40 Vintage Inspired Wedding Hairstyles for Short Curly Hair
Short curly hair offers endless possibilities for a timeless and romantic bridal look. If you’re a bride who loves vintage elegance, you’re in for a treat! From 1920s finger waves to 1950s voluminous curls, vintage-inspired hairstyles can enhance your natural curls while adding a touch of classic charm.
Whether you’re dreaming of a Gatsby-style updo, soft retro waves, or pin-up curls, these 40 vintage-inspired wedding hairstyles will help you achieve an effortlessly glamorous look for your big day. Get ready to be inspired by styles that celebrate both history and beauty!
1. Finger Waves with Side Part
Finger waves are a timeless 1920s hairstyle that exudes vintage glamour. This look works beautifully on short curly hair by defining soft, structured waves with gel and a comb. Pair it with a side part for a sleek, elegant style that perfectly complements a vintage-inspired wedding dress and accessories.
2. Retro Pin Curls
Pin curls create a soft, romantic vibe that suits a vintage bridal look. This style involves curling small sections of hair and pinning them in place until they set. Once released, they form perfectly coiled curls. Add a pearl hairpin or vintage brooch to enhance the old-Hollywood charm.
3. Vintage Bob with Deep Waves
A vintage bob with deep waves is a sophisticated hairstyle that never goes out of style. Use a curling iron or rollers to shape defined waves, then brush them out slightly for a soft yet polished effect. This classic 1930s-inspired look pairs well with statement earrings and a delicate headband.
4. Rolled Faux Bob
If your short curly hair is slightly longer, try a rolled faux bob for an elegant vintage touch. Tuck the ends of your curls under and pin them to create the illusion of a structured bob. This style is perfect for brides who love a 1940s-inspired aesthetic with a modern twist.
5. Soft Marcel Waves
Marcel waves add a sleek and structured look to short curly hair, making them ideal for vintage-inspired brides. This technique uses a waving iron to create deep, uniform waves. The result is a glossy, polished finish that complements lace dresses, pearl necklaces, and classic red lips.
6. Victory Rolls with Curls
Victory rolls bring a fun 1940s feel to your bridal look while keeping your natural curls intact. This style involves rolling sections of hair towards the scalp to form structured loops. Leave the rest of your curls natural or pin them in place for a retro-chic finish.
7. Classic 1950s Curls
Inspired by Hollywood icons like Marilyn Monroe, classic 1950s curls add volume and movement to short curly hair. Use a curling iron to create tight curls, then brush them out slightly for a soft, glamorous effect. This look pairs beautifully with a sweetheart neckline wedding dress.
8. French Twist with Curls
A vintage French twist is a perfect updo for short curly hair. This hairstyle involves twisting the hair at the back and securing it with pins, while letting a few loose curls frame the face. It’s an elegant and refined choice for brides who want a sophisticated vintage look.
9. 1920s Curly Bob with Side Accessories
The 1920s curly bob is all about soft, voluminous curls with a defined side part. Add a decorative comb, jeweled hairpin, or a feathered accessory for an extra dose of vintage charm. This style works exceptionally well for Gatsby-themed weddings.
10. Half-Up Retro Curls
For a balance between up and down styles, try a half-up retro curls look. Gather the top section of your curls and secure it with a small clip or a vintage-inspired barrette. Leave the rest of your curls free for a romantic, effortless finish.
11. Flapper-Inspired Short Curls
The flapper hairstyle is a signature look of the roaring twenties. Create defined, tight curls all over and use a stylish headband or beaded accessory to complete the look. This style is perfect for brides who love the elegance of the Jazz Age.
12. Side-Swept Curly Bob
A side-swept curly bob is a simple yet sophisticated option for brides who want a classic vintage feel. Use a deep side part and sweep your curls to one side, securing them with pins. Add a vintage hairpiece or brooch for an extra touch of old-Hollywood glamour.
13. Finger Wave Updo with Curls
For a unique vintage bridal look, combine finger waves with a curly updo. The front section of hair is styled into classic finger waves, while the back is left in soft curls. This elegant style is ideal for brides who love 1920s and 1930s-inspired aesthetics.
