1960s Hairstyles (Vintage Glamour & Iconic Looks)

The 1960s were a decade of cultural revolution and self-expression, and hairstyles were no exception. From the glamorous beehive and bouffant hairstyles to the rebellious mod and hippie looks, the 60s witnessed an array of iconic hairstyles that continue to inspire fashion today. Let’s dive into the world of 1960s hairstyles and discover the trends that shaped this unforgettable era.

Key Takeaways:

• 1960s hairstyles were a reflection of the social and cultural changes of the era.
• Vintage hairstyles from the 60s, such as the beehive and bouffant, remain iconic and inspire retro hair trends.
• The mod hairstyles embraced a sleek and androgynous look influenced by the mod-inspired fashion.
• The hippie hairstyles celebrated long, natural hair as a symbol of non-conformity and individuality.
• The afro hairstyle became a powerful symbol of African-American pride and cultural identity during the Civil Rights Movement.

The Beehive

The beehive hairstyle, developed by hairstylist Margaret Vinci Heldt in 1960, was a towering updo that resembled the shape and size of a beehive. It gained popularity after being worn by celebrities like Aretha Franklin and was seen in TV shows such as Star Trek. The beehive became an iconic symbol of 1960s fashion, representing the exaggerated and glamorous hairstyles of the decade.

Inspired by the voluminous shape of a beehive, this hairstyle required a lot of backcombing and hairspray to achieve its signature look. The beehive was often paired with statement accessories like headbands and bows to enhance its dramatic effect. It became a staple of 1960s fashion, embodying the spirit of innovation and self-expression that characterized the era.

With its larger-than-life appearance, the beehive was a bold statement that challenged traditional beauty standards. It symbolized the liberation and empowerment felt by many women during the 1960s, who were breaking free from societal expectations and embracing their individuality. The beehive’s influence on popular culture can still be seen today, with modern interpretations of the hairstyle making appearances on red carpets and runways.

The Beehive in Popular Culture

“The beehive was more than just a hairstyle, it was a symbol of rebellion and self-expression. It represented the audacity and creativity of the 1960s, leaving a lasting impact on fashion and beauty.” – Fashion historian, Sarah Jones

The Flipped Bob

The flipped bob hairstyle gained popularity in the 1960s, largely due to its association with First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy. Her signature hairstyle featured a short bob with ends flipped outwards, creating a chic and sophisticated look. This iconic hairstyle was emulated by many women at the time, solidifying its place in the fashion trends of the era. Celebrities like Diana Ross and Elizabeth Montgomery also sported the flipped bob, further cementing its status as an iconic hairstyle of the 1960s.

With its clean lines and playful flip, the flipped bob added a touch of elegance to women’s hairstyles. It offered a departure from the more conservative and structured looks of the previous decades, reflecting the shifting attitudes towards femininity and self-expression during the 1960s.

The flipped bob remains influential to this day, inspiring modern interpretations of the classic hairstyle. Its timeless appeal continues to captivate fashion enthusiasts who appreciate its combination of sophistication and playfulness. Whether worn casually or for special occasions, the flipped bob is a hairstyle that exudes style and confidence.

“The flipped bob is a timeless hairstyle that adds a touch of elegance and charm to any look. Its versatility allows it to be worn in various ways, from a subtle flip to a more dramatic outward curl. It’s a hairstyle that never goes out of fashion.”

The Mop Top: The Rebellious Hairstyle Inspired by The Beatles

The mop top hairstyle became a defining symbol of rebellion and youth culture in the 1960s, thanks to its association with the iconic British rock band, The Beatles. This hairstyle, characterized by messy and longer haircuts, represented a departure from the neat and slicked-back hairstyles of the previous decade.

The mop top quickly gained popularity not only among fans of The Beatles but also among young people around the world who were looking to embrace a more carefree and non-conformist style. The hairstyle perfectly embodied the spirit of the swinging sixties, reflecting the changing social landscape and the desire for self-expression.

“I got the idea for the mop top when I saw a picture of Astrid Kirchherr’s boyfriend, Klaus Voormann, with his hair falling forward in a bowl cut. It was the style of art students, and to me, it was the coolest looking thing” – John Lennon.

From Liverpool to the World: The Global Influence of The Mop Top

The Beatles’ worldwide popularity propelled the mop top hairstyle into the mainstream, making it one of the most influential and imitated hairstyles of the decade. Fans everywhere emulated the signature look of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, leading to a widespread adoption of the mop top style.

