25 Vintage Hairstyles That Never Go Out of Style
Vintage hairstyles have a charm that transcends time. Whether it’s the roaring 1920s or the glamorous 1960s, each era brought iconic styles that reflected the fashion, culture, and spirit of the times. These classic looks continue to inspire today’s fashionistas, hair stylists, and retro enthusiasts. From everyday wear to special occasions, vintage hairstyles offer an opportunity to express your personality through timeless beauty. Here’s a comprehensive look at 20 vintage hairstyles that have stood the test of time and still turn heads today.
1. Victory Rolls
Victory rolls were a defining hairstyle of the 1940s, symbolizing both patriotism and femininity during World War II. The style involves rolling sections of hair inward toward the scalp, usually on the top or sides of the head. It’s a bold, sculptural look that adds volume and drama. Women often paired victory rolls with red lipstick and tailored outfits for a powerful yet feminine appearance. While the original look required meticulous styling and setting, modern adaptations make use of curling irons and hairspray for a quicker version.
2. Finger Waves
Originating in the 1920s and carried into the 1930s, finger waves offer a sleek, sculpted wave pattern achieved through manually shaping the hair into “S” shapes while wet, using fingers and a comb. It was a go-to style for flappers and Hollywood actresses alike. Finger waves exude vintage glamour and pair beautifully with short bob cuts or elegant updos. The process may take patience, but the payoff is a sophisticated, glossy finish perfect for formal events or retro-themed looks.
3. Beehive
The beehive was born in the early 1960s and became synonymous with mod fashion and girl group singers like The Ronettes. This towering hairstyle is created by backcombing or teasing the hair at the crown, shaping it into a dome, and securing it with pins and hairspray. The beehive is dramatic, eye-catching, and instantly evokes a sense of vintage sass. It can be worn as a full updo or modified into a half-up style for a softer appearance.
4. Gibson Tuck
Named after the Gibson Girl illustrations of the early 1900s, this elegant style reflects the Edwardian ideal of grace and poise. The Gibson tuck involves rolling the hair upward into a neat, soft bun at the nape of the neck. It’s a versatile look suitable for both casual daytime wear and formal evenings. With the right accessories—such as pearl pins or a vintage comb—it transforms into a romantic bridal style or classic dinner party look.
5. Marilyn Monroe Curls
Inspired by the legendary Hollywood actress, this hairstyle features voluminous, softly brushed curls that frame the face with flirtatious bounce. Often paired with platinum blonde tones and red lips, these curls exude confidence and sex appeal. Achieving the look requires hot rollers or a large-barrel curling iron, followed by gentle brushing to create the soft waves. Marilyn Monroe’s iconic look remains one of the most replicated hairstyles in vintage fashion.
6. Bettie Page Bangs
This bold look features sharply cut, blunt bangs that fall mid-forehead, typically paired with long, dark hair styled in retro waves or curls. Bettie Page, the 1950s pin-up queen, popularized this edgy hairstyle that has since become a favorite in rockabilly and alternative vintage circles. It’s a great choice for those wanting to make a statement and add a playful twist to a traditional style.
7. The Pompadour
The pompadour, originally popularized by Madame de Pompadour in the 18th century, made a comeback in the 1940s and 50s as a bold style for both men and women. The female version often involved rolling the front section of the hair into a large poof while the rest was styled in curls or pinned back. It’s ideal for those who want height and drama, and it works well with various hair lengths and textures.
8. Pageboy Cut
The pageboy cut was a sleek and refined style that gained popularity in the 1940s and 50s. Characterized by a straight, chin-length bob with blunt edges and sometimes curled under ends, this style offered a tidy, youthful appearance. It was easy to maintain and ideal for women entering the workforce or seeking a polished, intellectual look. Today, the pageboy can be given a modern twist with highlights or asymmetry.
9. Flapper Bob
The quintessential 1920s hairstyle, the flapper bob symbolized rebellion, independence, and modern femininity. Usually cut straight at the jaw with or without bangs, it was often styled with finger waves or adorned with jeweled headbands and feathers. The flapper bob was more than a haircut—it was a cultural statement that broke away from Victorian traditions and embraced the spirit of the Jazz Age.
10. The Bouffant
This voluminous style was the height of fashion in the 1960s and was worn by icons like Jackie Kennedy and Dusty Springfield. The bouffant is created by heavily teasing the crown and smoothing the top layer of hair to give it a rounded, balloon-like shape. It’s often finished with curls or a hair flip at the ends. While it takes some effort and hairspray to maintain, the bouffant remains a glamorous choice for formal events or retro photoshoots.
