Hair Wings: Retro Flair and Modern Trends in One Style

Hair wings are a classic hairstyle characterized by outwardly flipped ends that resemble the “wings” of a bird. Originating in the 1960s and gaining massive popularity in the 1970s, this look involves parting the hair—usually down the middle or slightly to the side—and flipping out the ends to create a wing-like silhouette. It offers both volume and definition, adding a bold yet polished look that frames the face.

The Origin of the Hair Wings Style

Hair wings found their roots in the late 1960s, amidst a counterculture revolution that embraced individuality and natural textures. However, it was during the 1970s that the style became iconic, especially thanks to celebrities like Farrah Fawcett, whose voluminous, feathered waves captivated pop culture. Her hairstyle in Charlie’s Angels set the gold standard for hair wings, inspiring women across the world to recreate her windswept, glamorous look.

The Farrah Fawcett Effect

Farrah Fawcett didn’t just wear hair wings—she defined them. Her signature layered cut with soft curls flipping outward at the cheekbone and jawline gave the style a movement that symbolized freedom, confidence, and sensuality. The Farrah Fawcett look required a blend of expert layering, blow-drying techniques, and lots of hairspray. It became so iconic that even decades later, references to the “Farrah flick” are instantly understood in hair salons globally.

The Construction of Hair Wings

Creating the hair wings look involves specific styling steps. The foundation is a medium to long layered haircut, often with face-framing pieces that guide the wing shape. A blow-dryer with a round brush is used to pull the hair away from the face and flip the ends outward. Curling irons or flat irons can also help exaggerate the winged effect. Holding sprays and volumizers are essential for lasting structure and bounce. The key is achieving symmetry while maintaining a natural flair that flows rather than feels stiff.

Hair Types That Suit Hair Wings

Hair wings work best with medium to thick hair textures, particularly those with some natural wave or volume. Straight hair can also carry the look, though it may require more styling time and product. Extremely curly or coily hair can adopt a modified version of the winged look with blow-drying and straightening beforehand. The key ingredient is length and layers—shoulder length or longer is ideal to allow the wings to flourish outward in dramatic or subtle fashion.

Men’s Hair Wings: The Retro Revival

Although often associated with women’s styles, hair wings were also popular among men in the ’70s and early ’80s. The male version of hair wings typically featured longer sideburns and medium-length hair that naturally flipped out around the ears and nape. Think of John Travolta in Saturday Night Fever or David Cassidy in The Partridge Family. Today, men’s hair wings are seeing a comeback in vintage and streetwear-inspired fashion, often paired with mullets or shags for a full retro vibe.

Hair Wings and the 2000s Scene Style

Hair wings made a surprising comeback in the early 2000s with the rise of “scene” and emo subcultures. Young people styled their side-swept bangs and heavily layered cuts into wings by teasing and flipping the sides out dramatically. This version of hair wings was punkier, often dyed in vibrant colors or paired with chunky highlights. Scene hair wings were less about natural volume and more about structured chaos, making them a stark contrast to the feathery 1970s original.

Celebrities and Influencers Reimagining Hair Wings

Modern-day celebrities and influencers have brought hair wings back into the spotlight. TikTok users frequently recreate vintage ’70s looks, complete with curtain bangs and feathered waves. Stars like Zendaya, Margot Robbie, and Harry Styles have all worn styles that pay homage to the iconic winged look, adapting it to suit modern aesthetics. Social media tutorials and reels have made it easier than ever for fans to follow step-by-step guides and master this nostalgic style at home.

How to Get Hair Wings at Home

To achieve hair wings at home, start with freshly washed and towel-dried hair. Apply a heat protectant and volumizing mousse to damp strands. Use a round brush and a blow dryer to create volume at the roots and flip the ends outward. For definition, use a curling iron to shape the wing and set the flip with a light to medium-hold hairspray. Optional steps include teasing at the crown for added lift and finishing with a shine serum to polish the look.

Tools and Products You’ll Need

A round brush (preferably 2 to 3 inches in diameter) is essential for shaping the flip. A high-quality blow dryer with a concentrator nozzle helps direct airflow for precision styling. Curling irons with a barrel size of 1 to 1.5 inches work well for defining the outward flip. Volumizing mousse or spray, a root lifter, heat protectant, and medium-hold hairspray are must-haves. For best results, use a wide-toothed comb or paddle brush to maintain the shape without flattening the wings.

Hair Wings in Professional Settings

While hair wings may appear flamboyant or theatrical, the toned-down version of this style can be adapted for professional and corporate environments. A sleek middle part with subtle flipped-out ends offers elegance and maturity. The look works especially well when paired with tailored blazers or businesswear, creating a blend of professionalism and style. The feathered wings give an impression of movement and personality, without being too loud or rebellious.

The Psychology of Hair Wings

Hair wings are more than a hairstyle—they’re a statement. They represent confidence, flair, and nostalgia. People who wear hair wings often project a strong sense of individuality and a nod to timeless fashion. The look balances order and playfulness, structure and spontaneity. It’s no surprise that this style repeatedly returns in cycles of fashion: it captures a feeling, not just a shape. When someone wears hair wings, they’re channeling both glamor and rebellion in the same breath.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Hair wings are relatively high maintenance, especially if your natural hair texture doesn’t support the flipped-out structure. You’ll need to refresh the style every 1–2 days and trim layers regularly to maintain the shape. Using heat tools frequently means your hair may require deep conditioning treatments to prevent dryness and damage. Sleep with a silk pillowcase or wrap your hair to avoid losing volume and preserve the wings’ silhouette overnight.

Variations and Modern Takes

The modern hair wing is versatile. Some wear it with long, flowing hair and curtain bangs. Others adapt it to shorter bobs, flipping only the sides outward for a retro-mod vibe. Layered shags with feathered ends are also a more relaxed interpretation. Those who love boldness can combine wings with brightly colored highlights or microbangs for a fashion-forward twist. Hair wings also pair beautifully with headbands, barrettes, and scarves, giving endless styling possibilities.

Cultural and Media Impact

Hair wings have been featured in countless films, TV shows, and fashion campaigns. From roller-disco aesthetics in movies like Xanadu to modern-day shows set in retro eras like Stranger Things, the hair wings are an unmistakable time stamp. They often symbolize freedom, glamour, and self-assurance. In fashion editorials, they are used to evoke nostalgia while still feeling current and alive. The style’s repeated appearance in media proves its staying power and influence.

Why Hair Wings Remain Iconic

Hair wings remain a testament to timeless beauty with an edge. They strike the perfect balance between drama and wearability. Whether it’s a vintage-inspired photo shoot or an everyday power look, the winged hairstyle adds something special. It’s not just about looking good—it’s about embodying an attitude. With every outward flip, there’s a nod to the past and a wink at the future. Few hairstyles manage to be both retro and modern so effortlessly.