Back in Time Today
The 1960s and 70s were a transformative time for fashion and personal expression, especially when it came to hairstyles.
High school students embraced a variety of creative and iconic hairstyles that reflected the cultural shifts and musical influences of the era.
From the mod looks inspired by British bands to the free-spirited styles of the hippie movement, these hairstyles were not just about aesthetics but were a statement of identity and rebellion.
Let’s take a nostalgic journey through time and revisit 14 of the most popular high school hairstyles from those unforgettable decades.
1. The Beehive
The Beehive was a towering hairstyle characterized by its height and rounded shape. Teenagers often sported this bold look at proms and dances.
This iconic style was achieved by backcombing the hair and securing it with plenty of hairspray. It symbolized the era’s love for bold fashion statements.
Often adorned with ribbons or small accessories, the Beehive was both a challenge to create and maintain. Despite its complexity, this hairstyle was a favorite among adventurous teens of the ’60s.
2. The Pixie Cut
The Pixie Cut was a daring choice for high school girls, representing independence and modernity. Popularized by icons like Twiggy, this short style was both feminine and edgy.
Easy to maintain, it allowed girls to focus more on their studies and less on hairstyling. It offered a fresh, clean look that was both fashionable and practical.
The Pixie Cut was often styled with a bit of gel, emphasizing texture and shine, making it a versatile option for young fashionistas.
3. The Shag
The Shag was a layered cut that added volume and movement to the hair, making it popular among high school students.
This style was a perfect match for the laid-back attitude of the 70s, offering a carefree and effortless vibe. It was versatile, suiting both straight and wavy hair.
Often paired with bangs, the Shag was an adaptable look that could be dressed up or down, making it a staple for many teens during the decade.
4. Feathered Hair
Feathered Hair became a sensation thanks to celebrities like Farrah Fawcett. This style featured soft, feather-like layers that framed the face.
It was a unisex style, appealing to both girls and boys, becoming a symbol of the 70s glam. Achieving the perfect feathered look required blow-drying with a round brush.
Its popularity was due to its ability to work with different hair textures, offering a relaxed yet chic appearance that high schoolers adored.
5. Afro
The Afro was more than a hairstyle; it was a cultural statement of pride and identity. Popular in the 70s, it was embraced by students who wanted to celebrate their roots.
Achieving the perfect Afro required minimal manipulation, allowing the hair to grow naturally and freely. It represented a shift towards embracing natural beauty.
Often accessorized with headbands or large earrings, the Afro was a powerful symbol of authenticity and empowerment for many young people.
6. The Pageboy
The Pageboy haircut was defined by its straight, sleek lines and a blunt fringe. This style was a popular choice for its simplicity and elegance.
Often associated with the mod fashion movement, it gave a polished and sophisticated look to high school girls. The Pageboy was easy to style and maintain, making it ideal for students.
It was a versatile look that could be dressed up with accessories or kept simple for everyday wear, embodying the chic essence of the 60s.
7. The Bouffant
The Bouffant was all about volume, featuring hair teased to great heights for a dramatic effect. It was a glamorous style popular in the 60s.
High school girls would spend time perfecting their Bouffants for special occasions, using curlers and hairspray to achieve the look.
The Bouffant often included decorative elements like ribbons or hairbands, adding a playful touch to the already extravagant style, making it a hit for dances and parties.
8. The Mop Top
The Mop Top was synonymous with the British Invasion, popularized by bands like The Beatles. This unkempt style became a trendsetter in the 60s.
Characterized by its medium length and rounded shape, it was a carefree and rebellious look embraced by high school boys.
The Mop Top required minimal styling, making it an easy choice for teens who wanted to embody the rock ‘n’ roll spirit of the decade.
9. The Flip
The Flip was characterized by its outward-turned ends, creating a playful and youthful look. It was a favorite among high school girls in the 60s.
Achieving the perfect Flip involved using rollers or a curling iron, often paired with bangs for added style. It was both cute and classy.
The Flip was versatile, allowing young women to express their personalities, whether they were headed to class or a casual outing with friends.
10. The Curtain Bangs
Curtain Bangs framed the face softly, offering a romantic and feminine touch to any hairstyle. Popular in the 70s, they added a vintage feel.
This style was easy to maintain, as the bangs naturally parted down the middle, creating an elegant drape. It complemented various hair lengths.
Ideal for students, Curtain Bangs provided a touch of sophistication without being overly formal, making it a timeless choice for many teens.
11. The Wedge
The Wedge was a geometric style that emerged in the 70s, known for its sharp angles and precision. It was a favorite for fashion-forward teens.
Created by hairstylist Vidal Sassoon, the Wedge required skillful cutting to maintain its distinct shape. It offered a chic and modern look.
This hairstyle was ideal for those looking to make a statement, as it exuded confidence and sophistication, fitting perfectly with the bold fashion trends of the time.
12. The Long Straight Hair
Long Straight Hair was a hallmark of the 70s, associated with the free-spirited and natural vibe of the era. It was a simple yet striking look.
This style required minimal styling, appealing to students who wanted to embrace their natural beauty. Often worn with a center part, it was effortlessly chic.
Long Straight Hair allowed for versatility in accessories, with headbands and flowers being popular choices, making it a beloved style for many young people.
13. The Bubble Cut
The Bubble Cut was a short, rounded style that offered a neat and tidy appearance. Popular in the 60s, it was both practical and stylish.
This hairstyle was easy to maintain, making it a preferred choice for busy high school students. It provided a clean, polished look.
The Bubble Cut was ideal for girls who wanted a manageable style without sacrificing fashion, reflecting the neat and tidy aesthetic of the era.
14. The Hippie Braid
The Hippie Braid was a symbol of the counterculture movement, embracing a natural and relaxed vibe. It was popular among teens who embraced the hippie lifestyle.
This hairstyle was characterized by loose, carefree braids, often adorned with beads or flowers, reflecting the era’s love for nature and peace.
The Hippie Braid was perfect for festivals and gatherings, allowing students to express their individuality and connection to the broader cultural movements of the 70s.