Back in Time Today
In the 1970s, blonde wasn’t just a hair color—it was a cultural statement. Inspired by California beach vibes, Hollywood icons, and a general obsession with all things “natural,” women chased that perfect golden hue through a mix of salon visits, DIY tricks, and a lot of sunshine. Here are 10 ways women got that effortlessly sun-kissed look in the ’70s.
1. Sun-In Spray
Sun-In Spray was the quintessential drugstore solution for those seeking streaky, bleached-out strands without the salon price tag. Women would spritz it generously onto their hair and bask in the sun.
The heat from the sun would activate the spray, leading to lighter locks in no time. Perfect for the carefree and adventurous spirit of the ’70s, Sun-In offered a touch of rebellion to the traditional salon visit.
While the results varied, many found the process exciting and liberating, embodying the sun-kissed freedom of the era.
2. Lemon Juice in the Hair
The natural method of applying lemon juice was a favorite among those who desired subtle highlights. Women would squeeze lemon juice onto their hair and then head into the sun for some serious exposure.
The citric acid in the juice reacted with sunlight, resulting in a gentle lightening effect that was surprisingly effective.
This DIY technique was not only budget-friendly but also gave women a sense of connection with nature. For many, it was an enjoyable ritual that brought the essence of the beach to their backyard.
3. Frosting Caps and Hooks
The frosting cap and hook technique was a popular salon choice for achieving chunky highlights. Stylists would pull strands of hair through a plastic cap and apply bleach, creating that distinctive ’70s look.
Women loved the dramatic contrast and bold statement it made. This method required precision and patience, turning the salon visit into a shared social experience.
The outcome was a stunning, sun-kissed aesthetic that highlighted individuality and style, capturing the essence of the decade’s glamorous side.
4. Clairol Born Blonde Kits
Clairol’s Born Blonde Kits brought the salon experience to the home, making it one of the first at-home solutions for going full platinum. Teenagers and adventurous women embraced this kit for its convenience and effectiveness.
The step-by-step guide made the process accessible for all skill levels, offering dramatic results that turned heads.
With this kit, women could experiment with their look without a salon visit, embodying the spirit of freedom and exploration that defined the era, making blonde hair a personal and expressive journey.
5. Salon Bleach-and-Tone Jobs
The salon bleach-and-tone jobs were a professional approach to achieving that perfect blonde. Stylists lightened hair in stages, carefully avoiding brassiness with precise toning.
This process required expertise, transforming ordinary hair into the iconic Farrah Fawcett blonde. Women flocked to salons for this transformative experience, trusting professionals to craft their ideal look.
The meticulous approach mirrored the era’s dedication to beauty and style, making it a popular choice for those looking to make a bold statement with their hair.
6. “Sunlighted” Highlights
“Sunlighted” highlights were all about creating soft, multi-tonal blondes that mimicked natural sunlight. Stylists used foil and freehand painting techniques to achieve this sun-kissed effect.
This method allowed for a customized look, tailored to each client’s unique features and style. Women appreciated the artistry involved, as it brought an element of creativity and individuality.
The result was a beautiful blend of tones that captured the carefree spirit of the ’70s, reflecting the decade’s love for natural beauty and expression.
7. Hydrogen Peroxide Swabs
Hydrogen peroxide swabs were a daring DIY method for adventurous teens seeking to experiment with their hair. Dabbed on with cotton balls, this technique offered a more controlled way to lighten hair.
The process was often part of a beauty experiment, with varying results that added to its allure. For many, it was a rite of passage, marking a step into personal style and self-expression.
Though the results were unpredictable, the excitement and thrill of trying something new captured the adventurous nature of the decade.
8. Beach Time—and Lots of It
Nothing beat the natural sun for achieving that sun-kissed look. Women would spend hours at the beach, letting their hair lighten naturally from the sun’s rays, chlorine, and saltwater.
This method was as much about lifestyle as it was about beauty, reflecting the laid-back, carefree spirit of the ’70s. It was a natural, effortless approach that required nothing more than time and sunshine.
The beach became a salon of sorts, where nature played stylist, and friendship and fun were the main ingredients.
9. Blonde Wigs and Hairpieces
For those seeking quick transformations, blonde wigs and hairpieces were a fashionable choice. Available in various shades and styles, they offered versatility for special occasions or everyday wear.
Women could effortlessly change their look, embracing the dynamic and ever-changing trends of the decade. Wigs provided a practical solution for experimentation without commitment.
This option allowed women to explore different styles and personas, capturing the playful and creative spirit of the ’70s, where change and reinvention were part of the culture.
10. Following Celebrity Trends
Celebrity influence played a huge role in ’70s hair trends, with women flocking to salons with pictures of stars like Farrah Fawcett and Bo Derek. These icons set the standard for the ideal blonde.
The desire to emulate these glamorous looks fueled creative salon techniques and products. Women used these celebrity styles as inspiration, seeking to capture that Hollywood shine.
This trend highlighted the era’s fascination with fame and beauty, making celebrity-inspired blonde hair a staple of the ’70s fashion scene.