22 Vintage Hairstyles to Bring Back the Golden Era
Step back in time with these 22 vintage hairstyles that capture the timeless charm of the golden era. Whether you’re channeling Old Hollywood glamour or classic 60s mod vibes, these looks are perfect for adding elegance to any occasion.
At Hairstyle Inspirations, we’ve gathered the most iconic styles that never go out of fashion. From pin curls to victory rolls, these vintage hairstyles are a nod to the past with a modern twist that works beautifully today.
1. Victory Rolls
Victory rolls are a signature look from the 1940s that instantly add vintage flair. With their voluminous, rolled sections near the front of the hairline, they create a bold and elegant silhouette. This hairstyle is perfect for themed parties or anyone wanting to bring back that classic wartime glamour effortlessly.
2. Finger Waves
Finger waves give a sleek, sculpted look that defines 1920s sophistication. This style works best on short to medium-length hair and pairs beautifully with flapper-inspired fashion. Achieved by shaping wet hair into waves with fingers and a comb, it’s ideal for formal events or vintage-inspired photoshoots with dramatic flair.
3. Beehive Updo
The beehive hairstyle made waves in the 1960s with its towering, teased crown and elegant structure. It’s a perfect choice for vintage lovers seeking dramatic height and class. Pair it with a retro dress and bold eyeliner for a full throwback effect that screams confidence and timeless sophistication.
4. Marilyn Monroe Curls
Channel the ultimate blonde bombshell with voluminous, soft curls inspired by Marilyn Monroe. These shoulder-length curls frame the face beautifully and bring a sultry, glamorous touch to any outfit. Ideal for romantic evenings or vintage photoshoots, this style radiates classic Hollywood allure and feminine charm.
5. Gibson Tuck
The Gibson tuck is a refined updo that dates back to the Edwardian era. This style involves tucking hair into a roll at the nape of the neck, creating a soft, romantic silhouette. It’s elegant enough for weddings and formal events, offering a subtle nod to timeless beauty and grace.
6. Bettie Page Bangs
Bettie Page bangs are a bold and playful choice that instantly transforms any hairstyle into a vintage masterpiece. These short, blunt bangs curve slightly inward and are often paired with pin-up curls or ponytails. They bring a rebellious yet feminine edge that defined 1950s rockabilly fashion perfectly.
7. 60s Bouffant Hair
The 60s bouffant is all about volume and drama, with hair teased high at the crown and smoothed over for a polished look. Often finished with a hairband or ribbon, this style exudes confidence and charm. It’s a fabulous choice for parties or vintage-themed gatherings that call for bold elegance.
8. Classic French Twist
A French twist is a timeless updo popularized in the 1950s and 60s. This sophisticated hairstyle rolls the hair upwards and pins it into a sleek, vertical chignon. It’s perfect for weddings, galas, or elegant evenings out, offering a neat and graceful vintage appearance that never goes out of style.
9. Flapper Bob
The flapper bob embodies the roaring 20s spirit with its short, straight cut and often blunt fringe. It’s a daring yet chic option that symbolizes freedom and modernity. Paired with dramatic eye makeup and bold lips, this hairstyle brings a full vintage transformation rooted in female empowerment and fashion evolution.
10. Pompadour Style
The pompadour, popular in the 1940s and later revived by rockabilly culture, features a voluminous front section styled upward and back. It suits both men and women and can be paired with curls, rolls, or a slicked-back finish. This bold and dramatic look adds retro power to any appearance.
11. Pageboy Cut
The pageboy cut is a structured yet feminine style featuring straight hair that curves under at the ends, often with short bangs. Common in the 1950s, it adds a neat, retro touch. This hairstyle is perfect for women who love polished looks with a nod to classic, minimalist vintage fashion.
12. Poodle Cut
The poodle cut, famously worn by Lucille Ball, showcases tight curls piled high on the head. This playful and fun vintage style adds bounce and energy, especially for women with naturally curly hair. It brings a cheerful, retro vibe that’s great for daytime wear or themed costume parties.
13. Rolled Bangs
Rolled bangs are a charming detail from 1940s hairstyles that add volume and softness around the face. These bangs are rolled outward and pinned into place, creating a gentle curl above the forehead. Often paired with pinned-up styles or victory rolls, they add a touch of vintage sophistication and femininity.
14. Veronica Lake Waves
Veronica Lake’s side-swept waves are the epitome of Old Hollywood glamour. This style features long, flowing hair with deep, sultry waves cascading over one eye. It’s an iconic look that’s perfect for evening events, red carpet glamour, or romantic nights when you want a timeless and dramatic hairstyle.
15. Retro High Ponytail
A retro high ponytail combines youthful energy with vintage flair. Pulled high and sleek on the crown with curled ends or a wrapped base, it was a 1960s favorite. Perfect for casual outings or dance parties, this look adds bounce, playfulness, and a strong throwback feel with minimal effort.
16. Curled Bob
The curled bob adds softness and volume to the traditional 1920s bob cut. With the ends curled inward or outward and hair parted to the side, it creates a romantic, vintage effect. This style suits formal and semi-formal occasions, offering a sweet balance of sophistication and retro charm.
17. Chignon with Hair Scarf
A classic chignon paired with a hair scarf gives off vintage 1950s vibes effortlessly. Whether you tie a printed scarf into a bow or knot it around the bun, this style adds flair. It’s perfect for everyday elegance or themed gatherings, offering a playful and chic retro statement.
18. Pin-Up Swirls
Pin-up swirls are sculpted, rolled sections of hair that sit flat or raised on the scalp, often combined with waves or curls. This hairstyle is bold, artistic, and full of personality. Popular in the 1940s and 50s, pin-up swirls give a dramatic look for photo shoots or vintage fashion events.
19. Old Hollywood Updo
An Old Hollywood updo merges glamour and grace. This voluminous style often involves side-swept curls, pinned sections, and a polished finish. It’s an ideal hairstyle for formal evenings, bridal looks, or vintage galas, giving a starlet-worthy aura that turns heads and pays homage to silver screen beauty.
20. 40s Side Roll
The 40s side roll features a large, sculpted curl on one or both sides of the head, usually paired with waves or an updo. It adds structure and drama while keeping hair off the face. This iconic detail showcases wartime style elegance and suits both casual and formal vintage attire.
21. The Faux Bob
The faux bob creates the illusion of short hair without cutting it. By tucking longer strands under and pinning them at the nape, you can mimic a 1920s bob style. This trick is perfect for those wanting a vintage vibe for one night without committing to a permanent haircut.
22. Retro Roller Set
A roller set uses vintage hair rollers to set curls and volume. Once the rollers are removed, the hair is brushed into soft, controlled waves or bouncy curls. This method was a beauty routine staple in the 40s and 50s and delivers that authentic, polished vintage look we still adore today.
Conclusion
These 22 vintage hairstyles prove that timeless beauty never fades. Whether you’re dressing up for a special event or just love a touch of retro in your everyday look, these styles bring back the elegance and confidence of the golden era. Keep exploring with Hairstyle Inspirations for more classic ideas that celebrate the beauty of every decade.
