The 1920s were a remarkable time that brought a wave of glamour and sophistication to women’s fashion, especially through hairstyles. If you’ve been captivated by the elegance of vintage waves and the chic styles that defined the era, you’re not alone. Many people today crave that vintage charm, blending it with a modern twist for special occasions, everyday wear, or even a night out. This post is a tribute to those stunning hairstyles that have stood the test of time, perfect for anyone looking to channel their inner flapper or Hollywood starlet.
If you’re a lover of all things vintage, fashion-forward, or simply enjoy experimenting with your hair, this guide is tailored for you. Whether you’re attending a gala, a themed party, or just want to try something new, these 1920s hairstyles will serve as your ultimate inspiration. Each look offers a unique flair, allowing you to express your personality while embracing the elegant styles of the past. From classic bobs to glamorous waves, you’ll discover styles that evoke the spirit of the Jazz Age.
In this post, you’ll find 16 fabulous 1920s hair ideas that are glamorous, chic, and totally doable. Expect a blend of classic and innovative looks to help you stand out at any gathering, and tips on how to achieve that perfect vintage wave. Get ready to transform your tresses and step into a world of glamour!
Key Takeaways
– This guide features 16 stunning 1920s hairstyles that blend vintage charm with modern flair, perfect for various occasions.
– Each hairstyle comes with step-by-step tips to help you achieve the look at home, making it accessible for everyone.
– Discover famous styles inspired by celebrities that you can adapt for your personal touch.
– Learn how to style your hair for red carpet events or casual outings, ensuring you look fabulous no matter the setting.
– Embrace the elegance of the 1920s while adding your unique twist, making these hairstyles a fun way to express your creativity.
1. The Classic Bob
The bob is the ultimate hairstyle from the 1920s, capturing the essence of flapper freedom. This stylish cut typically sits at jaw-length, often featuring a fringe that beautifully frames your face. Its bold simplicity speaks volumes, making it a perfect choice for those ready to ditch their long locks for something chic and modern.
The magic of the bob lies in its adaptability. You can wear it sleek and polished for a sophisticated vibe or add soft waves for a more relaxed feel. This cut suits various face shapes and pairs effortlessly with striking makeup, especially bold red lips and defined brows. To keep your bob looking its best:
– Schedule regular trims to maintain its shape.
– Use a smoothing serum to eliminate frizz.
– For waves, a curling wand can create soft, elegant curls.
The bob is more than a hairstyle; it’s a bold declaration of style and independence that remains relevant today.
2. Finger Waves
Finger waves epitomize 1920s glamour, offering a soft, sculpted look that enhances any outfit. This style involves skillfully shaping hair into wave patterns using a comb and gel, creating a sophisticated, artistic appearance cherished by Hollywood starlets.
This timeless look is perfect for a variety of occasions, from elegant galas to intimate dinners. To master finger waves, follow these steps:
– Start with damp hair and generously apply styling gel to hold the waves.
– Use a fine-toothed comb to form the first wave, pushing the hair back, then create a second wave by pushing it forward.
– Secure the waves with hair clips until completely dry.
– After drying, gently take out the clips and finish with a light-hold hairspray.
Finger waves can beautifully complement both short and medium-length hair, offering a versatile option for those inspired by vintage styles.
3. The Shingle Bob
For those wanting to make a daring impression, the shingle bob is a bold twist on the classic bob, featuring stacked layers that create a distinctive silhouette. Made famous by stars like Louise Brooks, this edgy hairstyle continues to inspire modern looks.
The shingle bob is great for both straight and wavy hair. It provides a striking profile and adds volume, making it ideal for fine hair. To achieve this head-turning style:
– Begin with wet hair and apply volumizing mousse.
– Blow-dry with a round brush to lift roots and shape the hair.
– A side part can add an asymmetrical touch, enhancing the modern feel.
Regular trims are essential to keep the layers fresh and defined. Consider adding hair accessories, like headbands or clips, to channel the spirit of the roaring twenties.
4. The Side Part
The side part was a must-have in the 1920s, often paired with various hairstyles like bobs and waves. This simple yet effective technique instantly transforms any look, adding an air of sophistication.
By parting your hair to one side, you create a vintage feel while also lengthening your appearance. It suits all hair lengths and textures, making it a versatile option for anyone wanting to embrace the elegance of the era. To style your hair with a side part:
– Use a fine-toothed comb for an even part.
– Apply a smoothing serum to tame flyaways.
– For a polished finish, add soft waves with a curling wand or flat iron.
