The 1970s were a decade of bold fashion statements, and hairstyles were no exception. Medium-length haircuts became a defining feature of the era, blending effortless chic with versatile styling options. From feathered layers popularized by iconic figures like Farrah Fawcett to sleek, bohemian-inspired looks, these hairstyles offered timeless appeal that continues to captivate modern trends. This blog post will explore a selection of these classic 70s medium length hairstyles, celebrating their enduring charm while showcasing how they remain relevant and stylish today. Get ready to take a trip down memory lane and discover how these retro looks can be adapted to fit contemporary aesthetics.
What are the most iconic 70s medium length hairstyles?
Medium-length hairstyles throughout the 1970s witnessed the. Dominion of iconic figures who made them appear effortless while maintaining their style. Out of all the wonderful hairstyles that were popular during that era, the one that stays in every age groups memory was the feathered look which was made popular by Farrah Fawcett; it is a style characterized by an abundance of soft layers cut in a way that beautifully frames one’s face, along with this style, the shag cut which suited individuals looking for a more bold style went viral too, what makes these hairstyles so great is the fact that bohemian straight hairstyles that complimented natural beauty were also in style, these hairstyles are perfected for timeless styles as long as they are paired with a middle part. These hairstyles, being the centerpiece of 70s fashion, can easily be seen today and set a new standard for modern-day hairstyles and fashion.
The timeless appeal of the shag haircut
The shag haircut continues to thrive for its unparalleled appeal, boldness, and its easy-going aura that comes with it. It has that scattered and multi-layered cut, giving an exquisite balance of texture and volume, which makes it quite universal and helpful with different lengths and types of hair. Shags are best suited for any event, messily styled or ornately sculpted, and I particularly enjoy that. It’s also great for people who want to keep a contemporary feel while still having their faces framed nicely. Originating from 70’s fashion but constantly changing with the times, the shag haircut valorously portrays itself as a classic and versatile haircut.
Feathered looks: A signature 70s hairstyle
In my personal opinion, feathered hairstyles should be categorized as one of the most prominent hairstyles in the 70’s period because they were very ‘easy glamour’ due to their effortless gentle-waves. This hairstyle, for me, means a lot more than just adding a frame around the face since it is great for volume and dimension while still creating effortless, airy looks. The best part of a feathered look is that it is so versatile; it can be worn by someone with short or long hair, which means people are able to tailor it to their personal taste and style. Such an iconic hairstyle, one that exemplified elegant and timeless looks coupled with elegant simplicity, styling worked whether to a causal outing or to a more formal refined event.
Voluminous curls and disco-inspired hairdos
Big hair and disco styles symbolize the spirit of confidence, creativity, and glamour without any limitations, in my opinion. For me, such a look is representative of the time when people were unapologetic for being themselves and were creative with their designs. Such designs with big, bouncy, and curly hairstyles were over the top and bold, pulling off a look that has fun and confidence written all over it. What is more interesting is how these popular hairstyles no longer remain a thing of the past and have moved on. It is now a universal truth that they can be styled, however, whether in their original form or with new-age tweaks, because textures and bold designs will always be in style.
How can I recreate popular 70s medium length hairstyles?
In this article, I am going to show you how to recreate the iconic 70s medium length hairstyles. To achieve the bouncy texture, start with styling loose curls or soft, starting with voluminous waves, using a curling iron or hot rollers. To add more volume to your hair, mousse or volumizing spray can work magic on wet hair, and backcombing the roots will provide more volume. Blow-drying using a round brush styled away from the face achieves the classic feathered style with layered looks to the back of the hair. For it to be effective, use flexible-hold hairspray to set the style without making it look too stiff. You can also use scarves or headbands to achieve a nice 70s look.
Round Brush Feathering Techniques
Feathered looks using a round brush require precise sectioning. Therefore, I start off with damp hair that has been sprayed with a heat protectant. For each section I wish to style, I use a round brush, which I can blow dry while brushing the strands away from my face. Using a high-heat setting, I combine the round brush and low root lifting for more volume. Once I have completed styling the necessary sections, I finish the look off with light-hold hairspray, which helps the hair texture look natural but polished throughout the day.
Curtain bangs: The step-by-step guide
It’s all about preparation and technique when creating the perfect curtain bangs. What I do is start by sectioning the hair into certain strategic parts to make sure that the bangs are even. Next, using sharp scissors that are designed for hair cutting only, I trim the bangs in such a manner that the blunt bang is pinched at a slight angle to make it appear more raised and natural. I cut in measures. Once I am done with the cutting phase, I style the bangs with a round brush along with a blow dryer. I switch between low and medium heat settings to achieve that soft draped hair effect that most curtain bangs usually have. Adding a light touch of styling cream or serum also goes a long way in adding a smooth, polished, finished look to the hair. Overall, these methods provide great final results with a minimum amount of effort.
