Retro Hairstyles For Girls: A Nostalgic Journey Through Time
There’s something undeniably captivating about the charm and elegance of retro hairstyles. From the glamorous waves of the 1920s to the bold, voluminous looks of the 1980s, each era carries its own unique flair that continues to inspire modern fashion. Retro hairstyles for girls are more than just a nod to the past—they’re a celebration of timeless beauty, individuality, and creativity. Whether you’re aiming for vintage Hollywood glamour, playful pin-up vibes, or edgy mod chic, these iconic styles offer endless possibilities to express personality and make a statement. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most beloved retro hairstyles, tips for achieving them, and how to adapt these classic looks to suit today’s trends while keeping their nostalgic essence alive. Get ready to step back in time and bring a touch of vintage magic to your everyday style!
1. Vintage Curly Lob
For all the women out there who adore an antique or vintage look, this 70s voluminous lob with curls will definitely satisfy your old soul. It is one of the quickest hairstyles you can sport that will create the illusion of a fuller mane, ideal for anyone with low volume or thin tresses.
Jennie, a blogger exploring diverse topics, shared her thoughts after experimenting with the Vintage Curly Lob hairstyle, expressing, “It’s basically a dream for me style wise! One thing I always envied was the hair of Martie’s girlfriend Jennifer [Film: Back To The Future] (not least because she has the same name as me). That volume! That curl! Wow (i)!”
2. Loose Ringlets With Subtle Pouf
Nothing encapsulates the retro vibe better than loose ringlets and gentle poufs commonly noted in 1950s hairstyles. If you have stunning blonde curls, then you are bound to have your own Marilyn Monroe moment. The playful hairdo exudes femme-fatale energy and speaks endless volumes, giving you a throwback to the past, perfect for casual or red-carpet events.
3. Bandana Bun
This hairstyle is one of the easiest ones to sport and looks cool too. The picture explains the step-by-step procedure of achieving this retro hairstyle.
A wrinkled bandana doesn’t stay in place for long. So, air-dry it after washing and iron it on low heat.
4. Side Ponytail With A Teased Crown
Side ponytail with a teased crown is almost a rage these days. Tease your crown area a little and tie a side ponytail thereafter, secure using a rubber band. Make sure the teased part stays safe by using bobby pins at the nape. Expert hair stylist Megan Senner recommends using a backcombing brush to achieve perfectly teased hair.
5. High Twice-Bound Pony
Obsessed with your pony but eager to try something different? Well, here is your answer. This style is ideal for people with lengthy hair. Follow the instructions given with the picture to sport this high and twice-bound pony.
6. Teased Double Bun
If you are looking for a sophisticated retro look, a teased double bun is what you are searching for.
Divide your hair into two sections, one at the middle of the head and the rest at the lower part. Now clip the upper part away and tease the lower part to get some volume. Now, cover the lower part with the upper part and make a bun. It looks formal yet casual.
7. Rolled Back Updo
Match your lacy dress perfectly with this feminine retro hairstyle. Part your blow-dried hair from the middle. Twist one side and pin it up at the back of the nape. Do the same with the other side. Now connect both the ends and roll them making a bun and you are ready with a rolled back updo. You might also enjoy experimenting with some ‘60s updo hairstyles like beehives and voluminous buns, perfect for a classic look.
8. Finger Waves
Finger waves were a notable feature of flapper hairstyles, and are a fashionable legacy of the roaring ‘20s. This flirty nostalgic retro hairstyle is one of the most popular hairstyles today.
Dry your hair and separate into different 1-2 inches’ sections. Use some mist on your hair and use a curling rod. When the rod cools completely, use your fingertips to sculpt the curls and your flirty finger waves are ready to be flaunted. Licensed hair stylist Megan Senner adds, “You can also use a large barrel crimping wand to achieve this look.”
The finger wave hairstyle was popular during the 1920s and early 1930s. Famous actresses Josephine Baker and Esther Philips are known to have popularized it.
9. Long Waves
Curl your long hair using hot curling rollers. Now spray some dry shampoo just at the crown to get some lift and volume. In this way your curls would be much more manageable and look more natural. Let your curls be open and enjoy the long waves created by the curls.
10. Wavy Bob With A Side Part
You can flaunt your love for retro themes even with short-length hair inspired by iconic 60s short hairstyles that bring chic sophistication. And if you love your bob, you will love this trendy hairstyle even more. Use hot rollers to curl each 1-inch section of your hair. When you feel the rollers have cooled down, let your hair out and curl them using your fingertips and style them the way you want. Make a deep parting of your hair and let the waves add fun to your look.
11. High Side Pony
This is another variation for people who love sporting their ponytails. You just need to tie your pony high at the crown but position it sideways. You may even curl the end of the pony with a curling iron to get a more authentic retro look.
12. Low And Wavy Side-Bun
If you are blessed with wavy hair, this one is for you. Curl the ends of your hair. Now comb them all together and collect at one of the sides behind your ear. Now start rolling it into a bun and secure using bobby pins. You may use hair accessories to adorn this look.
13. Long Cornrows Hairstyle
We are absolutely in awe of this stunning cornrows hairstyle on long tresses! And, who can carry this look better than our very own Zendaya. This protective hairstyle is also a chic and neat look that can be variously styled for a range of events, from everyday work lunches to late night bar hopping with besties.
14. Voluminous Afro
This afro hairstyle donned by the gorgeous actress, Viola Davis is one that is bound to fetch you endless compliments. The veteran star has often been captured with this statement hairstyle, choosing to spruce up her god-gifted kinky hair to say curly is beautiful. It is super easy to rock, and some texturising spray can make it come alive.
These top retro looks sported by celebrities over the years are truly rad! If you have selected your favorite and want to recreate it, there are a few essential tools you will need. Learn more about them in the next section!
Key Takeaways
- Retro hairstyles have timeless appeal, offering classic, chic, and elegant looks that are making a comeback in modern times.
- Ponytail lovers can add a twist to the classic pony with a high and twice-bound style.
- Vintage curly lobs are ideal for those with low volume or thin tresses.
- Loose ringlets with subtle pouf style are perfect for those with stunning blonde curls, suitable for casual or red-carpet events.
- Rolled back updo perfectly complements lacy dresses, offering a feminine and retro touch.
Essential Tools For Creating Retro Hairstyles
Here are a few tools that you will need to create iconic, vintage-inspired hair looks. Scroll down.
- Curling Tools: They help create classic curls and pin-up styles. Depending on the hairstyle you want to recreate, you can use hot rollers and curling or flat irons. You should also use a curl defining cream, before styling your hair, to enhance your look.
- Bristle Brush: This brush smoothes out flyaways while enhancing the volume of your wavy or curly hair.
- Rat Tail Comb: It helps part the hair into precise sections. It can also be used to tease the hair near the roots to add a natural volume.
- Hair Mousse & Hairspray: This product holds the hair’s shape in place and retains the hair’s bouncy effect.
- Bobby Pins: These clips are essential to secure curls in place and push back baby hair for a cleaner, dramatic look.
- Headbands & Ribbons: These retro accessories add a vintage look and feel to the hair.
