Men’s 70s Hairstyles Making a Comeback in 2025
If you’ve been scrolling TikTok, Instagram, or even flipping through a new fashion magazine lately, you’ve probably noticed something: men’s 70s hairstyles are everywhere again. What used to be “your dad’s yearbook photo” or “that disco guy at a Halloween party” is suddenly… cool. And honestly? Some of these cuts never stopped being cool, they just needed a new generation to bring them back.
Let’s break down the most iconic men’s hairstyles from the 70s, why they’re resurfacing now, and how you can actually pull them off in 2025 without looking like you’re headed to a costume party.
Why the 70s Are Back in Style
The 70s were wild when it came to fashion and grooming. Music shaped everything — rock stars, funk icons, disco kings — and TV and film spread those looks into everyday life. What makes these styles resonate now is that they were expressive, messy in a good way, and way less stiff than the slick hair of the 50s or the clean-cut vibe of the 60s.
Today’s trends are leaning into individuality and nostalgia. People want hair that looks lived-in, textured, and a little rebellious. That’s exactly what the 70s did best.
1. The Shag Cut
Think long layers, a bit of natural movement, and an “I woke up like this” vibe. The shag is maybe the most famous 70s men’s haircut — worn by everyone from Mick Jagger to David Bowie.
Why it works today: it’s low-key, gender-fluid, and looks good on both straight and wavy hair. You don’t need a ton of product — just a lightweight styling cream and maybe a sea salt spray to get that undone texture.
Modern update: keep it a little shorter around the ears and neater around the neckline than the full 70s version. That way, it feels retro but still wearable in 2025.
2. The Afro
The Afro wasn’t just a hairstyle — it was a cultural statement in the 70s. It symbolized pride, confidence, and authenticity. Today, it’s back with a mix of nostalgia and modern shape control.
Why it works today: curls are finally getting the love they deserve, and the Afro lets natural texture shine. It’s bold but also versatile — you can keep it rounded and soft or go sharper with a tapered fade on the sides.
Key to pulling it off: hydration is everything. Think leave-in conditioners, curl creams, and regular trims to keep the shape clean.
3. Feathered Hair
If you picture John Travolta in Saturday Night Fever, or basically any leading man of the late 70s, that’s feathered hair: layers flipped back, soft volume, and usually parted in the middle.
Why it’s coming back: we’re seeing a wave of modern feathered cuts on younger actors and influencers. It’s basically the perfect “effortless but styled” look.
Pro tip: this one requires a blow dryer and a round brush. If you’re willing to put in a few minutes after a shower, you’ll get that soft, bouncy flow.
4. Long & Straight Rocker Hair
Rock bands of the 70s made long, straight hair iconic. Think about those classic shots: tinted sunglasses, a cigarette hanging out of the mouth, and hair down to the shoulders.
Why it works today: sleek, straight hair with a middle part has circled back into fashion, especially with guys leaning into the vintage “artsy” aesthetic.
Modern update: keep it trimmed and healthy. Nobody wants scraggly ends. A little shine serum makes it look intentional instead of neglected.
5. Disco Curls & Perm Revival
Disco wasn’t just about the clothes — it was about hair that had volume and movement. Curls, waves, even perms were all the rage.
Today, we’re seeing a modern take: looser curls, a bit more natural than the tight 70s disco perm, but still bouncy and fun. Influences from K-pop, Gen Z TikTok stars, and high-fashion runways are making this look huge again.
How to nail it: if your hair’s naturally straight, you can either get a light perm (yep, perms are back) or use a curling wand with the right heat protectant. If you’ve got natural curls, enhance them with curl-defining cream.
6. Sideburns & Mutton Chops
Ok, not technically a hairstyle, but no list of 70s men’s hair is complete without sideburns. They were huge — literally. From Elvis to every dad in the suburbs, sideburns and mutton chops were basically required.
Why they’re making a comeback: facial hair is trending again, and the 70s sideburns are an easy way to add edge to short or medium hairstyles.
Modern update: keep them trimmed and intentional. Pair with a clean haircut so it looks stylish, not sloppy.
7. Bandanas & Headbands
The 70s weren’t just about cuts — accessories played a big role too. Bandanas and headbands were everywhere, especially in the counterculture and music scenes.
Why it works today: it’s effortless, practical, and festival-ready. Plus, if you’re growing your hair out, a bandana is the easiest way to deal with the awkward middle stage.
Modern styling: fold a bandana narrow, wear it across the forehead or tied back to push hair off your face. Headbands with patterns add that retro vibe without screaming “costume.”
How to Rock 70s Hairstyles Without Looking Like It’s Halloween
This is the part where a lot of guys get nervous — “cool idea, but I don’t want to look like I’m at a disco party.” Here’s the secret: keep one element retro and balance it with modern fashion.
- Got feathered hair? Pair it with a simple T-shirt and jeans, not a polyester shirt with giant collars.
- Want sideburns? Make sure the rest of your grooming (beard, haircut, clothes) is clean and contemporary.
- Going for long straight rocker hair? Healthy, shiny hair makes it look intentional, not like you just forgot to cut it.
Styling & Maintenance Tips
- Face shape matters:
- Round faces look great with Afros and shag cuts.
- Longer faces work with feathered or long straight styles.
- Square faces handle sideburns well.
- Hair type tips:
- Straight hair = rocker looks, shags.
- Wavy = feathered or layered shags.
- Curly = Afro, disco curls.
- Products to keep on hand:
- Sea salt spray for texture.
- Curl cream for Afros and disco looks.
- Heat protectant if you’re blow-drying.
- Shine serum or lightweight oil for long hair.
Modern Celebs Proving 70s Hair Is Back
If you’ve seen Daisy Jones & The Six or Stranger Things, you’ve already spotted the influence. Musicians like Harry Styles and Anderson .Paak lean into 70s vibes constantly. Even athletes and influencers are embracing longer, looser hair.
This isn’t just a niche trend — it’s moving mainstream.
FAQ
What were popular men’s hairstyles in the 1970s?
The shag, Afro, feathered look, long straight rocker hair, disco curls, and sideburns were all huge.
Are 70s hairstyles good for curly hair?
Absolutely. The Afro and disco curls were born for curly hair, but even shags and feathered cuts look great with waves.
Can older men pull off these hairstyles?
Yes — it’s all about adapting. For example, a subtle shag or neat feathered cut works at any age.
What products do I need for a shag cut?
A texturizing spray or sea salt spray, plus a light styling cream to keep it controlled but still undone.
The reason 70s hairstyles are coming back isn’t just nostalgia — it’s because they’re versatile, expressive, and fun. Whether you’re ready to commit to a full Afro or just want to test a bandana with your current cut, there’s a retro look for everyone.
So next time you’re in the barber’s chair, pull up one of these photos, mention “70s inspiration,” and let them adapt it for your face shape and hair type. Trust me — you’ll walk out looking less like a throwback and more like you’re ahead of the curve.