14. Twisted Crown with Curls
A twisted crown is an elegant way to showcase vintage elegance while embracing your natural curls. Simply twist small sections of hair along the hairline and secure them at the back. Let the rest of your curls flow freely to create a regal and romantic look.
15. Vintage Pixie with Finger Waves
If you have a pixie cut, add a vintage twist with defined finger waves. Use styling mousse and a comb to create soft, sculpted waves on the top of your head. This chic, timeless style is perfect for brides who love a sophisticated yet effortless look.
16. Retro Bouffant with Curls
A retro bouffant adds volume to short curly hair while keeping it polished. Backcomb the crown section to create height, then smooth the top layer and secure it in place. Let the rest of your curls remain natural for a voluminous, vintage-chic appearance.
17. Side-Pinned Soft Curls
For a simple yet elegant vintage look, pin one side of your curls behind the ear while letting the other side cascade naturally. This asymmetrical style exudes a soft, romantic vibe and looks stunning with vintage-inspired earrings and a lace wedding dress.
18. 1940s Roll-Up Hairstyle
The roll-up hairstyle is a stunning 1940s-inspired look that adds instant glamour to short curly hair. Sections of hair are rolled upwards and pinned to create a structured yet soft style. This look pairs beautifully with vintage veils and bold red lipstick.
19. Hollywood Glam Waves
Hollywood glam waves create a luxurious and refined bridal look. Defined, glossy waves frame the face beautifully and add an air of sophistication. This classic style is perfect for brides who love vintage glamour and want a polished, red-carpet-inspired look.
20. Retro Pompadour with Curls
A retro pompadour adds volume and elegance to short curly hair. The top section is teased and rolled back, while the remaining curls add softness to the overall look. This vintage style works wonderfully with bold makeup and statement accessories.
21. Chic Vintage Headband Look
Pairing your short curls with a vintage headband is a simple yet stylish way to elevate your bridal look. Choose a bejeweled, lace, or pearl headband that complements your dress. This effortless hairstyle exudes old-Hollywood charm and is perfect for brides who want a fuss-free yet elegant look.
22. Curly Faux Hawk with Vintage Flair
A curly faux hawk adds an edgy yet vintage-inspired touch to your wedding look. The sides are pinned back, allowing the curls in the centre to form soft, voluminous waves. This style beautifully showcases short curly hair while adding height and structure, making it a bold and sophisticated bridal choice.
23. Tucked Vintage Bob with Curls
A tucked vintage bob is perfect for short curly-haired brides who want a structured, elegant look. The curls are loosely gathered at the nape and pinned under to create a faux bob effect. Add a sparkling hairpin or pearl accessory to enhance the vintage charm of this classic wedding hairstyle.
24. Twisted Retro Side Bun
A twisted retro side bun is an elegant choice for vintage-loving brides. Gather and twist sections of your curls into a low side bun, securing them with decorative pins. The softness of the curls combined with the structured twist creates a timeless, graceful bridal hairstyle with a hint of 1920s sophistication.
25. The Gibson Tuck for Short Hair
The Gibson tuck is a vintage hairstyle that exudes class and refinement. Although traditionally done on longer hair, it can be adapted for short curly hair by tucking the curls into a low roll at the nape of the neck. This regal updo is perfect for a vintage-themed wedding look.
26. Retro Chignon with Curls
A retro chignon is a polished and sophisticated option for short curly-haired brides. Gather the curls into a low, structured bun at the nape, leaving a few soft tendrils framing the face. This hairstyle pairs beautifully with vintage-inspired wedding dresses, lace veils, and pearl or crystal hair accessories.
27. Old Hollywood Side Part with Defined Waves
This look is all about deep, structured waves cascading down one side. To achieve this vintage Hollywood effect, define your curls with a curling iron and brush them out slightly for a smooth finish. Secure one side with a statement hairpiece for an effortlessly glamorous bridal style that oozes sophistication.
28. Messy Vintage Updo with Curls
A messy vintage updo blends relaxed curls with a structured retro aesthetic. Gather and loosely pin your curls into a voluminous updo while allowing a few soft tendrils to fall around the face. This effortless yet elegant style is perfect for brides who want a natural, romantic vintage look.
