Ever caught yourself staring at a photo of Sean Connery or a vintage record sleeve and wondered, “Could I pull that off today?” Whether you’re prepping for a themed night, refreshing your everyday look, or trying to decode what your barber meant by “mutton chops,” the 1970s barbershop chart is the visual cheat-sheet every modern man needs. Let’s break down the era’s iconic cuts, match them to outfits, and give you real-world tips to get the look without the decade-long commitment.
Why the 1970s Barbershop Chart Still Matters
The 1970s was a golden era of men’s grooming — bold silhouettes, exaggerated sideburns, and textures that celebrated natural movement. Today’s fashion borrows from that freedom: relaxed tailoring, statement collars, and haircuts that frame the face intentionally. If you’re updating your wardrobe or booking a cut, understanding the classic 1970s barbershop style chart (short for guide) helps you choose a look that fits your face, lifestyle, and personal brand.
Decoding the 1970s Barbershop Chart: Key Haircuts
Below are the hallmark styles that will appear on any authentic 1970s barbershop chart, plus what they say about you and how to wear them now.
1. The Shag
What it is: Layered, feathered ends with volume around the crown and fringe. Great for medium to long hair and natural movement.
Modern tip: Ask your barber for long layers and soft texturizing to avoid the overly heavy 70s vibe. Use a sea-salt spray or lightweight cream to define layers.
2. The Pompadour & Quiff
What it is: Height at the front with tapered sides. In the 70s these were softer and often paired with longer sideburns.
Modern tip: Pair with a slim- or regular-fit blazer and open-collar shirt for a polished retro-meets-modern look.
3. Sideburns, Mutton Chops & Full Facial Framing
What it is: Exaggerated sideburns that can morph into mutton chops or connect to a beard. This is a defining feature on many vintage barbershop charts.
Modern tip: Keep them neatly trimmed to avoid appearing unkempt. Use a precision trimmer and a barber’s line-up to maintain crispness.
How to Use a 1970s Barbershop Chart at Your Barber
Bring a printed chart or a photo collage to the appointment. Show the silhouette you like and be specific about length, texture, and facial hair. Good barbers will translate the vintage look to suit your face shape and hair density.
Questions to Ask Your Barber
- “Can you add layers for movement without removing bulk?”
- “How can we adapt the sideburns to my jawline?”
- “What styling products should I use at home to replicate this texture?”
Outfit Combinations That Complement 1970s Cuts
Pairing the right clothes with your haircut completes the picture. Use these outfit combos to reinforce the retro mood without looking like you stepped out of a costume shop.
Casual Weekend
- Shag or medium-length cut + fitted denim jacket + vintage band tee + straight-leg jeans + leather boots.
- Style tip: Roll the cuffs and tuck the tee front to balance proportions.
Smart Casual
- Pompadour or tapered quiff + unstructured blazer + open-collar shirt with a wide collar + tailored chinos + loafers.
- Style tip: A slim scarf or simple pendant can accent the 70s collar without overwhelming the outfit.
Night Out / Statement Look
- Deep side part or sculpted waves + velvet blazer + silk shirt + slim trousers + Chelsea boots.
- Style tip: Keep accessories minimal — let the hair and fabric texture do the talking.
Maintenance & Grooming: Keeping Your 1970s Look Fresh
Vintage haircuts need modern upkeep. Routine trims every 4–6 weeks keep layers in shape and sideburns sharp. Use a lightweight pomade or cream to add shine without stiffness. For curly or textured hair, a curl-defining cream will maintain the shag’s movement.
Product Recommendations (Types)
- Lightweight cream or leave-in conditioner for texture
- Matte paste for controlled volume
- Precision trimmer for sideburns and facial hair lines
1970s Barbershop Chart — Face Shapes & Best Matches
Not every trend flatters every face. Use the vintage barber chart concept to match cuts to face shapes:
- Oval: Most styles work — try a shag or quiff.
- Square: Soften the angles with layered shags or textured top with shorter sides.
- Round: Height at the crown (pompadour) and defined sideburns lengthen the face.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a 1970s barbershop chart?
It’s a visual guide or reference sheet showing popular haircuts, facial hair styles, and variations typical of the 1970s — useful for barbers and clients wanting a specific vintage look.
2. Can I get a 1970s haircut if my hair is thin?
Yes. A skilled barber can adapt 1970s styles by adding texture, strategic layering, and volume at the crown. Avoid overly long, heavy layers that lay flat — opt for movement-enhancing cuts.
3. How do I modernize a 1970s look so it doesn’t appear dated?
Keep lines clean, pair vintage hair with modern tailoring, and choose contemporary grooming products. Small updates — like a fitted blazer, slim trousers, or a neat beard — make the look feel current.
Real-World Tips From a Men’s Fashion Blogger
My top three practical tips: (1) Photograph your hair in different lighting to show your barber texture and length, (2) Commit to a single product for a month so you can tell what works, and (3) Match your haircut to at least two outfits in your wardrobe before changing styles. These steps reduce buyer’s remorse and make the 1970s barbershop chart a reliable tool.
For more inspiration, check out our guides on men’s hairstyles, explore vintage wardrobe ideas in vintage style, and read practical upkeep tips at grooming tips.
Conclusion
Whether you want the full throwback or a subtle nod to the disco era, the 1970s barbershop chart gives you the roadmap to a confident, stylish look. Take a photo, consult your barber, and pair the right outfit to make the cut feel like yours. Ready to try a 70s-inspired haircut? Book that barber appointment, experiment with one outfit combo from above, and tag your progress in your style notes. Want tailored advice? Subscribe to my newsletter for haircut ideas, seasonal outfit combos, and grooming walkthroughs.
Call to action: Try one 1970s cut this month and share your before-and-after with our community — you might be surprised how a vintage chart can transform a modern wardrobe.
