Back in Time Today
The 1970s was a decade of bold experimentation and wild creativity, especially when it came to beauty and fashion. From the disco lights to the flower power movement, personal expression was at its peak. This era was marked by some truly bizarre beauty trends that may seem outlandish today, but they defined the spirit of the time. Let’s take a nostalgic journey through 19 of the most peculiar beauty trends that adorned the 1970s. Get ready to be amazed by the flamboyant and sometimes peculiar beauty fads that this unforgettable decade offered.
Disco Glitter Hair
The disco era brought about a fascination with all things shiny and bright. Disco glitter hair was a trend where individuals sprinkled shimmering glitter into their hair, creating a dazzling effect under the lights. It was particularly popular in nightclubs, where the lights would catch the glitter, making the hair sparkle. This trend was not only popular among women but also men who wanted to add a bit of flair to their look. Besides being visually appealing, it was a fun way to express oneself and stand out on the dance floor.
Feathered Hairstyles
Feathered hairstyles became iconic in the 1970s, largely due to the influence of television and movie stars like Farrah Fawcett. This trend involved layering the hair to create a soft, feathery look that framed the face beautifully. It was versatile and suited various hair lengths, making it accessible to many. The feathered style was popular for its ability to add volume and movement to the hair, and it quickly became a staple look for anyone wanting to exude effortless chic. Its popularity was widespread and left a lasting legacy on hair styling.
Blue Eyeshadow
Blue eyeshadow was a hallmark of 1970s makeup, characterized by its bold and unapologetic application. Women would often sweep shades of blue across their eyelids, sometimes extending up to the brow bone, to create a dramatic look. This vibrant eyeshadow was a way to make a statement and was typically paired with long, voluminous lashes. The trend was part of a larger movement towards more colorful and expressive makeup styles during the decade, allowing individuals to experiment with colors that reflected their personality and mood.
Afros and Natural Hair
The Afro was more than just a hairstyle in the 1970s; it was a symbol of cultural pride and a statement of identity, particularly within the African American community. This natural hair trend celebrated the beauty of textured hair and encouraged people to embrace their natural curls. It was a form of resistance against societal norms that favored straight hair, and it inspired many to ditch chemical relaxers and other alterations. Wearing an Afro was seen as an act of empowerment and self-love, becoming a defining feature of the decade’s social and cultural landscape.
Punk Rock Makeup
The rise of punk rock in the late 1970s brought with it a rebellious and dramatic approach to beauty. Punk rock makeup was characterized by heavy eyeliner, dark lipstick, and a general disregard for conventional beauty standards. This edgy style was often accompanied by bold, unconventional haircuts like mohawks and brightly colored hair. It was a form of self-expression that rejected mainstream ideals and embraced individuality. The punk rock aesthetic was as much about attitude as it was about appearance, influencing fashion and beauty in a way that continues to resonate today.
Platform Shoes
Platform shoes, with their towering soles, became a must-have fashion item in the 1970s. These shoes were not only a fashion statement but also a reflection of the era’s bold and flamboyant style. They were popular among both men and women, often worn to discos where the extra height added to the glamour and excitement of the dance floor. The shoes came in various styles, colors, and materials, allowing individuals to showcase their unique taste. Despite their impracticality for everyday wear, platform shoes embodied the extravagant and adventurous spirit of the 70s.
Body Glitter
Body glitter was a shimmering trend that took the 1970s by storm, adding a touch of sparkle to any outfit. This beauty fad involved applying glitter to exposed skin, such as arms, shoulders, and even the face, creating a dazzling effect. It was especially popular at music festivals, parties, and nightclubs, where the glitter would catch the light and enhance the festive atmosphere. Body glitter was often paired with other bold fashion statements of the era, allowing individuals to express their creativity and love for all things shiny and bright.
Nail Art
Nail art in the 1970s was all about creativity and personalization. This beauty trend saw individuals adorn their nails with a variety of designs, colors, and sometimes even small embellishments. It was a fun and expressive way to showcase one’s personality and style. The popularity of nail art grew alongside other vivid beauty trends, as people sought new ways to stand out. From geometric patterns to floral motifs, the possibilities were endless. Nail art allowed for individual expression and became a precursor to the elaborate nail designs we see today.
Sun-In Hair Lightener
Sun-In Hair Lightener was a popular product in the 1970s, promising sun-kissed highlights without a trip to the salon. This spray-on hair lightener activated with sunlight, gradually lightening hair for a natural, beachy look. It was particularly appealing during the summer months when everyone wanted to embrace the carefree, sun-drenched aesthetic. However, the results varied, sometimes leading to unintended orange hues. Despite its unpredictability, Sun-In became a staple for those seeking an easy and affordable way to change their hair color, embodying the era’s experimental spirit.
