Long hair has always been a canvas for self-expression through the decades. There’s something magical about vintage hairstyles for long hair that modern looks just can’t capture. That nostalgic charm, the elegant sophistication, the head-turning drama.
I’ve spent years experimenting with vintage hairstyles, both on myself and clients. Let me tell ya, nothing beats the compliments you’ll get when you walk into a room with a perfectly executed victory roll or finger wave. People literally stop and stare.
In this article, I’m gonna share my absolute favorite vintage styles for long hair that have stood the test of time. These aren’t just any old hairstyles hey’re the crème de la crème of retro glamour, reimagined for today’s woman. So grab your heat protectant and hairspray, hunny, we’re about to take a fabulous trip through time!
1. Classic Hollywood Waves
The quintessential vintage look that never goes out of style. Those deep, glossy S-waves cascading down one shoulder? Pure magic.
To achieve this look, you’ll need a 1-inch curling iron, some setting spray, and patience. Start by creating a deep side part and curling 1-inch sections away from your face. Let the curls cool completely before gently brushing them out with a soft bristle brush. This is were most people mess up—don’t skip the cooling phase!
The key to making this look extra authentic is pinning one side behind your ear with a decorative clip or fresh flower. I personally love using vintage brooches as hair accessories for this style. It elevates the entire aesthetic and makes it perfect for weddings, fancy dinners, or anytime you wanna feel like a silver screen siren.
2. Victory Rolls
Nothing says 1940s like victorious victory rolls! This style emerged during WWII and has remained an iconic vintage look ever since.
Creating victory rolls might seem intimidating, but the technique is actually pretty straightforward once you break it down. Section off the front parts of your hair (on both sides). Back-comb the base for volume, then roll the section inward and upward, securing with bobby pins. The trick is to keep the ends tucked inside the roll to create that smooth, continuous loop.
I swear by using a rat (that’s a hair donut for the uninitiated) for beginners to help maintain the shape. Once you’ve mastered the basic roll, experiment with different heights and positions. Some days I’m feeling subtle rolls that frame my face, other days I want them high and proud like I just stepped off a WWII poster!
3. The Gibson Girl Updo
This elegant hairstyle from the turn of the 20th century is characterized by its voluminous pompadour and loosely piled curls.
Start by teasing the crown of your hair for major volume. Then, gather your length into a loose, low bun or chignon. The signature look comes from pulling a few face-framing tendrils loose and allowing them to softly curl around your face. It’s romantic and sophisticated without being too stuffy.
This style works amazingly well for special occasions, specially if you have naturally thick hair. I wore a Gibson Girl-inspired updo to my cousin’s wedding last year, and the photographer kept asking me to pose for extra shots! Pro tip: this style looks even better on second-day hair with a bit of texture to it.
4. Pin Curls
Pin curls are the foundation of many vintage styles and can be worn on their own for a gorgeous retro look.
The technique involves rolling small sections of damp hair into flat coils against the scalp and securing with bobby pins or clips. Let them dry completely (overnight is best) before removing the pins and gently separating the curls with your fingers. Never use a brush unless you want a more brushed-out wave effect!
What I absolutely adore about pin curls is their versatility. Depending on how you place them, you can create tight, springy curls or soft waves. They also last foreeeever compared to curling iron styles. My record is a full week of perfect curls from one pin curl set—just refreshing with a bit of water and setting lotion each night!
5. Bumper Bangs
These dramatic, rolled bangs were all the rage in the 1940s and early 50s and frame the face beautifully.
To create bumper bangs, section off your front hair from temple to temple. Back-comb the underside for structure, then roll the section backward, creating a smooth “bumper” shape. Secure with plenty of bobby pins and hairspray. The rest of your hair can be styled in various ways—ponytails, loose waves, or updos all work great.
I’m not gonna lie, this style takes practice. My first attempt looked like I’d gotten into a fight with my hairdryer and lost! But once you get the hang of it, bumper bangs add such a distinctive vintage touch to any hairstyle. They’re especially flattering if you have a higher forehead or just want to create a more dramatic silhouette.
