The 1960s were a revolutionary decade for fashion and beauty, and hairstyles were no exception. Characterised by dramatic volume, playful shapes, and chic accessories, the hair trends of this era remain iconic and continue to inspire modern looks. Evoking a sense of timeless elegance, styles featuring impressive height, perfectly flipped ends, and stylish headbands are making a comeback. Whether you're aiming for a full retro transformation or just want to add a vintage touch to your daily style, mastering the key elements of 60s hair is a rewarding journey into beauty history.
The Art of Volume: The Beehive and Beyond
Volume was the cornerstone of 60s hairstyling. The most famous example is the beehive, a towering updo that required skill and plenty of hairspray. This look was achieved through a technique called backcombing or teasing, where hair was combed towards the scalp to create a cushioned base of volume. While the sky-high beehives of the past might feel too dramatic for today, the principle of creating height at the crown remains a popular way to add glamour to any hairstyle.
How to Create Modern 60s Volume:
- Start with dry hair. Apply a volumising mousse or root-lifting spray to the roots for extra support.
- Section off the crown area of your hair. Taking one small sub-section at a time, hold it straight up and use a fine-tooth comb to gently push the hair down towards the roots. Repeat this two to three times per sub-section.
- Avoid backcombing the very top layer of hair. Once you have built your desired volume, gently smooth this top layer over the teased section to hide the backcombing and create a polished finish.
- Set the style with a medium-hold hairspray to maintain the lift without making your hair feel stiff or crunchy.
The Signature Flick: Perfectly Flipped Ends
Another defining feature of the decade was the outward-flipped ends. This style, often paired with a voluminous crown or a sleek bob, added a playful, youthful bounce to the hair. It was a polished yet dynamic look that framed the face beautifully. Achieving this 'flick' is surprisingly simple and instantly adds a retro feel to short to medium-length hair. It works by creating a C-shaped curve at the ends of the hair, directing them up and away from the shoulders.
Achieving the Flipped-End Look:
There are two primary methods for creating this style. The first involves using a round brush and a hairdryer. As you dry each section of hair, wrap the ends around the brush, directing them outwards and upwards. Hold the heat on the brush for a few seconds before using the cool shot button to set the curve. Alternatively, use a straightener or a curling wand. Clamp the tool near the bottom of the hair shaft and, as you glide it down, twist your wrist outwards to create the flip. This method gives a more defined and long-lasting curl.
Accessorise with 60s Flair: The Power of the Headband
No 60s hair look was complete without the right accessory. Wide fabric headbands, as showcased in the era's fashion, were incredibly popular. They were both functional and decorative, used to hold back the immense volume of a beehive or to simply add a pop of colour and pattern to a simpler style. Scarves and ribbons were also used in a similar fashion, tied around the head or the base of a ponytail. These accessories are an easy way to channel the 60s spirit.
How to Wear a Headband, 60s Style:
- Choose a wide headband made of fabric, plastic, or even a silk scarf folded into a band.
- For a classic look, place the headband an inch or two back from your hairline, allowing some hair or a fringe to show at the front.
- This works best when paired with some volume at the crown. Before placing the headband, gently tease the hair behind where the band will sit to create a subtle lift.
- The headband should sit comfortably behind the ears. It serves as the perfect finishing touch for both updos and hair worn down.
