The 1920s was an era of dramatic change, especially in the world of fashion and beauty. Women embraced new styles that were both bold and glamorous, reflecting the vibrant spirit of the Roaring Twenties.
The hairstyles from this period are iconic, characterized by their elegance and distinctiveness. Whether you’re looking to channel the flapper look or simply add a touch of vintage charm to your style, these 1920s hairstyles offer the perfect inspiration.
From bob cuts to finger waves, each style tells a story of creativity and empowerment, making them timeless choices for a perfect vintage glam look.
The Classic Bob
The classic bob is synonymous with the 1920s, representing a bold departure from the long hair of previous decades.
This sleek, chin-length cut was embraced by flappers and film stars alike, symbolizing freedom and modernity.
The bob’s clean lines and versatility made it an instant classic, allowing women to express their individuality with style. Paired with headbands and pearls, it became a quintessential look of the era.
Its simplicity and elegance continue to resonate, making the bob a timeless choice for those seeking a vintage touch.
Finger Waves
Finger waves captured the essence of 1920s glamour, creating soft, wavy patterns that hugged the head. This technique required patience and skill, using fingers and a comb to shape waves while hair was still damp.
Often worn by Hollywood starlets, finger waves conveyed sophistication and grace. Paired with a beaded dress and feathered accessories, they enhanced the allure of the Jazz Age.
Today, finger waves remain a favorite for special occasions, offering a nod to the past with a modern twist on elegance.
Marcel Waves
Marcel waves were an exquisite style that added texture and drama to any look. Created using a heated curling iron, these deep, sculpted waves became a staple of 1920s fashion.
They offered a glamorous alternative to the more subdued finger waves, with their bold definition and alluring shine. Marcel waves were perfect for evening events, complementing the opulence of the time.
This hairstyle remains a symbol of classic beauty, capturing the essence of an era where elegance reigned supreme.
The Shingle Bob
The shingle bob was an edgy variation of the classic bob, featuring a tapered back that closely hugged the nape. This daring cut was favored by fashion-forward women who wanted to make a statement.
The shingle bob’s sharp angles and clean finish offered a modern twist on the traditional bob, making it a favorite among the avant-garde.
Paired with bold makeup and accessories, it epitomized the rebellious spirit of the 1920s. Its unique silhouette continues to inspire contemporary interpretations.
The Eton Crop
The Eton crop was one of the shortest hairstyles of the 1920s, characterized by its closely cropped, almost boyish appearance. Inspired by men’s haircuts, this style exuded confidence and modernity.
It was a daring choice for women who wanted to break away from traditional feminine norms.
The Eton crop was often complemented by cloche hats and sharp, tailored outfits, creating a striking androgynous look.
Its boldness and simplicity continue to appeal to those seeking a chic, minimalistic style.
The Faux Bob
The faux bob offered a clever way for women with long hair to achieve the bob look without cutting their locks. This ingenious style involved tucking and pinning the hair to create the illusion of a shorter cut.
Popular among those who wanted to experiment with the bob trend, the faux bob allowed for versatility and creativity. It was often adorned with headbands and hairpins, adding a playful touch to the elegant facade.
Today, the faux bob remains a popular choice for those who love vintage flair without commitment.
The Charleston Chignon
The Charleston chignon was a sophisticated updo that added a touch of elegance to any ensemble.
Named after the popular dance of the era, this style involved twisting the hair into a low bun at the nape, often embellished with feathers or jewels.
It was a favorite for formal events, complementing the luxurious attire of the time.
The Charleston chignon’s refined appearance and intricate design made it a standout choice for those seeking timeless elegance. Its grace and charm endure as a symbol of vintage sophistication.
The Pageboy
The pageboy was a sleek, sophisticated style that offered a modern take on traditional cuts.
Characterized by its smooth, even length that curved under the chin, this haircut was both practical and chic. The pageboy’s polished appearance made it a popular choice among women who favored simplicity and elegance.
Often paired with bold lipstick and tailored clothing, it embodied the understated glamour of the 1920s. Its timeless appeal continues to captivate those who appreciate classic, minimalist beauty.
The Curled Bob
The curled bob was a playful, feminine take on the classic bob, featuring soft curls that added volume and texture. This style was perfect for those who wanted to embrace the bob trend with a touch of whimsy.
Curls were often styled with finger waves or pin curls, creating a dynamic and lively appearance. The curled bob was a favorite for evening parties, paired with glamorous accessories like sequined dresses and long pearl strands.
Its lively charm and youthful energy make it a delightful choice for vintage enthusiasts.