Accessorizing can elevate this hairstyle. Think of hairpins, decorative combs, or headbands that reflect the flapper spirit. This is an effortless way to infuse a bit of 1920s glam into your everyday style.
5. The Gatsby Wave
Inspired by the grandeur of ‘The Great Gatsby,’ the Gatsby wave is a signature look that exudes drama and sophistication. This hairstyle features soft, large waves that convey elegance, making it a perfect choice for a night out.
The Gatsby wave can be styled on medium to long hair, suitable for both formal and casual occasions. Here’s how to create this classic look:
– Start with clean, dry hair and apply heat protectant.
– Use a large barrel curling iron to form loose waves, wrapping sections of hair around the barrel.
– Once curled, gently comb through the waves with your fingers for a softer finish.
– Finish off with a strong-hold hairspray to keep everything in place.
This hairstyle pairs beautifully with vintage-inspired outfits and bold accessories, making it a standout choice for red carpet events or themed parties.
How To Choose the Right 1920s Hair Style
Selecting the perfect 1920s hair style can feel overwhelming, especially with so many glamorous options available. These vintage looks can add a touch of elegance and charm to your appearance. Follow this guide to help you choose a style that suits your personality and event.
1. Identify Your Face Shape
Understanding your face shape is the first step in choosing the right 1920s hair style. Common face shapes include oval, round, square, and heart-shaped. For example, oval faces can pull off various styles, while round faces might look better with styles that elongate the face, such as a classic bob with a side part. Knowing your shape will guide your choices significantly.
2. Consider the Length of Your Hair
The length of your hair will play a significant role in selecting a 1920s style. If you have short hair, styles like the classic bob or finger waves work beautifully. For medium lengths, you can experiment with a sleek lob or a vintage updo. Longer hair allows for more versatility, enabling you to try out styles like the Hollywood glam or a retro bun. Keep in mind that some styles require length for added volume and curls.
3. Think About the Occasion
Different events call for different hairstyles. If you’re going to a formal event like a red carpet or a wedding, styles like the Gatsby wave or the vintage pin-up can make a stunning statement. For casual outings, the bohemian wave or the crimped look may be more appropriate. Tailoring your hairstyle to the occasion will ensure you feel comfortable and confident.
4. Use the Right Products
To achieve the glamorous vintage waves of the 1920s, you’ll need the right products. Look for curling irons, hair gel, and mousse that can give your hair the texture and hold it needs. Products like setting spray can help keep your hair in place all day, while a good heat protectant is essential when using styling tools. Experiment with different products to find what works best for your hair type.
5. Get Inspired by Celebrities
Look to your favorite celebrities for inspiration. Many modern stars have adapted 1920s styles for today’s red carpets. You can find countless examples on social media or in magazines. Check how they style their hair and consider how you can replicate that look with your hair type and length. This can help you to visualize and choose the best style for yourself.
6. Consult a Professional Stylist
Visiting a hair stylist experienced in vintage looks can be very helpful. They can provide personalized advice based on your hair type, length, and face shape. A stylist can also create a more customized look by combining elements from different styles, ensuring that your hairstyle will be unique and suited just for you.
Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to practice at home! Try out different styles before your event. This will help you become familiar with the products and techniques needed to achieve the desired look. A little practice goes a long way in ensuring you feel fabulous rocking those glamorous 1920s waves!
6. The Tuck and Roll
The tuck and roll is a unique hairstyle that blends elegance with a playful twist. This distinctive style features hair rolled and tucked under, creating a polished appearance popularized by flapper girls.
To achieve this charming hairstyle:
– Start with straight or slightly wavy hair, creating a sleek base with a flat iron.
– Gather the hair at the nape and form a low bun.
– Roll smaller sections around your fingers and tuck them into the bun, securing with bobby pins.
– For added flair, consider using decorative clips or flowers.
This hairstyle embodies the creative spirit of the 1920s, making it a fantastic choice for any celebration or special event.
7. The Pompadour
The pompadour is an audacious hairstyle that brings height and drama, making it a favorite among 1920s trendsetters. This voluminous look features hair swept back and up, creating a striking silhouette that demands attention.
Whether your hair is short or long, the pompadour can be tailored to suit your style. Here’s how to create this iconic hairstyle:
– Start with clean, dry hair and apply volumizing mousse.
– Blow-dry while using a round brush to lift roots, directing the hair back.
– Secure the back section with bobby pins and spray for extra hold.
Accessorize with a decorative headband or hair comb to modernize this classic style. The pompadour is perfect for formal occasions, showcasing your bold and confident side.
Fun fact: The 1920s hair pompadour can add up to 2 inches of dramatic height at the crown with the right mousse and round brush. It turns casual strands into a bold silhouette that stays put all day. Perfect for modern glam, with vintage vibe.