Styling hair with hot rollers for big waves
Big curls need some effort, but this styling technique is perfect to achieve that hairdo. Setting your hair with hairsprays does cause some damage, so first, all the heat protectors will be required. Medium to large-sized rollers would be ideal for this technique. Heat your hair once it’s completely rolled up, and let it set. After some time, remove the rollers and then use a spritz of hair spray to touch it up. For a more natural and voluminous touch, try to gently tousle the hair with your fingers.
What Defined 70s Hairstyles and Hair Trends?
The styles in this decade vary based on the movements that shaped them. While the hippie movement popularized voluminous and natural free-flowing tresses, celebrities like Farrah Fawcett made the feathered cut a staple. It was also during this time that the Afro became synonymous with pride as it celebrated natural hair and the black identity. Disco also brought along its own geometric smooth cuts which were rapidly adopted. The hair trends of this era were vibrant extensions of one’s personality as well as an embodiment of the societal shifts occurring at the time.
Understanding the Iconic 70s Style
The social movements of the 70s advocated for and celebrated multiculturalism and self-expression, and that was reflected in the fashion trends of the time. What particularly stands out is the free-spirited nature of the hippie movement paired with the energizing boldness of disco culture. During the 70s, many people began proudly wearing afros those with natural curls, along with heavily layered feathers. Each style spoke volumes about the changing social order. In my view, the reason why 70s fashion will always stand out is the fact that it was a time where the industry inspired people to take pride in themselves instead of blindly following trends.
Influence of 1970s Hair Icons
The essence of every iconic figure is reflected in the hairstyles of their respective era. With that said, every hairstyle comes with a story, and for David Bowie, it was a way of breaking societal standards. In my opinion, the hairstyle epitomized by Pam Grier, an Afro, portrayed feminine strength and pride while showcasing unrivaled natural beauty. With regards to style, the aura defined by Farrah Fawcett was pure glamor, and effortless, while her pinned hair also made her easily recognizable by the masses. The 70s envision a world where people are able to embrace their unique identities through custom hairstyles made possible by hair icons of their time. The theme of self-expression and empowerment through hair was also prominent, revealing new ideas through androgynous and daring styles.
Why Medium Length Hair Became a Trend
The practicality and sophistication that medium-length hair offered made it a favorite in the 1970s. Women could prevent the hassle associated with long hair yet still be able to style it in numerous ways. This hair length gave everyone, regardless of gender, the ability to express how they felt during that period through experimental waves, layers, and textures. During those times Not only did medium length hair suit the revolution style, but it also unified people culturally by portraying the spirit of self-expression along with adaptability that the era stood for.
How to Achieve a 70s Shaggy Haircut?
To achieve a 70s shaggy haircut, start by sectioning your hair into manageable layers, as the hallmark of the shag is its textured, feathered look. Ask your stylist to create choppy, uneven layers with more volume at the crown and thinner ends to achieve that signature messy yet stylish appearance. Adding bangs is optional but highly characteristic of the decade; curtain bangs or wispy, forehead-framing bangs work well. For styling, use a blow-dryer with a round brush to create soft waves and natural movement, enhancing the feathered texture. Finish with a light-hold hairspray or texturizing spray to maintain the effortless, lived-in look that defined the shag haircut of the 70s.
Steps to Recreate the Shag Hair Look
To recreate the shag hair look, I first section my hair into layers, ensuring I focus on uneven, choppy layers that add volume at the crown while leaving thinner, feathered ends. I make sure to ask my stylist for that classic 70s texture and opt for curtain bangs or soft, wispy bangs if I want a more authentic touch. When styling, I use a blow-dryer and a round brush to create subtle waves and natural movement, emphasizing the feathered texture. Finally, I apply a light-hold hairspray or a texturizing spray to keep the style effortlessly tousled and true to that iconic retro vibe.
Best Layered Cut Techniques for Volume
To achieve maximum volume with a layered cut, I focus on a few key techniques. First, I ask my stylist for face-framing layers and shorter layers at the crown, as these add height and fullness without looking heavy. A razor cut or point-cutting method works well for creating texture and movement, ensuring the layers blend seamlessly. When styling at home, I always start with a volumizing mousse or root-lifting spray and blow-dry my hair using a round brush to lift the roots. Flipping my head upside down while blow-drying adds extra body. For finishing, I use a lightweight texturizing spray to maintain the volume throughout the day, avoiding products that weigh my hair down. These techniques ensure my layered cut looks full, lively, and effortlessly chic.
