1. Introduction
The 1970s disco era was all about big hair, bold volume, and effortless glamour. Whether it was bouncy curls, voluminous waves, or sky-high afros, the hair of this time was as iconic as the music itself. Disco queens like Diana Ross, Donna Summer, and Cher ruled the dance floor with their fluffy, dramatic hairstyles, setting trends that are still celebrated today.
At the heart of this electrifying era was Studio 54, the ultimate symbol of disco beauty and excess. It wasn’t just a nightclub—it was a fashion and beauty revolution, where the motto was simple: the bigger the hair, the better! Under the dazzling lights of the disco ball, everyone wanted to make a statement, and hair was the perfect way to do it. From glamorous blowouts to wild curls, 70s disco hair embodied confidence, fun, and pure diva energy.
Want to bring back the glitz and volume of the disco era? This article will show you how to recreate iconic 70s hairstyles using extensions for added volume and drama. Whether you’re channeling Farrah Fawcett’s feathered waves or Donna Summer’s luscious curls, we’ve got all the tips and tricks to help you achieve the ultimate disco glam look. Get ready to turn heads, shine bright, and dance the night away with show-stopping 70s hair!
2. Defining 70s Disco Hair: What Makes It Iconic?
The 1970s disco era was all about glamour, volume, and attitude. Disco hair wasn’t just a style—it was a statement. Under the shimmering lights of Studio 54, hair had to be big, bold, and full of life, just like the music and fashion of the time. From voluminous curls to feathered layers, disco-inspired hairstyles exuded confidence and fun.
Key Features of 70s Disco Hair
Voluminous Curls and Waves
The foundation of any disco hairstyle is big, bouncy curls. Loose, voluminous waves or tight, defined curls added drama and movement, making hair look effortlessly glamorous. Celebrities like Donna Summer and Diana Ross defined this look with their larger-than-life curls that framed the face beautifully.
Ultra-Glossy, Bouncy Texture
Shiny, healthy-looking hair was a must. Whether styled into soft waves or teased-up curls, disco hair always had a lustrous, touchable finish. The secret? Plenty of hydrating products, shine sprays, and hot rollers to achieve that signature disco bounce.
Center Parts and Feathered Layers
One of the most recognizable elements of 70s hair was the middle part, which created a sleek yet effortlessly cool vibe. Combined with feathered layers, like the famous Farrah Fawcett blowout, this style added dimension and movement, making the hair appear full and voluminous.
Big, Bold Afros and Teased-Up Glam Looks
For many, disco hair meant embracing natural curls and letting them shine. Full, rounded afros were a defining feature of the era, worn proudly by stars like Diana Ross and Pam Grier. For others, teasing and backcombing were essential for adding extra height and drama, ensuring their hair looked as bold as their dance moves.
The Modern Comeback of Disco Hair
Disco hair is making a major resurgence in today’s beauty world. With celebrities like Beyoncé, Zendaya, and Lizzo embracing big curls, feathered layers, and glossy blowouts, 70s-inspired hair is back in a big way. Runways and red carpets are filled with modern interpretations of disco glam, proving that the magic of this era never truly faded.
Whether you’re heading to a party, festival, or just want to turn heads, disco hair is the perfect way to channel confidence, fun, and undeniable glamour. Ready to bring the 70s back? Let’s dive into how to achieve this show-stopping look!
3. The Role of Hair Extensions in 70s-Inspired Styles
The disco era was all about big, voluminous, and eye-catching hair. From cascading curls to sky-high afros, achieving that bold, larger-than-life look often required extra volume and length. That’s where hair extensions come in—they are the ultimate tool for recreating the full, glamorous styles of the 70s without waiting for your natural hair to grow or spending hours teasing and styling.
Why Extensions Are Essential for Disco Hair
Disco hair is all about movement and drama. While natural hair can certainly be styled into waves and curls, extensions help add the extra body, bounce, and texture needed to achieve the true Studio 54-level volume. Extensions also make it easier to create longer, more flowing styles, which were a staple of the era. Whether you want Farrah Fawcett’s feathered layers or Donna Summer’s cascading curls, extensions give you the freedom to customize your length, volume, and style instantly.
The Best Types of Extensions for Disco Hair
1. Clip-In Extensions – Ideal for temporary styles, clip-ins add instant volume and length with minimal effort. They are perfect for achieving Farrah-style waves or adding fullness to natural curls.
