Old Hollywood glamour is a style that never really goes out of fashion. It’s all about that sophisticated, timeless elegance—think deep waves, red lips, and a level of polish that instantly makes you feel like you’re stepping into a black-and-white film. These looks are classic for a reason: they hold up through the ages and still manage to feel special no matter the occasion.
These 21 Old Hollywood hairstyles capture that iconic allure, from structured updos to soft, voluminous curls. The beauty of these styles is in the details: every curl, pin, and wave is intentional, yet they still feel effortlessly chic. They’re perfect for when you want to channel a bit of that glitzy, glamorous vibe and make any moment feel a little more memorable.
The Marilyn Monroe Curl
With her platinum blonde curls, Marilyn Monroe epitomized the essence of Hollywood glam. These curls, soft yet structured, framed her face with a flirtatious bounce that many sought to emulate. Perfect for a night out, this hairstyle brings a touch of vintage allure to any occasion.
To achieve this look, use large rollers and a good setting spray. Let the curls cool before gently brushing them out for that soft, glamorous wave. It’s a style that harks back to the golden age of cinema, capturing hearts with its effortless charm.
Veronica Lake’s Peek-a-boo Bangs
Veronica Lake’s peek-a-boo bangs became synonymous with mystery and allure in the 1940s. Her long, cascading waves paired with those seductive bangs created a captivating silhouette. This hairstyle is ideal for adding a touch of drama to a formal event.
To recreate this iconic look, deep side-part your hair and let the bangs fall seductively over one eye. Use a curling iron for soft waves, ensuring they flow smoothly down your shoulders. This style is both enchanting and timeless, echoing the intrigue of classic film noir.
Audrey Hepburn’s Bouffant
The bouffant hairstyle, popularized by Audrey Hepburn, exudes sophistication and elegance. This voluminous look adds height and drama, making it perfect for upscale gatherings or events.
To create this style, backcomb the crown for added volume and smooth the top layer over the backcombed section. Pin securely and finish with a strong-hold hairspray. It’s a look that echoes the elegance of the 1960s while remaining relevant today. The bouffant is both a nod to classic cinema and a fashion statement in its own right.
Rita Hayworth’s Voluminous Waves
Rita Hayworth’s voluminous waves were the epitome of glamour in the 1940s. Her rich, red locks flowed with a natural yet polished elegance that captivated audiences worldwide.
To achieve similar waves, use large hot rollers and a volumizing mousse. Wrap sections of hair around the rollers, allow them to cool, and gently brush out for soft, bouncy waves. This classic look embodies old Hollywood allure, offering a timeless elegance that’s perfect for any formal occasion.
Grace Kelly’s Classic Chignon
Grace Kelly’s chignon is the epitome of refined elegance. This classic updo is perfect for weddings, galas, or any event where sophistication is key.
To create this look, pull the hair back into a low bun at the nape of the neck. Secure with bobby pins and finish with a shine spray for a polished effect. This timeless style resonates with the grace and poise of old Hollywood, making it a favorite for those seeking a touch of classiness in their ensemble.
Elizabeth Taylor’s Vintage Curls
Elizabeth Taylor’s vintage curls are iconic for their lush, dramatic look. These curls, rich in texture, add a touch of glamour and sophistication.
To recreate this style, use medium-sized rollers and a generous amount of setting lotion. Let the curls set and carefully brush them out for that classic Hollywood wave. This style channels the starlet’s commanding presence and magnetic allure, offering a timeless elegance that’s sure to impress.
Lana Turner’s Pin Curls
Lana Turner’s pin curls define vintage charm. These small, tight curls offer a playful and youthful look, reminiscent of the 1940s golden age.
To achieve these curls, start with damp hair and use small pin curl clips to set the curls. Allow them to dry naturally or use a gentle heat. Once set, remove the clips and style as desired. These curls capture the spirit of old Hollywood in a fun and flirty way, perfect for adding a retro twist to any outfit.
Lauren Bacall’s Sleek Waves
Lauren Bacall’s sleek waves are the epitome of sophistication. Her signature style, with its smooth, cascading waves, adds a touch of sultry elegance to any look.
To achieve these waves, use a large barrel curling iron and gently brush through the curls for a soft finish. This style speaks to the timeless allure of classic Hollywood, providing a sleek and polished appearance that exudes confidence and charisma.
Ingrid Bergman’s Soft Updo
Ingrid Bergman’s soft updo is a testament to understated beauty. This delicate style, with its gentle twists and loose tendrils, offers a romantic and graceful look ideal for intimate gatherings.
To create this updo, loosely pin sections of hair at the back, allowing some strands to gently fall. This updo captures the subtle elegance of the screen siren, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a touch of finesse and femininity.
Katharine Hepburn’s Natural Waves
Katharine Hepburn’s natural waves celebrate effortless beauty. Her no-fuss hairstyle reflects a modern yet timeless appeal, ideal for casual or professional settings.
