The 1960s wasn’t just a decade—it was a cultural revolution, and hair played a starring role. From bouffants as high as the optimism of the Kennedy years to free-spirited shags that echoed the rise of counterculture, 60s hairstyles helped define the era’s identity. In this guide, we’re diving deep into the most iconic 1960s hairstyles, the societal shifts that inspired them, and how they continue to shape beauty trends today.
How Culture Shaped 60s Hair
The swinging sixties brought a wave of change—from politics to pop culture—and hair became a canvas for rebellion, femininity, and innovation. Here’s what sparked the shift:
The British Invasion: With The Beatles and The Rolling Stones at the forefront, tousled, shaggy cuts like the Mop Top signaled a laid-back youth movement. These textured styles laid the groundwork for today’s modern shag haircuts and messy crop trends that continue to dominate runways and casual streetwear alike.
Hollywood Royalty: Audrey Hepburn’s elegant updos and Brigitte Bardot’s voluminous waves embodied the glam side of 60s hair. You can still see their influence in modern beehive styles, vintage-inspired blowouts, and red carpet waves, perfect for anyone chasing a touch of Old Hollywood elegance today.
Feminist Influence: As women challenged traditional gender roles, more natural and liberated styles—like the Shag and Afro—grew in popularity. Fast forward to now, and curly hair trends that celebrate natural texture and undone layers owe a clear debt to these groundbreaking 60s looks.
The Hippie Spirit: Long, flowing locks reflected a return to nature and individualism, in direct contrast to the polished styles of the decade’s start. That free-spirited energy is alive today in boho waves, middle-parted long layers, and festival braids, all of which echo that same desire for authenticity and self-expression.
Iconic 1960s Hairstyles
Each of these styles tells its own story—and together, they paint a picture of one of fashion’s most expressive decades.
The Bouffant
Sky-high and impossible to ignore, the bouffant became a signature of early 60s glamour. Built on teasing and hairspray, it symbolized a polished femininity that mirrored the decade's fascination with elegance and stature. Often paired with pearls or evening gloves, it’s the hair equivalent of a statement necklace—bold, luxe, unforgettable.
The Beehive
This iconic updo spiraled upward into structured perfection, resembling its namesake with a twist of sass. The beehive was worn by singers like Dusty Springfield and The Ronettes, giving it a glamorous, retro edge that’s still mimicked on stages and red carpets today. It spoke of a woman who meant business—stylishly.
Vidal Sassoon’s Pixie Cut
A true innovation in hair design, Sassoon’s sharp, geometric pixie upended the fussy salon styles of the past. With clean lines and minimal maintenance, it captured the spirit of modernism and liberated fashion. Perfect for the bold and effortlessly chic, it still influences cropped styles today.
The Hollywood Flipped Bob
This was elegance in motion. A polished bob flipped under or outward at the ends, it gave women a glossy, neat silhouette that balanced poise with playfulness. Think Mary Tyler Moore or Ann-Margret—this bob had bounce and confidence in equal measure.
The Bombshell
Voluminous, tousled, and sultry, the Bombshell look was Brigitte Bardot’s calling card. With teased roots and soft, cascading waves, it was unapologetically sexy without ever looking try-hard. It’s still one of the most requested retro looks for modern pin-up glam.
The Mop Top
Popularized by The Beatles, this unisex cut revolutionized men’s grooming in the 60s. With its rounded shape and fringe grazing the eyes, it represented rebellion against conservative norms. Its impact was so deep, it turned a haircut into a cultural movement.
Afro Fabulous
More than a style, the Afro was a declaration. Worn with pride as the civil rights movement surged forward, this natural look emphasized authenticity, strength, and heritage. It redefined mainstream beauty standards and remains a symbol of empowerment and identity.
The Bardot Bangs
These dreamy curtain bangs were long, softly parted, and undeniably French. Framing the face with romantic ease, Bardot’s fringe became the blueprint for undone, sexy cool. Today, they’re still a favorite for adding effortless softness to any length.
Pouf Perfection
A younger, more playful take on the classic bouffant, the pouf added volume at the crown without the stiff structure. Often paired with ponytails or half-up styles, it was a go-to for schoolgirls and TV starlets alike—a touch of drama with a wink.
The Bouncy Blowout
Glossy, full-bodied hair that moved like silk—this was the blowout that defined glamour. Whether curled under or worn in soft waves, it gave volume without stiffness. A predecessor to the modern Dyson-assisted blow dry, but with more Aqua Net.
The Flipped Ponytail
Perky and fun, this ponytail flipped outward at the ends and was often tied high with a ribbon or scarf. Channeling cheerleader energy and suburban charm, it’s still a go-to for retro parties and playful throwback looks.
The Effortless Shag
Layered, choppy, and intentionally messy, the shag captured the rise of rock 'n' roll and bohemian freedom. It framed the face with texture and attitude, perfect for those who preferred second-day hair and lived-in edge to polished perfection.
Bringing the Look into Today
Want a modern spin on these retro styles? Here’s how to glam it up, 60s-style:
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Backcombing and hairspray are your best friends for volume.
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Use a round brush blow-dry technique to create flipped ends.
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Hair accessories—think pearl clips or silk scarves—instantly capture vintage glam.
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Embrace natural textures with a curly Afro or layered shag.
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Try a precision bob or pixie to channel Mod energy.
> Pro tip: Including vintage makeup (like bold eyeliner or matte lips) can complete the look and boost engagement if you're planning to add visuals.
Final Thoughts: Why 60s Hair Still Matters
The 1960s were about freedom—freedom of expression, fashion, and femininity. Hairstyles from this decade weren’t just trends; they were symbols of change. Whether it’s Bardot’s sultry bangs or Jackie O’s polished flips, 60s hair continues to inspire retro revivalists and modern minimalists alike.
