Reflections on Women's Hair Styles: A Life's Journey

As a grandparent nearing my 72nd year, I often find myself looking back on my life and the changes it has seen. One of the most striking changes that I have observed is in the realm of women's hair styles. They have undergone dramatic transformations through the decades, much like the landscapes and societal shifts I have witnessed. The journey of my hair style reflections mirrors not just personal preferences, but also a broader cultural evolution.

The 1960s: The Go Go Girls Era

Go Go Girls: One of the earliest and most striking changes I noticed was in the early 1960s with the emergence of the 'go go girls.' These were young women with short hair, often styled in the Victoria style, named after the famous hairstyle of the glamorous performer, Shirley Temple. Their hair was often curly and shoulder-length, adorned with headbands and clip-on accessories.

I remember being baffled by the shortness of their haircuts but never overly angry. While it deviated from the traditional long hair trend, it was interesting to see such freedom and expression in hairstyles. I believe that hairstyles are a reflection of both individual and broader social trends, both of which seemed to be shifting towards a more liberated and youthful era.

The 1970s: The Boom of Flaxen Styles

Flaxen Flairs: Moving into the 1970s, the trend was quite different. A popular choice was the blond perm or blonde flaxen style. This style was often accompanied by the iconic, voluminous hula hoop buns that went hand in hand with the disco era's glamorous flair. I remember feeling intrigued by the extensive use of hair dye and the varying lengths that were accepted.

What intrigued me was the wide acceptance of different hair colors and styles. This era was characterized by a sense of rebellion against traditional norms, and hair seemed to be one of the primary tools of expression. I watched as women experimented with different looks without judgment, and this freedom was both fascinating and liberating.

1980s: The Slashed and Stylized Looks

The Decade of Dye and Design: The 1980s brought a whole new wave of creativity to hair styling. Slashed fringe-style, side-parted, or partially shaved heads became popular among women. This trend was further accentuated by the short bob, which was highly prevalent. Alongside these, the use of hair dye had grown exponentially, delivering a wide range of shades.

I found myself both fascinated and perplexed by these changes. The boldness in the way women wore their hair reflected broader societal changes, such as greater independence and freedom in expressing oneself. It was a time when individuality was celebrated, and hairstyles became a powerful form of self-expression.

From the 1990s to the Present: A Constant Evolution

The Evolution Continues: As we move into the 1990s and the new millennium, women's hair has seen a myriad of shifts. This period is marked by an increased emphasis on naturalness, with many women preferring to embrace their natural hair texture and length. Styling techniques such as perms, hair relaxers, and extensions also took center stage, offering new and exciting options for hair customization.

What remains constant is the ability of hair styles to reflect and shape our cultural identities. With each passing decade, women have found new ways to express themselves through their hair. From the sophistication of the 1960s to the boldness of the 1980s and the natural expressions of the 2000s, hair styles have truly been a barometer of cultural change and social progress.

Conclusion: A Personal Journey Through Time

Reflecting on my life's journey, I have come to understand that while I may have been baffled by the changes in women’s hair styles, I was never angry. Instead, I have seen this evolution as a testament to the constant quest for personal and societal change. Hair styles are not just a form of individual expression, but they also reflect the broader social context and trends of their time. Through each decade, women have found new ways to assert their individuality and reflect the world's evolving aesthetics.

The changes in hair styles, from the 1960s to today, are a reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of culture and society. They are windows into the past and mirrors of the present. As I observe the ever-evolving landscape of women’s hair, I continue to embrace the diversity and freedom that this changing trend symbolizes.