8. The Vintage Updo
Updos were a quintessential hairstyle of the 1920s, offering a chic and sophisticated option for any event. The vintage updo can be styled in numerous ways, from loose, romantic buns to intricate braided designs.
To create a stunning vintage updo:
– Start with slightly curled hair for added texture.
– Gather the hair at the nape and twist sections, pinning them securely to form an elegant bun.
– For more complex styles, incorporate braids or twists, and embellish with fresh flowers or jeweled pins for an extra touch.
Vintage updos shine at weddings, proms, or glamorous nights out, showcasing timeless elegance and beauty.
9. The Crimped Look
Crimped hair is a playful nod to the roaring twenties, adding a fun twist to your style. This eye-catching look creates a zig-zag pattern in the hair with a crimping iron, giving it a textured and unique appearance.
To achieve this trendy hairstyle:
– Start with clean, dry hair, dividing it into small sections.
– Clamp each section with a crimping iron for a few seconds to define the pattern.
– After crimping, use a light hairspray to maintain the look.
The crimped style is perfect for casual outings, concerts, or festivals, bringing a touch of fun and nostalgia to your ensemble. Pair it with playful accessories and bold makeup for a striking appearance.
Did you know crimped hair boosted texture by 40% during the roaring twenties? A quick pinch with a crimping iron for a few seconds, then a light spray, gives you that vintage zig-zag vibe you can keep all day.
10. The Art Deco Twist
The Art Deco twist combines visual allure with a sophisticated touch, ideal for special occasions. This hairstyle features sleek, twisted sections of hair that can be embellished with pearls or hair cuffs, enhancing its elegance.
To create the Art Deco twist:
– Start with straightened hair, parting it to one side.
– Twist small sections back, securing them with bobby pins to create a swirl effect.
– Continue twisting until all hair is pinned, finishing with accessories that enhance the design.
This hairstyle captures the essence of the 1920s Art Deco movement, pairing beautifully with vintage-inspired outfits, making it a perfect choice for weddings or formal events.
11. The Sleek Lob
The sleek lob (long bob) is a contemporary adaptation of the classic bob, falling just above the shoulders with a polished look. This hairstyle is chic and sophisticated, making it an excellent choice for both casual and formal settings.
To achieve a sleek lob, ensure your hair is healthy and well-kept. Here’s how:
– Start with clean, damp hair and apply a smoothing serum.
– Blow-dry using a round brush for a straight finish.
– For extra shine, use a flat iron to smooth out any bumps.
Top it off with light hairspray to keep your look fresh all day. The sleek lob flatters various face shapes and can be dressed up with headbands or clips for added style.
12. The Hollywood Glam
Hollywood glam hairstyles are all about dramatic flair that commands attention, often featuring deep waves or voluminous curls. This classic look is perfect for anyone wanting to channel the allure of vintage Hollywood starlets.
To recreate this iconic style:
– Start with clean, dry hair and apply a heat protectant.
– Use a curling iron to form large curls, wrapping sections around the barrel.
– Once curled, gently comb through the curls for a softer appearance and finish with strong-hold hairspray.
Pair this glamorous hairstyle with classic red lipstick and bold brows for a timeless look that is perfect for any red carpet event. The Hollywood glam style is an unforgettable way to express your inner diva.
13. The Retro Bun
The retro bun is a versatile hairstyle that provides a chic, polished look reminiscent of the 1920s. This elegant updo can be styled in various forms, from sleek and sophisticated to a relaxed, messy bun.
To create a retro bun:
– Begin with clean, dry hair and apply a styling cream for hold.
– Gather your hair into a high or low ponytail, depending on your preference.
– Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base, securing with bobby pins.
– For a chic touch, let a few wispy strands frame your face.
This hairstyle is perfect for casual outings or formal events, adding timeless charm to your overall look.
14. The Bohemian Wave
The Bohemian wave captures a relaxed, carefree style that reflects the free spirit of the 1920s. This look features loose, beachy waves that exude natural beauty and ease.
To create this effortless hairstyle:
– Start with slightly damp hair, applying sea salt spray for texture.
– Use a curling wand to form loose waves, wrapping sections of hair away from your face.
– After curling, gently tousle the waves with your fingers for a natural finish.
This hairstyle pairs beautifully with floral dresses, flowing fabrics, and bohemian accessories, making it perfect for summer festivals or casual outings.
Fun fact: The 1920s hair era celebrated natural texture. Today you can recreate the Bohemian Wave in under 5 minutes with sea salt spray and a curling wand for that authentic 1920s hair vibe.