6. The Pompadour
Made famous by style icons like Elvis, the pompadour isn’t just for the boys! A feminine version looks incredible on long hair.
Create your pompadour by teasing the front section of your hair at the roots and smoothing the top layer back. The sides should be slicked back while maintaining height at the crown. You can leave the length flowing in waves or gather it into a ponytail or updo depending on the occasion.
I’ve worn this style countless times for rock concerts and retro nights. It’s got attitude for days! The trick to a perfect pomp is getting the proportions right for your face shape—taller for round faces, slightly wider for long faces. And don’t skimp on the hairspray, you’ll need it to maintain that gravity-defying height all night.
7. Veronica Lake Peekaboo Waves
This sultry style features deep waves with one side dramatically cascading over the eye. So glam, so mysterious!
Start with a deep side part. Using a large barrel curling iron, create uniform waves throughout your hair, making sure they all curve in the same direction. Allow one side to fall forward over one eye for that signature “peekaboo” effect. Brush through gently to connect the waves into that smooth, continuous S-pattern.
This style has been my go-to for anniversary dinners with my husband. There’s something incredibly seductive about partially hiding one eye behind a curtain of glossy waves. Just be prepared to constantly toss your head to keep your vision clear a small price to pay for such knockout glamour!
8. The Beehive
Big, bold, and unmistakably retro, the 1960s beehive adds serious height and drama to long hair.
Teasing is your best friend when creating a beehive. Section off the crown and back-comb it intensely to create height. Smooth the outer layer over this teased foundation and pin in place. The length can be twisted into a french twist at the back or left hanging in a half-up style. The contrast between sleek sides and voluminous crown is what makes this style so distinctive.
I taught my niece how to do a modern beehive for her prom last year. We kept it slightly smaller than the 60s original and added loose curls at the ends. She told me afterwards that her date couldn’t stop staring at her all night! Just remember, the higher the hair, the closer to heaven—but also the more hairpins you’ll need.
9. Bardot-Inspired Half-Up Style
Tease the crown section for height and sweep back, securing with pins to create a half-up style. The key is making it look effortlessly disheveled rather than perfectly coiffed. Add some loose waves to the length and pull out a few face-framing pieces for that signature Bardot charm.
This style works beautifully for both casual and formal occasions. I rock this look at least once a week because it’s so versatile and flattering. The volume at the crown elongates your face while the loose waves keep it feminine and flirty. Plus, it takes like 10 minutes tops once you get the technique down.
10. Finger Waves
These sculptural waves defined the flapper era and create a seriously sophisticated look on long hair.
Creating finger waves requires wet hair, setting lotion, and a fine-tooth comb. You’ll create S-shaped waves by alternately pressing the hair with your fingers and comb. It’s a meticulous process that takes practice but yields spectacular results. For long hair, you can either wave just the top sections or continue the pattern all the way down.
I won’t sugar-coat it—this is probably the most technical style on the list. But wow, the compliments you’ll receive make it worth the effort! I did finger waves for a Great Gatsby themed party last year and literally everyone asked if I’d had it professionally done. The secret? Patience and lots of setting lotion.
11. 1970s Farrah Feathered Locks
Those iconic feathered layers and face-framing wings scream 1970s glamour.
You’ll need long layers to achieve this look properly. With a large round brush and blow dryer, curl sections away from your face to create that distinctive feathered effect. The key is getting volume at the roots while ensuring the ends curve outward in the right direction.
This hairstyle has made a huge comeback recently, and I’m here for it! It’s flattering on almost everyone and has a fun, carefree vibe while still looking put-together. My college-aged daughter recently asked me to show her how to do “that 70s hair thing” for a disco party—the style transcends generations!
12. Marcel Waves
Similar to finger waves but created with hot tools, Marcel waves have a distinct ridge pattern that’s pure vintage elegance.
These are created using a special Marcel waving iron (though you can improvise with a flatiron). The technique involves clamping the hair in alternating directions to create a uniform wave pattern. Unlike beach waves, Marcel waves have a defined ridge and appear more structured.
