Black Lifestyle, Black Culture
70s Black Hairstyles: The Bold and Beautiful Era of Natural Hair
Sep
Introduction
The 1970s marked a dynamic and culturally rich era for African Americans, particularly in the realms of fashion and beauty. Hairstyles during this time were not just about personal style; they were powerful symbols of freedom, pride, and self-expression. From iconic afros to intricate braids, 70s black hairstyles became a strong emblem of the Black Power movement and a shift in the perception of identity. These hairstyles played a crucial role in defining the era and continue to influence modern fashion and culture.
Cultural Significance
In the 1970s, and black 70s hairstyles transcended fashion to become powerful cultural symbols within the African American community. As the Black Power movement gained traction, hairstyles like the afro became emblems of pride, resistance, and solidarity. Wearing natural hair was a form of defiance against societal beauty standards that often devalued black features. These styles, including cornrows and braids, connected people to their African roots and served as a statement of identity, unity, and empowerment. The significance of these 70s hairstyles black women went beyond aesthetics—they embodied a collective struggle for civil rights and the celebration of black beauty and culture.
Popular 70s Black Hairstyles
Afro
The afro emerged as one of the most iconic 70s black hairstyles. Characterized by its large, rounded shape and abundant volume, the afro was more than just a fashion statement—it was a powerful symbol of African American pride and resilience. This hairstyle celebrated the natural curl pattern and was embraced as an expression of self-love and cultural identity. Its prominence in the 70s was closely linked to the Black Power movement, which advocated for racial pride and equality.
Cornrows
Popular 70s black hairstyles often featured cornrows, which were characterized by intricate, close-to-the-scalp braiding patterns that offered both practicality and cultural significance. This style, with its roots in ancient African traditions, was valued for its low maintenance and versatility. Cornrows could be styled in various patterns, from simple straight lines to complex geometric designs, reflecting individual creativity while connecting wearers to their heritage.
Jheri Curl
The Jheri curl, a standout among disco 70s black hairstyles, was known for its distinctive soft, defined curls and glossy finish. Developed by hairstylist Jheri Redding, this style provided a sleek, modern look with a touch of elegance. The Jheri curl required regular maintenance and the use of curl activators to keep its signature sheen, making it a popular choice for those seeking a polished and fashionable appearance.
Braids
Braids in the 70s showcased a wide array of styles, from tight, neat plaits to more elaborate and artistic designs. This versatile hairstyle allowed for creative expression and was often used to create intricate patterns and shapes. Braids were not only a practical choice for managing hair but also served as a canvas for personal and cultural expression, reflecting the wearer’s individuality and style.
Tapered Cut
The tapered cut was a defining style of the 1970s, featuring shorter sides and back with longer hair on top. This haircut, a notable example of 70s hairstyles male black, allowed for a clean and polished appearance while offering flexibility in styling. The tapered cut was favored for its versatility, as it could be adapted to various lengths and textures. It combined a classic, neat look with a modern edge, making it suitable for both professional and casual settings. The style also required minimal maintenance compared to more elaborate hairstyles, making it a practical choice for those seeking both style and convenience.
Box Braids
Box braids became a popular hairstyle in the 1970s for their distinctive square-shaped sections and long, hanging braids. This style involved dividing the hair into rectangular sections before braiding, resulting in a geometric pattern. Box braids were appreciated for their protective nature, as they helped shield the natural hair from damage and manipulation. They could be styled in various lengths and thicknesses, offering versatility and allowing for creative expression. Additionally, box braids were practical for managing natural hair, as they reduced the need for daily styling and maintenance.
Influential Figures
Angela Davis
Angela Davis, a prominent figure in the Black Power movement, became a key symbol of 70s black hairstyles. Her bold, voluminous afro not only challenged traditional beauty standards but also celebrated and asserted the identity and strength of the African American community.
Pam Grier
Pam Grier, star of blaxploitation films like Foxy Brown and Coffy, was another influential figure in popularizing 70s hairstyles. Her striking and glamorous afro showcased her style and played a significant role in shaping the representation of Black women in pop culture.
Musical Icons
Musical legends of the 1970s, such as James Brown, Stevie Wonder, and Aretha Franklin, also played a crucial role in popularizing 70’s black 70s hairstyles. From James Brown’s iconic afro to Stevie Wonder’s curly locks and Aretha Franklin’s voluminous waves, these artists not only highlighted personal style but also influenced fashion trends and cultural norms of the era.
Hairstyles in Media and Pop Culture
Influence of Media
The impact of film, television, and music in the 1970s was crucial in popularizing 70s black hairstyles. Movies and TV shows prominently featured characters with iconic afros, cornrows, and Jheri curls, bringing these styles into the mainstream. These media representations showcased the beauty and versatility of these hairstyles, highlighting their role as symbols of cultural pride and self-expression.
Cultural Icons
Cultural icons of the era, such as actors and musicians, played a significant role in shaping and popularizing these hairstyles. Figures like Pam Grier, with her glamorous afro, and musicians like James Brown, with his distinctive curly look, made these styles a central part of their public personas. Their influence extended beyond their performances, as their hairstyles became iconic symbols in their own right.
Impact on Fashion and Norms
The visibility of these styles in popular media contributed to a broader acceptance and celebration of natural hair. The portrayal of these hairstyles helped to normalize and elevate Black beauty and identity, influencing fashion trends and cultural norms of the time. By highlighting these styles, media and pop culture played a key role in fostering appreciation for diverse expressions of personal and cultural identity.
Conclusion
The hairstyles of the 1970s were instrumental in shaping the cultural and identity landscape of the African American community. Iconic styles like the afro, cornrows, and Jheri curls went beyond mere fashion trends; they were profound statements of pride, resistance, and self-expression. These hairstyles reflected the social and political movements of the era, embodying a sense of empowerment and solidarity.The enduring appeal of these 70s black hairstyles highlights their role in celebrating and affirming Black beauty and identity. Today, they remain a powerful testament to their historical impact and their ongoing relevance in the evolution of African American culture.
1. What were the most popular black hairstyles in the 1970s?
The most popular 70s black male hairstyles included the afro, cornrows, Jheri curls, braids, tapered cut, shaggy afro, and box braids. Each of these styles had its own unique characteristics and cultural significance, reflecting the era’s emphasis on natural beauty and self-expression.
2. How did the afro become a symbol of empowerment during the 1970s?
The afro became a symbol of empowerment in the 1970s as it represented a rejection of mainstream beauty standards and an embrace of natural hair texture. It was associated with the Black Power movement and cultural pride, symbolizing strength and unity within the African American community.
3. What is the difference between Jheri curls and a traditional perm?
Jheri curls, a popular style among 70s black hairstyles, are characterized by their soft, defined curls and glossy finish, created using a specific chemical process developed by hairstylist Jheri Redding. In contrast, a traditional perm generally produces tighter, more uniform curls. Jheri curls required regular maintenance with curl activators to maintain their sheen, whereas traditional perms often had a less shiny appearance.
4. How did media and pop culture influence black hairstyles in the 1970s?
Media and pop culture played a significant role in popular 70s black hairstyles by featuring iconic styles in films, television, and music. Celebrities like Pam Grier and musicians like James Brown showcased these hairstyles, bringing them into mainstream fashion and influencing public perceptions of beauty and style.
5. Why did box braids become popular, and how are they styled?
Box braids became popular for their protective style and versatility. They involve sectioning the hair into square-shaped parts before braiding, resulting in long, hanging braids that can be worn in various lengths and thicknesses. This style is both practical for managing natural hair and allows for creative expression through different braid patterns and lengths, making it a notable example of 70s hairstyles black women.
