13 Iconic Hollywood Retro Hairstyles for a Timeless Glam Look

Craving a look that channels old Hollywood glam with a modern twist? Retro hairstyles are back, bringing timeless elegance to your everyday style. Vintage waves and bold updos create a chic, polished vibe that suits any occasion.

Whether you’re dressing up for a special event or simply want to add some glitz to your day-to-day, retro hairstyles are the perfect way to elevate your look. 

In this article, we will discover 13 iconic Hollywood retro hairstyles that will give you that ultimate vintage flair! So be with us and read this article carefully.

1. Soft Hollywood Waves

Soft Hollywood waves are a classic Hollywood retro hairstyle that never goes out of style. Start with heat-protected, dry hair, then curl with a large barrel iron in the same direction. 

Soft Hollywood Waves
PHOTO: WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/ @HAIRANDMAKEUPBYSTEPH

Pin curls while they cool, then brush gently for that glossy finish. Pair with an elegant gown, bold red lips, and statement earrings. Add a chic clutch and jeweled hairpins for true old Hollywood glam!

2. Finger waves

Finger waves are a timeless Hollywood retro hairstyle that screams Roaring 20s glam. Begin by soaking your hair with water and styling products. Use your fingers and a comb to form S-shaped curls. 

Finger Waves
PHOTO: COSMOPOLITAN

Re-wet your hair often for the best hold. Pair your waves with a flapper dress, bold lipstick, and vintage accessories. This classic style will give any feminine look a glamorous, bold twist.

3. Victory Rolls

Victory Rolls is a glamorous 1940s hair trend that perfectly captures the spirit of the WWII-era style. To get this look, start by curling your hair and parting it for volume. 

Victory Rolls
PHOTO: MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING FOR WEDDINGS AND EVENTS

Roll the front sections inward, securing them with bobby pins for a polished finish. Pair this iconic pin-up girl style with a bold red lip, a rockabilly hair vibe, and a vintage scarf for added flair.

4. Beehive Hairstyle

The Beehive hairstyle is a 1960s bouffant classic that oozes retro volume and height. To achieve this look, tease your hair at the crown, adding layers of volume and shaping it into the signature high updo. 

Beehive Hairstyle
PHOTO: BYRDIE

For a feminine finish, pair it with bold makeup—think cat eyes and a pink pout. Complete the look with vintage accessories like a Brigitte Bardot hair band or decorative clips, giving you that perfect classic updo vibe.

5. Side-Swept Curls

Side-swept curls are the perfect way to channel Hollywood curls and vintage curls. For a feminine touch, start by parting your hair and adding some styling products to boost volume. 

Side-Swept Curls
PHOTO: WWW.INSTAGRAM.COM/ @WEDDINGOMANIA

Curl your hair and sweep it to one side to create those red carpet waves. Finish it off with hairspray for a polished look. Pair it with a sleek dress and add accessories like a pearl clip for extra side-swept glam.

6. Marilyn Monroe Curls

Marilyn Monroe Curls are the epitome of feminine charm and vintage curls. These bouncy curls scream classic pin-up style and channel that timeless 1950s bombshell energy. 

Marilyn Monroe Curls
PHOTO: PINKVILLA

Start by applying a styling product to damp hair and blow-dry it with a round brush for that full volume. Pair these Marilyn Monroe hair curls with red lipstick, a stunning dress, and a flirty attitude. Pin-up waves never go out of style, darling!

7. Retro French Twist

For a sleek Retro French Twist, start with clean, dry hair and add mousse for texture. Create a deep side part for extra drama, then twist and pin your hair for that elegant roll. 

Retro French Twist
PHOTO: ALL THINGS HAIR

This updo pairs perfectly with formal dresses or cocktail gowns for a night out. For makeup, go for classic eyeliner and bold lips. Complete the look with dainty hairpins and maybe a vintage hair comb for that added Hollywood touch.

8. Rolled Bangs with Curls

Rolled bangs with curls are the perfect retro look for any woman. To style, curl your bangs forward with a large roller or use a curling iron for that signature rolled front hairstyle. 

Rolled Bangs with Curls
PHOTO: LOVEHAIRSTYLES.COM

Add volume at the roots with a curler. Pair this pin-up fringe with a bold red lip and dainty hairpins or a vintage comb. This Hollywood retro hairstyle goes great with a vintage dress or a sleek cocktail gown.

9. Hollywood Pin Curls

Hollywood pin curls are the perfect retro hairstyle for any woman looking to channel old Hollywood glamour. Start by sectioning your hair into small parts and rolling each piece tightly from the tips. 

Hollywood Pin Curls
PHOTO: ALHUDAPK.COM

Secure with pin curl clips and let them set. After, smooth your curls with a serum for a glossy finish. Pair with a bold red lip and hairpins, and you’ll have that feminine, vintage look all set!

10. Low Retro Bob

The low retro bob is the perfect way for any woman to channel a sleek, vintage vibe. With a smooth, tapered cut, it gives off that 1920s bob feel. 

Low Retro Bob
PHOTO: POP SUGAR

For styling, you can add volume with a blowout or create some texture with hair straighteners. Pair it with bold makeup like bright lipstick or bronzer to enhance the look. Finish off with a claw clip, and you’re good to go!

11. Gibson Tuck Updo

The Gibson Tuck updo is a timeless vintage hairstyle that every woman should try at least once. It’s perfect for those who want an elegant finish with soft tucks and rolls. 

Gibson Tuck Updo
PHOTO: REDDIT

For added volume, tease your ponytail or use a hairdryer for some root lift. Pair it with Victory waves and pin curls for that true retro feel. A dainty headband or hair slide can dress it up, and you’re ready for anything—from a cocktail party to a wedding!

12. Bouffant with Headband

The 1960s bouffant with a headband is the perfect mix of retro volume and modern flair. With its high crown and teased volume, it’s all about that vintage mod style. 

Bouffant with Headband
PHOTO: STEALHERSTYLE.NET

Add a headband, and you’ve got an effortlessly chic look. Whether you’re heading to a dinner or a party, pair it with bold makeup and a feminine dress for that classic bouffant vibe.

13. Hollywood High Ponytail

The Hollywood high ponytail is a classic vintage hairstyle that exudes retro sleek style. It features lifted roots and curled ends for a polished, glamorous look. 

Hollywood High Ponytail
PHOTO: POP SUGAR

To achieve this, tease your ponytail for volume and smooth out flyaways with hairspray. You can add a ribbon or bow for a fun twist. This high pony is perfect for any woman who wants to feel powerful, confident, and feminine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 13 vintage-inspired Hollywood retro hairstyles are perfect for adding timeless glamour. My personal favorites are the soft Hollywood waves and Marilyn Monroe curls, both of which have been embraced by celebrities like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé. Whether you’re attending a special event or looking to elevate your everyday style, these iconic hairstyles will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do you achieve Hollywood waves at home?

Use a curling iron, wrap sections in the same direction, brush gently, and set with hairspray for smooth, structured waves with a glamorous, polished finish.

2. Which Hollywood retro hairstyle suits short hair?

Finger waves, the flapper bob, and the pageboy cut suit short hair, offering a sleek, vintage look with structured curls or tucked-under ends.

3. What products help create vintage Hollywood hairstyles?

Essential products include a curling iron, setting lotion, strong-hold hairspray, shine serum, bobby pins, and a bristle brush for smooth, polished styling.

4. How do you style a beehive hairstyle?

Tease the crown, smooth the top layer, secure with bobby pins, and set with hairspray for a voluminous, high-rise beehive look inspired by the 1960s.

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