I splurged on an authentic Marcel iron after years of attempting this look with regular styling tools. Let me tell you, it was worth every penny! There’s something so timelessly elegant about these waves that makes them perfect for weddings and formal events. They photograph like a dream, capturing that Old Hollywood essence.
13. The Pageboy
This sleek 1940s style features shoulder-length or longer hair curled under at the ends with a rounded silhouette.
Start by straightening your hair for a smooth foundation. Then, using a large round brush or large hot rollers, curl the ends under in the same direction. The finished look should have volume at the crown and a uniform, curved line at the bottom.
The pageboy is my go-to for professional settings when I want to look polished but still show off my length. It’s seriously underrated in the vintage style community but delivers major elegance with minimal effort. I find it particularly flattering when worn with a side part to add a bit of asymmetry to the otherwise uniform shape.
14. Psychedelic Hippie Center Part
Free-spirited and natural, this 1960s-70s style lets your long locks shine in their glory.
This might be the simplest style on the list—create a perfect center part and let your hair fall naturally on either side. The authentic look involves minimal styling, embracing your natural texture. You can add subtle waves if desired, but keep them loose and unstructured.
I love pairing this laid-back style with boho outfits for weekend adventures. It’s effortlessly cool and lets your face take center stage. If your hair is naturally straight, consider adding just a hint of bend at the ends for movement. And don’t forget the flower crown for true festival vibes!
15. Rockabilly Bandana Roll
This 1950s-inspired style combines pinup aesthetics with workday practicality.
Begin by folding a square bandana into a triangle, then roll it from the long edge to create a band. Place this at the hairline and tie at the nape or crown. Then, create a high ponytail or bun, leaving your front sections to frame your face in victory roll-inspired curls.
I started wearing this style during lockdown when I couldn’t get to the salon, and it’s remained in my regular rotation ever since. It’s perfect for disguising grown-out bangs or roots, and the bandana adds an authentic touch of rockabilly flair. Plus, it keeps your hair off your face on hot days without sacrificing style points!
16. The Italian Cut
Despite the name, this 1960s style doesn’t require cutting—it’s all about creating the illusion of a full, layered look.
To achieve this look, tease the crown for significant volume and smooth the outer layer. The length should be styled in loose, outward-flipping curls that create movement and dimension. Think Sophia Loren or Gina Lollobrigida at the height of their fame.
This has become my signature style for dinner parties because it’s got that perfect balance of sophistication and sexiness. The volume at the crown elongates your neck while the bouncy curls keep it youthful and playful. Just be careful not to overdo the teasing—you want controlled volume, not 80s excess!
17. Rope Braided Updo
This elegant style combines vintage sophistication with intricate braiding techniques.
Start by dividing your hair into two sections and creating two rope braids by twisting two strands in opposite directions, then twisting them together. Wrap these braids around your head in a crown formation, securing with decorative pins. Leave a few face-framing tendrils for softness.
I taught myself this style for my best friends wedding where I was maid of honor. The photographer absolutely loved it and kept commenting on how photogenic it was from every angle! The technique takes some practice, but once mastered, becomes a quick yet impressive updo option for special occasions.
18. 1920s Low Chignon
This sleek, low bun captures the elegance of the flapper era without the short bob.
Create a deep side part and smooth your hair back into a low bun at the nape of your neck. The key to making this vintage is keeping the sides exceptionally flat and glossy while allowing the bun to have some artistic shape. Decorative combs or pins are perfect for authentic era styling.
This hairstyle is my secret weapon for important meetings or interviews. It’s sophisticated without trying too hard and gives off major boss lady vibes. The slick sides elongate your features while the low placement keeps it from looking too severe. Plus, it stays put all day long with minimal touch-ups needed!
19. The Pollyanna
This sweet style combines multiple vintage elements for a unique look.
Section your hair horizontally, creating a half-up style with the top portion. Twist this section into a victory roll or pompadour shape at the crown. The remaining length can be styled in pin curls or soft waves for contrast.
