1960s Hairstyles for Long Hair A Retro Look

Iconic 1960s Long Hairstyles

1960s hairstyles for long hair – The 1960s witnessed a dramatic shift in hairstyles, particularly for women with long hair. This era saw the rise of several iconic looks, each reflecting the evolving social and cultural landscape. From sleek and sophisticated styles to free-flowing bohemian tresses, the decade offered a diverse range of options that continue to inspire contemporary hair trends.

Defining Characteristics of Popular 1960s Long Hairstyles

Several key characteristics defined the most popular long hairstyles of the 1960s. These included varying lengths, often reaching past the shoulders; the use of volume, achieved through teasing, rollers, and bouffants; and a range of textures, from smooth and polished to wavy and slightly unkempt. The styles often incorporated bangs or fringes, which could be straight, side-swept, or full.

Hair accessories like headbands, scarves, and barrettes were also commonly used to add personality and flair.

The 1960s offered a plethora of iconic hairstyles for long hair, from the flowing bohemian styles to the more structured, polished looks. However, the era also saw a rise in shorter cuts, and if you’re curious about those options, you might find inspiration at hairstyles for short for short hair. Returning to the longer looks of the 60s, the versatility and expressiveness of these styles continue to influence modern trends.

Celebrity Influence on 1960s Long Hairstyles

Several celebrities played a significant role in popularizing specific long hairstyles of the 1960s. Brigitte Bardot, for instance, was known for her voluminous, slightly tousled long hair, often styled with side-swept bangs. Jane Fonda’s sleek, straight long hair, sometimes styled in a center part, represented a more polished and sophisticated look. These iconic styles influenced countless women, demonstrating the versatility of long hair and its ability to reflect different personalities and aesthetics.

Comparison of Iconic 1960s Long Hairstyles

Hairstyle Name	Description	Associated Subculture/Celebrity	Common Variations
The Bardot	Voluminous, slightly tousled, often with side-swept bangs.	Brigitte Bardot, Bohemian/French Chic	Variations in length, use of headbands or scarves.
The Fonda	Sleek, straight hair, often with a center part.	Jane Fonda, Sophisticated/Modern	Variations in length, addition of side-swept bangs.
The Hippie Flow	Long, unstyled, natural hair with minimal styling.	Various Hippie icons, Counterculture	Variations in length and texture (straight, wavy, curly).
The Bouffant	Long hair styled with significant volume at the crown, often with a smooth lower section.	Various celebrities and socialites, Preppy/Glamorous	Variations in height of bouffant, and addition of accessories.

The Influence of Subculture on Hairstyles

The 1960s saw a significant impact of subcultures on hairstyle trends, particularly the burgeoning hippie movement. This movement embraced long, unkempt hair as a symbol of rebellion against established norms and a rejection of mainstream culture. The natural texture of the hair was celebrated, representing freedom and individuality. Other social groups, such as the burgeoning youth counterculture, also used their hairstyles to express their beliefs and values.

Impact of the Hippie Movement and Youth Rebellion

The hippie movement’s influence on long hair cannot be overstated. Long, flowing hair, often worn with minimal styling, became a powerful symbol of the counterculture’s rejection of traditional societal expectations. This shift towards natural hair challenged established beauty standards and promoted a more relaxed and expressive approach to personal style. Youth rebellion in general found an outlet in embracing long hair as a visible sign of defiance against the previous generation’s norms.

Evolution of Long Hairstyles Throughout the Decade

The evolution of long hairstyles throughout the 1960s reflected the changing social attitudes and fashion trends. Early in the decade, more structured and polished styles prevailed. As the decade progressed and the counterculture gained momentum, more natural and less structured styles became increasingly popular, culminating in the free-flowing styles of the late 1960s. This transition showcased the interconnectedness of hair fashion and broader societal shifts.

Hairstyle Techniques and Products

Achieving the iconic 1960s long hairstyles required specific techniques and products. The era saw the widespread use of hair rollers, teasing combs, and various hairsprays to create volume and hold. Different brush types were employed to achieve different textures, from smooth and sleek to voluminous and wavy.

Hair Care Techniques and Products

Common hair care products included hairspray (often heavily used for hold), setting lotion to maintain curls, and hair oil for shine and manageability. Teasing combs were essential for creating volume at the crown, while various types of rollers (hot rollers, sponge rollers) helped achieve different curl patterns and overall shapes. Specific types of brushes, such as paddle brushes and teasing brushes, were used to smooth and style the hair.

Step-by-Step Guide to Recreate a 1960s Hairstyle, 1960s hairstyles for long hair

To recreate a simple 1960s look, start with clean, dry hair. Apply a volumizing mousse or setting lotion. Section the hair and use large rollers to create soft waves. Once the rollers are removed, gently brush the hair to create volume and shape. Use a teasing comb at the crown to add height.

Finally, set the style with a light mist of hairspray. A headband or scarf can add a finishing touch.

Visual Representations of 1960s Long Hair: 1960s Hairstyles For Long Hair

The 1960s offered a diverse array of long hairstyles. Here are three examples showcasing the era’s variety in texture, length, and styling.

Descriptions of 1960s Long Hairstyles

• The Polished Ponytail: This style featured long, straight hair pulled back into a low ponytail, emphasizing the length and shine of the hair. The hair was often sleek and smooth, with a slight curve at the nape of the neck. A small amount of hairspray was used to maintain the smoothness and prevent flyaways.
• The Wavy Cascade: This style showcased long, wavy hair, cascading down the back and shoulders. The waves were soft and loose, not tightly curled. The hair was often parted in the middle or slightly off-center, creating a romantic and flowing look.
• The Bouffant with Side Bangs: This style featured a high bouffant at the crown, creating significant volume. The rest of the hair was usually styled straight or with soft waves, and side-swept bangs framed the face. Hairspray was heavily used to maintain the height of the bouffant.

Evolution of a Single Hairstyle

Year	Length	Styling	Accessories
1960	Mid-back length	Sleek, straight with a center part	None
1965	Below shoulder length	Slightly wavy, with side-swept bangs	Headband
1969	Very long	Loose waves, natural texture	None

Questions Often Asked

What were some common hair products used in the 1960s for long hair?

Hairsprays, setting lotions, and hair oils were popular choices. Specific brands varied, but the goal was often to achieve volume and hold.

Did men also wear long hair in the 1960s?

Yes, long hair for men became increasingly common, particularly among members of the counterculture and hippie movements, challenging traditional masculine ideals.

How did the length of long hair change throughout the 1960s?

Initially, long hair tended to be more styled and controlled. As the decade progressed, styles became longer, looser, and more natural-looking, reflecting the evolving social attitudes.