Retro never really left—it just waited for its comeback moment. And guess what? That moment is now.
From voluminous curls to sleek bouffants, these throwback styles are strutting back in with more attitude than ever. They’re not trying to look young—they’re owning the beauty of right now with a wink to the past.
These 21 retro hairstyles aren’t about reliving your twenties. They’re about showing the world you’ve still got it—maybe even more than you did back then.
So dust off the hairspray, channel your inner screen siren, and pick a look that turns memories into a mood. Your hair’s ready for its encore.
Victory Rolls
Victory Rolls are back, bringing a touch of 1940s glamour.
These voluminous curls, rolled and pinned at the crown, are perfect for adding height and drama.
A few bobby pins and some hairspray will keep them secure all day.
Older women love Victory Rolls for their ability to frame the face beautifully.
They’re not just a hairstyle but a statement of elegance. Pair them with a bold red lip, and you’re ready to relive the golden era.
Experiment with different roll sizes to suit your face shape and add a unique twist to this classic look.
Beehive
The Beehive is synonymous with the 1960s, offering height and sophistication.
This towering creation works well for formal occasions, giving a regal air to those who wear it.
For older women, the Beehive is a fun way to experiment with volume. It requires teasing and lots of hairspray but delivers an unmatched elegance.
Whether you go for a full beehive or a more modest version, this look is bound to turn heads.
Pair it with classic eyeliner for the complete vintage effect.
Finger Waves
Finger waves are a classic from the 1920s, creating soft, sculpted waves close to the scalp.
Perfect for short hair, this style exudes sophistication and is ideal for evenings out.
The technique involves combing and molding the hair into ‘S’ shapes. It’s all about precision, so patience is key.
Older women appreciate finger waves for their elegance and simplicity.
They are a perfect choice for anyone looking to add a vintage touch to their look. Pair with a string of pearls for added glamour.
Pageboy
The Pageboy cut, with its smooth, rounded ends, was a favorite in the 1950s.
It offers a neat, polished look that is both youthful and sophisticated.
This hairstyle is low-maintenance, requiring minimal styling. It’s perfect for older women who prefer a tidy, effortless look.
The Pageboy works well with or without bangs, making it versatile. Wear it with vintage accessories to embrace its retro charm fully.
Bouffant
Bouffants are all about volume, a signature 1960s look that adds height and drama.
This style suits those who love big hair and bold statements.
Achieving a bouffant involves backcombing and setting the hair with rollers or a blow dryer.
Older women find this look refreshing and lively.
It’s ideal for special occasions, adding a touch of retro elegance. Pair with bold makeup to complete the vintage vibe.
Pixie Cut
The Pixie Cut, popularized in the 1950s, is a timeless choice.
Its short, close-cropped layers are easy to maintain, offering a chic, modern look.
This style is perfect for older women who prefer a clean, fuss-free appearance.
It highlights facial features beautifully and exudes confidence.
Experiment with texture or color to bring a contemporary twist to this classic cut. Pair with simple earrings to enhance the style’s elegance.
Chignon
The Chignon is a timeless classic, perfect for those seeking elegance.
This 1940s hairstyle involves twisting and pinning the hair into a bun at the nape.
It’s ideal for formal events, adding grace and sophistication.
Older women love its simplicity and the way it enhances facial features.
Accessorize with hairpins or flowers for a personalized touch. This style keeps hair neatly in place, making it perfect for all-day wear.
Shag Cut
The Shag Cut, famous in the 1970s, offers a relaxed, layered look.
It’s all about movement and texture, perfect for those who enjoy a carefree style.
Older women appreciate the shag for its youthful vibe and versatility. It works well with various lengths and textures.
Add some styling mousse for additional volume and bounce. Pair with vintage sunglasses to complete the retro festival look.
French Twist
The French Twist is the epitome of sophistication.
This 1960s style involves twisting the hair upwards and securing it, creating an elegant roll.
It’s ideal for formal occasions, providing a sleek, polished appearance.
Older women love its timeless appeal and the way it complements evening wear.
Secure with pins and finish with a mist of hairspray. Add a decorative comb for extra flair.
This classic style remains a favorite for special occasions.
Afro
The Afro, a symbol of the 1970s, remains a powerful statement.
Embracing natural curls, it offers volume and a sense of freedom.
