Explore 35 stunning vintage hairstyles that capture the elegance and charm of past decades. From curly bobs to classic updos, these ideas cater to all hair lengths and occasions. Whether you’re aiming for a retro look for a party or want an easy hairstyle with a nostalgic twist, these styles offer inspiration for every face shape and hair type.
The Classic Beehive
Exuding elegance and boldness, the classic beehive is one of the most iconic vintage hairstyles of the 1960s. This updo is characterized by its voluminous, towering shape, making it an excellent choice for formal events or retro-themed parties. 
Women with medium length to long hair can achieve this look, and it suits oval and heart-shaped faces beautifully. For those with hazel or dark eyes, the beehive enhances the depth of the gaze, adding a dramatic flair to any ensemble. Its nostalgic charm paired with modern accessories creates an unforgettable statement.
Creating a beehive requires patience and the right tools. Start by sectioning the hair and backcombing to create volume, then carefully pin the teased sections into a bun shape at the crown. Secure with bobby pins and spritz with a strong-hold hairspray, such as L’Oréal Elnett Satin. To maintain the style, sleep with a silk scarf to keep flyaways at bay.
1950s Curly Bob
The 1950s curly bob is a classic hairstyle that embodies femininity and charm. This look features soft, bouncy curls that frame the face, making it perfect for both casual daytime outings and more sophisticated evening events. This style works well for short hair and complements round and square face shapes. Light eyes, such as blue or green, will sparkle against this curly hair look. The vintage aesthetic of the 1950s curly bob is both timeless and cute, adding a playful touch to any outfit.
To achieve this hairstyle, start by using a curling iron with a 1-inch barrel to create tight curls. Brush them out gently to add volume, and set the look with a flexible-hold hairspray. A curl-enhancing mousse like the Moroccanoil Curl Control Mousse can help define and maintain the style throughout the day.
Victory Rolls
Victory rolls are synonymous with 1940s hairstyles, epitomizing the era’s blend of glamour and practicality. This updo features rolled sections of hair pinned on the top or sides of the head, perfect for weddings, vintage-themed parties, or special occasions. Best suited for long hair or medium length hair, victory rolls can complement any face shape, but they truly shine on heart-shaped or diamond faces. Dark or chestnut-colored hair enhances the structure and elegance of this style.
To create victory rolls, part the hair and take two sections from the front. Roll each section inward or outward, securing with bobby pins. Use a comb for teasing, and finish with a setting spray like Kenra Volume Spray for lasting hold. Maintain the look with a lightweight, moisturizing serum to prevent frizz.
The Retro Pixie Cut
This short and daring hairstyle became popular in the late 1950s and continues to be a chic, modern choice. The pixie cut offers a sleek, minimalistic look that highlights facial features and pairs well with bold makeup. It suits oval and heart-shaped faces and can be an excellent way to draw attention to striking eyes of any color. The style is especially cute and aesthetic when combined with accessories like headbands or clips.
To style a retro pixie, use a pomade or styling cream like Bumble and Bumble Sumotech for definition. Maintain this short hair look by visiting a stylist every 4-6 weeks for trims. For added volume, blow-dry with a round brush, focusing on the crown.
Hollywood Waves
Hollywood waves are a classic symbol of 1940s and 1950s movie star glamor. These deep, shiny waves cascade down the shoulders, making them ideal for formal events, galas, or any occasion where elegance is key. This look is perfect for long hair or medium length hair, especially for those with oval or rectangular face shapes. The shine of these waves enhances brown or dark hair tones beautifully.
To create Hollywood waves, use a 1.5-inch curling iron to form uniform curls. Brush through gently to create waves and set with a shine spray such as Oribe’s Superfine Hairspray. To maintain this long hair style, use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner for lasting luster.
The Flipped Bob
Channeling the playful vibes of the 1960s, the flipped bob is perfect for those with shoulder length hair looking for a fun twist. The hair is flipped outward at the ends, creating a lively, youthful appearance. Ideal for round or square face shapes, this look is versatile and works well for both casual and semi-formal events. It pairs wonderfully with cat-eye makeup and bold lip colors.
