100 Years of Bizarre Hairstyles: An Evolution of Hair Trends
Introduction
Hairstyling has been an important aspect of fashion and personal grooming for centuries. From ancient Egypt to modern-day pop culture, hairstyles have played a significant role in defining one’s social status, identity, and cultural affiliation. Throughout history, there have been numerous hairstyles that have captured people’s imagination, from the classic bob cut of the 1920s to the punk rock mohawk of the 1980s. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the evolution of bizarre hairstyles over the past 100 years.
1920s-1930s: Flapper Hairstyles, Finger Waves, Marcel Wave, and Hollywood Glamour Hairstyles
The 1920s and 1930s were marked by significant social, cultural, and economic changes, which also influenced fashion and hairstyling trends. Women began to assert their independence and liberation from traditional gender roles, which was reflected in their fashion choices and hairstyles.
Flapper Hairstyles
One of the most iconic hairstyles of the 1920s was the flapper bob, a short and straight haircut that symbolized rebellion and modernity. This hairstyle was popularized by famous flappers such as Louise Brooks and Clara Bow, who embraced a carefree and adventurous lifestyle.
Finger Waves
Finger waves were another popular hairstyle of the 1920s and 1930s, characterized by S-shaped waves that were created using hair gel and a comb. This hairstyle was often worn by Hollywood actresses such as Jean Harlow and Bette Davis, who epitomized glamour and sophistication.
Marcel Wave
The Marcel wave, named after its inventor Francois Marcel, was a wavy hairstyle that involved the use of hot irons and chemicals to create a permanent wave. This hairstyle was popular among women who wanted to add volume and texture to their hair.
Hollywood Glamour Hairstyles
In the 1930s, Hollywood became a major influence on fashion and beauty trends, and hairstyles were no exception. Hollywood glamour hairstyles were characterized by sleek and polished curls, which were often worn by actresses such as Marlene Dietrich and Greta Garbo.
1940s-1950s: Victory Rolls, Pompadours, Beehives, and Greaser Hairstyles
The 1940s and 1950s were marked by the aftermath of World War II and the rise of youth culture, which gave birth to new and exciting hairstyles.
Victory Rolls
Victory rolls were a popular hairstyle among women during World War II, named after the aerial maneuver performed by fighter pilots. This hairstyle involved rolling the hair into a loop and securing it with bobby pins, creating a vintage and feminine look.
Pompadours
Pompadours were a popular hairstyle among men in the 1950s, characterized by a high, slicked-back style with volume at the front. This hairstyle was popularized by Elvis Presley, who epitomized the rebellious and cool image of the greaser subculture.
Beehives
Beehives were a popular hairstyle among women in the 1960s, characterized by a high, bouffant style that resembled a beehive. This hairstyle was popularized by famous singers such as Dusty Springfield and Aretha Franklin, who embraced the mod and soul music culture.
Greaser Hairstyles
Greaser hairstyles were popular among young men in the 1950s, characterized by slicked-back hair, leather jackets, and motorcycle boots. This hairstyle was associated with rebellious and anti.
1960s-1970s: Afro Hairstyles, Shags, and Hippie Hairstyles
The 1960s and 1970s were marked by significant social and cultural changes, which influenced fashion and hairstyling trends. The rise of the civil rights movement, the anti-war movement, and the counterculture movement gave birth to new and exciting hairstyles.
Afro Hairstyles
Afro hairstyles became a symbol of black pride and identity in the 1960s and 1970s. This hairstyle involved growing out one’s natural hair into a large, rounded shape, which was a political and cultural statement against the Eurocentric beauty standards.
Shags
Shags were a popular hairstyle among women in the 1970s, characterized by a layered and tousled style that was often accompanied by bangs. This hairstyle was popularized by famous actresses such as Jane Fonda and Farrah Fawcett, who embraced the free-spirited and bohemian lifestyle.
Hippie Hairstyles
Hippie hairstyles were a part of the larger hippie subculture that emerged in the 1960s, characterized by long, unkempt hair that was often adorned with flowers and other natural elements. This hairstyle was associated with peace, love, and anti-establishment values.
1980s-1990s: Punk Rock Hairstyles, Glam Metal Hairstyles, and Grunge Hairstyles
The 1980s and 1990s were marked by the rise of music subcultures, which gave birth to new and extreme hairstyles that reflected the rebellious and nonconformist attitudes of the time.
Punk Rock Hairstyles
Punk rock hairstyles were a part of the larger punk rock subculture that emerged in the 1980s, characterized by extreme and unconventional hairstyles that often involved cutting and coloring one’s hair in bold and contrasting patterns. This hairstyle was associated with anarchism, anti-consumerism, and anti-authoritarianism.
