11+ Vintage Hairstyles Trends And Tips You’ll L💕

Vintage hairstyles have made a massive comeback in recent years, becoming an essential part of many girls’ beauty routines. With their timeless charm and elegance, vintage hairstyles allow you to stand out in a crowd, whether you’re heading to a wedding, a night out, or simply want to add some flair to your everyday look. From my own personal experience, I can say that the right vintage hairstyle can completely transform your appearance and boost your confidence. Let me show you how I make vintage hairstyles work for me and help you recreate these iconic looks.

In this post, we’re explore to jump into the top chic vintage hairstyle trends that I absolutely love and recommend for every girl who wants to give their hair a retro twist. I’ll walk you through the unique features of each style, offer tips on how to style them, and share some personal insights on what makes each of these hairstyles special. Plus, I’ll encourage you to experiment with these timeless looks and tell me which one stole your spotlight in the comments below.

So, are you ready to rock some fabulous vintage looks? Let’s go then.

1. The Victory Rolls: A Bold Retro Statement

Victory rolls are perhaps one of the most iconic vintage hairstyles of all time. This style was first made famous by World War II-era women and has remained a favorite ever since. The hairstyle is all about volume, curls, and a bold, dramatic flair. You’ll recognize victory rolls by their rolled sections of hair, styled on either side of the head, creating a vintage-inspired look that exudes confidence and glamour.

How to Style Victory Rolls:

Start by sectioning your hair into two parts, leaving the front sections loose for the rolls. Use a curling iron to curl the front sections, rolling them back toward your head, and secure them with bobby pins. Next, gently backcomb the sections to add volume, making the rolls stand out. Don’t forget to finish off with a strong hold hairspray to ensure that the rolls stay in place throughout the day.

Styling Tips:

To achieve the perfect victory rolls, I recommend using a lightweight mousse or texturizing spray before curling your hair. This will give your curls more texture, making them easier to pin and keep in place. Victory rolls are all about precision, so take your time to get those rolls just right.

Why You’ll Love This Look:

Victory rolls are bold, stylish, and perfect for any occasion that calls for a touch of vintage glam. From my own personal experience, they’re a great choice for girls who want to channel a bit of pin-up girl energy. Whether you’re heading to a retro-themed party or simply want to dress up your everyday style, victory rolls are sure to make a statement.

2. The Vintage Waves: Effortless and Elegant

Another classic vintage hairstyle that never goes out of style is the vintage waves. This hairstyle is the perfect balance of elegance and simplicity. Think of it as a more polished version of beachy waves, but with a touch of retro charm. Vintage waves were made famous by Old Hollywood stars like Marilyn Monroe and Rita Hayworth, and they continue to be a go-to choice for girls looking to add a little sophistication to their hair.

How to Style Vintage Waves:

Start by curling your hair with a wide-barrel curling iron, but instead of simply wrapping your hair around the barrel, create curls in different directions to add depth. After curling, gently brush out the curls to soften them into waves. You can use a smoothing serum to add shine and tame any frizz, ensuring the waves look sleek and polished. Finally, finish with a flexible hairspray to keep the waves in place without making them stiff.

Styling Tips:

For vintage waves that hold up throughout the day, use a heat protectant before styling. Also, make sure to curl sections of hair in different directions—this helps create more natural-looking waves. If you want a more structured look, you can set the waves with a hot roller set, which will give you a little more volume and definition.

Why You’ll Love This Look:

Vintage waves are perfect for almost any occasion, whether you’re attending a wedding, a brunch date, or a night out on the town. The beauty of this style lies in its versatility—it’s elegant enough for formal events yet relaxed enough for more casual outings. From my overall experience, this is one hairstyle every girl should try at least once.

3. The Finger Waves: Timeless Glamour with a Retro Edge

Finger waves are another vintage hairstyle that continues to make waves (pun intended!). This hairstyle is best known for its smooth, sculpted, and ultra-glamorous look, often associated with the 1920s flapper girls. Finger waves are achieved by shaping your hair into defined S-shaped waves, creating a sleek and polished style that’s full of old Hollywood glamour.

