The ’70s was a prime time for fashion and beauty, specifically hair. As someone who has worked through the golden eras of hairstyles, I expected this renaissance. I welcome this trend with open arms because retro hairstyles are simply timeless. I don’t think much has changed from how people wore it then to how people are wearing it today. These styles could be worn the same way, from feathery chops to edgy mullets, and they’d still look just as fantastic.
If you find these styles a little much, you’ll be relieved to know that most are actually wearable, easy to style, and oh-so-chic! To prove my point, I’ve selected five hairstyles from the disco era that would look great on women of all ages.
The Hive Updo
Perhaps the most intimidating hairstyle on this list, beehives are easy to pull off if you have the right tools and styling products. It’s such an iconic hairstyle that even today, celebrities like Beyonce, Adele, and Jennifer Lopez sport this glamorous updo. Try it and you’ll find that it looks great no matter your age.
The key to getting this look on your own is by adding a texture spray, like Densite by L’Oreal Professionnel and blow-drying your hair for a couple more minutes on the top to create more volume. Tease the hair slightly, then smooth with a teasing comb and pin. Spray a little light-hold hairspray throughout.
Shop BioIonic hair dryers here.
Feathery and Free-Spirited
Three words: The Farrah Flip. The iconic Charlie’s Angel left a mark in the beauty world with her effortless and flowy feathered hair. This style bled into the ’80s and ’90s as well, proving its timeless appeal and wearability. Until today, the layered hairstyle is all the rage on TikTok and is loved by celebrities like Hailee Steinfeld and Lizzo.
With a few hair rollers, a good barrel brush, a blow dryer, or a curling iron, you can achieve this look. Seal it with hairspray, and you’re ready to strut. My favorite is the Infinium 3 by L'Oreal Professionnel, I keep a few cans on my shelf at the salon.
Shop ERGO styling tools here.
Fringe + Single-Length
The fringe is optional, but if you want that extra oomph to your look, go for it! Look to the likes of Cher, Kylie Kloss, and Alexa Chung for some inspiration. Today’s version has a more relaxed look, with longer bangs and light layers to add dimension depending on your face shape. It’s a low-maintenance hairstyle that you can wear on different occasions, from weddings to corporate events.
To style, all you need is a good smoothing cream or styling balm to keep your tresses looking sleek and fresh. I love Milk by Reverie for this purpose!
Modern Shag
Shaggy hair for women over 40? Absolutely! I love this hairstyle because besides it being versatile, it gives you a youthful glow that looks natural and beautiful. If you’re thinking of switching up your look, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and try this look. This haircut will look amazing, whether you have curly hair or straight hair. Just look at Taylor Swift, Billie Eilish and Miley Cyrus for inspiration.
Spray Mare Mediterranean Sea Mist for this look on wet hair and blow-dry with a flat brush, then add Rake Styling Balm on dry hair for texture. Both are available at my studio.
Long and Wavy
The ’70s was a time for free-flowing locks that swayed with the wind. Today, this hairstyle remains a go-to for many women because it’s effortless, low-maintenance, and flattering.
Give it a retro spin with a middle part or move it all the way to the side for a more dramatic look. Whether you wear it wavy or curly, this hairstyle is a sure showstopper. The Mediterranean Sea Mist is a good call here again. Use a big round brush to create waves.
Shop Ibiza hair brushes.
Disclosure: Some of the links on this post contain affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. Please keep in mind that I included these companies and their products because of their quality first and foremost. The buying decision is always yours.
Main photo by cottonbro.