Styling Tips for a Curly Shag
To style a curly shag effortlessly, I focus on enhancing my natural curl pattern while maintaining the shape of the cut. First, I prep my hair with a leave-in conditioner and a curl-defining cream to keep my curls hydrated and frizz-free. Diffusing on low heat helps enhance volume and preserve the shag’s layered structure. I scrunch my curls gently to add texture and avoid breaking their natural formation. For extra definition, I use a small amount of lightweight gel or mousse, making sure not to overdo it to keep the look soft and natural. To finish, I shake out my roots with my fingers and use a dry texture spray for added lift and separation. This low-maintenance routine keeps my curly shag looking bouncy, stylish, and full of life.
What hairstyle is popular in the 70s?
The decade of the 1970s was marked by numerous distinct hairstyles that symbolized the multicultural approach and expressive manner of society. Alongside this, the most common hairstyle featured long, free, silky hair put on display with a relaxed center part, which is reminiscent of the bohemian or hippie style. Wider variations of the ‘afro’ cut were embraced at this time too, showcasing pride and cultural identity within the Black community and voluminously rounded shapes. Furthermore, feathered hairstyles brought forth by people, who were fans of ‘Farrah Fawcett’ started gaining success because of their soft layered look. All these styles showed that the decade celebrated the spirit of ‘self’ and self-expression.
What hair length makes you look younger?
Through my observations, it is evident that hair long enough to reach the shoulders makes a person appear more youthful. This can be attributed to the fact that mid-length hairstyles usually remain soft but frame the face and provide a youthful appearance. Additional lace that frames the face also helps to make the overall look feel smoother and lighter. That being said, the most appealing length to most is dependent on one’s face shape and style therefore it is very important to make a decision based on ‘confidence,’ over anything else.
What hair color was popular in the 1970s?
Based on my findings, the 1970s favored authentic hair colors, which was in tune with the decade’s love for self-expression. Tones such as chestnut brown, honey blonde, and rich auburn were all very popular as they suited the natural aesthetics of the decade. Meanwhile, highlighted hair was also becoming trendy as lighter tips and golden streaks gave a relaxed yet chic appearance. These shades were also combined with the most popular hairstyles of the era to create the overall relaxed and free-spirited attitude of the 1970s.
How can I add a 70s flair to my current medium-length hairstyle?
Integrating some soft layers that outline your facial contours can be a good way of channeling the effortless glam of the 70s. To get that 70s touch, I would suggest wearing medium-long hair with soft layers to the side. Try grabbing a round brush and blow dry with some volume, getting those signature bouncy ends of the 70s. Another way to get the retro look is by adding some curtain bangs, which work great with soft layered looks in longer hairstyles. Adding a souffle or styling spray can help get that natural, free-moving, voluminous look to your hair while also channeling the essence of the 70s; it will keep your hair bouncy and fresh.
Getting face-framing layers and bangs
If you’re considering getting face-framing layers and bangs, I suggest trying to book a stylist consultation in order to establish what’s most suitable for your face shape and hair texture. In my case, I value how gentle it is for the face; layers can smooth my appearance and contour and detail it in a certain way without making it more complex or thickened. Regarding bangs, I always go with curtain bangs and for the most part, they are very easy to wear but give off that quintessential 70s look. I style them with a round brush and then follow up with a light use of a texturizing spray so as to maintain a disheveled look. The cuts of the bangs are stylish and very simple; they can be used frequently to give anyone an aura of vintage fashion quickly and effortlessly.
Trying out various hair accessories inspired by the 70s
Trying out hair accessories inspired by the 70s can be a fun experience; I like using silk scarves, headbands, and barrettes to achieve that effect. Silk scarves are so easy to style – I just fold them into a thin band and use them to tie up my hair, or alternatively, use them as an accent to a bun. Wide headbands, on the other hand, are another item that I frequently use; they are a great way to add a little Bohemian flavor to my hair without making it unruly.
To jazz up face-lifting layers and an updo, I use vintage metallic barrettes or clips. They’re great accessories and easy to use if you want to add a unique and nostalgic touch to your look. Appearing polished while maintaining simplicity at the same time has really never been a problem thanks to these.
