The 1960s Hairstyles Celebrities wasn’t just a decade of social revolution and musical change, it was also a time of remarkable creativity in the realm of hairstyling. Gone were the structured curls and waves of the 1950s. In their place came a whirlwind of volume, rebellion, and experimentation, all fueled by a desire to push boundaries and express individuality. Actresses, singers, and models became the living canvases for these innovative styles, inspiring women around the world to embrace a new era of hair.
Volume Takes Center Stage: Beehives, Bouffants, and Flips
The 1960s ushered in the reign of voluminous hair. Hairspray became a woman’s best friend, as elaborate updos and teased styles became the ultimate status symbol.
The Beehive: A Towering Triumph
The beehive, perhaps the most iconic hairstyle of the early 1960s, is a testament to the decade’s love of volume. Invented in 1960 by hairstylist Margaret Vinci Heldt, this gravity-defying style involved stacking hair high on the crown in a conical shape, secured with an alarming amount of hairspray. The result was a dramatic and unforgettable look, popularized by stars like The Ronettes and Aretha Franklin.
The Bouffant: A Versatile Crown of Height
While the beehive was a statement piece, the bouffant offered a more versatile take on volume. This style involved teasing the hair at the crown to create lift and fullness, with the remaining hair styled in various ways – left loose, pulled back in a ponytail, or curled into cascading waves. Jackie Kennedy Onassis became synonymous with the bouffant, showcasing its elegance and versatility. Actresses like Sophia Loren and Audrey Hepburn also sported variations of the bouffant, proving its adaptability across different face shapes and hair textures.
The Flipped Bob: A Playful Twist on a Classic
The bob, a timeless haircut, received a playful makeover in the 1960s. The “flipped bob” featured blunt ends that were styled to turn upwards, creating a youthful and bouncy look. Barbra Streisand was a major proponent of this style, often pairing it with her signature bangs. This short, chic cut was perfect for the fast-paced lifestyle of the decade and offered a more manageable alternative to the towering beehives and bouffants.
Rebellion Takes Root: Short Hair and the Rise of the Pixie
The 1960s witnessed a shift in societal norms, and hairstyles reflected this changing landscape. Women began embracing shorter cuts, a move that symbolized liberation and a break from traditional femininity.
The Pixie Cut: A Bold and Edgy Statement
The pixie cut, a short, cropped style with short bangs, became a symbol of rebellion and individuality. Popularized by the gamine charm of British model Twiggy, the pixie cut challenged conventional notions of beauty and femininity. Actresses like Mia Farrow and Jean Seberg also sported variations of the pixie, further solidifying its place as a fashion icon of the era.
Short with Sass: Variations on a Theme
The 1960s weren’t just about the pixie cut. Short hairstyles took on many forms, from the chin-length bobs favored by Mary Quant to the mod shag cuts with blunt ends and layers. These shorter styles offered a sense of freedom and practicality, perfect for the active and independent women of the decade.
Beyond the Mainstream: Experimentation and Individuality
The 1960s wasn’t just about following trends. It was also a time for experimentation and expressing unique styles.
The Bardot Bouffant: Effortless French Glamour
Brigitte Bardot, the French sex symbol of the era, popularized a signature style that combined a voluminous bouffant with effortless, wispy bangs. This look, often referred to as the “Bardot bouffant,” exuded a nonchalant sensuality that became a major inspiration for women seeking a softer, more romantic take on volume.
Half-Up, Half-Down: A Versatile Choice
The half-up, half-down hairstyle offered a practical and stylish option for women with longer hair. This style involved securing the top half of the hair in a ponytail, bun, or braid, while leaving the remaining hair loose. This versatile approach allowed for variations in volume and texture, making it suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
How to Recreate these Iconic Styles for the Modern Woman
The 1960s may be over, but the fabulous hairstyles of the era continue to hold a certain allure. But recreating these iconic looks for the modern woman requires a touch of adaptation. Here’s a guide to help you achieve these classic styles with a modern twist:
Volume with a Twist: Beehives, Bouffants, and Flips for Today
The voluminous styles of the 1960s can still be achieved without looking dated. Here’s how:
- The Beehive Revisited: The full-on beehive might be a bit too much for everyday wear. However, a modern take on this style can be achieved by teasing the hair at the crown for height and then styling the remaining hair in loose curls or waves cascading down the back.
- The Bouffant Gets a Soft Touch: For a more modern bouffant, ditch the extreme teasing and opt for a softer approach. Use large rollers to create volume at the crown and then gently brush the hair out for a more relaxed look. You can also add texture with texturizing spray for a modern, undone vibe.
- The Flipped Bob with a Modern Edge: The flipped bob is a timeless cut that works well with most hair types. To modernize this style, consider adding subtle layers for movement and texture. You can also experiment with different flipping techniques, such as a slight outward flip at the ends for a more contemporary look.
Short and Chic: Pixie Cuts and Modern Variations
Short hair continues to be a popular choice for women today. Here’s how to rock a short 1960s-inspired cut with a modern twist:
- The Pixie Cut with Texture: The classic pixie cut can be modernized by adding texture with styling products like mousse or wax. Play with different lengths at the top and sides to create a more personalized look.
- The Modern Shag: The mod shag of the 1960s gets a cool update with choppy layers and textured ends. This style is perfect for adding volume and definition to fine hair.
- The Blunt Bob with a Twist: The blunt bob is another classic cut that can be easily adapted to a modern style. Consider adding a deep side part or blunt bangs for a touch of edge.
Modern Takes on Classic Inspiration: Beyond the Mainstream
There’s more to 1960s hair than just beehives and pixie cuts. Here are some ways to draw inspiration from other iconic styles:
- The Effortless Bardot Bouffant: Recreate the French icon’s signature style with a modern twist. Tease the hair at the crown for subtle volume and create loose, messy waves throughout the hair. This relaxed and effortless look is perfect for everyday wear.
- The Half-Up, Half-Down with Modern Flair: This versatile style can be easily adapted to a modern look. Experiment with different braiding techniques or add texture to the loose hair for a more interesting look. You can also incorporate hair accessories like ribbons or barrettes for a touch of personality.
Remember, the key to rocking a 1960s-inspired hairstyle today is to adapt it to your own personal style and hair type. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with these iconic looks!