How to Style Finger Waves:

Start with damp hair and apply a strong-hold styling gel to help shape the waves. Use a comb to create deep partings in your hair and begin creating the S-shaped waves by pinching sections of hair between your fingers and combing through them. Make sure to work in small sections to get a precise wave. Once the waves are set, let your hair dry completely or use a blow-dryer with a diffuser to speed up the process. Finish off with a shine spray to give your finger waves that polished, glossy look.

Styling Tips:

Finger waves are best done on freshly washed hair, as the gel will grip the hair better. I also recommend using a wave setting lotion to get more defined waves that hold their shape throughout the day. Don’t forget to finish with a light mist of hairspray to maintain the structure of the waves while keeping the movement intact.

Why You’ll Love This Look:

Finger waves are a glamorous choice for any girl looking to embrace vintage style. Whether you’re channeling a 1920s flapper or a classic Hollywood star, finger waves add an air of sophistication and elegance. I’ve found that this style is perfect for formal events or when you want to feel extra special. If you’re aiming for a bold, high-fashion look, finger waves are the way to go.

4. The Pin-Up Curls: Retro Romance at Its Best

When it comes to vintage hairstyles, nothing says retro glam quite like pin-up curls. This look is iconic for its voluminous, bouncy curls that are often styled with a bit of a vintage flair. The pin-up girl style has been around for decades, popularized by bombshells like Betty Grable and Jean Harlow. It’s playful, it’s glamorous, and it’s perfect for adding a little extra drama to your hair.

How to Style Pin-Up Curls:

To create pin-up curls, start by curling your hair with a small-barrel curling iron. You want tight, bouncy curls that are defined but not too frizzy. Once the curls are set, carefully separate them with your fingers and add a bit of volume by teasing the roots. A little backcombing goes a long way here! If you want to go the extra mile, add a cute hair accessory like a polka-dot bandana or a bow to complete the retro vibe. Finish off with a strong-hold hairspray to ensure the curls stay intact all day.

Styling Tips:

Pin-up curls are all about volume, so don’t be afraid to add a little extra body at the roots. Use a teasing comb to give your hair that extra lift. If you have finer hair, you can also use a mousse or a volume-boosting spray before curling to give your hair some texture. Be sure to curl your hair in different directions to get that gorgeous, tousled look.

Why You’ll Love This Look:

Pin-up curls are an excellent choice for any girl who wants to channel that feminine, flirty energy from the past. Whether you’re attending a retro-themed event or just want to add a fun twist to your everyday style, pin-up curls will help you make a statement. I’ve found that this style works wonders for any occasion, and it’s a true showstopper when paired with a bold red lip or a classic cat-eye makeup look.

5. The Retro Bouffant: Big Hair, Don’t Care

If you’re a fan of big hair, the retro bouffant is a must-try hairstyle. This style is known for its volume at the crown, creating a beautiful, rounded shape that was made famous by 1960s style icons like Brigitte Bardot and Jacqueline Kennedy. The bouffant is perfect for adding height and drama to your hair, making it a popular choice for both formal and casual events.

How to Style a Retro Bouffant:

To create the bouffant, start by parting your hair in the middle and backcombing the crown section to create some volume. Teasing is key here, so don’t be afraid to backcomb your hair to add height. After teasing, smooth the top layer of hair over the backcombed section for a sleek look. For extra hold, use a volumizing spray or dry shampoo to give your hair some texture and keep it from falling flat. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray to ensure that the bouffant stays lifted and in place.

Styling Tips:

For a more polished bouffant, use a flat iron on the lower sections of your hair to add a smooth, sleek texture before you tease the crown. You can also incorporate a few soft curls into the bottom layers of your hair to add a little bit of movement and dimension. Be sure to use a wide-toothed comb for the backcombing to avoid damaging your hair.

Why You’ll Love This Look:

The bouffant is a glamorous, bold choice that gives you major volume and drama. Whether you’re going for a sleek, elegant bouffant or a more casual, messy version, it’s a hairstyle that makes a statement. I find it to be a great option for girls looking to add height to their face and create a more striking, eye-catching look.

6. The Marcel Wave: Old Hollywood Charm

Old Hollywood glamour is all about smooth, structured waves, and the Marcel wave is the perfect example of this vintage elegance. Named after the French hairstylist who invented it, the Marcel wave creates a smooth, S-shaped wave in the hair that’s sharp, precise, and perfectly polished. This style is all about sophisticated waves that make you feel like a star from the Golden Age of cinema.

