The enduring appeal of 1960s style is undeniable, extending from fashion to the world of beauty. Hairstyles from this era are particularly memorable for their elegance, structure, and incredible volume. While a full beehive might feel too dramatic for daily life, the core element of that look—a beautiful lift at the roots—is a timeless technique for adding sophistication and polish to any hairstyle. Adapting this retro-chic element can elevate your everyday look, giving your hair bounce, texture, and an effortlessly stylish silhouette.
The Essence of a '60s Inspired Hairstyle
The key to the iconic '60s look is height and volume, concentrated primarily at the crown of the head. This creates a flattering, elongated silhouette. Unlike the loose, unstructured styles of other decades, '60s hair was typically well-coiffed and intentionally shaped. The finish was smooth and polished, even when the volume was significant. The ends of the hair might be curled under, flicked out, or kept straight, but the defining feature was always that lift at the roots, creating a soft, rounded shape at the top and back of the head.
Preparing Your Hair for Maximum Volume
A great hairstyle begins with the right preparation. To achieve lasting lift, it’s best to start with clean hair, as oils and product build-up can weigh it down.
- Choose the right products: Opt for a volumising shampoo and a lightweight conditioner that won't flatten your roots. Apply conditioner mainly to the mid-lengths and ends, avoiding the scalp area.
- Apply a root-lifting product: While your hair is still damp, apply a volumising mousse or a root-lifting spray. Concentrate the product directly at the roots, as this is where you want to build the foundation for your style. Comb through to distribute it evenly.
- Towel-dry gently: Avoid vigorous rubbing with a towel, which can cause frizz. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water to prepare your hair for blow-drying.
Creating the Signature '60s Lift: A Step-by-Step Guide
Achieving that coveted root volume requires a combination of proper drying and styling techniques. With a little practice, these steps can become a quick part of your routine.
Mastering the Blow-Dry
The way you dry your hair is crucial for building volume. One of the simplest methods is to flip your hair upside down and dry it, directing the airflow at the roots. This encourages them to stand away from the scalp. For more control and polish, use a large-barrel round brush. Working in sections, lift the hair at the root with the brush and aim the nozzle of your hairdryer (pointing downwards to avoid frizz) directly at the brush. Hold for a few seconds before moving down the hair shaft. A final blast of cool air will help set the lift.
The Art of Gentle Backcombing
Backcombing, or teasing, is the secret to getting that authentic '60s height. When done gently, it doesn't have to be damaging. Focus only on the crown section of your head. Take a small, one-to-two-inch section of hair from the crown and hold it straight up and taut. Using a fine-tooth comb or a teasing brush, gently push the comb down towards the scalp two or three times. The key is to be gentle; you're creating a small 'cushion' of hair at the base, not a tangled mess. Repeat this with a few more sections at the crown to build up the desired height.
Setting the Volume
For extra staying power, use large velcro or hot rollers. After blow-drying or backcombing, take the sections at the crown and wrap them around large rollers. Let your hair cool and set completely before removing them—this is what locks the volume in place. Gently remove the rollers to avoid pulling out the volume you've created.
Finishing and Maintaining Your Retro Look
Once the foundation is set, the finishing touches create that polished, put-together appearance. Gently take the top layer of hair that you left out (or the top layer of the teased sections) and smooth it over the backcombed area. Use a soft bristle brush for this to create a sleek surface that hides the teasing underneath. To hold everything in place, use a flexible or light-hold hairspray. Mist it from a distance to avoid a stiff or sticky feeling. For second-day hair, a spritz of dry shampoo at the roots can instantly absorb oil and restore volume, helping you maintain the style for longer.
Making Retro Wearable Every Day
You don't need a full beehive to channel '60s glamour. To make the look more modern and suitable for the office or casual outings, focus on creating a subtle 'bump' at the crown rather than extreme height. This small amount of volume can be incorporated into many styles. Try a half-up, half-down look where the top section is gently teased before being secured. A voluminous ponytail is another chic option; simply tease the crown before gathering your hair back. This touch of retro lift adds instant elegance without feeling overdone.