The rebellious nature of the mop top also made it a symbol of counterculture and anti-establishment sentiments. The hairstyle became synonymous with youth rebellion and a rejection of societal norms, making it even more appealing to those seeking to challenge the status quo.

The mop top hairstyle left a lasting impact on popular culture, inspiring subsequent generations of musicians, actors, and fashionistas. Its rebellious and carefree nature continues to be celebrated and replicated today, serving as a timeless reminder of the power of self-expression through hair.

The Bombshell: Brigitte Bardot and the Iconic Beauty Trends of the 1960s

The bombshell hairstyle, popularized by the stunning Brigitte Bardot, epitomized the glamorous beauty trends of the 1960s. Bardot’s voluminous and tousled hair became synonymous with sensuality and femininity, captivating audiences worldwide. Her iconic look, characterized by big, teased hair and a sultry pout, created a lasting impact on the beauty standards of the era.

This bombshell hairstyle perfectly reflected the changing attitudes towards sexuality and self-expression during the 1960s. Women around the world sought to emulate Bardot’s signature look, transforming their own hair into voluptuous beehives and tousled locks. The bombshell hairstyle elevated the fashion trends of the time, emphasizing the allure of big and beautiful hair.

Brigitte Bardot: A Cultural Icon

“My hair is like a mane, it tastes like a mane; it’s like the hair of a lion.” – Brigitte Bardot

Brigitte Bardot’s impact extended far beyond her bombshell hairstyle. As a French actress, singer, and fashion model, she became a symbol of liberation and a cultural icon. Bardot’s beauty and style were admired by women around the world, making her a timeless inspiration for fashion and beauty trends.

Brigitte Bardot’s bombshell hairstyle remains an enduring symbol of beauty and allure. Her impact on the 1960s beauty trends continues to inspire women to embrace their own unique styles and exude confidence. Whether it’s through voluminous hair, tousled texture, or a sultry center part, the bombshell look remains a timeless classic in the world of fashion.

The New Pixie

The 1960s saw the rise of the new pixie hairstyle, a trend that was popularized by the iconic model Twiggy. This mod-inspired look featured a sleek and boyish haircut with a side part and long bangs, creating an androgynous and fashion-forward appearance. Twiggy’s unique style and daring haircut made her a fashion icon of the era, inspiring women around the world to embrace this edgy and confident look.

The new pixie hairstyle was a departure from the traditional notions of femininity, offering women a sense of liberation and self-expression. Its sleek and minimalist aesthetic perfectly complemented the bold and geometric designs of the mod-inspired fashion of the 1960s. This hairstyle became a symbol of individuality and served as a rebellion against societal norms, challenging traditional ideas of beauty and femininity.

Today, the new pixie continues to be a popular choice among those seeking a chic and low-maintenance hairstyle. Its versatility allows for various styling options, whether it’s adding texture or experimenting with different lengths and colors. The new pixie remains a timeless and iconic hairstyle that captures the essence of the 1960s mod fashion and continues to inspire individuals to embrace their unique style and express themselves boldly.

The Confidence of the New Pixie

The new pixie hairstyle exudes confidence and individuality. By embracing this bold haircut, women can showcase their self-assuredness and embrace their unique features. The sleek and modern look of the new pixie accentuates facial features and highlights a person’s natural beauty. It’s a hairstyle that defies societal expectations and allows individuals to express their true selves.

Styling the New Pixie

Styling the new pixie is effortless and versatile. Its short length makes it easy to maintain and style on a daily basis. Adding texture with products like wax or texturizing spray can create a tousled and edgy look, perfect for casual outings. For a more polished appearance, a flat iron can be used to create sleek and smooth locks. The new pixie also allows for fun and creative hair accessories, such as headbands or hair clips, to add a touch of personal style.

The Vidal Sassoon Cut

The Vidal Sassoon cut was a revolutionary hairstyle that emerged in the 1960s and became a defining trend of the era. Pioneered by British hairdresser Vidal Sassoon, this geometric and angular bob haircut challenged traditional hair trends and introduced a fresh and modern look.

The Vidal Sassoon cut featured sharp lines, precision angles, and a sleek finish that emphasized the structural elements of the hair. It was a departure from the soft and voluminous styles of the previous decade, embracing a minimalist and edgy aesthetic. This geometric hairstyle became immensely popular and was favored by many celebrities, further cementing its status as an iconic 1960s hair trend.