15. The Twisted Half-Updo
The twisted half-updo offers a modern take on 1920s hairstyles, blending vintage charm with contemporary styling. This style features twisted sections of hair pulled back while leaving the rest down, resulting in a playful yet elegant look.
To achieve this chic half-updo:
– Start with clean, dry hair and create a side part.
– Take small sections from each side and twist them back, securing with bobby pins at the back.
– Leave the remaining hair down in soft waves or curls for a romantic finish.
This hairstyle is perfect for casual day events or romantic evenings, easily transitioning from day to night with just a few adjustments.
16. The Vintage Pin-Up
Finally, the vintage pin-up hairstyle is an iconic 1920s look defined by perfectly styled curls and waves. This playful, feminine style embodies fun and flirtation, making it perfect for retro-themed parties.
To create this classic pin-up look:
– Start with clean, dry hair and use volumizing mousse for extra body.
– Curl sections of hair using a curling iron, focusing on the ends for added volume.
– Secure the curls in place with bobby pins, allowing some sections to hang loose for a fun touch.
This hairstyle pairs wonderfully with bold makeup, especially winged eyeliner and vibrant lip colors, giving you that classic pin-up vibe that is sure to turn heads.
Conclusion
The 1920s were a transformative time for beauty and fashion, leaving a legacy of hairstyles that continue to inspire us today. From elegant bobs to playful waves, these glamorous looks offer endless possibilities for modern styling.
No matter the occasion, there’s a vintage-inspired hairstyle waiting to elevate your look, embodying the spirit of the roaring twenties while still feeling fresh and contemporary. So why not try one of these stunning 1920s hair ideas at your next event? Bring a little old-school glamour to your life!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most iconic 1920s hair looks that inspired red carpet styles?
Some of the most iconic 1920s hair looks include finger waves, Marcel waves, and the sleek bob with a dramatic side part. These famous styles defined red carpet glamour of the era. To recreate them at home, start with clean, dry hair and apply a heat-protectant setting lotion. Use a 1/2-inch curling iron to form tight waves, or set with damp pin curls for longer wear. Pin the waves, let cool, then gently brush for a soft vintage texture. Finish with a flexible-hold spray and a touch of shine serum for that classic 1920s hair glow.
How can I recreate glamorous vintage waves at home for a red carpet-ready look?
You can absolutely nail those waves at home with a few practical steps. Begin with a clean base and apply a lightweight setting lotion. Create waves using either a narrow curling iron (1/2 inch) or by setting damp hair into pin curls. Let everything cool, then brush lightly to soften the shape. Tame flyaways with a shine serum and set the style with a flexible-hold spray. For extra authenticity, part the hair deeply to one side and smooth the front into a shallow swoop—the kind of detail that screams 1920s hair on the red carpet.
Which famous 1920s styles still influence red carpet looks today?
Iconic figures like Clara Bow, Louise Brooks, and Jean Harlow continue to influence today’s celebrity hairstyles. Their 1920s hair—from finger waves to the sleek bob—appears on modern red carpet events with fresh twists, such as updated side parts, softer wave textures, or slightly looser shapes. To translate these into current fashion, start with authentic wave patterns and pair them with contemporary makeup and accessories for a timeless red carpet vibe.
What tools and products are essential to nail 1920s waves?
Here’s your practical toolkit: a 1/2 inch (or 1 cm) curling iron or hot rollers, a fine-tooth comb for precise parting, hair clips or pins, a heat-protectant spray, and a light setting lotion. Finish with a strong hold or flexible-hold hairspray and a touch of shine serum to mimic the glossy look of 1920s hair. If you want extra volume, use a root-lift product or a small amount of volumizing mousse at the crown before styling. These basics keep you ready for a glam red carpet moment.
How can I adapt 1920s hair for different hair types and lengths without losing its vintage charm?
No matter your hair type or length, you can achieve a vintage vibe. For fine hair, boost roots with a light volumizing mousse and pin curls to create lasting wave texture. For thick or curly hair, use a smoothing serum to tame volume and shape the waves with a narrower curling iron. Long hair can sport a dramatic deep side part with elongated waves, while shorter styles can lean into tight Marcel waves with a sleek finish. The key is to work in sections, keep waves defined with pins while they set, and finish with a flexible-hold spray to preserve that classic 1920s hair look on the red carpet.
Related Topics
1920s hair
vintage waves
celebrity hair
red carpet styles
Gatsby glam
flapper hairstyles
easy vintage
classic looks
Hollywood glamour
hair inspiration
retro beauty
advanced styling
