Back in Time Today
The 1970s was a vibrant decade marked by unique fashion trends, and children’s hairstyles were no exception. From the bowl cut to the shag, these hairstyles were not only a reflection of the times but also a statement of individuality. Let’s explore the ten most iconic kids’ haircuts from this era, each with its own flair and charm.
1. The Bowl Cut
Once a popular choice for its simplicity, the bowl cut was a staple among 1970s children. Characterized by its rounded shape, the style was achieved by placing a bowl on the head and cutting around it. This haircut was not only easy to maintain but also distinctive, often spotted on playgrounds and schoolyards.
Parents appreciated the practicality, while kids enjoyed the carefree vibes it offered. It was a haircut that spoke of youthful innocence and freedom. A fun fact: the bowl cut has roots dating back to medieval times, proving its timeless appeal.
2. The Shag
With layers and a playful edge, the shag haircut of the ’70s was trendy among both boys and girls. This versatile look, featuring uneven layers, added texture and movement to the hair, making it perfect for the disco dance floor.
Kids loved the shag for its cool, effortless style, which mirrored the rock and roll culture of the time. Parents appreciated the ease of styling, requiring little more than a shake of the head. This haircut highlighted the dynamic and adventurous spirit of the era.
Did you know? The shag was inspired by rock icons like Mick Jagger.
3. The Pixie Cut
The pixie cut was a bold choice for young girls in the ’70s. Defined by its short layers and fringe, this haircut exuded confidence and charm. It was a look often chosen by parents who wanted to showcase their child’s features.
Girls loved the pixie for its playful and youthful appearance. The style was easy to manage and allowed for plenty of outdoor fun without hassle. It’s a haircut that spoke of daring individuality and timeless elegance.
Fun fact: The pixie cut gained popularity thanks to icons like Mia Farrow and Twiggy.
4. The Mullet
“Business in the front, party in the back”—the mullet defined this catchy phrase. This haircut, short on the sides and long in the back, was embraced by adventurous kids and parents alike.
In the ’70s, the mullet became a symbol of rebellion and individuality. Kids sporting mullets were often seen as cool and confident, ready to tackle any adventure. This hairstyle was not only about appearance but also about personality.
A quirky tidbit: The mullet traces its roots to ancient warriors, believed to protect the neck in battle.
5. The Afro
The afro was more than just a hairstyle in the ’70s; it was a cultural statement. This iconic style, characterized by its voluminous, rounded shape, was worn proudly by kids of all ages.
Embodying a sense of pride and identity, the afro was celebrated for its natural beauty. Children with afros often had an air of confidence and joy, reflecting the lively spirit of the decade. Parents valued its authenticity and the opportunity to embrace natural hair.
Did you know? The afro was a symbol of the Civil Rights Movement, representing empowerment and unity.
6. The Feathered Look
Inspired by Hollywood icons, the feathered look became a popular choice for kids in the ’70s. This style, with its soft, layered waves, was both glamorous and approachable.
Children with feathered hair exuded a carefree and laid-back vibe, often associated with the surf and sun culture. The haircut was easy to style, requiring just a brush and some wind.
A fun fact: The feathered look was made famous by TV stars like Farrah Fawcett and David Cassidy, cementing its place in pop culture history.
7. The Bob
The bob was a timeless favorite in the ’70s, offering both sophistication and practicality. With its straight lines and chin-length cut, the bob was perfect for school pictures and everyday wear.
Girls with bobs often appeared polished and neat, an ideal choice for parents seeking a fuss-free style. This haircut highlighted the simplicity and elegance of the decade, fitting seamlessly into various settings.
A historical note: The bob originated in the 1920s, but saw a revival in the ’70s, proving its versatility and enduring charm.
8. The Crew Cut
The crew cut was the epitome of no-nonsense styling in the ’70s. Its short, uniform length made it an easy choice for active boys who preferred a low-maintenance look.
This haircut embodied the spirit of childhood adventures, from climbing trees to playing baseball. Parents appreciated the neatness and practicality of the crew cut, which required minimal upkeep.
A fun historical tidbit: The crew cut was originally popularized by Ivy League rowing teams in the early 20th century and continued to be a classic choice for boys through the decades.
9. The Mohawk
The mohawk was for the bold and daring kids of the ’70s. With its shaved sides and strip of longer hair in the center, this haircut was a symbol of rebellion and individualism.
Children with mohawks often stood out in a crowd, showcasing their fearless nature and creative spirit. This hairstyle was more than just a fashion statement; it was an expression of one’s inner punk.
Did you know? The mohawk traces its roots to the indigenous Mohawk tribe, known for their distinctive hairstyles.
10. The Pageboy
The pageboy haircut, with its straight, even lines and bangs, was a refined choice in the ’70s. This style was favored for its neat and tidy appearance, ideal for both boys and girls.
Children with pageboy cuts often conveyed an air of sophistication and charm. The haircut was easy to manage and provided a polished look suitable for various occasions.
A quirky historical fact: The pageboy style was inspired by medieval page boys, who wore similar haircuts as part of their uniform, giving it a touch of historical flair.