I created this hairstyle by accident when experimenting one day and have since worn it to countless brunches and baby showers. It’s got a certain innocent charm while still being structured enough to look intentional. The name comes from my grandmother, who said it reminded her of styles from her childhood storybooks!
20. Disco Diva Waves
These voluminous, bouncy waves capture the exuberant spirit of the 1970s disco era.
Create a center part and use a large-barrel curling iron to form uniform, bouncy curls throughout your length. The key difference from other curly styles is maintaining separation between the curls rather than brushing them out into waves. They should be springy and defined, with maximum volume.
This style literally makes me feel like I should be dancing under a mirrorball every time I wear it! It’s playful, attention-grabbing, and surprisingly versatile. The volume and movement make it perfect for nights out when you want your hair to be part of the party. Just be prepared for everyone to want to touch your bouncy curls!
21. Edwardian Gibson Tuck
This elegant updo from the early 1900s is surprisingly simple yet incredibly sophisticated.
Start by creating a low, loose ponytail. Instead of pulling the hair all the way through on the final wrap of your elastic, create a loop and fan it out, pinning it against your head. The ends can be tucked and pinned underneath. Add volume at the crown for authentic Edwardian proportions.
I wore this style to a vintage tea party and received so many compliments on its authenticity. People were shocked when I explained how simple it actually is to create! It works best on longer hair with some natural wave or texture, allowing for that soft, romantic feel characteristic of the era.
22. Betty Grable Roll
This playful style combines a rolled fringe with cascading curls for maximum pin-up appeal.
Begin by creating a rolled fringe across your forehead (similar to the bumper bangs mentioned earlier). The rest of your hair should be set in medium-sized curls that fall naturally down your back. A few face-framing curls help soften the structured roll.
This style makes me feel like I should be posing for a WWII pin-up calendar everytime I wear it! It strikes the perfect balance between structured and playful. The rolled fringe creates a frame for your eyes while the bouncy curls keep it flirty and feminine. It’s become my standard look for swing dancing nights!
23. The Marilyn Set
This voluminous, highly feminine style evokes the iconic look of Marilyn Monroe, adapted for long hair.
Start with hot rollers or a large-barrel curling iron to create uniform, voluminous curls throughout your hair. Once cooled, brush through with a soft bristle brush to create soft, fluffy waves. The key is creating maximum root volume while maintaining that characteristic softness and movement.
I’m not exaggerating when I say this style makes me feel like a bombshell! There’s something about those soft, touchable curls that’s universally flattering. The technique works best on layered hair, as the varying lengths create more dynamic movement when brushed out. Be generous with the hairspray to maintain the volume all day.
24. Art Deco Bob Faux Updo
This clever style creates the illusion of a 1920s bob without cutting your long locks.
Roll and pin your length up underneath itself to create the appearance of a chin-length bob. Add finger waves or pin curls to the visible portions for authentic 1920s styling. This creates a fantastic faux bob that can be unpinned at the end of the night.
This has been my secret weapon for theme parties for years! People alway do a double-take when I let my hair down at the end of the night, revealing its true length. The style photographs beautifully and captures the essence of the roaring twenties without the commitment of a drastic cut.
25. Brigitte Bardot Bouffant
This sexy, voluminous style combines height at the crown with tousled, flowing length.
Tease the crown section extensively for maximum height and smooth the outer layer over this foundation. The front can feature curtain bangs or face-framing pieces for softness. The length should be styled in loose, tousled waves for that characteristically undone French girl look.
Whenever I need to feel confident and sexy, this is my go-to style. The volume at the crown visually lifts your cheekbones while the tousled waves create movement and dimension. It’s the perfect “I tried but didn’t try too hard” look that works for date nights, parties, or anytime you want to channel your inner French film star!
26. The Bardot Bubble
This playful 1960s style features a voluminous crown that creates a distinctive “bubble” shape above softer waves.
To achieve this look, section off the crown portion of your hair and back-comb it aggressively. Smooth the outer layer while maintaining maximum volume underneath. Secure with pins at the back, creating that characteristic bubble shape. The rest of your hair should fall in soft waves for contrast.
