25 Classic Vintage Hairstyles to Go Retro!
There’s something irresistibly elegant and timeless about vintage hairstyles. From the polished finger waves of the 1920s to the voluminous curls of the 1940s and the fluffy blowouts of the 1990s, retro hairstyles continue to inspire modern fashion and beauty trends. These iconic looks celebrate femininity, structure, and creativity and whether you’re headed to a themed event or just want to add some old-school glam to your everyday look, there’s a vintage hairstyle for you.
In this article, we’ve compiled 25 stunning vintage hairstyles that span multiple decades, textures, and lengths. Let’s take a journey through time one hairstyle at a time!
1. Short Ginger Hair With Side Parted Vintage Curls
This fiery short cut features tight, defined curls and a deep side part that oozes vintage charm. The rich ginger color adds warmth and personality, while the structure gives off serious 1940s elegance. A bold red lip completes the look.
2. Old Hollywood Updo With Bumper Bangs
Channel the golden age of cinema with a sculpted updo paired with classic bumper bangs. This polished, voluminous style was a favorite among starlets like Rita Hayworth and Veronica Lake. It’s all about controlled curls and a sleek finish.
3. Chic High Bun
Simplicity meets elegance with the high bun. Inspired by 1960s icons like Audrey Hepburn, this style lifts the face and adds instant sophistication. Use a hair donut or padding to create extra height and smooth the top for a refined retro look.
4. Victory Rolls Updo
Victory rolls are perhaps the most iconic vintage hairstyle of all. These structured curls rolled toward the scalp symbolize strength, style, and World War II-era femininity. This updo version pairs two large front rolls with a pinned back for drama and elegance.
5. Vintage Fluffy Hairstyle With Bumper Bangs
Fluffy, teased hair was a staple of 50s and early 60s glam. Add bumper bangs and you’ve got a vintage-inspired bombshell look that’s soft, voluminous, and full of personality. Think Brigitte Bardot with a touch of modern edge.
6. Copper Hair Updo With Curls and High Curled Puff
A rich copper hue brings warmth and dimension to this intricately styled updo. Loose curls are pinned up at the back while a high puff in the front adds height and drama. This style works beautifully for formal occasions.
7. Long Blonde Side Parted Hair With Vintage Waves
Side-parted waves are timeless. This long, blonde style takes inspiration from Marilyn Monroe and Grace Kelly, combining silky movement with structured curls. Use a large-barrel curling iron or set your hair overnight for authentic waves.
8. 90’s Short Vintage Ash Blonde Bob
The 90s had its own take on vintage-inspired hair, and the ash blonde bob is a perfect example. With its soft texture, subtle layers, and cool tones, this cut is effortlessly chic and wearable for both casual and dressy occasions.
9. Short Poodle Cut
Popular in the 1950s, the poodle cut features tightly curled hair styled close to the scalp. It’s bouncy, fun, and full of character perfect for naturally curly hair types or those looking for a bold, ultra-retro statement.
10. 40’s Half Up Half Down With Curly Victory Rolls
This versatile hairstyle features voluminous victory rolls on top and soft curls cascading below. It balances the drama of structured top styling with the romance of loose, flowing hair ideal for vintage weddings or special events.
11. High Pin Up Curl Updo
Classic pin-up style gets an upgrade with this high-volume curl updo. Think bold, rounded curls piled high on the crown, often paired with a scarf or bandana. It’s a playful, confident style rooted in 1950s rockabilly fashion.
12. 20s Inspired Finger Wave Hairstyle
Finger waves are the epitome of 1920s glamor. Sculpted close to the head with precision, they create an S-wave pattern that looks especially stunning on short to medium-length hair. Pair it with a beaded headband for flapper flair.
13. Middle Parted Side Curled Bob With Micro Bangs
This cut combines vintage structure with modern quirkiness. A middle part balances soft, side-swept curls while ultra-short micro bangs add a unique twist. This is great for those who want a fusion of old and new.
14. Fluffy Blowout Side Parted Wavy Bob Hair
Inspired by late 80s and early 90s volume, this blowout bob uses round brushes and layers to create bounce and fullness. The side part adds asymmetry and flair. It’s low-maintenance but high impact.
15. Betty Grable Hair
Actress Betty Grable’s iconic hairstyle featured soft pin curls, shoulder-length waves, and perfect symmetry. Recreate this timeless look with hot rollers, plenty of shine spray, and a precise part. It’s perfect for vintage parties or film noir looks.
16. Long Retro Hair With 8 Rolls
Why settle for one or two victory rolls when you can go all out? This dramatic style features multiple structured rolls four on each side for an ultra-glamorous and theatrical effect. It’s not for the faint of heart, but it is a showstopper.
17. Vintage Hollywood Waves on Medium Hair
Perfect for medium-length hair, these waves sit softly around the face and neck, offering a flattering frame. Inspired by actresses like Lauren Bacall, this look uses precision and polish to deliver undeniable Old Hollywood vibes.
18. Medium Textured Hair With Out Curls Styled With Headband
Adding a vintage scarf or headband instantly transforms a simple curl set into a retro masterpiece. Outward-facing curls paired with medium-length hair and a colorful band create a laid-back, 60s-inspired aesthetic that’s both cute and classic.
19. Scarf Snood Style With a Victory Roll in Front
A snood is a net or fabric hair covering that was wildly popular in the 1940s. Pair it with a large front victory roll for a fully authentic wartime look. Practical, protective, and stylish this combo works great for vintage enthusiasts.
20. Long Side Parted Ginger Hair With Vintage Waves
This copper-toned style offers serious warmth and vintage romance. Long, side-parted waves are structured yet soft, creating a waterfall effect that glistens with shine. It’s perfect for fall weddings, pin-up photo shoots, or retro evenings out.
21. Betty Grable Victory Rolls Hairstyle
Combining Betty Grable’s iconic curls with dramatic victory rolls results in a hairstyle that’s bursting with charm and structure. It’s ideal for themed parties, vintage events, or adding flair to everyday looks.
22. Vintage Waves on Medium Hair
Vintage waves are universally flattering, and medium-length hair is the perfect canvas. Use a comb and setting spray to sculpt deep, shiny waves that hug the face. This style transitions beautifully from day to night.
23. Vintage Style Scarf Wrapped Over Head
This 1940s-inspired look was both fashionable and functional. A bright scarf wrapped over curls or an updo brings practicality and flair. Great for bad hair days, vintage car rides, or pin-up fashion shoots.
24. Pin-Up Victory Rolls With Low Bun
This hybrid style blends the structured top of victory rolls with a soft, low bun at the nape. It’s feminine and versatile suitable for weddings, retro fashion events, or even a statement bridal look.
25. Short Side Parted Bob With Vintage Waves and Side-Swept Bangs
A modern classic, this style features a softly waved bob with glamorous side-swept bangs. It combines 1930s sophistication with contemporary polish, making it wearable for almost any occasion.
Vintage hairstyles are more than just trends they’re expressions of personality, history, and timeless beauty. Whether you’re channeling the glamour of Old Hollywood, the charm of the 1940s pin-up era, or the bold blowouts of the 90s, these styles offer something for everyone. They remind us that elegance never fades, and that going retro can be the perfect way to stand out in today’s modern world.
So dust off your rollers, grab your hairspray, and embrace your inner vintage goddess. Whether it’s structured victory rolls or loose Hollywood waves, you’re never out of style when you go retro.
