Introduction:
The 1960s was an era that revolutionized fashion, culture, and, of course, hairstyles. Short hair became a symbol of liberation and sophistication during this time, with women embracing bold and stylish cuts that echoed the spirit of the decade. In this extensive exploration, we’ll delve into 13 iconic short hairstyles from the 60s that defined an era of glamour, rebellion, and self-expression. From the classic pixie to the chic bob, these timeless styles continue to inspire and influence the world of fashion even today.
1. The Pixie Cut:
Characteristics:
- Short and cropped close to the head.
- Often featuring tapered sides and a longer top.
- Exudes a sense of modernity and youthful rebellion.
Style Icons:
- Audrey Hepburn and Mia Farrow.
Styling Tips:
- Play with textured layers for a contemporary twist.
- Experiment with side-swept bangs or a bold fringe.
2. The Mod Bob:
Characteristics:
- A sleek and geometric bob that sits just above the chin.
- Straight and smooth lines for a polished appearance.
- Often paired with blunt bangs or a center part.
Style Icons:
- Twiggy and Vidal Sassoon’s geometric bobs.
Styling Tips:
- Maintain a clean, sharp line for an authentic mod look.
- Consider adding a headband or hair accessories for a playful touch.
3. The Beehive:
Characteristics:
- A voluminous updo that resembles a beehive.
- Achieved by backcombing and teasing the hair to create height.
- Can vary in size from subtle to towering.
Style Icons:
- Brigitte Bardot and Dusty Springfield.
Styling Tips:
- Use a hair rat or padding to enhance volume.
- Secure the style with lots of hairspray for longevity.
4. The Shag Cut:
Characteristics:
- A layered and tousled haircut with a carefree vibe.
- Features feathered layers that frame the face.
- Often styled with soft curls for added texture.
Style Icons:
- Jane Fonda and Goldie Hawn.
Styling Tips:
- Embrace the natural movement of the hair for a relaxed look.
- Consider adding highlights to accentuate the layers.
5. The Flip:
Characteristics:
- Outward curls or flips at the ends of the hair.
- Adds a playful and flirty element to short hairstyles.
- Can be achieved with hot rollers or a curling iron.
Style Icons:
- Mary Tyler Moore and Marlo Thomas.
Styling Tips:
- Use a round brush when blow-drying to create a subtle flip.
- Opt for a side part to add asymmetry to the style.
6. The Bouffant:
Characteristics:
- A high-volume hairstyle with lots of backcombing.
- Features a rounded shape that adds height to the crown.
- Often paired with a headband or hair accessories.
Style Icons:
- Jackie Kennedy and Dusty Springfield.
Styling Tips:
- Tease the hair at the crown to achieve the desired height.
- Secure the style with bobby pins and hairspray.
7. The Crop:
Characteristics:
- A short, tailored haircut with a slightly longer top.
- Exudes a polished and sophisticated aesthetic.
- Can be worn with or without bangs.
Style Icons:
- Jean Seberg and Mia Farrow in “Rosemary’s Baby.”
Styling Tips:
- Keep the edges sharp and well-defined.
- Experiment with different partings for versatility.
8. The Bowl Cut:
Characteristics:
- Features a straight-across fringe and a rounded shape.
- Often characterized by its simplicity and uniform length.
- Inspired by the look of a bowl placed on the head.
Style Icons:
- Vidal Sassoon’s five-point cut.
Styling Tips:
- Keep the cut clean and precise for a modern interpretation.
- Pair with bold makeup to add a contemporary edge.
9. The Pageboy:
Characteristics:
- A sleek and structured cut that falls just below the ear.
- Features a blunt fringe and even length throughout.
- Offers a polished and refined appearance.
Style Icons:
- Pattie Boyd and Barbara Feldon.
Styling Tips:
- Maintain a smooth and glossy finish.
- Consider adding a headband or hair accessory for a touch of glamour.
10. The Mohawk Pixie:
Characteristics:
- A daring variation of the classic pixie cut.
- Features shaved or closely cropped sides.
- Leaves length and volume at the top for styling versatility.
Style Icons:
- Edie Sedgwick and Twiggy’s edgier looks.
Styling Tips:
- Experiment with bold colors or highlights for added impact.
- Style the top section in various ways, from sleek to tousled.
11. The Wavy Bob:
Characteristics:
- A bob cut with loose, natural waves.
- Offers a laid-back and effortlessly chic appearance.
- Perfect for those seeking a balance between casual and stylish.
Style Icons:
- Brigitte Bardot’s tousled bob.
Styling Tips:
- Enhance natural waves with a sea salt spray.
- Part the hair to the side for a modern touch.
12. The Feathered Pixie:
Characteristics:
- A pixie cut with feathered and textured layers.
- Exudes a soft and romantic vibe.
- Allows for easy styling with minimal effort.
Style Icons:
- Jane Fonda in “Klute.”
Styling Tips:
- Embrace the feathered layers for a light and airy feel.
- Use a small amount of styling product for a natural finish.
13. The Twiggy Cut:
Characteristics:
- Ultra-short pixie cut with minimal volume.
- Inspired by supermodel Twiggy’s iconic look.
- Creates a bold and androgynous statement.
Style Icons:
- Twiggy herself, the face of 60s fashion.
Styling Tips:
- Keep the cut ultra-short for authenticity.
- Play with makeup to enhance the eyes and brows.
Conclusion:
The 1960s not only marked a cultural revolution but also paved the way for a myriad of stylish short hairstyles that continue to inspire and influence the world of fashion. From the rebellious pixie cut to the sophisticated mod bob, each style carries a unique charm that reflects the spirit of the era. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of the bouffant or the simplicity of the bowl cut, these iconic short hairstyles from the 60s showcase the timeless appeal and versatility of short hair. As fashion continues to evolve, these classic looks remain a testament to the enduring influence of an era that dared to be bold and redefine beauty standards.