2. Tape-In Extensions – For a more long-lasting option, tape-ins blend seamlessly into natural hair, creating smooth, voluminous waves that last for weeks.
3. Curly/Wavy Extensions – Pre-curled or wavy extensions mimic the natural bounce of disco curls, making them the best choice for achieving fluffy, high-volume styles without excessive heat styling.
How to Blend Extensions for a Seamless, Natural Look
The key to making extensions look natural and effortless is proper blending. Start by choosing extensions that match your hair texture—whether that’s soft waves, tight curls, or a full afro. If needed, use a curling iron or rollers to shape the extensions so they blend perfectly with your natural hair.
When installing extensions, always place them strategically. Clip-ins should be placed in layers, starting from the bottom of your head and working up, while tape-ins should be applied closer to the roots for a smooth transition. After applying extensions, gently brush through the hair to mix your natural strands with the added volume, ensuring a seamless, natural disco vibe.
With the right extensions, you can transform your hair into a 70s masterpiece, capturing the bold, high-energy essence of disco in just minutes!
4. Hairstyle #1: Big Bouncy Disco Curls
Nothing captures the glamour and energy of the 70s quite like big, bouncy disco curls. This iconic hairstyle, made famous by Donna Summer, Diana Ross, and Cher, was all about volume, shine, and movement. The secret to achieving this high-energy look? Hair extensions, the right styling tools, and the perfect technique. With the right approach, you can recreate these full-bodied curls that turn heads on the dance floor.
How to Achieve Full-Bodied, Bouncy Curls with Extensions
Extensions are essential for creating the larger-than-life curls that defined disco hair. They add length, density, and drama, making it easier to achieve the bold, voluminous style of the era. Whether you’re using clip-ins, tape-ins, or curly extensions, they will help you get that full, fluffy finish without excessive teasing or heat damage.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Disco Curls
Step 1: Prepping the Hair with Volumizing Mousse
Great curls start with the right prep. Begin by washing your hair with a lightweight, volumizing shampoo and conditioner to ensure your strands are bouncy but not weighed down. After towel-drying, apply a volumizing mousse or curl-enhancing foam from root to tip. This helps to create a strong foundation for your curls while keeping them soft and touchable. Blow-dry your hair using a round brush to create lift at the roots before moving on to curling.
Step 2: Using a Curling Iron or Hot Rollers for Tight, Defined Curls
For the ultimate disco curls, you’ll need a curling iron (¾-inch to 1-inch barrel) or hot rollers. If using a curling iron, section your hair into medium-sized sections, wrapping each piece around the barrel and holding for a few seconds before releasing. Always curl in the same direction to achieve that uniform, glamorous wave pattern. If using hot rollers, roll each section upward and secure it at the roots, allowing the hair to cool completely before removal.
For those using clip-in or tape-in extensions, curl the extensions before attaching them to ensure they blend seamlessly with your natural hair. If you're using pre-curled extensions, gently fluff them out to enhance volume and shape.
Step 3: Brushing Out Curls for a Fluffy, Disco-Ready Finish
Once all your curls have cooled, it’s time to brush them out for that classic 70s fullness. Using a wide-tooth comb or a boar-bristle brush, gently brush through the curls to soften them into a bouncy, voluminous wave pattern. Flip your hair upside down and give it a light shake to boost movement and fluffiness. Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray to keep the curls in place while maintaining their natural bounce.
5. Hairstyle #2: Feathered Farrah Fawcett Waves
No hairstyle defines 70s glamour quite like Farrah Fawcett’s signature feathered waves. Her effortlessly voluminous, outward-swept layers became one of the most iconic hair trends of all time, inspiring countless women to embrace the bouncy, feathered look. Whether seen on the hit show Charlie’s Angels or on red carpets, Farrah’s hair was the ultimate symbol of carefree elegance and high-fashion allure. The best part? This look is making a comeback, and with the right technique, you can recreate her famous waves with or without extensions.
How to Achieve Signature Feathered Layers
The key to Farrah Fawcett waves is layering, movement, and volume. Unlike modern loose waves, this style requires hair to be curled away from the face, creating the signature feathered, windswept look. If your hair isn’t naturally thick or long enough, clip-in or tape-in extensions can help achieve the dramatic, full-bodied effect. The secret is blending layers seamlessly so the hair flows naturally.
