15 Classic Vintage Hairstyles For Women: Timeless Looks from Past Decades

Vintage hairstyles bring timeless charm to any look. These classic styles from past decades offer elegance and nostalgia for modern women.

You can find a vintage hairstyle to suit your face shape and hair type.

Whether you prefer short crops or long waves, there’s a retro look that will work for you.

Try one for a special event or everyday wear.

1: Victory Rolls

Victory rolls are a classic 1940s hairstyle. You create them by rolling sections of hair upward and inward.

Then, pin the rolls in place for a glamorous vintage look.

This style works well for special events or when you want a fun retro vibe.

2: Finger Waves

Finger waves are a classic vintage hairstyle from the 1920s and 1930s. They create smooth, S-shaped waves close to the scalp.

You can make finger waves with wet hair, gel, and a comb. Sweep the hair to one side and use your fingers to form the waves.

This elegant look works well for short hair and special events. It adds a touch of old Hollywood glamour to your style.

3: The Gibson Tuck

The Gibson Tuck is a classic vintage hairstyle that’s easy to create. It’s named after the Gibson Girl, a popular image from the early 1900s.

To make this style, you’ll roll your hair up and tuck it under. It works best with long or medium hair, and you can secure it with pins or a hair clip.

4: Pin Curls

Pin curls are a classic vintage hairstyle that creates tight, defined curls.

You set small sections of damp hair into circular shapes and pin them flat against your head. Once dry and unpinned, the hair forms beautiful, bouncy curls.

This versatile style works for both short and long hair.

5: Beehive Updo

The beehive updo is a classic 1960s hairstyle that adds height and drama.

You create it by teasing your hair at the crown and smoothing it over to form a rounded shape.

For a modern twist, try a side part or add some curls. You can also keep it sleek for a more polished look.

6: Bouffant

The bouffant is a classic vintage hairstyle that adds height and volume to your look. It’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to feel glamorous.

To create a bouffant, tease your hair at the crown. Then, smooth the top layer over the teased section for a polished finish. Use hairspray to keep it in place.

7: Pageboy

The pageboy haircut is a timeless vintage style. It features hair cut to one length, usually just below the ears or chin.

The ends are often turned under for a smooth, rounded look.

You can adapt the pageboy to suit your face shape and personal style. Try it with or without bangs, or add some subtle layers or texture for a modern twist.

8: Marcel Waves

Marcel waves were a hit in the 1920s. Named after French hairdresser Francois Marcel, this style features elegant S-shaped waves.

You can create this look using heated curling irons.

Marcel waves add a touch of vintage glamour to your hair. They’re perfect for special events or when you want to feel extra sophisticated.

9: The French Twist

The French twist is a timeless updo that exudes elegance. You can create this look by gathering your hair at the back of your head and twisting it upwards.

Then, secure the twist with pins for a polished finish.

This versatile style works for many occasions. You can wear it sleek for formal events or slightly messy for a casual vibe.

10: Hollywood Glamour Waves

Hollywood glamour waves are a classic vintage hairstyle. You can create this look with a large barrel curling iron.

Start by curling sections of your hair away from your face. Then, brush out the curls gently for soft, flowing waves. Pin one side back for extra elegance.

This style works well for special events or red carpet looks.

11: The Chignon

The chignon is a timeless updo that never goes out of style.

You can create this elegant look by gathering your hair at the nape of your neck and twisting it into a bun.

This versatile hairstyle works for both formal events and casual outings. You can keep it sleek or add some loose strands for a softer look.

12: Pompadour

The pompadour is a bold vintage hairstyle that adds height and drama. You sweep your hair up and back from your forehead to create volume on top.

To style a pompadour, tease the front section of your hair for extra lift. Then, smooth the top and sides back and secure with pins.

Add hairspray to hold the shape in place.

13: Veronica Lake Waves

Veronica Lake waves are a glamorous 1940s hairstyle. You can create this look with long, flowing locks swept to one side.

The style features soft waves cascading over one eye for a mysterious vibe.

To achieve this look, use a large-barrel curling iron on your hair. Then, brush out the curls for looser waves.

This vintage-inspired style adds instant Hollywood glamour to your appearance.

14: The Bettie Page Bangs

Bettie Page bangs are short, blunt-cut bangs that frame your face. They sit just above your eyebrows and have a slight curve at the ends.

This bold style adds a touch of vintage glamour to your look. You can pair these bangs with long, straight hair for a classic 1950s pin-up vibe.

15: Faux Bob

The faux bob gives you a short hair look without cutting your locks. You pin your long hair up and tuck it under to create the illusion of a bob.

This style was popular in the 1920s and is perfect for trying out a new look without commitment.