The Cloche Cut
The cloche cut was specifically designed to complement the popular cloche hats of the 1920s. This short, sleek style followed the contours of the hat, creating a harmonious silhouette.
The cloche cut’s neat lines and elegant simplicity made it a fashionable choice for women who appreciated refined style. It was often worn with art deco-inspired clothing, enhancing the geometric elegance of the era.
The cloche cut remains a favorite for those who admire the architectural beauty of 1920s fashion.
Pin Curls
Pin curls were a versatile styling technique that allowed for creativity and individuality. This method involved winding small sections of hair into tight curls and securing them with pins.
Once set, the curls could be brushed out for a soft wave or left intact for a bouncy effect. Pin curls were a popular choice for both casual and formal looks, offering endless possibilities for styling.
Paired with floral dresses and vintage accessories, they capture the playful spirit of the 1920s. Today, pin curls continue to inspire those who love vintage elegance.
The Kiss Curl
The kiss curl was a charming detail that added a touch of whimsy to any hairstyle. This small, delicate curl was often styled near the forehead or at the nape, creating a playful accent.
The kiss curl was a favorite among flappers, who enjoyed its flirtatious allure. It was usually paired with bold makeup and stylish headpieces, enhancing the fun-loving fashion of the era.
The kiss curl’s sweet and subtle charm continues to enchant those who appreciate the little details that make a big impact.
The Victory Roll
The victory roll became popular during the later years of the 1920s, offering a bold and dramatic style. This technique involved rolling sections of hair into voluminous twists, creating a striking silhouette.
Victory rolls were often worn by women who wanted to make a statement with their hair, pairing them with military-inspired fashion.
The rolls’ dynamic shape and confident flair made them a symbol of empowerment and strength. Today, victory rolls remain a favorite for vintage enthusiasts looking to capture that fearless spirit.
The Pompadour
The pompadour was an iconic style for both men and women in the 1920s, characterized by its high, swept-back front. This dramatic look was achieved by teasing the hair and securing it in place with pomade.
For women, the pompadour was often paired with elegant dresses and bold accessories, creating a regal appearance. For men, it added a touch of dapper sophistication.
The pompadour’s striking height and smooth finish continue to captivate those who appreciate vintage flair and bold style.
The Waves and Curls
Waves and curls were a hallmark of 1920s hair fashion, offering a dynamic and textured look. This style combined soft waves with tight curls, creating a layered effect that was both glamorous and playful.
Women often styled their hair with waves at the top and curls at the ends, achieving a balanced and elegant appearance.
Paired with luxurious fabrics like fur and silk, waves and curls exuded the opulence of the Jazz Age. This timeless style remains a favorite for those seeking a classic and charming look.
The Side-Swept Bob
The side-swept bob added a modern twist to the classic bob, featuring an asymmetrical design that created movement and interest. This style involved sweeping the hair to one side, often secured with a decorative pin.
The side-swept bob offered a fresh and contemporary take on traditional cuts, making it a popular choice for fashion-forward women.
Paired with statement jewelry and bold makeup, it captured the essence of 1920s innovation and style. Its unique silhouette continues to inspire those looking for an edgy yet elegant look.
The Flapper Fringe
The flapper fringe epitomized the carefree and rebellious spirit of the 1920s. This style featured short, blunt bangs that framed the face, often paired with a bob or shingled cut.
The fringe added a playful touch to the sleek lines of the era’s hairstyles, enhancing the youthful energy of the flapper look.
Worn with sequined headbands and fringe dresses, it celebrated the joyful, liberated fashion of the time. The flapper fringe remains a beloved choice for those who embrace the fun-loving side of vintage glam.
The Gibson Tuck
The Gibson tuck was an elegant updo that offered a refined alternative to the shorter cuts of the 1920s. This style involved tucking the hair into a roll at the nape, creating a smooth and polished look.
The Gibson tuck was favored by women who appreciated classic sophistication, often worn with lace blouses and pearls. Its graceful silhouette and timeless appeal made it a popular choice for formal occasions.
Today, the Gibson tuck continues to enchant those who admire the understated elegance of vintage hairstyles.
The Tapered Bob
The tapered bob offered a sleek, angular take on the classic bob, featuring a graduated cut that angled towards the chin. This style was a favorite among women who wanted a modern, edgy look.
The tapered bob’s sharp lines and clean finish made it a standout choice for those who appreciated contemporary fashion.
Paired with bold accessories like red lipstick and sunglasses, it captured the spirit of 1920s innovation and style. Its dynamic and chic appearance continues to inspire those looking for a daring yet elegant look.