I tried this for a 60s-themed birthday bash last month and felt like I’d stepped right off a movie set! The exaggerated proportions are surprisingly flattering, especially if you have a longer face shape. The bubble gives you that perfect retro silhouette while the loose waves keep it from feeling too costume-like.
27. The Katherine Hepburn Roll
This sophisticated 1940s style features rolled sides with loose waves at the back for a perfect blend of structure and movement.
Start by creating a center part and rolling each side section backward and upward, securing with pins. The crown should maintain some height, while the back length can be styled in loose, casual waves. This creates a beautiful frame around the face while showcasing your length.
This style has become my secret weapon for important job interviews! There’s something about the structured sides that projects confidence and competence, while the softer back keeps it from looking too severe. It’s professional without being boring and vintage without being costumey.
28. The Post-War Victory Curls
Different from traditional victory rolls, these looser, more relaxed curls captured the optimism of the late 1940s.
Section your hair into large portions around the face and crown. Using a large barrel curling iron, create voluminous outward-curling sections. Rather than rolling these sections, simply pin them into rounded, voluminous curls against the head. The rest of your hair should fall in soft waves.
I discovered this style while researching post-WWII fashion trends and it’s become one of my favorites for Sunday brunches! It’s more relaxed than traditional victory rolls but still has that distinctive vintage charm. The looser curls create a soft frame for your face while maintaining that characteristic 1940s silhouette.
29. The Film Noir Sleek Side
This dramatic 1940s style features exceptionally sleek, glossy hair with a deep side part and subtle waves.
Create a deep side part and apply pomade or serum for high shine. Using a large barrel curling iron, create very subtle waves throughout, focusing on the ends rather than the roots. The hair should lie close to the head with just enough wave to create dimension and movement.
This became my go-to style for evening events after I wore it to a black-tie gala. There’s something so elegantly understated about the sleek texture combined with subtle waves. It’s sophisticated without being showy and photographs beautifully under dramatic lighting. The high-shine finish is what really sells the vintage authenticity.
30. The Twisted Turban Effect
This 1940s style creates the illusion of wearing a fabric turban while actually showcasing your own hair.
Section your hair horizontally. The top section should be twisted from both sides toward the center, creating a rounded shape reminiscent of a fabric turban. Secure with pins, then style the remaining length in pin curls or waves. The contrast between the smooth “turban” section and textured length is striking.
I mastered this style during a vintage hair workshop and it’s become my favorite way to disguise second-day hair! The twisted section camouflages any oiliness at the roots while creating that distinctive 1940s silhouette. It’s particularly flattering if you have strong facial features or want to highlight statement earrings.
31. The Doris Day Flip
This cheerful 1950s-60s style features smooth crown with ends that “flip” outward dramatically.
Start with a smooth blowout, focusing on volume at the crown. Using a large round brush or large rollers, curl the ends outward to create that characteristic “flip.” The key is maintaining smoothness through the length with just the ends turned outward. A light-hold hairspray helps maintain the shape without stiffness.
This style instantly lifts my mood whenever I wear it! There’s something so optimistic and energetic about the flipped ends. It’s perfect for daytime events when you want something polished yet playful. The movement created when you walk is particularly eye-catching—the ends seem to bounce with each step!
32. The Rope Twist Crown
This elegant style combines multiple twisted rope sections arranged in a crown-like formation.
Divide your hair into 6-8 sections. Create rope twists by twisting each section first in one direction, then wrapping two sections around each other in the opposite direction. Arrange these twisted ropes around your head in a crown formation, pinning securely as you go.
I wore this for my cousin’s renaissance-themed wedding and received so many compliments! There’s something regal yet approachable about the intricate arrangement of twists. It works beautifully with highlighted or dimensional hair, as the twisting motion showcases the color variations throughout.
33. The Vivien Leigh Side Cluster
This romantic 1940s style features soft waves gathered into a low, asymmetrical cluster of curls.
