A CENTURY OF STYLE: EXPLORING THE EVOLUTION OF HAIRSTYLES

From the sleek bobs of the 1920s to the wild curls of the 1980s and the intricate braids of the 21st century, hairstyles have been an integral part of fashion, reflecting the spirit of each era. Over the last 100 years, trends in hairstyles have evolved dramatically, influenced by cultural shifts, technological advancements, and the ever-changing ideals of beauty. Let's take a journey through time to explore the fascinating history of hairstyles and how fashion has transformed over the decades.

 

Table of contents:

1. 1920’s trends
2. 1830’s trends
3. 1940’s trends
4. 1950’s trends
5. 1960’s trends
6. 1970’s trends
7. 1980’s trends
8. 1990’s trends
9. Nowadays

 

SHORT HAIRCUTS

The Roaring Twenties marked a revolution in women's fashion and hairstyles. Inspired by the freedom and rebellion of the Jazz Age, flappers embraced short haircuts, such as the iconic bob, which symbolized independence and modernity. Finger waves and pin curls became popular styling techniques, reflecting the glamour and sophistication of the era.

 

SOFT WAVES AND CURLS

The 1930s saw a return to longer hair for women, with soft waves and curls becoming the epitome of elegance. Hollywood starlets like Jean Harlow and Greta Garbo set the trend for glamorous, Old Hollywood hairstyles, characterized by voluminous waves and deep side parts.

 

 

PINUP HAIRSTYLES

The austerity of the 1940s during World War II influenced hairstyles as well, with practicality becoming paramount. Victory rolls and pin-up hairstyles became fashionable, reflecting the resilience and optimism of the wartime era.

 

FEMINITY AND GLAMOUR

The post-war prosperity of the 1950s brought about a return to femininity and glamour. Women embraced full skirts, cinched waists, and perfectly coiffed hairdos. The popularity of iconic styles like the bouffant and the beehive epitomized the polished and refined aesthetic of the time.

 

PIXIE CUT

The swinging sixties ushered in a new era of experimentation and rebellion. Inspired by the youth culture and social change of the decade, hairstyles became more daring and unconventional. The pixie cut, popularized by style icon Twiggy, challenged traditional notions of femininity, while the long, flowing locks of the hippie movement symbolized freedom and nonconformity.

 

 

SLEEK STRAIGHT HAIR

The 1970s brought about a diverse range of hairstyles, reflecting the eclectic nature of the decade. From the sleek, straight hair of the disco era to the afros and natural curls embraced by the Afro-American community, hairstyles became a form of self-expression and identity.

 

BIG HAIR, PERMS AND BOLD COLOURS

The flamboyant and extravagant styles of the 1980s pushed the boundaries of fashion and hair. Big hair, perms, and bold colours were all the rage, reflecting the excess and opulence of the decade. Celebrities like Madonna and Cyndi Lauper became style icons, inspiring legions of fans to emulate their signature looks.

 

 

RACHEL HAIRCUT

The minimalist aesthetic of the 1990s contrasted sharply with the excesses of the previous decade. Grunge-inspired hairstyles, characterized by unkempt hair and bedhead textures, gained popularity, reflecting the anti-establishment ethos of the era. At the same time, sleek and polished looks also had their place, epitomized by the popularity of the "Rachel" haircut, inspired by Jennifer Aniston's character on the hit TV show Friends.

 

BRAIDS, LOCKS AND SHAVED HEADS

As we entered the new millennium, hairstyles became increasingly diverse and inclusive. The rise of the internet and social media allowed people to share and explore a wide range of styles, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity. From braids and locks to shaved heads and vibrant colours, there are now more options than ever for expressing individuality through hair.

 

In conclusion, the history of hairstyles over the last 100 years reflects not only changes in fashion but also shifts in culture, society, and identity. From the rebellious bobs of the 1920s to the bold and eclectic styles of the 1980s and the diverse range of looks embraced today, hairstyles continue to evolve, reflecting the ever-changing spirit of the times. As we look to the future, one thing is certain: the journey of hair and fashion is far from over, and there are endless possibilities for creativity and self-expression.