for the best effect.
Pageboy Cut
The pageboy cut is an iconic retro look that offers a structured, face-framing style. This haircut suits those with straight hair and works well on short hair, making it a great choice for those with square or oval faces.
Keep it sleek with Redken Shine Flash 02 and Mizani 25 Miracle Milk to maintain softness. Regular trims are essential to maintain the precision of the pageboy’s lines.
Side-Swept Bangs
Side-swept bangs add softness to any 70s hairstyles look. Perfect for long hair or shoulder-length cuts, they create a gentle, face-framing effect that works well for those with straight hair or loose waves.
Style with Living Proof No Frizz Nourishing Styling Cream and finish with TIGI Bed Head After Party Smoothing Cream to keep bangs looking smooth and sleek.
Pixie Cut with Texture
The pixie cut with texture offers a chic, low-maintenance style that suits short hair lovers. This simple and easy look is perfect for those with fine to medium hair and flatters all face shapes by adding volume and movement.
Use Amika Un.done Volume and Matte Texture Spray for definition, and Bumble and Bumble Thickening Spray to keep hair looking full and lively.
Braided Crown
The braided crown is a classic hippie look, perfect for those with long hair who want a touch of boho chic. This style is easy to achieve and works well on both curly hair and straight hair, adding a cute and aesthetic touch.
Use SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie for softness, and secure with Scunci Elastics. This look pairs well with floral accessories for an added bohemian vibe.
Long Layers with Waves
Long layers with waves are an easy choice for a relaxed, 70s hairstyles look. This style suits long hair and adds movement and dimension, especially for straight hair or loose curly hair. It’s perfect for those with oval or round faces as it softens facial features and elongates the appearance.
Use Ouai Wave Spray for added texture and Moroccanoil Treatment Light to keep your hair hydrated and shiny. Let your hair air dry or use a diffuser for natural waves.
Swooping Bangs
Swooping bangs bring softness and elegance to retro hairstyles. Suitable for long hair or medium-length cuts, this style works well on straight hair or gentle waves, framing the face in a flattering way.
To style, use Redken All Soft Mega Hydramelt Leave-In Treatment to keep hair smooth, and finish with L’Oreal Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hairspray for light hold without stiffness.
Soft Mullet
The soft mullet is an edgy yet aesthetic twist on the classic 70s hairstyles hippie look. This style suits short hair or shoulder-length hair and adds texture and volume, perfect for those with fine hair.
Use Amika Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray for a tousled look, and Living Proof Full Dry Volume Blast to enhance lift and volume. Embrace a bit of messiness for that simple, effortless appeal.
Hippie Hair with Center Part
Nothing says 70s hairstyles hippie like long hair hippie waves with a center part. Ideal for those with long hair, this style exudes a laid-back charm and is perfect for black women with natural curls or loose waves.
Use SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie to define curls, and Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel to tame flyaways. For a true hippie look, consider adding a few small braids around the face.
Cornrows with Beads
Cornrows with beads add a cultural and stylish touch to 70s hairstyles – retro haircuts ideas. Perfect for black women with curly hair, this style is both protective and fashionable, ideal for all ages.
Keep your cornrows hydrated with Carol’s Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey, and use Cantu Tea Tree & Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil to nourish the scalp. Add colorful beads for a classic 70s look.
High Ponytail with Volume
The high ponytail with volume brings a touch of disco to the 70s hairstyles scene. Perfect for long hair, this style exudes confidence and works well for nights out. It’s ideal for oval and heart-shaped faces, as it elongates and lifts the facial features.
Use Big Sexy Hair Root Pump Plus Volumizing Spray Mousse and secure with Goody Ouchless Elastic Hair Ties. Finish with TIGI Bed Head Masterpiece Shine Hairspray for hold and shine.
Braided Pigtails
Braided pigtails offer a youthful and cute twist on 70s hairstyles. Perfect for long hair or short hair with extensions, this style adds a touch of hippie flair. It’s suitable for most face shapes and is great for casual settings.
Use SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie to maintain softness, and secure with Scunci Elastic Hair Bands for color and flair. For a more bohemian look, add small braids around the pigtails.
Fathered Layers
Feathered layers epitomize the aesthetic of the late 70s, with soft, wispy ends that create a layered, voluminous look. This style works well for long hair or shoulder-length cuts and suits those with straight hair or slight waves. Feathered layers are especially flattering for oval and round face shapes.
To keep the layers looking soft and bouncy, use Redken All Soft Shampoo for hydration and Ouai Air Dry Foam for that effortless texture. Blow-dry using a round brush for extra volume at the roots.
Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs were a popular choice for 70s hairstyles, adding a soft, face-framing effect to any long hair or short hair look. Ideal for those with straight hair or loose waves, curtain bangs are a great way to change up your style without a major cut. They’re flattering for heart and oval face shapes.
To style, use Ouai Curl Jelly to define the bangs and R+Co Balloon Dry Volume Spray to add a bit of lift. Curtain bangs are also very low-maintenance, making them an easy option for daily wear.
Conclusion
The 70s hairstyles – retro haircuts ideas offer a diverse range of styles, from hippie waves to bold disco curls. Whether you’re into fluffy bangs, braided pigtails, or a sleek lob, there’s a retro look for everyone. Try one of these styles and let the 70s inspire your next hair adventure! Share your favorite looks and thoughts in the comments below.