Create uniform waves throughout your hair using a medium barrel curling iron. Sweep all hair to one side and gather it into a loose, low arrangement just behind one ear. Pin curls individually to create a clustered effect rather than a smooth bun. Allow a few face-framing tendrils to escape for softness.
This style has a dreamy, romantic quality that works beautifully for outdoor events or evening occasions. I wore it to an anniversary dinner and my husband couldn’t stop staring! The asymmetrical placement creates interesting visual balance, especially when paired with statement earrings on the exposed side.
34. The Modernist Bob Illusion
This sleek 1920s-inspired style creates the appearance of a geometric bob while preserving length.
Straighten your hair completely for a smooth foundation. Create a deep side part and sleek the hair close to the head. Tuck the length under and pin securely, creating the appearance of a chin-length geometric bob. Use plenty of shine serum and hairspray for that characteristic glossy finish.
I created this for an art deco exhibition opening and felt perfectly in theme! The clean lines and geometric precision of this style make it stand out among softer vintage looks. It’s surprisingly versatile—looking equally appropriate with minimalist modern clothing or authentic period pieces.
35. The Pinwheel Updo
This intricate 1950s style features hair twisted into multiple pinwheel formations for a beautiful textured effect.
Section your hair into 3-4 portions. Twist each section into a flat spiral shape (like a pinwheel) and secure with pins. Arrange these pinwheels adjacent to each other, creating a beautiful textured arrangement across the back of your head. The front can be styled with soft waves or a simple side part.
This style looks incredibly complex but is actually quite straightforward once you understand the technique! I teach it in my vintage styling workshops because it’s so versatile—you can create a few large pinwheels for a bolder look or many smaller ones for a more intricate effect. It always photographs beautifully.
36. The Psychedelic Braided Headband
This 1960s-inspired style features a braided section acting as a headband with voluminous waves beneath.
Take a section of hair from behind one ear, across the crown, to behind the opposite ear. Braid this section and position it like a headband across your forehead. Secure the ends behind your ear with pins. The remaining hair should be styled in voluminous waves or loose curls for contrast.
I love this style for music festivals or outdoor events because it keeps hair off my face while still looking intentionally styled! The contrast between the structured braid and the free-flowing waves perfectly captures that late-60s bohemian aesthetic. It works especially well on hair with highlights, as the braid showcases the color dimension.
37. The Deco Wave Cascade
This elegant 1930s style features sculptural waves flowing seamlessly from a deep side part.
Create a deep side part and use a flat iron or specialized waving iron to create uniform, S-shaped waves throughout your hair. The waves should begin directly at the part line and continue in a consistent pattern all the way to the ends. Use setting lotion and pins to ensure the wave pattern sets properly.
When I wore this to a vintage jazz club, the photographer asked if he could take photos for the venue’s promotional materials! There’s something incredibly photogenic about the geometric precision of these waves. The style works best on one-length hair without layers, as this allows the wave pattern to remain consistent.
38. The Twisted Pageboy
This 1940s variation combines elements of the classic pageboy with twisted side sections for added interest.
Create a center or slightly off-center part. Take sections from above each temple and twist them backward, securing with pins. The remaining hair should be styled in the characteristic smooth pageboy shape with ends curled under. The contrast between twisted sections and smooth length creates beautiful dimension.
This has become my go-to style for important presentations or meetings when I want to look polished but distinctive. The twisted sections keep hair securely away from my face while the smooth pageboy creates a professional silhouette. It works particularly well with subtle ombré coloring, as this emphasizes the different elements of the style.
39. The Italian Film Star Half-Up
This glamorous 1960s style features dramatic height at the crown with textured, voluminous length.
Tease the crown section aggressively for maximum height. Smooth the outer layer and secure this section at the back of your head with pins. The remaining hair should be styled in tousled, textured waves. The contrast between polished crown and textured length captures that characteristic Italian film star glamour.
I recreated this style after watching classic Sophia Loren films and it’s become my signature date night look! There’s something incredibly feminine about the proportions—the height at the crown elongates your neck while the textured waves keep it soft and touchable. It requires a fair amount of backcombing but stays in place remarkably well.
