50 Awesome Old Hollywood Hair Ideas for Women in 2022

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Old Hollywood hairstyles represent the pinnacle of glamour and sophistication, capturing the timeless elegance that defined the golden age of cinema. From the finger waves of the 1920s to the victory rolls of the 1940s, these classic styles continue to inspire modern fashion and remain the epitome of red-carpet glamour for special occasions and formal events.

The allure of Old Hollywood hairstyles lies in their perfect balance of structure and femininity, creating looks that are both polished and romantic. These vintage-inspired styles work beautifully for weddings, formal events, themed parties, or any occasion where you want to channel the sophistication and elegance of Hollywood’s golden era stars like Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly, and Audrey Hepburn.

Classic 1920s Hollywood Hairstyles

1. Finger Waves

Finger waves epitomize 1920s glamour with their sculpted, undulating patterns that frame the face beautifully. This sophisticated style requires patience and technique but creates stunning results that photograph magnificently. Perfect for formal events, weddings, or vintage-themed occasions where you want to make a dramatic statement.

2. Marcel Waves

Marcel waves offer a softer, more natural interpretation of the finger wave technique, creating gentle S-shaped curves throughout the hair. This style works exceptionally well for medium-length hair and provides a romantic, feminine look that’s perfect for special occasions or elegant evening events.

3. Bob with Finger Wave Accents

Combining the classic bob haircut with finger wave details creates a modern interpretation of 1920s style. This versatile look works for both casual and formal settings, offering the elegance of vintage styling with contemporary practicality.

Glamorous 1930s Hollywood Styles

4. Side-Parted Waves

The 1930s brought longer hairstyles with dramatic side parts and cascading waves. This elegant style creates asymmetrical beauty that frames the face while maintaining sophisticated glamour. Perfect for formal events where you want to channel the elegance of stars like Jean Harlow and Greta Garbo.

5. Pin Curls

Pin curls create structured, uniform waves that were a hallmark of 1930s sophistication. This technique involves setting small sections of hair in flat curls against the head, creating beautiful texture and movement when brushed out. Ideal for creating vintage-inspired updos and formal styles.

6. Hollywood Waves

Classic Hollywood waves feature large, smooth waves that cascade over one shoulder, creating the ultimate in vintage glamour. This timeless style works beautifully for weddings, formal events, and any occasion where you want to embody the elegance of Old Hollywood’s leading ladies.

Iconic 1940s Victory Rolls and Updos

7. Victory Rolls

Victory rolls represent the pinnacle of 1940s hairstyling, featuring rolled sections of hair that create height and drama at the crown. This patriotic style became a symbol of strength and femininity during World War II and remains a stunning choice for vintage-themed events and formal occasions.

8. Pompadour Roll

The pompadour roll creates elegant height at the front of the head while keeping the back sleek and controlled. This sophisticated style works well for both professional settings and formal events, offering a polished look that’s both vintage-inspired and contemporary.

9. Gibson Tuck

The Gibson tuck creates an elegant updo by rolling the hair inward and securing it at the nape of the neck. This versatile style can be adapted for various hair lengths and textures, making it perfect for weddings, formal events, or professional settings where elegance is essential.

1950s Hollywood Glamour

10. Marilyn Monroe Curls

Marilyn Monroe’s signature blonde curls epitomize 1950s Hollywood glamour with their voluminous, bouncy texture and platinum blonde color. This iconic style requires careful setting and styling but creates unforgettable glamour perfect for special occasions and formal events.

11. Grace Kelly Chignon

Grace Kelly’s elegant chignon represents the height of 1950s sophistication, featuring smooth, controlled styling that’s both polished and romantic. This timeless updo works beautifully for weddings, formal events, and professional settings where classic elegance is desired.

12. Audrey Hepburn Updo

Audrey Hepburn’s iconic updo styles combine sophistication with playful elements, creating looks that are both elegant and approachable. These versatile styles work well for various occasions and can be adapted for different hair lengths and textures.

How to Create Old Hollywood Hairstyles

Essential Tools and Products

Creating authentic Old Hollywood hairstyles requires specific tools and products to achieve the desired results. Essential items include:

Hot rollers or pin curl clips for setting
Strong-hold hairspray for lasting results
Wide-tooth comb for gentle styling
Bobby pins in your hair color
Smoothing serum for sleek finishes
Texturizing spray for grip and volume
Shine spray for glamorous finish

Step-by-Step Finger Wave Tutorial

Master the classic finger wave technique with these detailed steps:

Start with clean, damp hair and apply setting lotion
Create a deep side part using a rat-tail comb
Section hair horizontally across the head
Using your fingers and comb, create S-shaped waves
Secure each wave with clips while setting
Allow hair to dry completely under a hooded dryer
Gently brush out and shape the waves
Finish with strong-hold hairspray

Victory Roll Technique

Create stunning victory rolls with this step-by-step approach:

Section hair from ear to ear across the crown
Tease the front section for volume
Roll the hair forward and inward toward the scalp
Secure with bobby pins inserted from different angles
Repeat on the opposite side for symmetry
Style the remaining hair as desired
Finish with hairspray for hold

Modern Adaptations of Old Hollywood Styles

Contemporary Finger Waves

Modern finger waves can be adapted for contemporary wear by making them looser and more natural-looking. Use texturizing products instead of heavy setting lotions, and create softer, more relaxed waves that maintain the vintage aesthetic while feeling current and wearable.