Glam Metal Hairstyles
Glam metal hairstyles were popular among male musicians in the 1980s, characterized by long, teased, and hairsprayed hair that often involved dramatic makeup and flashy outfits. This hairstyle was associated with the excess and decadence of the glam metal music scene.
Grunge Hairstyles
Grunge hairstyles were a part of the larger grunge subculture that emerged in the 1990s, characterized by messy and disheveled hairstyles that were often accompanied by flannel shirts and ripped jeans. This hairstyle was associated with the angst, alienation, and disillusionment of the grunge music scene.
2000s-2020s: Emo Hairstyles, Scene Hairstyles, and Instagram Hair Trends
The 2000s and 2020s were marked by the rise of social media and the influence of internet culture on fashion and beauty trends. The emergence of emo and scene subcultures gave birth to new and innovative hairstyles that reflected the digital age.
Emo Hairstyles
Emo hairstyles were popular among teenagers in the 2000s, characterized by long, side-swept bangs that covered one’s eyes, dyed hair in dark colors, and spiky and layered haircuts. This hairstyle was associated with the emotional and introspective lyrics of emo music.
Scene Hairstyles
Scene hairstyles were a part of the larger scene subculture that emerged in the 2000s, characterized by voluminous and colorful hair that was often accompanied by bold makeup and colorful clothing. This hairstyle was associated with the DIY aesthetics and individuality of the scene music scene.
Instagram Hair Trends
Instagram hair trends are a reflection of the digital age and the influence of social media on fashion and beauty trends. These hairstyles often involve bold and vibrant colors, intricate braids, and unique hair accessories. Instagram hair trends are constantly evolving and changing, influenced by the latest fashion and beauty trends and the creativity of individual hairstylists and influencers.
The Impact of Pop Culture on Hairstyles
Pop culture has always had a significant influence on fashion and beauty trends, including hairstyles. From iconic movie stars to famous musicians, pop culture icons have often set the tone for the latest and most popular hairstyles.
Hairstyles as a Form of Rebellion
Throughout history, hairstyles have also served as a form of rebellion against the status quo. From the afros of the civil rights movement to the punk rock hairstyles of the 1980s, unconventional hairstyles have often been a way for people to express their nonconformist attitudes and values.
The Influence of Technology on Hairstyles
In recent years, technology has played an increasingly important role in shaping hairstyles and beauty trends. From virtual hair try-on tools to 3D printed hair accessories, technology has allowed us to experiment with new and innovative hairstyles in ways that were never before possible.
Hairstyles as a Reflection of Gender and Identity
Hairstyles have also been used as a way to express gender and identity. From the short haircuts of flappers in the 1920s to the long hair of the hippie subculture in the 1960s, hairstyles have often been a way for people to communicate their gender expression and identity.
The Evolution of Hair Products
As hairstyles have evolved over the last 100 years, so too have the hair products used to style and maintain them. From pomades and hairsprays to gels and serums, hair products have become increasingly sophisticated and specialized, allowing us to achieve even the most complex and elaborate hairstyles.
The Role of Hairstyles in the Workplace
Hairstyles have played a significant role in the workplace, with many employers having strict policies about what is considered appropriate for work. However, as attitudes towards gender expression and diversity have shifted, more and more companies are embracing diverse hairstyles and allowing employees to express themselves through their hair.
The Influence of Hairstyles on Beauty Standards
Hairstyles have often been used to reflect and reinforce beauty standards. From the sleek and straight hair of the 1950s to the voluminous curls of the 1980s, hairstyles have often been a way to communicate what is considered attractive and desirable.
Hairstyles as a Form of Cultural Expression
Hairstyles have been used to express cultural identity, with many ethnic groups having specific hairstyles that are unique to their culture. From the intricate braids of African cultures to the topknots of Japanese cultures, hairstyles have played an important role in expressing cultural identity.
The Evolution of Hair Styling Techniques
As hairstyles have evolved, so too have the techniques used to style them. From the finger waves of the 1920s to the flat ironing and curling techniques of today, hair styling has become increasingly sophisticated and specialized.
The Future of Hairstyles
As fashion and beauty trends continue to evolve, it is likely that hairstyles will continue to change and adapt to reflect the latest attitudes and values of society. From new hair products to innovative styling techniques, the future of hairstyles is sure to be exciting and unpredictable.
Conclusion
Throughout the last 100 years, hairstyles have been a reflection of the social, cultural, and technological changes of the time. From the afros of the 1960s to the Instagram hair trends of today, hairstyles have served as a form of self-expression and a way to communicate one’s identity and values.
As fashion and beauty trends continue to evolve and change, it is likely that new and innovative hairstyles will emerge, reflecting the latest trends and attitudes of the time. However, it is important to remember that hairstyles are more than just a fashion statement – they are a reflection of our culture and our values, and they have the power to inspire and influence others.