How to Do Vintage & Retro Hair

Some of the easiest and most recognizable vintage hairstyles you can wear are the glamorous rolls of the 1940s. During that decade, clothing was rationed, so women used their hairstyles to showcase a sense of fashion. This hairstyle is often called "victory rolls." Find inspiration in retro pin-up girls like Betty Page, or elegant movie stars such as Ingrid Bergman.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dry shampoo
• Hot Rollers
• Brush
• Foam rollers
• Bobby pins
• Flower pin (optional)

Retro Hair

1. Start with unwashed hair. A little dirt gives your hair texture, which makes it easier to style. If you have especially fine hair, sprinkle some dry shampoo into the roots to mop up grease and add workability. (Cornstarch works, too).

2. For straight hair only: roll hair in hot rollers and leave in for about five minutes. This will give your hair extra volume, which is essential for this glamorous look. And it will prevent your hair from slipping out of the rolls.

3. Part your hair on your most flattering side. Side parts were a signature look of the '40s. Section off the hair on the top right quarter of your head. Wrap the hair around a foam roll, sweeping it away from your face and up toward your part. Secure the roll with bobby pins, making sure that your hair is covering the roll completely. Repeat with another roll on the top left quarter of your head.

4. Now it's time to make the look your own. Betty Page wore victory rolls with short bangs, or fringe. If you don't have bangs, you can fake them with a small foam roller. Section off the hair you want to use for your bangs and wrap it around the roller, fastening it at the top of your forehead and making sure the roller is hidden by your hair. This look imitates the short, full bangs that characterized many vintage hairstyles.

5. For a look that's pure vintage elegance, pin up the loose hair at the back of your head. You can use another foam roller and pin the hair around it, or simply sweep it up and fasten with bobby pins.

6. If you want to channel vintage glamor with your hair down, ignore the foam rollers and stick to the hot ones. Wrap the bottom half of your hair around the hot rollers, letting them cool before shaking hair loose with your fingers. Give yourself a deep side part, and smooth the top of your hair with a shine serum. Pull your 1940s-inspired waves over one shoulder.

7. Finally, accessorize the vintage way with a huge flower pin stuck behind one ear. Deep red lipstick is a must. Sparkling diamond or rhinestone earrings complete the look.

References

• How to Do "Victory Rolls" in 5 Minutes
• The Dos and Don'ts of Vintage Hair
• Hair Archives