70s hair defined an era of bold texture, effortless cool, and gender fluid style. These cuts carried a relaxed, lived-in energy that still feels modern on today’s faces.
We picked 34 of the best 70s style haircuts so you can channel that decade anywhere, whether you prefer a slick gentleman look or a feathered, romantic silhouette.
| Cut Name | Face Shape Best Suited | Length & Texture | Styling Effort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shag with Texture Layers | Oval, Square | Medium, Choppy | Low |
| Long Center Part with Volume | Round, Heart | Long, Straight | Medium |
| Side Swept Fringe | Oval, Diamond | Medium, Soft Waves | Low |
| Classic Crew Cut Fade | Square, Rectangular | Short Sides, Slightly Longer Top | Very Low |
| Feathered Bangs with Layers | Oval, Heart | Medium, Feather Light | Low |
Iconic 70s Textures and Volume
Natural Waves and Body
Mid-length cuts with soft layers encouraged natural bounce and movement. Air drying or a light sea salt spray gave an undone, beachy feel that flatters most faces.
Heavy Side Part and Slickness
For a sharper aesthetic, a deep side part with a combed finish created high contrast while still looking effortless. This worked especially well with longer hair on top and tapered sides.
Face Framing Styles for Every Profile
Bangs and Fringe Variations
Side swept bangs, wispy fringes, and blunt bangs were staples of 70s hair. They softened jawlines, added symmetry, and balanced high volume on the crown.
Layering Techniques
Strategically placed layers around the cheekbones and jawline framed the face without closing it in. The result is a cut that ages well and stays easy to style.
Men’s 70s Cuts with Defined Structure
Crew Cut Evolution
The classic crew cut evolved into textured crops with subtle fades. Maintaining some length on top while keeping the sides faded delivers a timeless, confident silhouette.
Undercut Precursors
Early versions of undercuts featured a clean side part with a brushed-back fringe. This approach created a dramatic line without requiring extreme shortening on the sides.
Women’s 70s Cuts with Movement
Long Layers and Feathering
Long bobs and shoulder length cuts used graduated layers to create a waterfall effect. This movement highlighted facial features while keeping the look graceful.
Center and Deep Part Styles
Center parts added symmetry, while deeper, asymmetrical parts introduced drama. Pairing these parts with curls or straight styles helped express individual flair.
70s Haircut Essentials to Remember
- Focus on soft layers and natural movement rather than harsh lines.
- Match fringe and part placement to your face shape for flattering results.
- Use lightweight styling products to maintain texture without stiffness.
- Consider maintenance frequency and home styling time when choosing a cut.
- Reference the summary table to narrow options based on length and effort.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which 70s haircut suits a square face best?
Soft layers with a side swept fringe or textured shag reduce angularity and add width at the cheeks, creating a more balanced oval appearance.
How do I maintain volume without daily styling?
Use a layered cut with medium length, apply a light mousse to damp hair, and either air dry or diffuse. This preserves shape without heavy product buildup.
Can short 70s cuts work for thin hair?
Yes, choose a short back and sides with slightly longer, layered hair on top. The contrast creates the illusion of density while keeping the style low maintenance.
What products recreate the 70s finish without stiffness?
Opt for a matte pomade, sea salt spray, or lightweight mousse. These deliver texture and hold without the crunchy feel associated with older formulas.