The year 1979 serves as a fascinating bridge between the free-spirited, bohemian aesthetics of the mid-70s and the structured, high-volume experimentation that would come to define the early 1980s. When exploring hairstyles 1979, one discovers a landscape dominated by a transition toward more polished, layered, and texturized looks. While the decade had been defined by the shaggy "Farrah Fawcett" flip and disco-ready long layers, by 1979, the silhouette began to tighten. It was a time when individuality reigned supreme, and the influence of punk rock, Hollywood glamour, and the rising interest in professional, modern womanhood began to dictate the trends seen in salons across the globe.
The Evolution of Styles in 1979
By the tail end of the seventies, the heavy, unkempt shag began to evolve into something more intentional. Designers and stylists were moving toward shapes that complemented the changing fashions of the era, which saw a shift toward sharper silhouettes. If you look at archival photos of hairstyles 1979, you will notice a significant decrease in the extreme, feathery blowout and a rise in more defined, chin-length cuts and sophisticated, layered bobs.
Several key factors influenced these shifts, including:
- The influence of cinema: Actresses were moving away from the "girl next door" waves toward sleeker, more controlled styling.
- The Punk movement: While mainstream, even high fashion began to flirt with shorter, more angular, and "choppy" cuts that challenged the traditional soft curls of the disco era.
- Better product availability: The late 70s saw the democratization of stronger holding mousses and gels, allowing for more gravity-defying and controlled shapes.
The Most Iconic Looks of the Year
There was no single "uniform" look, which is why hairstyles 1979 remain so culturally relevant for modern stylists. From the polished professional to the rock-inspired rebel, the diversity of the time was unmatched. Below is a breakdown of the most popular silhouettes that defined the transition into the new decade.
| Style Name | Description | Key Aesthetic |
|---|---|---|
| The Soft Wedge | A tapered back with increased volume at the crown. | Polished and sleek |
| The Feathery Layer | A toned-down version of the earlier disco-flip, focusing on face-framing. | Soft and natural |
| The Disconnected Bob | Blunt ends mixed with shorter, internal layers for texture. | Edgy and modern |
| The Deep Side Part | Styling hair heavily to one side to create an illusion of dramatic volume. | Glamorous |
Achieving the 1979 Aesthetic
If you want to channel the essence of 1979 for a modern look, the secret lies in the texturization. The era was obsessed with movement. Unlike the flat irons of today, the tools of 1979—primarily round brushes and heat rollers—were used to create soft, rounded edges rather than sharp, straight lines.
Steps for a classic late-70s inspired look:
- Preparation: Start with a volumizing mousse applied to damp hair to provide a base for the style to hold.
- The Blowout: Use a medium-to-large round brush. Direct the hair away from the face to create those signature "flipped out" ends that defined the era.
- Adding Layers: If you are getting a cut, ask for "invisible layers" or "weight removal" to ensure the hair has enough bounce to retain the style throughout the day.
- Finishing: Use a light-hold hairspray. Avoid high-gloss shine sprays; the 1979 look was typically more matte and natural in texture.
💡 Note: When recreating these looks, focus on "bounce" rather than "stiffness." The charm of hairstyles 1979 was their ability to look like they could move naturally while still maintaining a perfectly crafted shape.
The Influence of Length and Texture
While medium-length hair was perhaps the most popular, short hair also had its moment in the spotlight in 1979. The "pixie" became more structural, often paired with slightly longer bangs that could be swept across the forehead. This was a nod to the growing independence of women in the workforce, where hair needed to be stylish yet manageable.
For those who kept their hair long, the styling technique had shifted. Gone were the tight, spiral perms of the early decade. Instead, women opted for soft, flowing waves that suggested a healthier, more organic texture. This shift was fueled by a growing awareness of hair health; after years of harsh bleaching and teasing, the late 70s trend favored a look that appeared soft to the touch.
Maintenance and Care
Keeping a 1979-inspired hairstyle looking authentic requires attention to detail. Because the style relies heavily on volume, maintaining the health of the ends is crucial. If the ends are dry or brittle, they will not hold the "flip" or the rounded curve that makes this era so recognizable. Using deep conditioning treatments once a week is essential for achieving the soft, bouncy finish seen in 1979 photographs.
💡 Note: Limit the use of intense heat tools. The iconic 1979 look was often achieved using Velcro rollers, which provide volume without the damaging heat of modern styling irons.
Final Thoughts on the Era
Reflecting on the trends of 1979 provides a masterclass in how hair fashion functions as a cultural barometer. The transition from the loose, carefree styles of the early seventies to the more defined, sophisticated, and sometimes rebellious shapes of the late seventies perfectly captured the spirit of a world in flux. Whether it was the soft face-framing layers that softened a look or the bold, angular cuts that hinted at the upcoming decade of excess, these hairstyles were more than just trends; they were a statement of identity. By focusing on volume, strategic layering, and a commitment to movement, the beauty of that specific moment in hair history continues to offer inspiration for those looking to blend retro charm with a contemporary edge.