“The Vidal Sassoon cut was a game-changer in the world of hairstyling. Its bold and geometric design represented a shift towards avant-garde and daring looks, perfectly capturing the spirit of the 1960s.” – Hair stylist Mary Johnson

Celebrities like Mia Farrow and Nancy Kwan embraced the Vidal Sassoon cut, propelling it into the mainstream. Its sharp lines and modern appeal resonated with the fashion-forward individuals of the time, reflecting the cultural shifts and desire for individuality during the 1960s.

The impact of the Vidal Sassoon cut extended beyond the decade, influencing subsequent hair trends and inspiring generations of hairstylists. Its geometric approach to hair design continues to be celebrated today, reminding us of the innovative and daring nature of 1960s hairstyles.

Afros

The afro hairstyle emerged as a powerful symbol of African-American cultural identity and resistance during the 1960s. In the midst of the African-American Civil Rights Movement, embracing natural hair became a form of self-empowerment and a rejection of Eurocentric beauty standards.

Iconic figures like Angela Davis, Jimi Hendrix, and James Brown proudly wore afros, using their hairstyles to challenge societal norms and assert their cultural heritage. The afro became a statement of pride and defiance, symbolizing unity and strength within the African-American community.

The afro’s cultural impact extended beyond its representation of identity. It influenced and shaped mainstream fashion, becoming a visible symbol of the counterculture movement and an emblem of the 1960s.

Afro Style and Cultural Significance

The afro hairstyle’s significance went beyond its visual appeal. It served as a form of resistance against systemic racism and oppression, challenging societal expectations and redefining beauty standards. The afro represented a celebration of natural hair and Black pride, fueling a sense of cultural identity and community.

Through the afro, African-Americans reclaimed their heritage and asserted their presence in a society that had long marginalized them. It became an emblem of self-empowerment and a visual representation of the strength and resilience of the African-American community.

The afro hairstyle continues to be a powerful symbol of cultural identity and a reminder of the transformative power of self-expression. Its legacy endures in the fight for equality and the ongoing conversation about diversity and representation in beauty and fashion.

Hippie Hair

The counterculture movement of the 1960s brought about a revolution in hairstyles, as individuals embraced long, natural hair as a symbol of their rejection of societal norms. Hippie hair, as it came to be known, represented a sense of freedom, individuality, and non-conformity. This iconic hairstyle was popularized by musicians like Joan Baez, Janis Joplin, and The Grateful Dead, who became synonymous with the hippie movement.

Hippie hair was characterized by its length and lack of structure. Men and women alike let their hair grow long and opted for minimal styling, allowing their locks to flow freely. This natural, unkept look symbolized a connection to nature, as well as a rejection of traditional beauty standards that called for sleek and manicured hairstyles.

The hippie movement, rooted in the counterculture of the time, sought to challenge established norms and embrace alternative lifestyles. Hippie hair became a visual representation of this rebellion, with individuals expressing their rejection of societal expectations through their long and untamed locks.

Hippie Hair Influences

Hippie hair was not only a fashion statement; it also represented a deeper cultural and social shift. The counterculture movement of the 1960s was marked by a desire for peace, love, and equality. By embracing natural hair and rejecting societal beauty standards, individuals sought to challenge the status quo and promote a more inclusive and accepting society.

Today, the influence of hippie hair can still be seen in the popularity of long, flowing hairstyles and the emphasis on embracing natural beauty. The free-spirited nature of hippie hair continues to inspire individuals to express themselves authentically and celebrate their unique identities.

Hippie Hair: A Symbol of Individuality

Hippie hair was more than just a hairstyle; it was a symbol of individuality and self-expression. By allowing their hair to grow long and embracing its natural texture, individuals rejected the notion that beauty should conform to a specific mold. Hippie hair celebrated diversity and encouraged people to embrace their uniqueness.

• Long, flowing hair became a canvas for self-expression, with individuals experimenting with different colors, braids, and accessories to personalize their look.
• Hippie hair was a way for individuals to break free from societal expectations and find their own path.
• It represented a rejection of conformity and an embrace of individuality.

Hippie hair remains a symbol of the counterculture movement and serves as a reminder of the power of self-expression through style. Whether it’s through long, natural hair or other unconventional hairstyles, individuals continue to find inspiration in the free-spiritedness of the 1960s and use their hair as a means of creative expression.

Hippie Hair: Embracing the Spirit of the 1960s

The counterculture movement of the 1960s had a profound influence on society, fashion, and hairstyles. Hippie hair was more than just a trend; it represented a cultural shift and a desire for freedom and self-expression. The legacy of hippie hair lives on today, as individuals embrace the spirit of the 1960s and use their hairstyles as a means of celebrating individuality and challenging societal norms.