11. Poodle Cut
The poodle cut was a signature look of the 1950s, especially popular among teen idols and celebrities like Lucille Ball. It featured short, tight curls all over the head, giving a soft and fluffy appearance reminiscent of a poodle’s coat. This fun and feminine style worked best with naturally curly hair but could also be achieved using small rollers or a perm. It’s playful, practical, and undeniably vintage.
12. Chignon
A timeless updo with origins in ancient Greece and Rome, the chignon became especially popular in the 1940s as an elegant way to style long hair. Typically worn low at the nape of the neck, the chignon can be sleek or softly twisted, depending on the occasion. It’s a go-to for weddings, galas, or any event where sophistication is key. Add vintage pins or veils for a period-perfect touch.
13. Veronica Lake Waves
Named after the sultry 1940s actress, this hairstyle features cascading, glossy waves brushed over one eye for a dramatic and mysterious effect. Veronica Lake’s look captured the imagination of a generation and became a symbol of Hollywood elegance. Achieving it involves creating deep waves with hot rollers or a curling iron, then brushing through them to blend. It pairs beautifully with evening gowns and red lips.
14. Brigitte Bardot Half-Updo
Inspired by the French actress and model, this 1960s style embodies carefree glamour. The top section of the hair is teased and pinned back, while the rest falls in loose waves. Often worn with curtain bangs, it frames the face beautifully. This look is effortlessly romantic and suits casual brunches as much as romantic dinners.
15. Pin Curls
Pin curls were a daily ritual for women in the 1930s to 1950s. Created by coiling small sections of damp hair and pinning them flat against the scalp, they could be worn overnight for next-day curls or set for a few hours for quick styling. Pin curls were the foundation of many vintage looks, from bombshell curls to brushed waves. They’re versatile, timeless, and work well with or without heat.
16. The Rachel
Although it debuted in the 1990s, The Rachel has vintage appeal thanks to its iconic status. Made famous by Jennifer Aniston’s character on Friends, it features choppy layers, volume, and face-framing pieces that add bounce and body. While not technically from the “vintage” decades, it has earned its place in the retro-inspired hall of fame.
17. The Marcel Wave
Similar to finger waves but done with heated curling irons, the Marcel wave was developed in the early 20th century and became a salon staple by the 1920s. This technique allowed for longer-lasting, more defined waves than finger setting alone. Often used for formal occasions or screen sirens, Marcel waves require precision and heat styling but deliver a sculpted, polished finish.
18. Rosie the Riveter Bandana Look
A practical yet empowering hairstyle from the 1940s, this look features hair pinned up in curls or rolls and secured with a brightly colored bandana or headscarf tied at the front. It became an emblem of working women during WWII, especially those in factories and shipyards. Today, it remains a symbol of feminism, strength, and vintage style with attitude.
19. Soft 70s Waves
These loose, feathered waves became iconic thanks to stars like Farrah Fawcett. The look involves long layers styled with volume and movement, usually flicked away from the face. It’s carefree, sexy, and perfect for anyone who wants a laid-back yet glamorous appearance. Ideal for medium to long hair, soft 70s waves can be styled with a round brush and blow dryer or large curling iron.
20. Hollywood Updo
Perfect for the red carpet or a black-tie event, the Hollywood updo combines elegance with sculptural beauty. Think Grace Kelly or Audrey Hepburn: smooth, pinned buns with carefully placed curls or twists. It often includes vintage accessories like combs or rhinestone clips. This sophisticated updo works best with medium to long hair and adds instant grace to any look.
FAQs About Vintage Hairstyles
What hair length is best for vintage styles?
Most vintage hairstyles can be adapted to different lengths, but medium to long hair offers the most versatility for updos and structured curls. Shorter cuts like the bob also have vintage roots and work well with finger waves or pin curls.
Are vintage hairstyles difficult to do on your own?
While some styles take time and practice, many can be learned with the help of online tutorials and the right tools. Techniques like pin curls, victory rolls, and bouffants become much easier with repetition.
Can I wear vintage hairstyles for daily looks?
Yes! Many vintage hairstyles can be toned down for everyday wear. For example, a simple Gibson tuck or soft waves can bring a retro touch to your daily outfit without feeling over-the-top.
Do I need special tools or products?
You may need items like setting lotion, bobby pins, teasing combs, curling irons, and lots of hairspray, depending on the style. Heat tools are helpful, but many vintage looks were originally created without heat.
Are vintage hairstyles suitable for all ages?
Absolutely. Vintage styles are timeless and can be tailored to suit any age. They can be bold or subtle, depending on your comfort and the occasion.
Conclusion
Vintage hairstyles offer more than just nostalgic charm—they represent beauty, empowerment, and self-expression from every era. Whether you’re channeling the daring flappers of the 20s or the glamorous icons of the 60s, there’s a vintage style for every hair type, occasion, and personality. With a little creativity and patience, these timeless looks can bring a touch of classic elegance into your modern-day life.
