The Classic Shag
The Classic Shag is a quintessential 70s hairstyle for men, characterized by its layered and tousled look. With medium length layers and a bit of natural wave, this style offers a rugged yet groomed appearance. Ideal for men with longer hair, this cut complements wavy and naturally curly hair types. The shag is versatile, lending itself well to both casual outings and more formal settings with minimal styling effort. Unlike the modern undercut or precise fades, the Classic Shag has an inherent casualness that reflects the free-spirited ethos of the 1970s. Its continued cultural relevance makes it a popular choice today for those seeking a laid-back, effortlessly cool vibe.
Best For
Oval or heart-shaped faces benefit from this cut. Suited for medium to thick hair, particularly with natural wave or curl.
Products That Work Well
A lightweight mousse enhances natural waves and adds volume, while a salt spray can define curls without adding stiffness.
How to Maintain It
Regular trims every 6-8 weeks will maintain the style’s shape and prevent overgrown layers from becoming unruly.
Feathered Hair with Fringe
Feathered Hair with Fringe combines the classic feathered look of the 70s with a more structured fringe. This style typically features medium-length layers that are expertly tapered to create the signature “feathered” effect, while the fringe adds a modern edge. Suitable for straight or slightly wavy hair, this hairstyle channels the iconic 70s rockstar aesthetic. Its allure lies in its balance between volume and control, making it suitable for both professional and casual settings. The feathered layers are perfect for adding movement and dimension, creating a look that’s sophisticated yet carefree.
Best For
Square and oval faces are enhanced with this look. Ideal for straight and slightly wavy hair, offering a full-bodied appearance.
What to Tell Your Barber
Request layered cutting with sufficient length at the top, ensuring the fringe is slightly longer for styling versatility.
Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overly short layers that can make the style look dated rather than retro chic.
The Curtain Bangs
The Curtain Bangs offer a modern twist on a vintage style, embodying the essence of 70s hairstyles for men. With long, sweeping bangs parted in the middle, this hairstyle provides a relaxed, bohemian vibe reminiscent of iconic rock and movie stars of the time. Suitable for men with medium to longer hair lengths and natural volume, the Curtain Bangs work best for those seeking a versatile look that transitions easily from day to night. Distinguished from traditional bangs by their softer, face-framing effect, this style emphasizes facial features and creates an effortlessly stylish appearance.
Best For
Round or oval face shapes with medium to long hair, benefiting from natural volume or wave.
Products That Work Well
A lightweight styling cream can help shape the bangs and define their natural flow without weighing down the hair.
How to Make It Your Own
Play with the length and parting of the curtain bangs to adjust for facial features and personal style preferences.
Layered Mop Top
The Layered Mop Top is a refined take on the playful mop-inspired styles of the 70s. This hairstyle features a full, rounded shape with layered, choppy ends, providing a textured appearance. Perfect for men with thick hair seeking volume without weight, the Layered Mop Top is ideal for those wanting a low-maintenance yet trendy option. Its rounded silhouette distinguishes it from other shag styles, offering a unique playfulness. Cultural nods to famous musicians and actors make this a timeless choice for those in creative fields or who appreciate retro flair.
Best For
A round or square face complements this style, great for thick and coarse hair types needing volume control.
How to Maintain It
Regular conditioning helps maintain moisture and reduce frizz, keeping the layers looking fresh and defined.
What to Tell Your Barber
Ask for a rounded shape with visible layers and texture, maintaining uniform length all around for the classic mop look.
The Permed Wave
The Permed Wave revives the bold and voluminous curls popularized in the 70s. Characterized by intentionally enhanced curls, this hairstyle adds volume and bounce to naturally straight or wavy hair. Suitable for men wanting to experiment with texture, the Permed Wave offers a dramatic transformation reflective of cool, carefree vibes. This style stands apart from natural curls by its enhanced, intentional wave structure, creating an attention-grabbing look perfect for those seeking something different. Despite its retro roots, the Permed Wave remains relevant in contemporary creative and artistic circles.
Best For
Ideal for oblong or rectangular face shapes. Suited for medium to thick straight or wavy hair willing to incorporate chemicals.
Products That Work Well
A curl-enhancing gel or cream provides definition and reduces frizz, maintaining the perm’s sleek wave structure.
Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid over-processing during perming, which can lead to damage and excessive dryness, compromising curl definition.
The Long Sideburns
The Long Sideburns harken back to a signature component of the 70s hairstyles for men. Extending down past the ears, these sideburns emphasize masculinity and structure. Often paired with longer hair or shaggy cuts, they provide a bold facial framing effect. Ideal for men who wish to accentuate their jawline, Long Sideburns can be tailored for various facial shapes and hair lengths. Their versatility allows them to either blend into the haircut or stand out as a defining feature. Though historically linked to 70s fashion icons, long sideburns have made a resurgence among trendsetters today seeking a retro edge.
Best For
Suitable for heart-shaped and diamond face structures. Partners well with medium-length hairstyles that allow for historic flair.
What to Tell Your Barber
Specify the desired sideburn length and ensure they taper slightly for a modern, polished finish.