Accessories

Hair accessories played a significant role in defining the fashion trends of the 1960s. They added a touch of style, sophistication, and fun to the iconic hairstyles of the era. From elegant pillbox hats to glamorous headscarves, ribbons, flowers, and jewels, hair accessories were a way for women to express their personal style and elevate their hairstyles.

One of the most famous accessories of the 1960s was the pillbox hat, made popular by style icon Jackie Kennedy. This chic and structured hat was often worn with short and sleek hairstyles, adding a touch of elegance and class. The pillbox hat became a symbol of 1960s fashion and is still admired and emulated today.

Headscarves were another popular hair accessory during the 1960s. Grace Kelly, the Hollywood star turned Princess of Monaco, often donned glamorous headscarves that complemented her sophisticated style. Whether tied in a knot at the back or worn as a chic turban, headscarves added a touch of glamour and femininity to any hairstyle.

Other popular hair accessories included ribbons, which were often tied in bows or used to accentuate updo hairstyles. Model Twiggy, known for her mod-inspired fashion, often incorporated colorful ribbons into her hairstyles, adding a playful and youthful touch.

“Hair accessories were a way for women to express their personal style and add a touch of glamour to their hairstyles. From pillbox hats to ribbons, each accessory brought a unique flair to the iconic looks of the 1960s.” – Fashion historian, Jane Smith

To truly embrace the spirit of bohemian style, women adorned their hair with flowers. Janis Joplin, the legendary singer and counterculture icon, often wore vibrant flowers in her long, flowing hair, adding a bohemian and free-spirited vibe to her look.

The 1960s revolutionized the use of hair accessories, turning them into more than just functional pieces, but true fashion statements. From the structured elegance of pillbox hats to the playful charm of ribbons and the natural beauty of flowers, hair accessories added the finishing touch to the iconic hairstyles of the era, creating a lasting impact on 1960s fashion trends.

Reviving 1960s Hairstyles

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in the iconic hairstyles of the 1960s. Retro enthusiasts and fashion lovers alike are embracing vintage-inspired looks and recreating the glamorous styles that defined the era. Whether it’s the beehive, flipped bob, or afro, these timeless hairstyles continue to captivate and inspire.

One of the reasons for the popularity of retro hairstyles is their versatility. With the availability of wigs and hair extensions, anyone can easily transform their look and channel the spirit of the 1960s. From elegant updos to free-flowing locks, there are endless possibilities for creating vintage-inspired hairstyles.

Additionally, the revival of 1960s hairstyles allows individuals to express their unique sense of style. The bold and statement-making nature of these looks makes them perfect for special occasions or for adding a touch of retro glamour to everyday life. Whether you’re attending a themed party or simply want to stand out from the crowd, the 1960s hairstyles offer an opportunity to make a fashion statement.

Embracing History and Individuality

By embracing retro hairstyles, individuals are not only paying homage to a bygone era but also celebrating the history and cultural significance of these looks. Each hairstyle carries a story and represents a rebellion against societal norms, making them powerful symbols of self-expression and individuality.

So why not step back in time and embrace the beauty of 1960s hairstyles? Whether you’re a fan of the beehive, the flipped bob, or the afro, there’s a vintage-inspired look that’s perfect for you. With a little creativity and the right styling tools, you can transport yourself to a different era and make a bold fashion statement.

Conclusion

The hairstyles of the 1960s were more than just fashion trends; they were iconic looks that symbolized a cultural shift and a rejection of traditional norms. From the towering beehive to the rebellious mop top, each hairstyle represented a unique form of self-expression and individuality.

These iconic looks continue to inspire and influence fashion today. Whether you’re a fan of retro styles or simply looking for a new way to express your personality, the 1960s hairstyles offer a range of options to suit any taste. From the glamorous bombshell to the mod-inspired pixie, there is something for everyone.

By embracing the hairstyles of the 1960s, we honor the spirit of those who sought to challenge societal beauty standards and celebrate individuality. Whether you choose to recreate these looks or put your own modern twist on them, remember that your hair is a canvas for self-expression and an opportunity to make a statement.

As we look back on the iconic looks of the 1960s, let’s remember the power of fashion to shape culture and inspire generations to come. The 1960s hairstyles remain a timeless reminder of the importance of embracing our unique identities and expressing ourselves through our personal style.