How to Style Marcel Waves:

Start by applying a light styling mousse to damp hair to give it some texture. Next, use a Marcel iron (a special type of curling iron with a spring-loaded clamp) to create the waves. You’ll want to hold the iron vertically and clamp down on each section of hair, creating a wave shape as you move down the strand. After you’ve set the waves, use a wide-toothed comb to gently brush through them and create the signature S-shape. Set the waves with a light hairspray to keep them from falling out.

Styling Tips:

The Marcel wave works best on medium to long hair, as the longer strands will allow you to achieve the full wave effect. For extra shine and smoothness, apply a serum or glossing spray after styling. If you don’t have a Marcel iron, you can use a regular curling iron, but be sure to gently press the curls to create the wave effect.

Why You’ll Love This Look:

The Marcel wave is the ultimate choice for a polished, refined, and elegant vintage look. From my overall experience, it’s a great hairstyle for formal events, like galas or upscale parties. It has that classic, timeless charm that makes you feel like you’ve stepped right out of a 1940s movie. If you want to channel that glamorous old Hollywood vibe, the Marcel wave is the perfect choice.

7. The Retro Shag: A Modern Twist on Vintage Style

The retro shag is a more modern take on vintage hairstyles, with its edgy, tousled look and lots of texture. While the shag hairstyle originally gained popularity in the 1970s with stars like Farrah Fawcett, its vintage roots are undeniable. This hairstyle is all about layers, texture, and volume, giving it a laid-back, cool-girl vibe with a retro flair.

How to Style a Retro Shag:

To create a retro shag, start by cutting your hair into layers. The key to the shag is having different lengths of hair to create a choppy, textured effect. Use a sea salt spray or texturizing mousse to add volume and texture to your hair. Dry your hair with a blow dryer while scrunching the ends for extra texture. Once dry, you can add more layers or touch up certain pieces with a curling iron to give them a bit more definition. Finish with a lightweight hairspray to keep the texture in place.

Styling Tips:

If you want to add a bit more volume to your shag, try flipping your hair upside down while blow-drying to give it some lift at the roots. The shag works best on hair that has a bit of natural wave or texture, so embrace your natural hair’s personality! If you have fine hair, use a thickening spray to help add some extra body.

Why You’ll Love This Look:

The retro shag is a fun, edgy, and versatile hairstyle that’s perfect for girls who love a relaxed, effortless vibe with just the right amount of vintage edge. Whether you’re going for a short shag with lots of volume or a longer, more tousled look, this style is perfect for adding a bit of rebellious charm to your everyday hair routine.

8. The Gibson Tuck: Effortless Grace from the Edwardian Era

The Gibson Tuck is a sophisticated updo that dates back to the early 1900s. Inspired by the iconic “Gibson Girl” illustrations, this style exudes effortless grace and timeless beauty. It’s a perfect choice for both casual days and elegant evenings, offering a romantic and polished look.

How to Style a Gibson Tuck:

Begin by brushing your hair to remove tangles and create a smooth texture. Gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck but don’t secure it too tightly. Gently twist the ponytail upward and tuck the ends into a loose roll. Use bobby pins to secure the tuck, ensuring the roll stays in place. For extra hold, mist your hair with a light-hold hairspray.

If you want to add volume, you can tease the crown of your hair before making the tuck. For a softer, more romantic look, leave a few strands loose around your face.

Styling Tips:

The Gibson Tuck works beautifully on medium to long hair, especially if your hair is straight or slightly wavy. If your hair is fine, a bit of backcombing at the roots will add volume and ensure the tuck holds better. Add a vintage touch with a decorative comb, pearl pins, or a delicate lace ribbon.

Why You’ll Love This Look:

The Gibson Tuck is a versatile and elegant style that feels as charming today as it did over a century ago. From my own personal experience, it’s a lifesaver for those days when you want to look effortlessly polished without spending too much time styling. It’s a simple yet striking way to channel vintage elegance and works perfectly for weddings, garden parties, or even a chic office look.

9.The Pin Curl Bob: Playful and Timeless

The Pin Curl Bob is a soft, bouncy hairstyle that became iconic in the 1930s and 1940s. This style gives off a playful, vintage charm while still feeling timeless and chic. It’s perfect for adding texture and volume to short hair, and the soft curls frame the face beautifully.