How to Make It Your Own
Consider keeping sideburns fuller or connecting them with facial hair for a seamless look.
Slicked-Back Waves
Slicked-Back Waves reinterpret the classic 70s onboard style with a modern twist, merging smoothness with texture. This hairstyle features medium to long hair slicked back with visible waves, embodying a refined and sophisticated look with a hint of natural flair. Best suited for naturally wavy hair, this style is perfect for individuals seeking a polished appearance in professional environments without losing touch of their relaxed demeanor. Unlike straight slicked-back styles, the inclusion of natural waves offers movement and dynamism, accommodating both formal and casual settings.
Best For
Rectangular and triangular faces benefit from added volume on top, enhanced by naturally wavy or curly hair.
Products That Work Well
A light pomade or wax ensures style retention while allowing natural waves to do the talking.
How to Maintain It
Regular trims keep the waves from becoming overly shaggy or flat, maintaining that juxtaposition of texture and slickness.
Curly Rockabilly
The Curly Rockabilly style brings an exciting twist to the 70s revival, blending the rebellious spirit of rockabilly with the textural richness of natural curls. This hairstyle typically involves longer hair on top that’s styled upwards or gently slicked to the back, with the sides kept shorter to emphasize aesthetics. Perfect for men with wavy or curly hair, the Curly Rockabilly offers an eye-catching look that’s both nostalgic and strikingly modern. It’s a style that thrives under spotlight and stage lights, taking inspiration from early rock icons and giving it curly modern dynamics.
Best For
Elongated and oval faces look ideal, as do dense curly or wavy hair types that support volume.
How to Make It Your Own
Experiment with different fade levels on the sides to perfectly tailor this bold, lively look to your face shape.
Mistakes to Avoid
Be cautious of using excessive hair gel which can weigh down curls, resulting in more of a flat look than intended.
Sleek Side Part
The Sleek Side Part features a 70s-inspired sophistication with its neat, structured form that elegantly parts the hair to one side. Perfect for a gentlemanly aesthetic, this style works best with medium length hair and clean tapering on the sides. It’s a versatile option for those who want to venture into vintage-inspired styles, retaining a polished, business-ready appeal. Differentiating itself from looser 70s cuts, the Sleek Side Part is disciplined but approachable, balancing classic dapperness with old-school cool.
Best For
Round and oval face shapes suit this style. Best for medium density hair that holds product well without falling flat.
Products That Work Well
Use a high-shine pomade to maintain the sleek, structured look that defines the side part.
Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t opt for a side part that’s too hard or severe, as it can look dated and less naturally sophisticated.
Textured Afro
The Textured Afro is a natural homage to 70s hairstyles for men, unapologetically embracing volume and texture. This style celebrates the natural curl pattern, whether tight coils or broader spirals, crafted into an even and robust structure. Perfect for individuals with natural, dense curls, it’s a powerful personal and cultural statement. Modern takes incorporate subtle fades or sharp edges to add contrast and modernity while respecting the style’s classic roots. The Afro represents pride and personal flair, a bold centerpiece for any occasion or setting.
Best For
Rounded faces and natural coarse hair benefit from this voluminous, expressive style.
How to Maintain It
Deep conditioning treatments and regular comb-outs help maintain the natural texture and integrity of the Afro.
What to Tell Your Barber
Explain the desired Afro size and density, along with any fades or edges to give it a contemporary update.
Long Layers with Center Part
The Long Layers with Center Part effortlessly embodies the carefree spirit of the 70s era. This hairstyle, ideal for men with a desire for longer lengths, combines textured layers that give fluidity and a center part that offers symmetry. This style reflects the bohemian lifestyle, undemanding yet striking, allowing the hair’s natural characteristics to shine. Well-suited for those with wavy or straight textures, the Long Layers with Center Part is all about simplicity – an easy transition from a boardroom setting to weekend events. The center part underscores facial features giving off that classic, youthful vibe.
Best For
Suited for oval and heart-shaped faces, ideal for long, flowing hair of medium thickness with natural wave.
Products That Work Well
A hydrating leave-in conditioner keeps long hair healthy and prevents split ends while maintaining natural texture.
How to Make It Your Own
Adjust the layer lengths around the face to enhance personal facial contours and style uniqueness.
Thick Waves with Sideburns
Thick Waves with Sideburns offer a throwback to iconic 70s hairstyles for men, interweaving conspicuous sideburns with robust, natural waves for a fresh vintage effect. Styled longer on top with an emphasis on texture, this look boosts dense wavy hair with sideburns extending beyond the usual. This combination creates a striking silhouette that is both familiar and fashion-forward, suited for those who appreciate bold aesthetics. The thick waves create a lush appearance, oftentimes associated with rock legends, while prominent sideburns add definition to facial features, making this hairstyle a standout choice.
Best For
Heart or square faces are enhanced with this look. Ideal for thick, wavy hair that boasts substantial body.
Mistakes to Avoid
Be wary of cutting sideburns too short, as they need length to balance the heavy waves symmetrically.
Styling Time & Difficulty
Expect moderate styling, applying curl-enhancing cream and patience to achieve that naturally voluminous look.
