Are you dreaming of a wedding day that blends timeless elegance with vintage charm? A retro-inspired look might be just what you need!
Vintage wedding hairstyles offer a perfect mix of glamour and grace, whether you’re channeling the roaring ’20s or the classic ’50s. With the right styling, you can look like a timeless beauty, inspired by famous fashion styles from the past.
Whether you prefer a sleek bob, romantic curls, or a chic chignon, there’s a vintage style that suits every bride. In this guide, we’ll explore 12 stunning vintage wedding hairstyles to help you achieve that dreamy, retro bridal look.
1. Classic Barrel Curls
Classic barrel curls are a timeless choice for vintage wedding hairstyles. To style, begin with a heat protectant and dry shampoo for volume. Section your hair, and curl each piece for 5-10 seconds, alternating directions for a relaxed finish.
For outfits, pair the curls with a fitted gown or vintage-inspired dress. Opt for bold makeup like winged eyeliner and red lips, and accessorize with statement earrings and a chic clutch.
2. Chic Center Part
The chic center part is a classic and versatile choice for vintage wedding hairstyles. Start by creating a perfect middle part using a brush or comb. To add volume, apply sea salt spray and a little grooming clay for extra texture and hold.
Pair it with a sleek low bun or half-up, half-down style for an elegant vibe. Keep your makeup bold with winged eyeliner and red lips, and add statement earrings for that final vintage touch.
3. Gatsby-Inspired Bob
The Gatsby-inspired bob is a glamorous choice for a vintage wedding hairstyle, channeling the elegance of the 1920s. Start by creating deep finger waves using a curling iron or setting gel. For extra definition, use clips to hold the waves in place until they set.
A side part adds a touch of drama, while a faux bob works for brides with longer hair. Complete the look with a jeweled headband, pearl earrings, and a beaded flapper-style gown for the ultimate Roaring ’20s bridal aesthetic.
4. Bombshell Ringlets
For bombshell ringlets, start by using a speed dry product to remove moisture fast. Apply a smoothing cream to tame frizz, then blow-dry with a large brush for volume.
Roll hair with Velcro rollers, using heat to set the curls. After removing the rollers, brush out the curls with a Mason Pearson brush and finish with texturizing spray for a soft, bouncy look perfect for your vintage wedding hairstyle.
5. Bouncy, Soft Waves
For a vintage wedding hairstyle with a relaxed vibe, bouncy, soft waves are perfect. Start with a volumizing mousse and blow-dry for root lift. Use a large barrel curling iron, curling the hair in loose sections.
Leave the ends out for a laid-back look. Finish with flexible hairspray. Pair this style with a casual sundress, soft makeup, and simple hair accessories for a chic, effortless wedding look.
6. Retro French Roll
The retro French roll is an excellent choice for brides looking for a sophisticated yet timeless vintage wedding hairstyle. Start by texturizing your hair and twisting it tightly at the nape.
Tuck the ends under to form the roll. Add volume on top by backcombing and smooth it out. Secure with bobby pins. Pair this style with an elegant gown and soft makeup. Add statement earrings for a polished, timeless look.
7. Vintage Afro Styling
Vintage Afro styling is a bold choice for a unique wedding look. Start with braid or twist-outs for texture or try Bantu knots for tighter curls.
You can also stretch your hair with banding for volume. Keep your Afro moisturized with a leave-in conditioner and add accessories like headbands or flowers. Pair it with a vintage-inspired dress to complete the look.
8. Chic Bridal Beehive
A chic bridal beehive is a timeless choice for vintage wedding hairstyles. You can create a half-up, half-down look for something simple or go full-on ’60s by teasing the roots and smoothing everything out.
Add some sweet waves or use hairspray for extra hold. Accessorize with a flower, clip, or leather headband. This look pairs perfectly with a retro wedding dress for that classic vintage feel.
9. Retro Inspired Victory Roll Updos
A retro-inspired victory roll updo is a perfect choice for vintage wedding hairstyles. Start by curling your hair and sectioning it off. Tease the roots for volume and roll each section toward your scalp, securing with bobby pins.
Pair this with a vintage tea-length dress or high-waisted skirt. Add bold red lips, winged eyeliner, and pearl earrings to complete your chic, timeless look.
10. Vintage Wedding Ponytail
The vintage wedding ponytail is a classic, chic choice for any bride wanting to add a touch of retro glam. Start with clean, dry hair, add volume with texturizing spray, and curl for that signature vintage look.
Pull your hair into a ponytail, leaving some face-framing pieces for that soft, romantic vibe. Finish with pearl hairpins, a bold red lip, and a tea-length dress to complete the perfect vintage wedding hairstyle.
11. Roaring ’20’s Curly Bob
The Roaring ’20s curly bob is a vintage wedding hairstyle that brings a fun, chic vibe. To nail this look, use pin curls or finger waves for texture and volume.
A side part adds drama. If you don’t want to cut your hair, try a faux bob. Pair it with a flapper-inspired dress, soft makeup, and a cloche hat to complete your vintage wedding look.
12. Finger Waves
Finger waves are a perfect choice for vintage wedding hairstyles. To create them, start with damp hair, apply mousse or gel, and part your hair deeply.
Use your fingers and a fine-tooth comb to shape the waves into “S” shapes. Clip them in place, let them dry, and gently separate them for a softer look. Pair with a flapper dress, bold lips, and vintage accessories for the full retro vibe.
Conclusion
To wrap up, vintage wedding hairstyles are a beautiful way to infuse your big day with elegance and nostalgia. Out of all the styles, my favorites are the classic barrel curls and the retro-inspired victory rolls. These looks exude timeless charm, just like some of the most iconic celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn, who embraced these styles with grace. Whether you choose one of these or another vintage beauty, you’re sure to shine on your special day.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What accessories complement vintage wedding hairstyles?
Pearl hairpins, birdcage veils, floral clips, rhinestone combs, and lace headbands complement vintage wedding hairstyles, enhancing the retro aesthetic with elegance and charm.
2. How do I make my vintage wedding hairstyle last all day?
Use strong-hold hairspray, backcomb for volume, secure with bobby pins, and apply setting lotion before curling. Avoid humidity and touch up with hair oil for shine.
3. What vintage wedding hairstyles were popular in the 1920s?
Finger waves, Marcel waves, and short bobs with deep side parts defined 1920s wedding hairstyles, often adorned with feathered or jeweled headbands.
4. What is the easiest vintage wedding hairstyle to do?
Hollywood waves are the easiest, requiring a curling iron, soft brushing, and hairspray for a polished, glamorous finish with minimal effort.