How to Style a Pin Curl Bob:

Start with clean, dry hair and create small sections about an inch wide. Wrap each section around your finger to form a curl and pin it flat to your scalp with a bobby pin. Repeat until all your hair is pinned. For the best results, let the curls set for a few hours or overnight. Once the curls are completely set, remove the pins and gently brush through the curls to soften them into a classic wave shape. Finish with a light mist of hairspray for lasting hold.

Styling Tips:

If your hair is naturally straight, use a curling iron to heat the sections before pinning for a longer-lasting curl. If your hair is fine, a light mousse can help add volume and hold to your curls. For a touch of glamour, add a rhinestone clip or a silk scarf tied around your head.

Why You’ll Love This Look:

The Pin Curl Bob is a beautiful blend of playfulness and elegance. Based on my overall experience, this style is perfect for themed parties, weddings, or any time you want to channel vintage glamour. It’s a fun way to embrace retro vibes while adding a flirty bounce to your hairstyle.

10. The Classic Chignon: Timeless Elegance for Any Occasion

The chignon is a classic updo that has stood the test of time. From ballerinas to royalty, this elegant style has graced heads for centuries, giving it a timeless and refined quality. Whether you wear it low at the nape of your neck or high at the crown, a chignon is always a sophisticated choice for any vintage lover.

How to Style a Classic Chignon:

To create a classic chignon, start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles and creating a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Twist the ponytail into a coil and secure it with bobby pins to form the chignon shape. For a more polished look, smooth the hair around the bun with a bit of hair gel or pomade. If you prefer a looser, more relaxed style, you can pull out a few strands for a softer finish. For extra volume, gently backcomb the crown of your head before securing the ponytail.

Styling Tips:

If you have layers or shorter hair, you can use a hair donut to help create a fuller, more voluminous chignon. To add a little vintage flair, consider incorporating a decorative hairpin, pearls, or a soft silk scarf into your style. The chignon works beautifully with any outfit, making it an incredibly versatile hairstyle.

Why You’ll Love This Look:

The chignon is perfect for any girl who loves sophistication and elegance with a touch of vintage charm. Whether you’re going to a wedding, a formal dinner, or just want to add some refinement to your day, the chignon will never steer you wrong. I’ve always found that it’s a go-to look when I want something timeless and classy, and it pairs beautifully with any type of dress or outfit.

11. The Boho Vintage Waves: Effortless, Relaxed, and Free-Spirited

For those who want to channel the boho vibes of the 1960s and 1970s, vintage-inspired boho waves are the perfect choice. This laid-back style has a free-spirited charm, ideal for girls who love a carefree, beachy look with a retro twist. Think of iconic figures like Brigitte Bardot or Jane Birkin—this style is all about relaxed, tousled waves that look effortlessly chic.

How to Style Boho Vintage Waves:

To achieve boho waves, start with slightly damp hair and apply a sea salt spray or texturizing mousse to add some texture. Use a curling iron with a large barrel to curl sections of hair loosely, leaving the ends straight for a more relaxed look. After curling, use your fingers to gently separate the waves and create that natural, tousled effect. If you want extra volume, lift your roots with a bit of dry shampoo or a root-boosting spray. For a more bohemian vibe, add a flower crown or headband to complete the look.

Styling Tips:

Boho waves work best on medium to long hair, but you can still pull off the style with shorter hair by using a smaller curling iron. Be sure to leave the ends straight for that relaxed, natural vibe. For extra texture, you can braid your hair overnight and let it out the next morning for a softer wave effect.

Why You’ll Love This Look:

Boho vintage waves are perfect for girls who love a low-maintenance, yet stylish look. It’s a versatile style that works for everything from casual days at the beach to laid-back parties. If you’re someone who loves the carefree vibe of the ’70s but wants to keep it modern, this style will become your new go-to.

Which One Stole Your Heart?

From the daring victory rolls to the effortless boho waves, there are so many vintage hairstyles to love. Which one stole your heart, and which one are you excited to try next? Have you already rocked any of these styles? Share your experiences with me in the comments! Don’t forget to include your real name and location so we can find your feedback easily. I can’t wait to hear how you make these vintage looks your own—happy styling, and keep on embracing those retro vibes!