The bad ’70s hairstyle making a comeback

May 15, 2021
This shaggy style was popular in the 1970s, but are we ready or willing to have it reappear in 2021? Source: Getty

A retro hairstyle has been making several appearances on the 2021 fashion frontline, and we honestly can’t decide if we’re ready for it.

The “shag” or “shaggy bob” hairstyle was popular during the 1970s and popped up on a range of celebrities in a range of ways, making it clear that the cut really does seem to suit everyone.

Worn (well) by the likes of stars Stevie Nicks, Farrah Fawcett, Debbie Harry, Joan Jett and Jane Fonda, the styles ranged from the feathery, feminine look of Charlie’s Angels star Fawcett to Jett’s tougher punk-rock chop.

The style was so popular it even became unisex — with singers David Bowie, Mick Jagger and Rod Stewart all taking on the look at one time or another.

The style has had numerous resurgences over the decades, including an appearance on actress Meg Ryan in the 2000s and Jennifer Aniston in Friends in the 1990s.

 

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A post shared by Meg Ryan (@megryan)

Fast-forward to 2021 and the retro look is back and growing in popularity. These days, the cuts are just as polarising, with actress-turned-singer Miley Cyrus opting for a Joan Jett-esque style and singer Billie Eilish wearing a more classically feminine version.

According to mamamia.com.au, the versatile style suits everyone and “All the cool kids are getting one.”

 

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A post shared by Miley Cyrus (@mileycyrus)

 

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A post shared by BILLIE EILISH (@billieeilish)

The style is so low maintenance, stylists actually suggest you don’t use any heat tools and stick to letting your hair dry the all-natural way. Due to its versatility, it suits almost all hair types and face shapes, so really it’s no wonder it’s been popping up on celebs since 2020 — when going to a hairdresser wasn’t an option.

If you were a fan of the shag in the ’70s, it looks like it’s your time to shine once more! Will you be opting for a Farrah Fawcett, a Joan Jett or just a hard pass?