Looking for vintage hairstyles that are always on-trend? From finger waves to voluminous waves, we have 18 styles that you can wear to work or your next big event.
18 Hottest Vintage Hairstyles That Are Always Trendy
1. Finger Wave Bob
Finger waves were all the rage in the 1920s, but they are still popular today. They can be elegant, flirty or formal. When paired with a bob haircut, this style is timeless.
You can use a regular curling iron to recreate this look, or follow this tutorial to do it the old-fashioned way:
You’ll need some hair waves clips for this style.
2. Victory Rolls
Victory rolls are one of the most famous vintage hairstyles and are always trendy because they’re so flattering. This style is inspired by 1950s hairstyles, and it looks more complicated than it really is.
You’ll need a good curling iron and bobby pins. It will take some practice to get those top curls just right, but the rest of the style is super simple.
Here’s a great tutorial on how to recreate this look:
3. Pin-Up Rockabilly Hairstyle
This pin-up rockabilly style features victory curls and loose waves. It has a vintage-modern flair that works well for just about any occasion. It’s such a fun and flirty style. If you have an edgy style, then this look is definitely for you.
Kayley Melissa has a great tutorial on how to do this exact hairstyle and the makeup to go along with it.
Related: 15 Gorgeous Cowboy Copper Hair Ideas for Women
4. Allie Hamilton ‘The Notebook’ Hairstyle
Rachel McAdams had so many gorgeous vintage hairstyles in The Notebook, but this one really stands out.
It’s perfect for a date night or a formal occasion. All you need is a curling iron and a good hairspray (we love this one from Aveda). Don’t forget the flower for the finishing touch!
5. Voluminous Waves
Here’s a retro Hollywood glam style that will always be trendy. It looks great on anyone with any hair length and cut. It can be dressed up for a formal occasion, dressed down for casual outings or even for date night.
It’s so easy to pull this hairstyle off with just a curling iron and some pins.
6. Victory Rolls and Ponytail
There are many takes on the victory rolls hairstyles, and this one is so fun. It will never really go out of style.
If you have naturally wavy or curly hair, you’re already one step ahead.
To recreate this style, create a mini victory roll at the front and tie the rest of your hair back into a high ponytail. Don’t forget to tease your ponytail to get all of that volume that makes this look so gorgeous.
Related: 15 Stunning Headband Hairstyles That Look Trendy & Stylish
7. Half-Do with Twists
This vintage-inspired hairstyle is so feminine yet so simple. All you need is a curling iron, some hair pins and hairspray.
- Start by creating a side part.
- Curl your hair and brush it out to create gentle waves.
- Create twists on both sides that pull up and away from the face.
- Use pins to secure the twists.
Simple makeup and a bold lip will really make this look come to life.
8. Half-Do Bump
1970s hair was all about volume and this half-do style takes it to the next level. It’s still a look that’s trendy today, and it looks great with any hair type, length and cut.
And it’s so easy to pull off.
You can tease and pin your hair to create more volume at the crown of the head, or you can use a styler tool to give your hair that extra volume.
Here’s a tutorial on how to create a similar style:
9. Elegant Victory Rolls
Here’s another style featuring those beautiful vintage victory rolls. This style is great for shorter haircuts, but can work well for any length.
The idea is simple:
- Make a side part.
- Curl your hair with a curling iron, and run your fingers through them to loosen them just a little.
- Create a victory roll on the wider side and use pins to hold it in place.
- Create a twist on the other side that pulls up and away from the face.
- Secure your twist with a pretty flower, or use pins if you don’t want any accessories.
You can wear this hairstyle for any occasion.
10. High Ponytail
Vintage hairstyles from the 60s and 70s are still on-trend and can be dressed up or down with just a few simple tweaks. This style is so simple, but the volume makes it glamorous. We love the little piece that tucks behind the ear. It really gives this hairstyle a sleek and vintage look.
Recreating this look is as simple as tying your hair into a ponytail and using a comb to tease it for more volume.
11. Bouffant
This hairstyle is the epitome of the 1960s and it’s still trendy because it’s such a flattering look. The volume makes it look like you have tons of hair. You can create even more volume and thickness by tying your hair up into a high ponytail and adding clip-in extensions just below your ponytail.
Here’s a great tutorial on how to pull that off:
12. Retro Waves
These retro waves are gorgeous and will look great on anyone. If you’re attending a wedding or some other formal event, this style is perfect. You can add hair accessories or just leave it as-is.
And best of all, this style is so easy to pull off. You’ll need a curling iron to create some waves at the front of your face, and curl the bottom of your hair under to create a little more body and volume.
Use a hair serum to tame frizz and keep the look sleek and shiny.
Related: 15 Ponytail Hairstyles for a Stunning Look
13. Rosie the Riveter
Rosie the Riveter was an icon for female workers in defense industries during World War II. Her hairstyle also became an icon, and is still copied by women today.
This is such a fun vintage hairstyle that you can wear almost anywhere – running errands, around the house, or even to work.
Here’s a great tutorial on how to create a more modern version of this hairstyle.
14. The Gibson Tuck
The Gibson tuck is one of those vintage hairstyles that is timeless and always elegant. It’s a hairstyle that you can wear anywhere and with any outfit.
And the great thing about this style is that it takes just a few simple steps. The tutorial above walks you through each step.
This style looks best with long, straight hair, but you can still pull it off with wavy or curly hair.
15. The Headband Bouffant
Bouffants will always be trendy because, let’s face it – voluminous hair will always be trendy. Rather than the usual half-do or ponytail styles, this look keeps the hair down and uses a headband to accentuate the volume.
You can use a hair bump to get that extra volume boost, or you can use a comb to tease your hair.
16. The Gwen Stefani Ponytail
Gwen Stefani is known for her pin-up, rockabilly hairstyles that pay tribe to vintage styles of the 50s. Her victory roll ponytail is one of her most iconic looks, and it’s one that you can easily pull off at home.
And if you don’t have long hair – don’t worry. You can still rock this look if you have some clip-in extensions.
Here’s a great tutorial that will show you how to create this look at home.
Just make sure that you curl your ponytail, too!
17. Faux Bob
The bob is a vintage hairstyle that’s come back in style in recent years. It’s a flattering cut for any face shape, and it’s a low-maintenance style that works well for any occasion.
But what if you want the look of a bob without committing to a haircut?
You can create a faux bob in just a few steps. All you need is a curling iron, some great twisting skills and a few pins.
Follow the steps above to rock a bob at your next event.
18. Low Roll
Here’s another simple yet elegant vintage hairstyle that’s so easy to recreate at home, especially if you have the classic vintage roll kit from Conair. Just tuck the hair around the hair piece, pin it to keep it in place (you may need a lot of pins), and walk out the door.
The classic hair roll style is perfect for any occasion and can easily be dressed up or down.
Final Thoughts
These vintage hairstyles are easy to do at home and can be worn for any event or even to work. For most of these styles, you’ll need a curling iron and some bobby pins – that’s it! Use the tutorials to walk you through each step, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different looks to see what you like best.