To achieve the flipped bob, use a flat iron to flip the ends of your haircut outward. Lock the flip in place with a heat protectant spray followed by a light hold hairspray. A volumizing shampoo like OGX Biotin & Collagen helps give body to the hair, keeping the flip vibrant.
The Curtain Bangs Updo
Combining retro flair with modern aesthetics, the updo with curtain bangs creates an effortless, stylish look that works for weddings or dinner parties. This hairstyle highlights the eyes and cheekbones, making it ideal for oval and heart-shaped faces. When paired with natural, glowing makeup, this style is perfect for adding a touch of understated elegance.
To style, section the front for curtain bangs and pull the rest into a loose bun at the nape. Use bobby pins and a texture spray like Amika Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray for hold. For maintenance, a weekly deep conditioning treatment helps retain the softness of the bangs.
The Afro Puff
The Afro puff is a proud nod to natural hair and an embodiment of the 1960s and 1970s style. This look is vibrant and full of volume, making it perfect for casual outings or art events. The Afro puff suits round and oval face shapes and can complement any eye color. Its natural and bold appearance embodies both strength and playfulness.
Start by detangling the hair and gathering it into a high puff secured with a hair tie. Use a moisturizing gel like Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel for hold and shine. Maintain the puff with daily spritzes of a leave-in conditioner.
Bouffant Half-Up, Half-Down
A half up half down bouffant is a signature look from the 1960s, combining volume with an easy, romantic vibe. This style suits medium to long hair and works well for special occasions like date nights or vintage parties. The bouffant adds height, making it ideal for round and heart-shaped faces.
Tease the crown of your hair to create volume and secure the top half with bobby pins. Curl the remaining length with a curling iron and set with a strong-hold spray. Use a volumizing powder like Big Sexy Hair Powder Play to keep the bouffant lifted throughout the day.
Vintage French Braid
A French braid is a timeless hairstyle that channels elegance and practicality. Ideal for medium to long hair, it suits a variety of events from brunches to office days. The braid is versatile and pairs well with any hair color or texture, highlighting oval and square face shapes.
Begin by parting the hair and creating a three-strand braid, incorporating more hair as you move down. Secure with a clear elastic and finish with a light hairspray. To keep the look fresh, use a dry shampoo like Batiste Dry Shampoo between washes.
The Poodle Cut
A quintessential 1950s look, the poodle cut embodies playful curls that frame the face in a halo-like fashion. This hairstyle is perfect for short hair and best suits heart and oval face shapes. Ideal for women looking to add volume and character, it pairs beautifully with bold lip colors and cat-eye makeup. The style accentuates light and bright eye colors, making it a go-to for vintage lovers looking to channel classic glamour.
To achieve this look, use a small curling iron to create tight curls all around. Shape and fluff the curls with your fingers, then set the style with a firm-hold hairspray. Regular conditioning treatments will help maintain the softness and bounce of the curls.
The Pageboy
The pageboy haircut is a timeless choice for those looking to capture the polished style of the 1940s and 1950s. Characterized by its sleek, straight hair with curled under ends, it’s perfect for medium length hair. This style suits oval and rectangular face shapes and can highlight dark or dramatic eye makeup. The pageboy is both practical and elegant, making it a great choice for professional settings and vintage-themed gatherings.
Create this style by blow-drying the hair straight and using a round brush to curl the ends inward. Finish with a lightweight serum to add shine and reduce flyaways. Regular trims will keep the ends neat and prevent fraying.
The Classic Chignon
A sophisticated updo, the classic chignon has been a staple in elegant fashion since the 1920s. It’s a versatile style that works for both formal occasions and casual events. Suitable for medium length to long hair, the chignon adds a touch of refinement and pairs well with pearl accessories. Oval and heart-shaped faces benefit the most from this timeless look.
