50s Hairstyles: Have you ever wondered why hair became so iconic in the 1950s? Imagine this: Rockabilly pin-ups redefined bold femininity, Audrey Hepburn stole the show with her exquisite updos, and Marilyn Monroe’s delicate curls cascaded over her shoulders.
Hair was more important in the 1950s than eateries, jukeboxes, and soda fountains. “I woke up like this—well, after two hours of setting curls and hairspray,” she said with her big, bouncy, gorgeous hair.
We’re going into the most famous ‘50s hairstyles, whether you’re getting ready for a themed party, want a retro-inspired look for a romantic evening, or are just a sucker for vintage Hollywood glitz. Hold on tight, sweetheart, because this is going to get really amazing.
Victory Rolls: The Crown Jewel of Vintage Style
The triumph rolls would surely be the hairdo mascot of the 1950s. Bold volume and attitude are key components of these statement curls that reach the sky. Victory rolls gained popularity during World War II and were a mainstay of post-war fashion. They were popularized by celebrities like Bettie Page and are now preferred by fans of the past.
Quick Tip: Make the rolls with a medium barrel curling iron and secure them with a lot of hairspray and bobby pins.
Fun Fact: Fighter jets’ aerial maneuvers inspired the term of victory rolls. Yes, there are military roots behind your haircut!
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Sleek High Ponytail: Channel Your Inner Bombshell
Imagine Sandra Dee from the movie Grease or any of the vintage teen queens you’ve ever seen wearing poodle skirts. The ideal flirtatious style was and still is the high ponytail. The small inward flip at the ends is what gives the 1950s version its iconic quality. It resembles the icing on the cake of a flawlessly arranged sundae.
DIY Tip: To get that trademark flip, use a round brush when blow-drying.
Did You Know? Scarves knotted at the base of ponytails were common in the 1950s. Both fashionable and useful!
Bandana Updo: Rosie the Riveter Vibes
An updo with a bandana is the epitome of vintage empowerment. This style, which was influenced by the famous Rosie the Riveter poster, is both stylish and functional. Ideal for days when your hair is terrible or when you want to give your style a little edge.
Try This: Pull your hair back into a neat bun, wrap it in a colorful bandana, and leave a few curls in the front.
Time for a poll: Would you go out casually wearing a bandana updo? Leave your comments below!
Bumper Bangs: A Fringe Revolution
Bumper bangs are bold, structured, and shamelessly retro, so they’re not for the timid. Any ensemble instantly gains a retro flair thanks to these thick bangs that fall dramatically across the forehead.
Pro Tip: You can use a rolled-up sock to achieve this look if you don’t have a foam roller. We promise it works!
Throwback Alert: In I Love Lucy, Lucille Ball was the epitome of bumper bangs.
Glam Vintage Curls: Old Hollywood Perfection
Do we need to elaborate on the soft, delicious curls that fall over your shoulders? Replicating vintage curls is surprisingly simple, and they are the epitome of retro elegance.
How-To: To achieve that soft, bouncy look, curl your hair in parts using a 1-inch curling iron and gently brush it out.
Expert Advice: How can I maintain those curls? Hairspray. A lot of it.
Curled Bangs & Bandana Combo: Double the Retro Charm
You can have two vintage looks instead of just one. A traditional bandana updo combined with curly bangs simply evokes the stylish 1950s. It’s sassy, lively, and incredibly retro.
Style Tip: To style your bangs precisely, use a curling wand.
Pin Curls: The Ultimate Throwback Style
Pin curls were every woman’s secret weapon before curling irons were a commonplace household item. Bobby pins and plenty hair setting lotion were used to secure these tiny, meticulously rolled curls.
DIY Tip: Pin each portion while it’s still warm after curling, then let it set for half an hour before releasing it carefully.
Fun Fact: In order to maintain the style, women would frequently sleep on silk pillowcases while sporting pin curls overnight.
The Pomp-Inspired Straight ‘Do: Volume Goals
Is your hair flat? The 1950s? Never! During this time period, volume was added to the crown of even straight styles.
Try this: Use a comb to smooth over your hair, tease the roots at your head, and then apply a texturizing spray to finish.
Trend Alert: Bold, inventive approaches are being used by contemporary influencers to revive pomp-inspired volume.
Headband Styles: Retro Accessories Rule
In the 1950s, full-piece headbands were a common accessory that were frequently worn with sophisticated updos or gentle curls.
Quick Style Tip: For a refined appearance, position the headband one inch behind your hairline.
Engaging Moment: Which accessory—bandanas or headbands—do you believe best captures the spirit of the 1950s? Tell us!
Low Chignon: Timeless Elegance
The unsung hero of 1950s hairstyles was the low chignon. Ideal for parties, weddings, or even a trip to the grocery store if you’re feeling very upscale.
Pro Tip: To make your chignon stand out, add a vintage pin or clip.
Did You Know? In many of her most famous movie appearances, Grace Kelly wore chignons.
Why ’50s Hairstyles Still Slay Today
Why, therefore, do we keep returning to these retro styles? because they are timeless, glitzy, and adaptable. These looks have endured, whether you’re sporting bumper bangs on a laid-back day or a victory roll for a theme party.
Conclusion
From curls to chignons to bandana updos, the 1950s gave us an endless archive of timeless hairstyles. So grab your hairspray, dust off your curling iron, and let’s bring back some vintage magic!
Call to Action: Tried one of these styles? Snap a pic and tag us on social media—we’d love to see your retro masterpiece!