Short Hair: Chic, Bold, and Gamine
Short hair was a revolutionary statement in the 1920s and remains a canvas for some of the most striking vintage looks. If you have a pixie, bob, or shingle cut, you have a wealth of chic options. The most iconic is the 1920s finger wave, a glamorous
style that frames the face with sleek, S-shaped waves. While traditionally done on wet hair with setting lotion, you can achieve a similar effect with a small barrel curling iron and some patience. For a more playful look, consider the curly bob popularised by flappers. This style adds volume and softness to a sharp bob cut. In the 1950s and 60s, the gamine pixie cut became a symbol of modern, youthful style. This look is all about texture and shape, often styled with a bit of pomade or wax to create definition. You can also try a faux-updo by creating pin curls at the front and sides for a classic pin-up feel.
Medium Hair: The Versatile Sweet Spot
Shoulder-length hair is arguably the most versatile for recreating vintage styles, particularly from the 1940s and 1950s. This length is ideal for creating the structured rolls and voluminous shapes that defined the era. Victory rolls, perhaps the most famous 1940s hairstyle, are perfect for medium-length hair. These are large, upward-swept rolls of hair pinned on top of the head, creating a distinctive heart shape. The pageboy, a smooth style with the ends curled under in a neat roll, is another elegant option that works beautifully with shoulder-length cuts. To achieve these looks, a good wet set with rollers or pin curls is often the best foundation, creating a lasting curl that can be brushed and sculpted. You can also experiment with pompadours, which create height at the front, or a simple 'half up, half down' style with the top section rolled back neatly. These styles were practical for wartime women but have an enduring glamour that works for any occasion today.
Long Hair: A Canvas for Glamour and Drama
Long hair opens the door to the most dramatic and romantic vintage looks. The sweeping, Old Hollywood waves of the 1930s and '40s are a timeless choice. Think of actress Veronica Lake's famous peek-a-boo style, where deep, glossy waves fall over one eye. This look relies on a strong set with hot rollers or a large barrel curling iron, followed by careful brushing to form the uniform waves. The 1960s offer another avenue for long-haired glamour: volume. The bouffant and its more dramatic cousin, the beehive, used backcombing and height at the crown to create a statement look, often paired with a headband or sleek ends. For a softer, more bohemian vibe, the long, center-parted hair of the late '60s and '70s is an easy and beautiful option, often styled with natural-looking waves or kept perfectly straight. Accessories like headscarves, ribbons, and flowers can also be used to great effect, helping to manage long hair while adding an authentic vintage touch.
