The Modern Shag: 70s Hair Trends are Reclaiming Rochester

Why the 70s Shag is More Than Just a Throwback

Walk down Park Ave or grab a coffee at Java’s on Gibbs Street, and you’ll notice something nostalgic in the air. The breezy, effortless aesthetic of the 1970s is officially back, and it’s manifesting most prominently in the revival of the shag haircut.

As a stylist here in Rochester, I’ve seen trends come and go, but the modern shag is special. It’s not just about looking like a rockstar from the Woodstock era; it’s about a lifestyle of ease, texture, and individuality. Whether you’re looking to add movement to fine hair or manage a heavy mane, the shag is the versatile answer we’ve all been waiting for.

What Defines the Modern Shag?

Unlike the heavily hair-sprayed versions of the past, today’s shag is all about touchable texture. The hallmark of this style is choppy ends, strategic layers around the crown, and plenty of fringe.

When clients sit in my chair asking for a 70s-inspired look, we focus on creating layers that frame the face and highlight features like the cheekbones and jawline. The beauty of this cut lies in its intentional “messiness.” It’s designed to look just as good after a windy walk through Highland Park as it does when you first leave my studio.

Customizing the Look for Your Hair Type

One of the most frequent questions I get is, "Can I pull off a shag with my hair type?" My answer is almost always a resounding *yes*. Here is how we tailor the 70s vibe to fit you:

For Fine Hair: We use shorter layers at the crown to create the illusion of volume and height. This prevents the hair from looking flat and lifeless.

For Thick Hair: The shag is a godsend for density. By removing weight through the mid-lengths and ends, we create a shape that feels light and bouncy rather than bottom-heavy.

For Curly and Wavy Hair: This is where the shag really shines. By cutting layers that follow your natural curl pattern, we allow your texture to live its best life without the dreaded "triangle" shape.

The "Curtain Bang" Connection

You can’t talk about 70s hair without mentioning curtain bangs. These soft, wispy bangs part down the middle and sweep to the sides, perfectly framing the eyes. I often recommend curtain bangs to my Rochester clients who want a change but aren't ready for the commitment of a blunt, straight-across fringe. They grow out seamlessly and blend right into the layers of a shag.

Styling Tips: Effortless Beauty at Home

The real magic of a shag is how little effort it takes to style. Here are my top professional tips for maintaining that 70s flair at home:

1. Air Dry is Your Best Friend: Apply a sea salt spray or a lightweight texture cream to damp hair and scrunch gently. Let the Rochester humidity—usually our enemy—actually work in your favor by enhancing your natural wave. 2. Focus on the Roots: If you need a little lift, use a dry shampoo at the roots (even on clean hair!) to add that signature 70s grit and volume. 3. Invest in a Diffuser: If you’re in a rush, use a blow dryer with a diffuser attachment on a low heat setting. This dries the hair without blowing out the “piecey” texture we worked so hard to create.

Ready to Embrace the Retro Revolution?

From the "Wolf Cut" to the "Butterfly Shag," these 70s-inspired silhouettes are proving that some styles are truly timeless. If you’re ready to trade in your blunt ends for something with a bit more soul and movement, I would love to help you find the perfect version of this trend for your face shape and lifestyle.

There’s nothing I love more than helping my clients feel confident and cool. Let’s bring a little bit of that vintage West Coast energy right here to Western New York.

Book your next transformation with me, Michelle Doyle, and let’s get shaggy!

Ready to transform your look?

Book your appointment → (585) 455-9480