When we think of feathered hair, we often turn to the decades past. Images of television icon Farrah Fawcett with her classic ‘70s feathered hair spring to mind. But did you know the style is just as popular today as it was then? Though some may want to discredit the cut as dated, feathered hair is still stylish! Celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Selena Gomez have been known to rock the cut in a modern way, while still taking cues from its rich history. Still unsure of this classic hairstyle? Read on to learn more about feathered hair and the many ways you can bring that ‘70s flair into the 21st century.

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What Is a Feather Haircut?

Feathered hairstyles first gained traction during the 1970s and were popular with both women and men. Designed to look almost like a bird’s feathers, giving the style its name, feathered hair is the result of layered hair and features either a side or center part. Actress Farrah Fawcett of Charlie’s Angels fame popularized the look, inspiring women to go to their stylist and ask for the “Farrah-do.”

Feathered hair can work on any type of hair — from straight to curly, short to long. Generally, as long as the cut is a finely textured layered style, it can be considered feathered.

Step Cut vs Layer Cut vs Feather Cut

While there are some similarities between a step cut, layer cut, and feather cut, there are factors that distinguish the three from each other.

A layer cut involves cutting different lengths throughout your hair. This style results in more volume, lighter tresses, and shorter dry time.

As noted, layers are one of the features of a feather haircut. However, it is more than just layered hair. Feathering is a technique hairstylists use to give texture to your hair, shaping the end of your locks. Namely, they hold the scissors at a 90-degree angle against the hair and cut in a V-shape. This creates that feather effect.