Step-by-Step Guide to Farrah Fawcett Waves
Step 1: Using a Round Brush and Blow Dryer for Feathered Layers
Start with clean, volumized hair. Wash with a lightweight, volumizing shampoo and conditioner, then apply a heat protectant and volumizing mousse while the hair is damp. Blow-dry upside down to boost volume at the roots.
Once your hair is about 80% dry, section it off and use a large round brush with a blow dryer to shape the waves. The trick is to roll the brush backward, away from your face, while directing heat at the roots to create lift and movement. Repeat this process throughout your hair, making sure each layer flows outward like a fan. If using extensions, blend them in before styling to ensure a seamless, natural look.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Layers for an Authentic 70s Shape
Farrah’s look was all about well-placed layers that added dimension and height. For an authentic effect, ask your stylist for face-framing layers that start around cheekbone level, with longer layers cascading outward. If using extensions, choose pre-layered pieces or trim them to mimic the natural layering of the style.
For shorter hair, focus on creating movement at the crown, using a round brush to flip the ends outward. Longer hair can achieve a more dramatic, flowing effect, perfect for an ultra-glamorous 70s-inspired look.
Step 3: Locking in the Style for All-Night Volume
To keep your feathered waves looking flawless all night, use a flexible-hold hairspray that maintains bounce without making the hair stiff. After styling, gently shake out the waves with your fingers to keep them light and airy. If your curls start to flatten, a quick blast of dry shampoo or texturizing spray at the roots will revive the volume instantly.
6. Hairstyle #3: The Disco Afro
The disco afro was more than just a hairstyle in the 70s—it was a symbol of pride, power, and self-expression. The era celebrated natural textures, with icons like Diana Ross, Pam Grier, and Gloria Gaynor embracing their voluminous, rounded afros on stage and in films. The disco afro wasn’t just about looking glamorous—it was about confidence and making a statement. Today, this bold and beautiful style is still a showstopper, and with the right techniques, you can achieve the perfect, full-bodied disco silhouette, whether you’re enhancing your natural curls or using extensions for extra drama.
Enhancing Natural Curls with Extensions for Extra Volume
If you have naturally curly or coily hair, you can boost the volume of your afro by adding clip-in or sew-in extensions that match your texture. Extensions help create a bigger, fluffier shape, adding dimension and fullness to your look. Opt for kinky or coily extensions that blend seamlessly with your natural hair for a flawless finish.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect Disco Afro
Step 1: Shaping and Fluffing for the Ideal Silhouette
To achieve the classic round shape, start by picking out your curls with an afro pick or wide tooth comb. Begin at the roots and gently lift upward, avoiding excessive combing to prevent frizz. If you’re using extensions, shape them into a rounded form that matches your natural hair for a seamless blend.
Step 2: Choosing the Best Extensions for Density
For those who want extra fullness, opt for clip-in or crochet extensions with a tight curl pattern. These add instant thickness and volume without requiring a long-term commitment. If you’re going for maximum drama, consider layering different lengths to create a dimensional, gravity-defying look.
Step 3: Keeping Curls Defined and Frizz-Free
To maintain soft, well-defined curls, apply a curl-enhancing cream or lightweight leave-in conditioner. Avoid heavy gels that can weigh down the hair and take away from its fluffy, bouncy effect. A quick spritz of hydrating mist throughout the day will keep your curls looking fresh while maintaining the bold disco vibe.
7. Hairstyle #4: The Ultra-High Ponytail
The ultra-high ponytail was a disco-era favorite, blending sleek sophistication with bold, voluminous drama. Stars like Cher, Donna Summer, and Bianca Jagger rocked this look at Studio 54, pairing it with dazzling outfits and fierce confidence. This ponytail wasn’t just a hairstyle—it was a statement of power and glamour. Today, the disco ponytail remains a go-to look for anyone wanting an effortlessly chic yet dramatic style. With the right extensions, styling techniques, and finishing touches, you can recreate a sleek yet voluminous ponytail that’s ready for the dance floor.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect Disco Ponytail
Step 1: Using Extensions for Extra Length and Fullness
A true disco ponytail is all about height and volume, and extensions are the secret weapon for achieving that larger-than-life look. If your hair isn’t naturally long or thick, clip-in ponytail extensions or wefts can instantly add the drama and movement needed. Start by gathering your hair into a high ponytail at the crown and securing it with a strong elastic band. If using clip-in ponytail extensions, attach them around the base for a seamless blend. For tape-in or sewn-in extensions, make sure they are placed strategically to support the high ponytail without tension.