Updated Victory Rolls

Contemporary victory rolls can be made more casual by creating smaller, less structured rolls or incorporating them into half-up styles. This approach maintains the vintage inspiration while creating looks that work for everyday wear or casual events.

Modern Hollywood Waves

Today’s Hollywood waves are often looser and more natural than their vintage counterparts, using modern styling tools and techniques to create glamorous waves that feel contemporary while maintaining classic elegance.

Old Hollywood Hairstyles for Different Hair Types

Fine Hair

Fine hair can achieve beautiful Old Hollywood styles with proper preparation and technique. Use volumizing products at the roots, work with slightly dirty hair for better grip, and focus on styles that create the illusion of thickness, such as finger waves or structured updos.

Thick Hair

Thick hair provides excellent volume and hold for Old Hollywood styles. Focus on smoothing products to control texture, and take advantage of natural volume to create dramatic styles like victory rolls or voluminous Hollywood waves.

Curly Hair

Curly hair can be adapted for Old Hollywood styles by using smoothing techniques and setting methods. Focus on pin curls and finger waves, which work with natural curl patterns, or use straightening techniques to create smooth Hollywood waves.

Occasions for Old Hollywood Hairstyles

Weddings and Formal Events

Old Hollywood hairstyles are perfect for weddings and formal events, offering timeless elegance that photographs beautifully and withstands long celebration days. Choose styles that complement your dress neckline and overall wedding aesthetic.

Themed Parties and Vintage Events

Vintage-themed parties and events provide the perfect opportunity to showcase authentic Old Hollywood hairstyles. Research the specific era you’re representing and choose styles that accurately reflect the period’s beauty standards and techniques.

Red Carpet and Formal Occasions

Modern red carpet events often feature updated versions of Old Hollywood hairstyles, proving that these classic looks remain relevant and sophisticated for contemporary formal occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Old Hollywood Hairstyles

How long do Old Hollywood hairstyles take to create?

The time required varies by style complexity, but most Old Hollywood hairstyles take 30 minutes to 2 hours to complete. Simple styles like Hollywood waves may take 30-45 minutes, while intricate finger waves or victory rolls can require 1-2 hours of styling time.

Can I create these styles on short hair?

Many Old Hollywood styles can be adapted for shorter hair lengths. Finger waves work beautifully on bob-length hair, while pin curls and small victory rolls can be created on hair as short as 3-4 inches. Consider using hair extensions for longer styles if desired.

What products work best for Old Hollywood hairstyles?

Strong-hold styling products are essential for authentic Old Hollywood looks. Use setting lotions, pomades, and strong-hold hairsprays to achieve the structured, polished finish characteristic of vintage styles. Modern alternatives include texturizing sprays and flexible hold gels.

How do I make Old Hollywood styles last all day?

Longevity depends on proper preparation and setting techniques. Use appropriate products for your hair type, allow styles to set completely before styling, and finish with strong-hold hairspray. Carry bobby pins and a small brush for touch-ups throughout the day.

Are Old Hollywood hairstyles appropriate for everyday wear?

While traditional Old Hollywood styles are quite formal, many can be adapted for everyday wear by making them looser, less structured, or incorporating them into casual hairstyles. Modern interpretations of these classic looks can work for various occasions and settings.

Conclusion

Old Hollywood hairstyles represent the pinnacle of glamour and sophistication, offering timeless elegance that continues to inspire modern fashion and beauty trends. These classic styles provide perfect solutions for special occasions, formal events, and any time you want to channel the sophistication and glamour of Hollywood’s golden era.

Whether you choose the structured elegance of finger waves, the dramatic flair of victory rolls, or the romantic appeal of Hollywood waves, these vintage-inspired styles offer a unique opportunity to experience the glamour and sophistication that defined an entire era of cinema and fashion.

Ready to channel your inner Hollywood starlet? Start with a simple Hollywood wave technique and gradually work up to more complex styles as you build your vintage styling skills!

Richard L. Greene

Richard is fascinated by everything that has to do with styling techniques and how technology can play an important part in the industry’s development. He started out his career as a barber, and later found his passion for both men and women’s hairstyles. Richard now works as a writer for fashion magazines, blogs, and is actively taking steps toward launching his own online platform!