13 effortlessly stylish ’60s hairstyles

From the first moon landing to the Etch-A-Sketch, the 1960s proved to be an era of innovation and change. And while a lot of things have moved on since then, some things have left a lasting legacy on the world – in particular, ‘60s hairstyles.

From structured, sky-high beehives and backcombed looks to edgy, androgynous bob cuts, many 1960s hairstyles are just as on-trend today as they were back in the day. Don’t believe us? Well, we’ve created an edit of the best retro styles from the era to prove our point – take a look.

1960s hairstyles: 13 looks to try if you’re a fan of retro style

1. Classic beehive

If someone were to ask you about 1960s hairstyles, we can almost guarantee that the beehive would be the first to spring to mind.

Aptly named, the beehive is easily recognisable thanks to its conical shape and resemblance to (surprise, surprise) actual beehives. This look is also one of the most iconic ’60s hairstyles for long hair, in large due to Audrey Hepburn and her role in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

Editor’s tip: Fancy trying your hand at a beehive? Begin by prepping your strands with a texturising spray or dry shampoo, such as the TIGI Bed Head Oh Bee Hive! Dry Shampoo.

This will help to soak up any oils (which may be weighing down your locks) and provide masses of volume to take your look to mega new heights!

2. Pixie cut

Looking for ’60s hairstyles for short hair? Take inspiration from ’60s sirens like Twiggy and give a pixie cut a try.

While this super short look has become synonymous with refined chicness, back in the ’60s it was considered to be extremely daring! But nowadays, with stars like Katy Perry and Cara Delevingne rocking the cropped ‘do, it tops the style charts year after year.

3. Half-up bouffant

French actress Brigitte Bardot is often touted as the poster girl for 1960s hairstyles – in particular her trademark half-up, half-down bouffant. Combining a bumped-up, backcombed crown with flowing lengths, this look is stunning on women of all ages!

4. Pageboy cut

Androgynous pageboy cuts first became popular in the 1950s and ’60s, being a real departure from the ultra-feminine styles that had come before them.

To give the look a contemporary update, pair it with a choppy fringe (like the model above) and you’ll have a style that’s both vintage and modern rolled into one.

5. Backcombed barnets

1960s hairstyles were all about volume, volume, volume – and backcombing was key to creating these sky-high styles!

Ideal if you’re lacking in natural volume, backcombing can help to give the illusion of not only fuller locks, but also added boost at the roots for limp locks. It’s no wonder this technique is still widely used today!

Editor’s tip: Traditional backcombing methods aren’t the best for your hair, which is why we’re big fans of the VO5 Dry Backcomb Spray. Essentially a teasing comb in a can, it gives your tresses a long-lasting, plumped-up effect, without causing any long-term damage. Phew!

6. Baby beehive

While we love a good beehive, we know that they aren’t always the most practical style for everyday. So if you’re looking for an easier, low-maintenance way to rock ’60s hairstyles for the office, we recommend giving the toned-down baby beehive a try, instead.

Still incorporating the style’s instantly recognisable shape, it’s simply a more pared-back, wearable take on the trend.

7. Teased ponytail

Now, you might not think that ponytails are particularly exciting but have you ever tried giving your pony a ’60s twist?

All you need to do is make sure to position it low at the nape of your neck, as this will ensure that all of the focus is on the volume at the crown, turning this practical style into something much more stylish!

Editor’s tip: Finish your beautiful updo with a quick all-over spritz of the TRESemmé Ultimate Shine Hold Hairspray, to ensure your half-up hairstyle lasts all day.

8. Peekaboo braids

Boho braids, like the hidden braid style, were extremely popular at the time, offering a more casual alternative to the strict, structured ’60s hairstyles for long hair. Ideal for festivals, this laid back look is timeless. Peace and love, baby!

9. ’60s headband

Headbands may be having a bit of a resurgence as of late, but did you know that they were also very popular ’60s hairstyles for short hair?

You didn’t need flowing locks to pull off this style, so head scarves became a popular option. And funnily enough, they’ve just been confirmed to be one of Pinterest’s most popular hair trends, too. What goes around comes around!

10. Mod bob

Providing an alternative to the soft, bedhead styles of the decade, the mod bob was the ultimate act of rebellion. All about the angles, this look was harsh, dramatic and sure to turn heads.

For a softer, modern-day version, try working in parted Bardot bangs (like the model above) for a more flattering, face-framing effect.

11. Flicked ends

Whether it was on a Mary Quant-inspired bob or Lynne Redgraves’ medium-length hair, flicked ends were one of the most popular ’60s hairstyles for short hair – and we can see why.

Tip: Keep the crown of your hair teased for a slight bouffant finish.

12. The bombshell

When considering ’60 hairstyles for long hair, the bombshell is right up there on the list. But what is the bombshell, we hear you ask?

Think a cross between Brigitte Bardot’s tresses and boho-chic locks. With face-framing layers and grown-out bangs, we always call upon this retro style when we want to rock a more effortless ‘do.

13. Bouffants

To bouffant or not to bouffant? The answer: always bouffant.

First popularised in the 1950s, bouffant hairstyles continued to dominate throughout the ’60s, varying in height and volume. Characterised by it’s backcombed hair-raising style, bouffant styles were (and still are!) the perfect party look for a night out on the town.

1960s hair icons: 6 women that have taught us about effortless styling

What better way to complete our collection of 1960s hairstyles than with inspo pictures from the original hair icons.

From the woman behind what we now call Bardot bangs to arguably the most fashionable First Lady, see the hair icons from the decade that brought us The Beatles and Mary Poppins, below.

1. Brigitte Bardot

Of course, we had to start with Brigitte Bardot. The French actress is the reason we have been seeing curtain style bangs all over our Instagram feed. Her undone wispy tresses are replicated time and time again, and after seeing her most iconic hairstyles, you can see why Brigitte is one of the main hair icons of her time.

2. Jean Shrimpton

With her Brit-girl blowout, this English model and actress was one of the poster girls for the swinging ’60s. Her beautiful tousled blowout has left it’s mark, as it’s a look we now associate with the likes of Suki Waterhouse and Alexa Chung.

3. Jackie Kennedy Onassis

Jackie Kennedy Onassis was the First Lady of hair in our eyes. Known for her grace and elegance and of course, her array of stylish outfits, Jackie achieved international fashion icon status around the world. Her medium brown shoulder-length tresses became her signature look and her endless collection of hats made her look even more striking.

4. Catherine Deneuve

The Belle de Jour actress never strays far away from her shoulder-length blonde locks (even to this day), but what makes her look iconic? We’d say it’s her love of ribbon hair bows – no hairstyle was complete without Catherine adding one to her prim updos.

5. Nancy Sinatra

It wasn’t only musical talent that Nancy got from her father Frank Sinatra, it was his good hair too. The These Boots are Made for Walkin’ singer went for the more is more approach with her blonde locks. Big hair was huge in the ’60s and to create looks like Nancy’s you’d need to load up on hairspray for extra va-va-voom.

6. Jane Fonda

Yes, Jane Fonda was once a brunette – shocking, right? Showing off her glossy light caramel hue with breathtaking bouncy waves, Jane looks every inch the megastar actress.