Techniques For Trying to Looking Vintage
A volumizing mousse is a must for me if I want to achieve a retro look with high volume. It brings the roots to life, giving a beautiful volume lift. Using round brushes in a blow dryer helps me pull some parts of my hair, which gives off sexy finishes. If I want extra height, I can gently tease the crown of the fine tooth with a comb. After blow drying, I smooth the top layer to reduce the chance of frizzing. I can also use Velcro rollers for 15-20 minutes if I want to add more time. The highest part, in my opinion, should not be curled. In my opinion, the looks of the 70s are defined by volume. A little spray of hair spray at the end helps keep my hair bouncy while also giving it a nice hold. These small, straightforward techniques help in achieving such a bold look in no time.
References
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Pinterest – Medium Length 70s Hair: A collection of ideas and inspiration for medium-length hairstyles from the 70s.
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Byrdie – 20 Chic ’70s Hairstyles That Will Never Go Out of Style: A curated list of 20 iconic 70s hairstyles, showcasing the diversity of the era.
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Hair.com – 25 of the Most Iconic 1970s Hairstyles to Recreate in 2025: A detailed guide to 25 popular 70s hairstyles, including medium-length options like feathered hair and curtain bangs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What were some popular 70s hair trends for medium-length hair?
A: Some popular 70s hair trends for medium-length hair included feathered layers, shag cuts, curtain bangs, and the iconic Farrah Fawcett flip. These styles often featured lots of volume, soft waves, and fringe. The ‘disco queen’ look with big, bouncy hair was also trendy, as well as more natural, free-spirited hippie-inspired styles.
Q: How can I achieve a chic 70s-inspired curly hairstyle?
A: To achieve a chic 70s-inspired curly hairstyle, start by using volumizing hair products and blow-drying your hair with a round brush to create volume at the roots. Then, use a medium-barrel curling iron to create loose, bouncy curls throughout your hair. Finish with a light-hold hairspray and gently tousle your curls for that effortless 70s look.
Q: What type of braid was popular in 70s medium-length hairstyles?
A: The side braid or plait was a popular 70s medium-length hairstyle. To achieve this look, part your hair on one side, gather all your hair to the opposite side, and create a loose, relaxed braid. For a more bohemian touch, you can pull out a few face-framing strands or add some small flowers to the braid.
Q: How can I create a 70s-inspired ponytail that never goes out of style?
A: For a 70s-inspired ponytail that’s still chic in 2021, start by adding volume to your roots with a dry shampoo. Then, gather your hair at the crown of your head and secure it with an elastic. Pull out a few strands around your face for a softer look. Finally, wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to hide it, and secure with a bobby pin. This elevated ponytail combines 70s volume with modern elegance.
Q: What were some popular fringe styles in 70s medium-length hairstyles?
A: Popular fringe styles in 70s medium-length hairstyles included curtain bangs, which part in the middle and frame the face, as well as full, straight-across bangs. Side-swept bangs were also trendy, often blending into layers for a soft, feathered look. These fringe styles complemented various 70s hairdo hairstyles and added a touch of retro charm.
Q: How can I incorporate the 70s flip hair trend into my medium-length hairstyle?
A: To incorporate the 70s flip hair trend, start by blow-drying your hair with a round brush, focusing on creating volume at the roots. Once your hair is dry, use a large barrel curling iron to curl the ends of your hair outwards. For a more pronounced flip, you can use hot rollers on the ends of your hair. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray to keep the flip in place. This iconic 70s look adds a touch of retro glamour to any medium-length hairstyle.
Q: What are some 70s-inspired hairstyles with bangs that are still chic in 2021?
A: Several 70s-inspired hairstyles with bangs remain chic in 2021. Curtain bangs, which frame the face and blend into layers, are very on-trend. Soft, wispy bangs that hit just above the eyebrows offer a subtle nod to the 70s. For a bolder look, full, straight-across bangs paired with a shag cut create a retro-modern vibe. These styles can be adapted to suit various face shapes and hair textures, making them versatile options for contemporary interpretations of 70s hair.
Q: How can I achieve a 70s-inspired long and wavy look for medium-length hair?
A: To achieve a 70s-inspired long and wavy look for medium-length hair, start by applying a volumizing mousse to damp hair. Blow dry your hair using a round brush to create volume at the roots. Once dry, use a 1-inch curling iron to create loose waves throughout your hair, alternating the direction of the curls for a more natural look. Finish by running your fingers through your hair to break up the curls and spritz with a texturizing spray for that effortless, 70s-inspired waves.
