The Effortless Hollywood Wave
Perhaps the most iconic vintage look is the deep, structural wave famously worn by stars like Veronica Lake. It looks intricate, but a modern curling iron and the right technique make it achievable. The key is creating a uniform curl pattern. Start with
a deep side part. Working in two-inch sections, wrap your hair around a 1-inch curling iron, ensuring all curls are wound in the same direction (towards your face). Once all sections are curled and have cooled completely, gently brush through them with a paddle or bristle brush. The individual curls will merge into a single, cohesive 'S' wave. For extra hold, you can use clips to define the ridges of the wave while it sets. A light spritz of hairspray will keep it in place without looking stiff.
The Simple Audrey Hepburn Updo
Audrey Hepburn's high chignon in 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' is the height of elegance. While the original was structurally complex, a modern version captures the same chic spirit with far less effort. A simplified approach involves creating a high ponytail, leaving a front section of your hair out for the bangs or fringe. You can then use a hair donut or padding, wrapping the ponytail around it to create a full, high bun and pinning it securely. The front section can then be styled into a side-swept fringe. For an even quicker take, you can gather your hair into a French twist. Simply twist all your hair upwards from the nape of your neck and secure it with pins or a stylish clip.
The Grace Kelly Roll
Grace Kelly's signature style was one of polished, understated elegance. Her soft, rolled-back hairstyle looks regal but is based on a simple principle. This look works beautifully on shoulder-length hair. Start by creating soft curls using a large-barrel curling iron or rollers for volume. Create a side part and gently brush the hair back on the fuller side. Then, take the section of hair along the hairline, gently roll it back on itself away from the face, and pin it discreetly. You’re not creating a tight roll, but a soft, voluminous sweep. Repeat on the other side if you wish, or simply tuck the less full side behind your ear for an asymmetric look. The key is to keep it soft and touchable, avoiding too much hairspray.
Modern Finger Waves
True 1920s finger waves require wet hair, a lot of gel, and patience. However, you can get a similar sculpted effect on dry hair using a flat iron or curling wand. This technique creates a softer, more wearable wave. After creating a side part, take a small section of hair near the hairline. Using your iron, clamp down near the root and create a 'C' shape facing one direction. Move the iron down the section and create another 'C' shape in the opposite direction. This push-and-pull motion, when repeated down the hair shaft, forms a continuous 'S' pattern. The result is a nod to the vintage classic without the commitment of a wet set. This works especially well to frame the face or add detail to an updo.
The Quick Pin-Curl Effect
Authentic pin curls, set on wet hair and left overnight, provide the foundation for many vintage styles. To get the look without the long wait, you can create a similar effect with a curling iron and some clips. After curling a section of hair, instead of letting the curl drop and cool, catch it in your hand while it's still coiled. Roll the warm curl up towards your scalp and secure it flat against your head with a duckbill clip or bobby pin. Do this for your entire head. Let the pinned curls cool completely—this is the most important step for setting the shape. Once you remove the clips, you can brush the curls out into soft waves or style them into a vintage updo.
