17 Boomer Hairstyles That Were All the Rage
Boomer hairstyles weren’t just hairdos; they were declarations of style, rebellion, and sometimes gravity-defying ambition. These iconic looks were as much a part of the era as bell-bottoms and Woodstock. Whether you call them timeless or just… bold, these hairstyles still spark conversations and occasional attempts at revival.
1. The Beehive
This towering hairstyle wasn’t just a trend; it was an engineering marvel. Women teased, sprayed, and molded their hair into sky-high shapes that could probably double as Wi-Fi antennas today. The beehive screamed glamour and sophistication, though it might’ve been a fire hazard near open flames.
2. The Pompadour
Elvis Presley didn’t invent the pompadour, but he made it cooler than the King’s gold records. This swooping style required pomade, a comb, and nerves of steel to keep every strand in place. Whether worn by men or women, it was the ultimate rock-and-roll statement.
3. The Bowl Cut
Part practicality, part “did your mom do that?” charm, the bowl cut was a childhood staple for Boomer boys (and the occasional girl). Simple, symmetrical, and often regrettable, it’s a style that lingers in family photo albums more than anyone’s heart.
4. The Flip
Think Mary Tyler Moore tossing her hat in the air—her flipped-out ends were just as iconic as her groundbreaking role. This polished yet playful look became a symbol of sophistication, with the ends curling upward like a smile for your hair.
5. The Afro
In the 1960s and ’70s, the Afro wasn’t just a hairstyle; it was a powerful symbol of pride and identity. This voluminous, natural look celebrated texture and individuality. Boomers who rocked this style carried it with confidence, making it one of the most enduring hairstyles of the era.
6. The Pixie Cut
Audrey Hepburn and Mia Farrow turned the pixie cut into a global sensation. This short, chic style was both feminine and daring, signaling a break from the more elaborate ’50s looks. Boomers who dared to go short weren’t just cutting hair—they were cutting ties with tradition.
7. Feathered Hair
Before flat irons and serums, there was the feathered look, made legendary by Farrah Fawcett. Hair flowed outward like angel wings, requiring endless brushing and the occasional wind machine. Boomers who nailed this style were the envy of every roller disco.
8. The Mullet
Business in the front, party in the back—this controversial cut gained popularity in the late ’70s. While Boomers might cringe at it now, the mullet had its moment as a bold, rebellious choice. Love it or hate it, it was undeniably memorable.
9. The Bouffant
Imagine a beehive but with slightly less altitude and more elegance. The bouffant was all about volume, with smooth, rounded shapes that framed the face. Jackie Kennedy popularized this style, making it a go-to for Boomers seeking sophistication.
10. The Shag
Messy, layered, and effortlessly cool, the shag was a perfect match for the laid-back vibes of the ’70s. Celebrities like Jane Fonda gave this look serious star power. It was versatile, working for men and women, and required just enough effort to look like you didn’t try too hard.
11. The Crew Cut
Boomer men embraced this ultra-short, clean-cut style for its practicality and low maintenance. The crew cut was synonymous with masculinity and discipline, especially during the post-war years. Whether worn by athletes or soldiers, it had a no-nonsense appeal.
12. The Bubble Cut
This short, rounded hairstyle was a ’50s favorite, with perfectly styled curls that looked like soft clouds. Popularized by Doris Day, the bubble cut was ideal for women who wanted a polished, no-fuss look. Its retro charm has seen occasional comebacks in recent years.
13. Long, Straight Hippie Hair
No blow-dryers, no curls—just long, natural hair flowing freely. This look became the ultimate symbol of counterculture, as Boomers rejected the stiff hairstyles of their parents. It was simple, low-maintenance, and perfect for grooving at Woodstock.
14. The Pageboy
This sleek style featured blunt, straight cuts with curled-under ends, making it a popular choice for women and children alike. It balanced sophistication with simplicity, offering a polished look that didn’t take all morning to perfect. Think of it as the quiet, responsible sibling of the more daring ’60s styles.
15. The Mop Top
When the Beatles hit the scene, so did their iconic mop-top haircut. This shaggy, bowl-like style was a rebellion against the clean-cut looks of the ’50s. Every Boomer boy who wanted to channel John, Paul, George, or Ringo begged their barbers for this trendsetting trim.
16. The Ducktail
Also known as the “DA” (short for duck’s derrière), this style involved slicking the hair back on the sides and leaving a ridge down the middle. It was the epitome of 1950s bad-boy cool, favored by greasers and anyone trying to emulate James Dean. Pomade sales soared during its peak.
17. Frosted Tips
Yes, frosted tips were around before the boy bands of the ’90s brought them back. Boomers experimented with bleached highlights in the ’70s, adding a pop of brightness to their shaggy or layered looks. It was daring then and… a bit questionable in hindsight.
