How to Do a 50s Updo
The 1950s saw the birth rock 'n' roll, the rise of teen culture, and the invention of the quiff hairstyle---and it wasn't just men who were doing the backcombing. Women, too, experimented with new, gravity-defying hairdos during this rebellious era. The current interest in vintage style and the revival of retro fashions has led to the popularity of modern twists on classic 1950s hairstyles---including the beehive, hair rolls, and the ponytail. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
-
-
1
Create a vertical part across the top of your head, running from ear to ear, using a tail comb.
-
2
Secure the back section with a sectioning clip.
-
-
3
Tease or backcomb the front section of hair in 1-inch pieces until you reach the desired height.
-
4
Smooth each teased piece of hair with your fingers or a comb. Layer pieces of teased hair on top of one another to create a single, firm foundation.
-
5
Spray the backcombed hair with a firm hold hairspray to fix the height and shape.
-
6
Fold the backcombed top section back on itself to create a roll of hair that has height and lift. Secure in place with hair grips.
-
7
Unclip the back section of hair.
-
8
Gather the hair into a ponytail at the middle of the back of your head. Tie off the ponytail with a hair band that matches your hair color.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Add more or less hair to the front section, depending on how big you want your quiff to be. Combine your quiff with bangs for a softer, less dramatic look.
For a more formal finish, camouflage the hair band by wrapping a 1-inch wide strand of hair from the side of the ponytail around the base of the tail. Alternatively, arrange the back section into a bun or a twist instead of a ponytail.
Backcombing works best on straight day-old hair that has had a chance to accumulate some natural hair oils. If you are working with just-washed hair, use plenty of styling products to give your quiff staying power.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images
