Feathered hair
Layered style brushed back to resemble bird feathers
This layered cut became a major trend in the 1970s and early 1980s. It features hair brushed away from the face to create a soft, wing-like shape.
- Popular in the 1970s and early 1980s
- Designed specifically for straight hair types
- Worn by Farrah Fawcett and John Travolta
- Features layers brushed back from the face
- Resembles the appearance of bird feathers
What it is
This style uses layers to create volume and movement. The hair is typically shoulder-length and parted in the centre or to one side. Strands are brushed backwards at the sides, framing the face with a shape that mimics the overlapping structure of bird feathers. It was originally intended for straight textures but can be adapted. Both men and women wore this look during its peak years.
Where it comes from
The cut rose to fame in the early 1970s and remained popular through the early 1980s. It became a defining look of that era, worn by many public figures. Farrah Fawcett is often associated with the style, alongside actor Jeff Conaway and figure skater Dorothy Hamill. Other notable wearers included John Travolta, Rob Lowe, and Diana, Princess of Wales, helping to cement its status in pop culture history.
How it is made
To achieve this look, the hair is cut into layers. A parting is created, either down the middle or to the side. The key step involves brushing the hair at the sides away from the face. This technique lifts the roots and directs the ends backward, creating the signature feathered effect. The result is a soft, swept-back appearance that highlights the facial features.
Who and what it suits
It works best on lengths that reach the shoulders, allowing enough weight for the layers to fall correctly. While specific face shapes are not detailed in the records, the side-swept nature helps frame the face. It requires hair that can hold a brushed-back position without falling flat immediately.
In culture
This hairstyle is deeply tied to the aesthetic of the 1970s and early 1980s. It appeared frequently in media and on celebrities of the time. Its association with stars like Farrah Fawcett and John Travolta made it a widespread fashion choice. The look represents a specific moment in grooming history where layered, voluminous styles dominated mainstream trends.
Questions people ask about Feathered hair
What hair type is best for feathered hair?
The style was originally designed for straight hair. This texture allows the layers to brush back smoothly and maintain the feathered shape without excessive frizz or curl interference.
Who made feathered hair famous?
Many celebrities wore this style, including Farrah Fawcett, Jeff Conaway, Dorothy Hamill, John Travolta, Rob Lowe, and Diana, Princess of Wales. Their visibility helped drive its phenomenal popularity.
How is the feathered look created?
The hair is layered and parted in the centre or to the side. It is then brushed back at the sides to create a volume that resembles bird feathers, framing the face softly.
Good reading and sources
- Feathered hair on WikipediaEncyclopedia
- More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
- Wikidata recordOpen data
The facts on this page come from the Wikipedia article "Feathered hair", written by its contributors and used under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). EveryHairstyle rewrote the text in its own words, with AI assistance, and compares every page with the article to make sure no passage is copied. It may be reused under the same CC BY-SA 4.0 licence with a link back.
It may contain mistakes, and figures change over time. Nothing here is investment or buying advice. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-11-15.
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