Older women love the Afro for its boldness and expression of individuality. It’s a celebration of natural beauty, requiring minimal styling.
Maintain its shape with regular moisturizing and gentle combing.
This style celebrates diversity and resilience, making it as relevant today as ever.
Bettie Bangs
Bettie Bangs, inspired by the 1950s pin-up icon Bettie Page, add a playful edge.
These short, blunt bangs highlight the eyes and frame the face.
Older women love Bettie Bangs for their quirky charm. They’re a bold choice that can refresh any hairstyle.
Pair them with a sleek bob or long waves for a distinctive look. Bettie Bangs bring a touch of retro fun to everyday styles.
Marcel Waves
Marcel Waves, popular in the 1930s, are all about glamour. This style involves creating deep, uniform waves, adding a touch of elegance.
Older women love Marcel Waves for their sophisticated finish. It’s a perfect style for formal occasions.
Achieve this look with a curling iron or hot rollers, and finish with a shine spray.
Marcel Waves exude timeless beauty and are perfect for those who appreciate classic styles.
Poodle Cut
The Poodle Cut, famous in the 1950s, offers tight curls and plenty of character. It’s a playful style that older women find charming.
This cut works well for those with naturally curly hair, amplifying volume and texture. It’s easy to maintain and style.
The Poodle Cut is perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to any look. Pair with classic jewelry for a delightful retro appearance.
Flip Hairstyle
The Flip Hairstyle, iconic in the 1960s, features ends that curl outwards, adding flair and movement.
It’s a youthful, energetic look.
Older women love the Flip for its playful nature and simplicity. It adds volume and works well with medium-length hair.
Achieve the flip with a round brush and blow dryer. This style is perfect for casual outings, bringing a sense of fun to any day.
Bob with Bangs
The Bob with Bangs, a 1960s staple, combines sophistication with a modern twist.
This style offers clean lines and a polished finish.
Older women find the Bob with Bangs perfect for a chic, effortless look. It frames the face beautifully and is easy to manage.
Whether sleek or textured, this style suits different occasions. Pair with bold lipstick for a striking retro effect, making it a timeless favorite.
Pompadour
The Pompadour, a 1950s icon, boasts volume and elegance.
This style involves sweeping the hair upwards and back, creating a dramatic effect.
Older women appreciate the Pompadour for its bold statement and sophisticated charm. It’s perfect for formal events.
Creating a pompadour involves backcombing and securing with pins. Pair it with classic accessories to enhance its vintage allure.
Crown Braid
The Crown Braid brings a touch of 1940s romance.
This style involves braiding the hair around the head, creating a halo effect.
Older women love the Crown Braid for its elegance and femininity. It’s perfect for garden parties or special occasions.
Secure the braid with pins and finish with a floral accessory. This style offers a regal appearance and keeps hair neatly in place.
Rita Hayworth Waves
Rita Hayworth Waves, inspired by the 1940s film icon, are all about glamour and sophistication.
These soft, cascading waves offer volume and movement.
Older women adore this style for its timeless beauty and Hollywood allure. It works well for special occasions.
Achieve this look with a large curling iron and light hairspray.
Rita Hayworth Waves exude elegance and make any woman feel like a star.
Curly Bob
The Curly Bob, popular in the 1920s, offers a playful and youthful look.
This style combines short curls with a classic bob shape.
Older women enjoy the Curly Bob for its energy and charm. It’s easy to style and maintain, perfect for everyday wear.
Use a curling iron to define curls and add a bit of mousse for volume.
The Curly Bob captures the spirit of the Roaring Twenties, making it a fun, retro choice.
Sleek Bob
The Sleek Bob, a 1960s elegance, offers a polished, refined look. It’s ideal for those seeking sophistication with minimal effort.
Older women love the Sleek Bob for its simplicity and timeless appeal. It frames the face beautifully and requires little maintenance.
Achieve this look with a flat iron and shine serum.
The Sleek Bob is perfect for any occasion, offering a chic appearance with ease.
Asymmetrical Cut
The Asymmetrical Cut, a bold choice from the 1980s, offers a unique, edgy look.
This style combines different lengths for an eye-catching effect.
Older women appreciate the Asymmetrical Cut for its individuality and modern flair. It’s perfect for those who love to stand out.
Styling is easy with a bit of wax for texture.
The Asymmetrical Cut adds a contemporary twist to any look, making it a daring, fashionable choice.