29. 1930s Finger Wave Bob with Volume
The 1930s finger wave bob is all about sculpted, voluminous curls. Use a waving iron to create deep, structured waves, then gently shape them with your fingers for a soft, yet defined look. Pair this style with a vintage headpiece or a delicate birdcage veil for a classic bridal feel.
30. Voluminous Curly Updo with Vintage Headpiece
For a truly regal bridal look, opt for a voluminous curly updo paired with a vintage headpiece. Pile your curls high and pin them in place, then add an ornate hair accessory for extra charm. This hairstyle works beautifully with Art Deco-themed weddings and lace or beaded bridal gowns.
31. Faux Bob with Soft Vintage Curls
If you want a bob-style wedding look without cutting your hair, a faux bob is the perfect solution. Pin up the ends of your curls and create a tucked-under effect that mimics a bob. This vintage-inspired style pairs well with 1920s and 1930s wedding gowns for a refined bridal look.
32. Pinned Back Retro Waves
For a soft and feminine wedding look, try pinned-back retro waves. This style involves defining your curls into soft waves, then pinning back small sections on each side with decorative clips. The result is an effortlessly elegant, vintage-inspired bridal hairstyle that works beautifully with veils or hair accessories.
33. Soft Curly Bouffant with Side Part
A curly bouffant adds instant vintage glamour to short hair. Tease the crown for height and volume, then shape your curls into a soft yet structured form. A deep side part and delicate hairpin complete the look, making it a stunning choice for brides who love retro elegance.
34. Classic Victory Rolls with Modern Touch
Victory rolls are a staple of 1940s fashion and make a stunning bridal hairstyle. This style involves rolling sections of hair towards the scalp to form elegant, structured loops. For a modern touch, keep the rest of your curls loose, creating a beautiful fusion of vintage and contemporary styling.
35. 1920s Bejeweled Curly Bob
Nothing says vintage glam like a 1920s-inspired bejeweled curly bob. This look embraces natural curls styled with a deep side part and soft waves. To complete the look, add a bejeweled headband or an Art Deco-inspired accessory that instantly elevates your bridal appearance with timeless elegance.
36. Loose Vintage Pin Curls with a Veil
Loose pin curls create a romantic, soft-textured look that complements a vintage bridal style. After curling small sections of hair, let them set before brushing them out slightly for a softer effect. Pair this style with a vintage veil, such as a birdcage or lace-trimmed design, for a dreamy finish.
37. Vintage Side-Swept Curls with Floral Accents
For a nature-inspired vintage look, opt for side-swept curls adorned with floral accents. This style enhances short hair’s natural volume while creating an effortlessly romantic feel. Tuck a few flowers into one side to elevate the look, making it ideal for garden or bohemian vintage weddings.
38. Sleek 1960s Mod-Inspired Waves
Channel the elegance of the 1960s with sleek mod-inspired waves. Use a smoothing serum and a round brush to create soft, uniform waves, then add a statement headband for a retro-chic finish. This polished style is perfect for brides who love vintage sophistication with a touch of contemporary elegance.
39. Romantic Textured Updo with Curls
A textured curly updo is a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern romance. Gently pin your curls into a soft, voluminous updo, leaving a few tendrils loose for a relaxed look. This style works beautifully with lace wedding dresses and vintage pearl accessories for a delicate bridal appearance.
40. Retro-Inspired Pompadour with Soft Curls
A retro pompadour adds instant height and drama to short curly hair. The front section is teased and shaped into a voluminous roll, while the rest of the curls are left soft and natural. This style is ideal for vintage-loving brides who want to make a bold and elegant statement.
Conclusion
Your wedding day is the perfect occasion to embrace vintage glamour while staying true to your personal style. Whether you choose a structured retro updo, a romantic bob with soft waves, or a classic pin curl set, these vintage-inspired hairstyles are designed to make you feel confident and radiant.
Short curly hair has a unique charm, and with the right styling techniques, you can achieve a stunning bridal look that pays tribute to the elegance of past eras. No matter which style you choose, your vintage-inspired wedding hairstyle will add a timeless touch to your special day!