40. The Scalloped Pin Curl Set
This detailed 1940s style features uniform pin curls arranged in a scalloped pattern around the face.
Set your hair in pin curls, focusing on creating a scalloped pattern around the hairline. Once set and cooled, remove the pins but don’t brush through. Instead, gently arrange the curls with your fingers to maintain their defined shape. This creates a beautiful frame of uniform curls around your face.
This style takes practice but is absolutely worth the effort! I wore it for a vintage photoshoot and the photographer was amazed by the intricate detail of the curl pattern. It’s particularly flattering if you have delicate facial features, as the structured curls create a beautiful frame without overwhelming your face.
41. The Wrapped Chignon Roll
This sophisticated 1950s style features a smooth crown with length wrapped into a horizontal roll.
Gather your hair into a low ponytail and secure with an elastic. Using a foam roller as a base, roll your ponytail upward against the back of your head, creating a horizontal roll. Secure with pins as you go, then remove the elastic and foam roller. The finished look should be smooth and cylindrical with clean lines.
This style projects such quiet confidence! I’ve worn it for job interviews and formal presentations when I want to appear polished and competent. The clean lines and architectural quality make it stand out among more common updos. It works particularly well with darker hair colors, as these showcase the precise shape most dramatically.
42. The New Wave Asymmetry
This bold 1980s style features dramatic volume on top with sleek sides and textured length.
Create extreme volume at the crown through backcombing. Smooth one side close to the head while allowing the other side to maintain volume and height. The length should be styled in tousled, textured waves with plenty of movement. The dramatic asymmetry and contrasting textures capture that characteristic 80s energy.
I recreated this for an 80s tribute concert and felt like a total rock star! There’s something so confident and unapologetic about the exaggerated proportions. It’s definitely not an everyday look, but for special occasions when you want to make a statement, nothing compares to this bold silhouette.
43. The Braided Victory Bun
This hybrid style combines the structure of victory rolls with the texture of braids into a unique updo.
Create two French braids starting at your temples and moving backward. Instead of continuing the braids down, roll them upward like victory rolls and secure with pins. The remaining hair can be gathered into a textured bun at the back. The combination of braided texture and rolled structure creates beautiful dimension.
This style has become my go-to for Renaissance faires and historical events! The braided texture adds interest while the rolled shape creates that distinctive vintage silhouette. It stays in place remarkably well through all kinds of activity and works beautifully with hair accessories like decorative pins or fresh flowers.
44. The Retro Bubble Ponytail
This playful 1960s style features a high ponytail with “bubbled” sections for added volume and texture.
Gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure with an elastic. Place additional elastics down the length of the ponytail, spacing them 2-3 inches apart. Gently pull the hair between each elastic outward to create “bubbles” of volume. The contrast between constrained and expanded sections creates a beautiful retro silhouette.
I wore this to a retro bowling night and received so many compliments! There’s something so fun and youthful about the bubbled texture. It’s practical for active events while still being stylishly distinctive. The height and volume create a flattering profile that works well with both casual and dressy outfits.
Final Thoughts
Vintage hairstyles offer us a way to connect with the past while expressing our individuality in the present. There’s something so special about rocking a look that women wore decades before us—like participating in a beautiful tradition of self-expression that transcends time.
The best part about these 41+ styles? They’re infinitely customizable to your personal taste and hair texture. Don’t be afraid to mix elements from different eras or add modern touches to make them your own. Vintage inspiration doesn’t have to mean exact historical recreation.
So grab your styling tools and take a trip through time! Whether you’re drawn to the structured elegance of the 1940s, the rebellious volume of the 1960s, or the free-spirited waves of the 1970s, there’s a vintage style waiting to become your signature look. Trust me, once you master these timeless techniques, you’ll never look at your long hair the same way again!
Tina Johnson | Fashion Mags Your ultimate style guide! Trendy tips, latest fashion news & inspiration to keep you chic & glamorous.
