Vintage updos bring classic elegance, drawing inspiration from styles that have stood the test of time. Whether you’re getting ready for a formal event, wedding, or just love the retro aesthetic, these sophisticated styles will add a unique flair to your look. Here are 15 elegant vintage updos that can elevate any occasion with a nod to the past.
1. Reverse Tuck
The reverse tuck is a graceful style that involves tucking the ends of your hair up and under for a polished look. To create this vintage updo, roll your hair inward, securing it close to the nape of your neck with pins. This style works wonderfully with headbands or small flowers, making it perfect for a garden party or outdoor wedding.
2. Elegant Vintage Beehive Updo
The beehive was iconic in the 1960s and remains a symbol of vintage sophistication. To achieve this voluminous look, tease the crown of your hair to create height, then smooth over the top layer for a neat finish. Secure with pins at the back and add a statement hair accessory, like a pearl comb or decorative headband, for an extra touch of class.
3. Pin-Up Victory Rolls
Victory rolls were popular during the 1940s and are still celebrated for their bold, glamorous appeal. To create this style, section the front of your hair, roll each section toward your scalp, and pin securely. The victory rolls add height and frame the face beautifully, while the rest of your hair can be left loose, pinned into an updo, or even paired with a bandana for a classic pin-up look.
4. Elegant Braided Vintage Updo
This vintage updo combines elegance and intricacy. Start by creating two or more braids with sections of your hair, then pin them into a low bun or twist at the nape of your neck. The braided detail adds texture and dimension to your updo, creating a look reminiscent of old Hollywood glamour.
5. Swirl and Twirl
The swirl and twirl updo is soft and feminine, perfect for creating a classic vintage vibe. This look involves swirling sections of your hair and pinning them into an elegant, circular shape at the back of your head. The result is a delicate, curled style that works beautifully with vintage hairpins or a birdcage veil.
6. Simple Faux Bob Vintage Updo
If you love the look of a short, bob-style updo without cutting your hair, the faux bob is the perfect solution. Tuck and pin the ends of your hair under to create the illusion of a chin-length bob. This style was popular in the 1920s and pairs well with accessories like a feathered headpiece or a jeweled clip for a true vintage feel.
7. Vintage Ponytail
A vintage ponytail combines the simplicity of a ponytail with a retro twist. Start by adding volume at the crown with some teasing, then pull your hair back into a ponytail and secure. Curl the ends for a polished finish, or add a scarf or bow to emphasize the vintage vibe.
8. My Fair Lady Inspired Vintage Updo
Inspired by Audrey Hepburn’s look in My Fair Lady, this classic updo is all about elegance and poise. To create this style, sweep your hair into a sleek bun with plenty of volume at the crown. Add a touch of glamour with a pearl or rhinestone accessory. This timeless style is ideal for formal events or weddings.
9. Pin-Up Swirl Updo
The pin-up swirl updo is fun and playful, with a bit of an edge. This look involves creating large, rolled swirls with sections of your hair, usually at the front or sides, and pinning them in place. You can combine this style with a low bun or ponytail for added versatility, and top it off with a scarf or flower.
10. Vintage Updo for Natural Hair
For those with natural curls, a vintage updo adds texture and dimension. Use a few bobby pins to pin the sides and back of your hair, creating volume at the crown. Let some curls frame your face for a soft, vintage-inspired look. This style is perfect for anyone with natural or textured hair and can be dressed up with a flower clip or hair jewelry.
11. Gatsby-Inspired Updo
Bring the Roaring Twenties to life with a Gatsby-inspired updo. To achieve this look, create soft waves or finger waves at the front, and gather the back into a low bun or twist. Add a rhinestone headband or feathered accessory for a touch of Art Deco glamour. This style is perfect for themed parties or formal gatherings.
12. Back Roll Vintage Updo
The back roll is a classic vintage hairstyle that’s simple yet elegant. Start by rolling the hair at the nape of your neck upwards toward the scalp and pinning it securely. This look is smooth and sophisticated, often paired with side-swept bangs or a decorative comb for added vintage charm.
13. Rolled Updo with a Flower
Adding a flower to a rolled updo is a beautiful way to enhance the vintage feel. Create a roll or twist at the nape of your neck, and secure it with pins. Add a fresh or silk flower on one side for a romantic, vintage look. This style is especially popular for weddings and outdoor events.
14. Twisted Vintage Updo on Natural Hair
The twisted updo works well with natural hair, creating an elegant and polished style with a vintage twist. Twist sections of your hair and pin them back into a bun or chignon. This style can be as simple or intricate as you’d like and works beautifully with hair accessories like a small comb or headband.
15. Rockabilly Roll Hairstyle
The Rockabilly roll is a bold and fun vintage style that adds height and volume to your look. To create this look, tease the front section of your hair, roll it backward into a pompadour, and secure it with pins. The rest of the hair can be styled into a bun, ponytail, or left loose. This updo pairs well with a polka dot scarf or bandana for an authentic Rockabilly feel.
These 15 vintage updos bring back the glamour and elegance of past eras, making them perfect for any special occasion. From intricate rolls to simple twists, each style offers its own unique charm. Add some vintage accessories, and you’ll have a stunning, timeless look that turns heads wherever you go.