The pixie cut, popularized by Audrey Hepburn and Mia Farrow, experienced a resurgence in the past. However, for many, particularly those with rounder faces, it proved less than flattering. This sparked a lifelong pursuit of long hair for some, a style often associated with youth, beauty, and even rebellion.
Historically, societal pressures and practical considerations led many women to shorter, “more serious” hairstyles as they entered the workforce and motherhood. This was especially true for older women, who often felt compelled to conform to age-related expectations and avoid appearing “too young.”
For decades, long hair was synonymous with youth and vitality. Icons like Christie Brinkley and Farrah Fawcett cemented this association. However, as women increasingly entered professional fields, shorter, more practical hairstyles became the norm.
The COVID-19 pandemic inadvertently triggered a shift in this trend. Lockdowns forced extended salon closures, allowing hair to grow naturally. Many women rediscovered the appeal of longer lengths and chose to maintain them even after restrictions lifted.
This shift wasn’t solely about aesthetics. Susan Feldman, founder of GetInTheGroove.com, a platform for women over 50, notes the pandemic provided a unique opportunity for self-discovery. Free from societal pressures, women experimented with styles they might have previously dismissed, realizing long hair could be both stylish and empowering at any age. This resonated with many who felt pressured to cut their hair as they aged.
The resurgence of longer hair among older women represents a broader shift in attitudes towards aging. It symbolizes a rejection of outdated norms and an embrace of individual preferences. Women are increasingly prioritizing personal style and comfort over societal expectations.
This trend extends beyond personal preference. It challenges conventional beauty standards and reflects a growing movement towards self-expression and age positivity. For many, it’s a reclaiming of agency and a rejection of prescribed age-appropriate looks.
The pandemic’s impact on hair trends is multifaceted. For Black women, it accelerated a pre-existing movement toward natural hairstyles. Forced salon closures led many to embrace their natural texture, leading to healthier hair and a renewed sense of pride in their heritage.
This shift towards natural hair among Black women is fueled by a combination of racial pride and the pandemic’s practical limitations. Embracing natural texture is a powerful statement of identity and self-acceptance. It represents a rejection of Eurocentric beauty standards and a celebration of natural beauty.
The pandemic, while undeniably challenging, inadvertently fostered positive changes in beauty norms. By disrupting routines and challenging assumptions, it allowed for personal experimentation and a re-evaluation of societal expectations. This resulted in a greater embrace of individuality and a rejection of outdated beauty standards.