Step 2: Wrapping Hair Around the Base for a Polished Look
To achieve a sleek, red-carpet-worthy finish, take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the base to hide the hair tie and extension clips. Secure the wrapped piece with a bobby pin underneath, ensuring it stays in place without being visible. This simple trick elevates the look, making the ponytail appear effortlessly flawless.
Step 3: Adding Waves or Curls for a Studio 54-Worthy Finish
For that true disco diva effect, add soft waves or curls to the ponytail. Use a 1-inch curling iron or hot rollers, curling sections away from the face to create a bouncy, voluminous effect. After curling, brush through the waves gently for a soft, glamorous flow. If you prefer a sleeker ponytail, straighten the hair with a flat iron for a glossy, smooth finish.
The ultra-high ponytail is bold, fierce, and effortlessly chic—exactly what a disco queen needs. Whether you're hitting the dance floor or making a statement at an event, this ponytail will have you turning heads and exuding confidence all night long!
8. Hairstyle #5: Glitter & Glam Hair Accessories
No disco-era hairstyle was complete without glamorous, eye-catching accessories. The 70s were all about bold fashion, dazzling lights, and over-the-top style, and hair accessories played a huge role in perfecting the Studio 54 aesthetic. From sparkly barrettes to metallic headbands and even disco ball-inspired accents, these finishing touches made every hairstyle shine just as bright as the dance floor lights. Whether you’re rocking big bouncy curls, a sleek ponytail, or a voluminous afro, the right accessories can take your look to the next level.
Best 70s-Inspired Hair Accessories
Sparkly Barrettes and Rhinestone Clips
Glittering hair clips were a must-have for disco queens who wanted to add instant glamour to their hairstyles. Large rhinestone-encrusted barrettes could be clipped to the side of a deep part or used to pin back face-framing layers, adding a touch of elegance and sparkle. For an extra disco-worthy effect, use multiple clips stacked together on one side for a bold, statement-making look.
Metallic Headbands and Scarves
A gold or silver metallic headband was the ultimate disco accessory, often worn across the forehead for a bohemian-meets-glam look. Silk or sequined scarves were another favorite, adding fluid movement that complemented big, voluminous hairstyles. If you’re wearing hair extensions, wrap a metallic scarf around the base of a high ponytail or weave it into long, wavy extensions for a chic, effortless vibe.
Feathers, Beads, and Disco Ball-Inspired Accents
For the free-spirited, artistic disco-goers, beaded hair strands, feather clips, and small disco ball charms were the go-to accessories. These details were often woven into braids or attached to loose curls, giving a touch of whimsical glamour. To recreate this style today, use clip-in beaded hair strands or attach small feathered hairpieces to extensions for an added retro flair.
How to Style Accessories with Extensions for Extra Glam
When using hair extensions, styling accessories requires a little extra care to ensure a seamless blend. Clip-in extensions should be strategically placed to allow space for barrettes, headbands, or scarves without exposing the wefts. If wearing a ponytail extension, wrap a sparkly scarf around the base for a chic Studio 54 effect.
Final Touch: The More Sparkle, The Better!
The disco era was all about glitz, glam, and drama, and hair accessories were the perfect way to amplify any look. Whether you’re keeping it subtle with a rhinestone clip or going all out with beaded strands and metallic headbands, these accessories ensure you’ll shine like a true disco diva!
9. Conclusion
The 70s disco aesthetic was all about bold volume, bouncy curls, and dazzling accessories, creating hairstyles that exuded confidence and glamour. Whether it was big, fluffy afros, feathered Farrah Fawcett waves, or ultra-high ponytails, disco hair was designed to stand out under the sparkling lights of Studio 54. Decades later, this iconic look remains a go-to for parties, red carpets, and special events, proving that disco never truly goes out of style.
Now is the perfect time to embrace the drama and fun of disco hair. Whether you have fine, straight hair or thick, curly locks, you can achieve maximum volume and movement with the right techniques and high-quality extensions. Experimenting with big curls, teased-up styles, and glittering accessories can instantly elevate your look and bring out your inner disco queen.
To make your disco-inspired hairstyle truly flawless, high-quality extensions are essential for adding fullness, length, and texture. Fabulive offers premium hair extensions that blend seamlessly with natural hair, making it easy to achieve red carpet-ready styles. So, if you're ready to channel the glitz and glamour of Studio 54, shop Fabulive’s collection today and bring your disco hair dreams to life!