To create a chignon, gather the hair at the nape of the neck, twist it into a low bun, and secure it with bobby pins. A touch of smoothing serum ensures a frizz-free finish. Keep the chignon fresh by applying a dry oil mist for added shine.
The Marcel Wave
The Marcel wave is a classic from the 1920s that continues to inspire with its structured and glossy appearance. This style is perfect for adding vintage elegance to short or medium length hair and suits oval and square face shapes. With its defined, S-shaped waves, the Marcel wave is ideal for formal events and pairs beautifully with jewel-toned dresses and vintage accessories.
To achieve the Marcel wave, use a curling iron and a comb to create structured waves. Secure each wave with clips and set with a strong-hold hairspray. For added shine, use a high-gloss hair spray or serum.
The Bubble Flip
A nod to the 1960s, the bubble flip is a playful, voluminous style perfect for shoulder length hair. The ends are flipped outward, creating a bubbly effect that works well for casual outings and retro-themed parties. This look suits round and square face shapes and pairs well with winged eyeliner and pastel-colored outfits.
To style, use a blow dryer and a round brush to flip the ends outward. Finish with a medium-hold hairspray to lock the shape in place. Use a volumizing mousse beforehand to give extra lift and body.
The Gibson Girl Updo
This elegant updo is inspired by the late 19th century and early 20th century. The Gibson Girl updo features soft, voluminous twists and is ideal for formal events or vintage photoshoots. It complements oval and heart-shaped faces and pairs well with delicate jewelry and soft, neutral makeup.
To create this style, gather the hair into a loose twist at the back and pin it securely. Use a teasing comb to add volume at the crown. Set with a light mist of hairspray to maintain the look without stiffness.
The Faux Bob
The faux bob is perfect for those who want to experiment with a short hair look without committing to a cut. This style channels 1920s glam with its tucked-under curls, making it perfect for vintage parties and formal occasions. The faux bob suits all face shapes and adds a touch of old Hollywood elegance.
To achieve this style, curl the ends of your hair and pin them under to create the illusion of a bob. Secure with bobby pins and set with a firm-hold hairspray. A smoothing serum can be applied for extra shine.
The Roll and Tuck
A simple yet elegant style, the roll and tuck is reminiscent of 1940s practicality. This hairstyle involves rolling the hair back and tucking it at the nape for a neat finish. It’s ideal for medium to long hair and suits oval and diamond face shapes. Perfect for office settings and vintage-themed gatherings, the roll and tuck provides a polished appearance.
To style, roll sections of the hair back and secure them with bobby pins at the nape. Finish with a shine-enhancing hairspray for a smooth, glossy look.
The Edwardian Braided Crown
The braided crown from the Edwardian era is a romantic and intricate style perfect for special occasions. This hairstyle involves braiding sections of the hair and wrapping them around the head to create a crown effect. It suits long and medium length hair and pairs beautifully with floral accessories and vintage-inspired gowns.
Start by parting the hair in the middle and braiding two sections on each side. Wrap the braids over the head and secure with pins. Finish with a setting spray to keep everything in place.
The Wet Set Curls
A throwback to 1950s glamour, wet set curls offer a structured, bouncy curly look that’s perfect for formal events and photoshoots. This style suits short to medium length hair and enhances oval and heart-shaped faces. With its defined curls and high shine, it pairs wonderfully with red lipstick and vintage dresses.
To achieve wet set curls, use foam rollers on damp hair and let it dry naturally or with a hooded dryer. Remove the rollers and gently separate the curls with your fingers. Finish with a setting spray for lasting hold and shine.
These 35 vintage hairstyles bring timeless charm and versatility to any occasion. Whether you’re channeling the elegance of a classic updo, the playful appeal of curly bobs, or the sophistication of medium length and short hair styles, each look celebrates the best of retro beauty. Experimenting with these hairstyles can transform your look, adding an aesthetic and nostalgic touch that remains stylish and relevant. Share your experiences with these vintage hairstyles and enjoy embracing a piece of history in your everyday life.
