Stepping back into the swinging 60s means channeling the bold, liberated spirit of icons like Twiggy and Brigitte Bardot, where hair wasn’t just an accessory but a statement of rebellion and glamour. Picture the era’s beehives soaring like architectural wonders and flips that danced with every head turn—these styles still captivate today, blending nostalgia with modern flair. Whether you’re prepping for a themed party or simply craving a vintage vibe, mastering these looks is easier than you might think, with a few clever tweaks to everyday routines.
Grasping the Essence of 60s Hair
The 60s were a whirlwind of cultural shifts, and hair reflected that energy—think voluminous bouffants that evoked the thrill of a jet-age takeoff and sleek bobs that sliced through the air like a well-timed vinyl record spin. As a journalist who’s spent years unraveling fashion’s hidden stories, I’ve always been drawn to how these styles symbolized freedom, from the mod minimalism of London’s Carnaby Street to the Hollywood glamour of Audrey Hepburn’s updos. It’s not just about recreating; it’s about infusing your personality, turning a simple style into a personal narrative of confidence and playfulness.
To get started, focus on texture and volume. The 60s favored big, bold shapes that played with light and shadow, often achieved through teasing and setting. If your hair is fine, like mine often is on humid days, you’ll appreciate the lift from lightweight mousses—it’s that subtle boost that makes you feel unstoppable, as if you’re ready to twirl into a dance floor spotlight.
Gathering Your Tools and Products
Before diving in, arm yourself with the right arsenal. You don’t need a salon full of gadgets; a few key items can transform your bathroom mirror into a time machine. Start with a teasing comb for that essential lift—it’s like a sculptor’s chisel, shaping volume where it counts. Add a high-heat curling iron for defined waves, and don’t overlook setting spray, which locks styles in place like a steadfast anchor in a breezy afternoon.
- A teasing comb or rat-tail comb for building height
- Curling iron or hot rollers for curls and flips
- Hairspray with strong hold, but opt for flexible formulas to avoid that stiff, outdated feel
- Volumizing mousse or foam for base prep—think of it as the secret sauce that amps up natural body
- Wide-tooth comb and boar bristle brush for smoothing without snags
In my experience, investing in quality tools pays off; a good curling iron has saved me from flat-hair disasters at events, turning what could be a mundane evening into something memorable.
Step-by-Step: Mastering the Beehive
The beehive stands as the 60s’ crowning glory, a style that once dominated red carpets and now offers a playful nod to empowerment. Imagine Amy Winehouse’s modern twist on this classic—it’s not just big hair; it’s a bold declaration. Here’s how to build one that feels fresh, not frozen in time.
- Start with clean, dry hair. Apply volumizing mousse from roots to ends, working it in with your fingers for even distribution—this step is crucial, as it sets the foundation like priming a canvas before painting.
- Section your hair: Divide into a top panel and the rest. Tease the top section vigorously with your comb, focusing on the crown for that dramatic height. Go easy if your hair is fragile; I once overdid it and learned the hard way that patience prevents breakage.
- Roll and pin: Smooth the teased hair over a donut-shaped base or your hand, securing with bobby pins. For a unique spin, add a colorful headband, evoking the mod girls of swinging London who mixed patterns fearlessly.
- Spray and refine: Mist with hairspray, then use a brush to gently shape the edges. The result? A hive that towers like a monument, yet moves with you—perfect for that emotional high when you catch your reflection and feel utterly iconic.
A non-obvious example: Pair this with a graphic eyeliner flick for a full retro look, as I did for a friend’s 60s-themed wedding; it turned heads and sparked conversations about how fashion evolves while honoring its roots.
Exploring the Flip and the Bob
If the beehive feels too extravagant, try the flip—a flirtatious style that curls under or out at the ends, capturing the era’s youthful zest. Or go for the bob, a cut that framed faces like a perfectly framed photograph, from Mia Farrow’s pixie variations to the polished looks of Jane Fonda.
For the flip, begin by curling sections away from your face with a large-barrel iron. Let it cool, then brush out for soft waves. Subjective opinion here: I find the outward flip more daring, like a wave crashing boldly against the shore, ideal for those days when you want to channel unapologetic fun.
The bob, meanwhile, demands precision. If you’re cutting your own, use sharp shears and cut in layers for movement—it’s a style that whispers elegance but packs a punch. A specific detail: In the 60s, stars often backcombed the underside for volume, a trick I’ve adapted for clients to add depth without overwhelming the shape.
Practical Tips for Everyday Wear
Bringing 60s styles into modern life means adapting them smartly. Use dry shampoo for quick volume refreshes on busy mornings—it’s a game-changer, turning limp strands into lively shapes without a full wash. For longevity, sleep with your hair in rollers; it’s like giving your style a overnight guardian, waking up to waves that hold through the day.
One practical tip: Experiment with accessories, such as scarves tied like the era’s fashionistas, to elevate a simple flip. And if you’re prone to frizz, like I am in rainy weather, a shine serum can smooth things out, making your hair gleam like polished marble under stage lights.
Finally, embrace the emotional journey: There’s joy in nailing that perfect beehive after a few tries, but don’t fret over imperfections—they add character, much like the authentic flaws in vintage records that make them irreplaceable.