To achieve this look, embrace your natural wave or enhance it with a large curling iron. Let the waves flow naturally for a relaxed yet polished appearance. This hairstyle embodies Hepburn’s independent spirit and timeless grace, offering a versatile look that transcends eras.
Hedy Lamarr’s Elegant Updo
Hedy Lamarr’s elegant updo is a tribute to classic beauty. This intricate style, with its twists and turns, adds a sophisticated touch to any formal occasion.
To create this look, gather hair into sections, twisting and pinning them strategically for an elegant appearance. This updo, reminiscent of Lamarr’s captivating aura, offers a refined elegance that is both timeless and chic, perfect for making a grand entrance.
Marlene Dietrich’s Sleek Bob
Marlene Dietrich’s sleek bob is the epitome of chic sophistication. This short hairstyle, with its clean lines, offers a modern twist to classic glamour.
To achieve this look, ensure the bob is cut precisely at the jawline and style it with a flat iron for that sleek finish. This style captures the essence of Dietrich’s bold and confident persona, making it a timeless choice for those seeking a polished and contemporary look.
Greta Garbo’s Romantic Waves
Greta Garbo’s romantic waves are the essence of ethereal beauty. Her soft, flowing waves exude a mysterious charm, perfect for enchanting evenings.
To create these waves, use a medium curling iron and allow the curls to cool before gently brushing them out for a softer look. This hairstyle reflects Garbo’s enigmatic allure, offering a dreamy and timeless elegance that captivates the imagination.
Joan Crawford’s Sculpted Curls
Joan Crawford’s sculpted curls are a testament to the power of precision. These perfectly coiffed curls offer a structured yet glamorous look, ideal for formal events.
To achieve this style, use a small curling iron and set with a firm-hold spray. Carefully sculpt each curl for that polished effect. This hairstyle embodies Crawford’s commanding presence and sharp elegance, making it a definitive choice for those seeking a striking and poised appearance.
Jean Harlow’s Platinum Set
Jean Harlow’s platinum set is the definition of vintage glamour. Her signature finger waves, paired with that iconic platinum hue, create a stunning visual impact.
To replicate this look, apply gel to damp hair and shape the waves with a comb and fingers. Allow the hair to dry naturally or use a hood dryer. This hairstyle, with its bold and striking appearance, captures Harlow’s dazzling charm and timeless allure, perfect for making a statement at any event.
Bette Davis’s Vintage Volume
Bette Davis’s vintage volume brings boldness and confidence to any look. Her full-bodied curls, rich in texture, exude a classic Hollywood charm.
To achieve this style, use large rollers and a volumizing mousse. Once set, gently brush the curls for that dramatic lift. This hairstyle resonates with Davis’s powerful screen presence, offering a vintage elegance that’s both captivating and timeless.
Claudette Colbert’s Sleek Waves
Claudette Colbert’s sleek waves radiate a classic elegance. Her smooth, defined waves offer a timeless sophistication, perfect for formal occasions.
To create these waves, use a large barrel curling iron and set with a high-shine spray. This style captures Colbert’s graceful charm, offering a polished and refined appearance that remains ever-stylish and chic.
Barbara Stanwyck’s Polished Curls
Barbara Stanwyck’s polished curls exude a no-nonsense glamour. Her perfectly styled curls bring a sense of sophistication and confidence.
To achieve this look, use a medium curling iron and set with a strong-hold spray. Carefully arrange each curl for that polished finish. This hairstyle reflects Stanwyck’s commanding presence and timeless elegance, ideal for those seeking a classic yet bold appearance.
Mae West’s Glamorous Waves
Mae West’s glamorous waves are the epitome of bold beauty. Her voluminous waves, rich in texture, add a touch of drama and allure to any look.
To recreate this style, use large rollers and a shine-enhancing spray. Once set, brush out for that glamorous wave. This hairstyle embodies West’s larger-than-life persona and timeless appeal, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a glamorous and eye-catching style.
Carole Lombard’s Soft Curls
Carole Lombard’s soft curls exude a gentle elegance. Her relaxed curls offer a touch of vintage charm, perfect for casual and formal events alike.
To achieve this look, use a medium curling iron and set with a light-hold spray. Allow the curls to cool before brushing them out for a softer finish. This hairstyle reflects Lombard’s graceful charm, offering a timeless beauty that is both subtle and enchanting.
Vivien Leigh’s Regal Updo
Vivien Leigh’s regal updo is the essence of classic refinement. Her intricate hairstyle adds a touch of nobility and grace, perfect for grand occasions.
To create this look, gather hair into an elegant twist and secure with pins. This updo captures Leigh’s poised elegance, offering a timeless beauty that is both graceful and majestic, ideal for making a sophisticated statement.