How to Do a Vintage Beehive

A beehive hairdo complements a retro outfit.

The beehive is a vintage hairstyle that was popular between the 1960s and 1980s. Like other "retro" styles from this time period, this distinctive bun-shaped hairdo is popular for costume parties and as a fashion statement. Whether you are trying to give yourself or someone else a beehive, you can do it with a few pins, a comb and a brush. Begin with a basic ponytail and create a towering beehive for a costume party or to go with your favorite “retro” dress.

Things You'll Need

• Bobby pins
• Comb
• Hairspray
• Brush

Instructions

1. Divide the front part of your hair into two sides. Separate your bangs into two halves as well.

2. Pull the back half of your hair into a ponytail.

3. Comb the hair in the ponytail. Start at the end of the tail and comb towards your scalp.

4. Pull the ends of the ponytail up over the base and bring the ends towards the center of your head.

5. Use bobby pins to secure the ends of the ponytail in place on the center of your head. It should resemble a bun.

6. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 for the front half of your hair.

7. Brush the freshly combed hair over the bun and secure it with bobby pins. Pin it all in the same spot near the back of your hair. Work on each side separately and bring the sides over the bun that you already formed. This helps build the height of the beehive.

8. Spray the entire hairdo with hairspray to help hold the beehive in place.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear a headband around your hair to help hold everything in place and accent the beehive.

• Combing your hair from the ends of a ponytail towards your head can cause split ends, especially for thin hair. If you have thin hair, you may want to avoid this style or consider hair extensions.

References

• Hairstyles Teacher.com: Modern Beehive Hairstyle

Resources

• Hot 1940s Hairstyles: Hairstyles from the 1940s — Updos & Bangs
• Cut Out and Keep: Beehive Hairstyle