The Hair for Pinup Girls in the 1950s

Many women copied the hairstyles of the 1950s' pinup models.

Betty Grable's pinup poster was a hit with soldiers during World War II. The pinup craze continued into the 1950s, highlighting stars such as Marilyn Monroe. The rules for modesty were loosening, and so were the hairstyles of the pinups.

Features

Sex appeal was the key component for pinup models. They wore their hair tousled and typically cut to mid- or shoulder length.

Style

Whether worn up or down, styles were soft and sultry. Although Bettie Page -- voted "Miss Pinup Girl of the World" in 1955 -- donned signature bangs, hair was generally swept off the face.

Curl

Loose curls were all the rage. Women without natural curl achieved the look in the 1950s by using a pin-curl set. Many of the pinups opted for permanent waves, a trend during that decade.

Color

Pinup models were typically blondes, such as Jayne Mansfield, or brunettes, such as Jane Russell.

Accessories

Barrettes and hair combs were used to pin the hair back to one side. Models would often tie in chiffon scarves.

Effects

Hair salons gained popularity in the 1950s, and women flocked to them, hoping to mimic the styles of the pinup models.

References

• Fashion Era: 1950-60 Hairstyles
• Betty Grable: A Betty Grable Biography
• Marie Claire: Bettie Page: The Naughtiest Girl Next Door
• Simply Hairstyles: 1950s' Hairstyles

Resources

• Hollywood Pin Up: Pin Up Photos
• Lone Star College -- Kingwood: American Cultural History 1950 -1959