Pastel Lipstick
Pastel lipstick colors, such as soft pinks, purples, and peaches, were all the rage in the 1970s. These muted tones offered a contrast to the era’s otherwise bold beauty trends. The trend was inspired by the softer, romantic styles of the time, as well as the growing influence of natural beauty. Pastel lipstick was often paired with other minimal makeup styles, allowing the delicate lip color to stand out. It was a subtle yet effective way to embrace the fashion of the 70s, offering a touch of elegance and femininity to any look.
Bold Blush
The bold blush trend of the 1970s saw cheeks adorned with vibrant hues of pink and peach. This style was all about making a statement, with blush applied generously to create a healthy, rosy glow. It was often paired with other dramatic makeup elements, such as bold eyeshadow and glossy lips. The use of blush was a way to highlight the cheekbones and add dimension to the face, creating a youthful and radiant appearance. This trend reflected the decade’s love for color and helped define the era’s distinctive beauty aesthetic.
Floral Fragrances
Floral fragrances became synonymous with the 1970s, as people gravitated towards natural and earthy scents. Perfumes with notes of rose, lavender, and jasmine were particularly popular, reflecting the decade’s connection to nature and the burgeoning environmental movement. These fragrances were often chosen to complement the bohemian and free-spirited fashion trends of the time. Floral scents were light, refreshing, and evocative of a carefree lifestyle. For many, wearing a floral fragrance was a way to express individuality and embrace the natural beauty that defined the era.
Maxi Dresses
Maxi dresses epitomized the bohemian style of the 1970s, offering a flowing and relaxed silhouette that was both comfortable and stylish. These ankle-length dresses often featured bold prints and vibrant colors, making them perfect for both casual outings and more formal occasions. The maxi dress was a versatile fashion staple that embraced the free-spirited ethos of the decade, allowing for movement and self-expression. Paired with accessories like wide-brimmed hats and chunky jewelry, maxi dresses became a defining feature of 70s fashion, showcasing the era’s love for comfort and individuality.
Chunky Jewelry
Chunky jewelry became a bold fashion statement in the 1970s, characterized by its large, eye-catching designs. These pieces included oversized necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, often crafted from materials like wood, beads, and metals. The trend was all about making an impression, with jewelry serving as a form of self-expression. Chunky jewelry was often paired with other vibrant fashion choices, enhancing the overall look. It allowed individuals to showcase their personality and flair, embodying the adventurous and eclectic spirit of the decade. This trend continues to inspire contemporary fashion.
Bell-Bottom Pants
Bell-bottom pants became a staple of 1970s fashion, known for their distinctive flared shape. These pants were fitted at the waist and thighs, then flared out from the knee, creating a dramatic silhouette. Bell-bottoms were popular among both men and women, often made from denim or brightly patterned fabrics. They were a symbol of the free-spirited and rebellious vibe of the era, frequently paired with platforms and colorful tops. Bell-bottoms offered a fun and playful way to embrace the fashion of the 70s, and they remain an iconic symbol of the decade’s style.
Shag Haircut
The shag haircut was a popular choice in the 1970s, known for its layered and tousled appearance. This hairstyle featured uneven layers that gave it volume and texture, resulting in a carefree and edgy look. Both men and women embraced the shag, often adding bangs for additional flair. The cut was versatile and suited various hair lengths, making it a go-to style for those seeking an effortlessly cool vibe. The shag haircut captured the youthful and experimental spirit of the 70s, offering a refreshing departure from more traditional styles.
Tie-Dye Fashion
Tie-dye fashion was synonymous with the hippie movement of the 1970s, characterized by its vibrant and psychedelic patterns. This DIY fashion trend involved twisting and tying fabric before applying different colors of dye, creating unique and bold designs. Tie-dye was a form of self-expression and creativity, often associated with music festivals, peace rallies, and counterculture movements. It became a symbol of individuality and nonconformity, embraced by those who wanted to stand out from the mainstream. The enduring appeal of tie-dye continues to influence fashion today, representing freedom and artistic spirit.
Thick Eyebrows
Thick eyebrows made a bold statement in the 1970s, characterized by their natural and full appearance. This trend encouraged individuals to embrace their natural brow shape, moving away from the thin, over-plucked styles of previous decades. Fuller eyebrows were seen as a sign of youth and vitality, adding character and expression to the face. The trend was popularized by celebrities and fashion icons, who showcased their natural brows in magazines and on the big screen. Embracing thick eyebrows was a way to celebrate individuality and redefine beauty standards during the era.