The 2023-Approved Update On The '70s Beehive Style
There's a lot of buzz around '70s fashions and styles in 2023, partially spurred on by the popular Amazon series "Daisy Jones and the Six." Who could deny the allure of groovy fringe, boho-chic skirts, and crocheted tops? Then there are '70s hairstyles, ranging from wild and free to semi-structured. That's where the beehive hairdo comes in. Originating in the '60s, it was so popular that it carried over into the early '70s.
Named because it does indeed resemble a beehive, particularly from the side, the tress confection involves a bit of backcombing, the power of wrapping and smoothing, and — for the best height — maybe even a foam insert or two.
Singer Andra Day has been known for her cool hair moves almost as much as her voice. She's keen on retro looks and has sported a traditional beehive on more than one red-carpet occasion. The Oscar nominee and Grammy winner goes for the traditional total upsweep, smoothed all the way around and built up high, set off with face-framing tendrils and a full set of bangs. To keep the look modern, she pairs it with glam makeup and contemporary fashion. It's one way to update the style for today's kind of world. There are other takes on the beehive, too, to make it oh-so 2023 ...
The half-up beehive
The original beehive usually involved all your strands swept up, but the '70s were more casual, and the half-up beehive was more in tune with the free spirit vibes. It also looks great today, as Kim Kardashian demonstrates.
To recreate the style, separate a section of hair at the crown of your head, then use a vent brush or wide-tooth comb to gently back-comb the hair at the root, building a "nest" of hair that forms the beehive height. Smooth the top layer of hair over the nest, and gather strands from each side to join the top section, creating a half-upsweep. From the front, you've got great volume; from the side, you've got a great beehive silhouette.
To finish the look, you'll want to style some curtain bangs (also a fave in the '70s) with a center part and a bit of a swoop. You can keep the rest of your locks smooth and straight, or add in a bit of a wave if you want more texture. And, yes — hairspray is a must to hold the look together.
The super-subtle beehive
If you love the idea of a beehive but aren't ready to take the official plunge, you can go with a hint of the hairstyle instead of a full-out, housing-a-swarm-of-bees updo. Blake Lively shows you how it's done, and done really well.
Make it yours by bumping up the height all around the crown. Blake usually favors a side part, and it's a great way to start. Pull locks from each side of the part toward the back of the head; a little back-combing may be needed if your hair is on the finer side, but if you've got a lot of bulk, you may be able to get away with just some basic fluffing. The trick is to wrap the hair around the crown instead of just pulling it straight back, imitating the swoop of a beehive style.
Secure your tresses at the center back of the crown of your head. If you need more volume, use the end of a rattail comb to gently pull hair upward. Finish it all by misting locks with a strong-hold hairspray to keep the height in place.