The 1970s were a time when hairstyles weren’t just a choice—they were a statement. People wore their hair as a badge of individuality or rebellion, and sometimes, the trends got downright wild. While some ’70s styles have made comebacks, others remain buried in the past, and for good reason. Let’s look back at 12 forgotten hairstyles from the ’70s that would spark outrage today—either for their impracticality, the cultural lines they crossed, or their sheer audacity.
1. The Afro on No Some Folks
The Afro was a powerful symbol of pride and cultural identity in the community during the ’70s. But some individuals adopted the look as a fashion trend, missing its deeper significance. Today, this would be seen as cultural appropriation and highly inappropriate.
2. The Feathered Mullet
Feathered hair, made iconic by Farrah Fawcett, was gorgeous when done right. But add a mullet to the mix, and you had a combination that defied all logic. The short-in-the-front, long-in-the-back look would have fashion critics clutching their pearls today.
3. The Shaggy Perm
Big, frizzy perms ruled the ’70s, and the shaggier, the better. But the overly processed, crispy texture became infamous for its damage to hair—and for looking more like a poodle than a person. Today’s sleek, natural styles would leave this one in the dust.
4. The “Cher-Straight” Locks
Cher’s pin-straight hair was the envy of millions, but achieving that sleekness often involved ironing your hair—literally. Pressing strands with a clothes iron could leave burns and singed ends. Today’s flat irons with heat settings feel like a miracle in comparison.
5. The Bowl Cut
This cut was exactly what it sounded like—placing a bowl on your head and cutting around it. Often forced on kids but occasionally adopted by adults, it’s a look that would spark memes and merciless mockery today.
6. The Beehive Redux
The ’60s beehive carried into the early ’70s, often growing even taller and requiring even more hairspray. It wasn’t just impractical—it was a fire hazard. Imagine trying to fit that towering ‘do into a compact car!
7. The Jheri Curl on Everyone
The Jheri curl was another style deeply rooted in Black culture, offering a glossy, loose curl look. However, some non-Black wearers didn’t understand its cultural significance, leading to awkward—and offensive—appropriations.
8. The Rat Tail
Just one thin strand of hair grown long and left to dangle behind the neck. It seemed cool for about five minutes, but now, it’s hard to believe anyone ever thought this was a good idea.
9. The Zig-Zag Part
Popular among teens and younger kids, the zig-zag part added a quirky twist to any hairstyle. While harmless in theory, its exaggerated versions look downright cartoonish in hindsight.
10. The Extreme Middle Part
Hair parted so sharply down the middle it looked like Moses had a hand in it. This style emphasized long, flat hair that clung to the face, a far cry from the voluminous styles celebrated today.
11. The Feathered Mustache Hair Combo
When hair and facial hair were styled as one cohesive look, things got wild. Think feathered bangs seamlessly blending into a full, groomed mustache. Today, the disconnect between hair and beard trends would make this style feel absurdly outdated.
12. Hair with Excessive Accessories
Braids, beads, feathers, and even chains were all the rage for a while, especially among the hippie crowd. But piling on the accessories sometimes felt like a caricature of counterculture. Some also believe that to put items like feathers or beads into hair could be seen as cultural appropriation. Today, minimalism rules, and overloading your hair might raise some eyebrows.
The hairstyles of the ’70s were bold, creative, and often reflective of the times, but many of them wouldn’t fly today for reasons ranging from impracticality to cultural insensitivity. What were your go-to styles back then—or the ones you wish you’d avoided? Let’s relive the good, the bad, and the truly outrageous!
