1950s Hairstyle: 23+ Charming Retro Styles to Try

Dive into the era of turnstiles and curling waves - the 50s charm is waiting to be conjured into your hair with Victory Rolls and Pin Curls. Get inspired and find the retro look that suits you!

Table of content

• Victory Rolls
• Pin Curls
• High Ponytail
• Pompadour
• Voluminous Updo

Victory Rolls

Spinning elegance in no time – that’s the legendary Victory Rolls, pure glamour in the style of the 1950s! With this voluminous roll, you celebrate the art of classic vintage styling and awaken the rockabilly goddess within you. Transforming your hair into such a decorative splendor, once considered a symbol of triumph and joy, is a gift of every skilled lady. Your hair becomes a masterpiece when you artfully twist paired curls around your face. Each roll, finely teased and lovingly pinned, enhances your appearance. Even though the beginning may require some practice – your perseverance will be rewarded with an adorable 50s look. Grab the hairspray and bobby pins, and let’s create a piece of history in your hairstyle together!

Pin Curls

Dive into the world of pin curls and bring the swing of the 1950s into your hair! This curl-setting method, which requires no curling iron, is the secret for a touch of nostalgia and a hint of retro charm. Start with slightly damp hair and apply a small amount of hair balm or blow-dry cream to secure the hold. Then section your hair and wrap each strand around your finger. For shorter curls, use less hair per curl. Secure with a bobby pin or hair clip, and voilà, the foundation for your glamorous curls is set. A headband can help keep the front strands out of your face during the drying phase. With a bit of patience and practice, the vintage magic unfolds, taking you back to a time when individual style was celebrated!

High Ponytail

Want a nostalgic touch in your daily routine? The high ponytail from the lively '50s combines retro charm with practical elegance. And the best part: you don't even need a bob to rock this look. Just grab a hair tie and you're all set. Create a sleek, upward-styled ponytail that accentuates your facial features and instantly gives you a fresh look. Here's a tip: For added volume, you can lightly tease sections before tying them up or use dry shampoo to add texture and fullness. With a few strategically placed bobby pins, this updo holds all day—a quick, stylish solution with a wow factor!

Pompadour

Ready for a bit of nostalgia with a twist? The pompadour, an absolute classic from the 50s, is incredibly versatile and adds that special something to your look—whether you want to come across as rockin' cool or elegantly effortless. This vintage splendor is even perfect for your next big event, like an unforgettable bridal hairstyle. How do you achieve it? Just a little finesse, some volumizing mousse, and a teasing comb at the ready, and you’re rolling towards style glory! Don’t worry, it looks more complicated than it is—trust your hair and yourself. And remember: A little hairspray helps keep your pompadour in shape all day long. Tip: Even though it’s a head-turner, don’t let your pompadour be lonely—a haircut that complements the pompadour perfectly brings everything together.

Voluminous Updo

Get ready for the glamour of the 1950s with a voluminous updo that adds that special something to your vintage look! To achieve the perfect bounce in your mane, teasing is a must. Grab a brush and a teasing comb to give your hair the necessary volume at the roots, making a real statement. If you want more flexibility with hair length, short hairstyles are no excuse—with a hair cushion, you can transform even finer hair into a magnificent updo. Don't skimp on securing it; keep everything in place with plenty of hairspray. This updo is not only eye-catching but also a tribute to an era that continues to inspire hair fashion today!

Hair Care and Preparation for 50s Hairstyles

To achieve the perfect 50s hairstyle, proper preparation of your hair is key. Start with healthy and clean hair so that your vintage hairstyle lasts all day. Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo and use a nourishing conditioner to make it shiny and smooth. Before you begin styling, spray your hair with a heat protectant to shield it from damage caused by curling or straightening irons. If you plan to create curls or waves, using a volumizing spray or mousse at the roots can be helpful to make your hairstyle appear more voluminous. When drying your hair, it's recommended to use a blow dryer with a diffuser attachment to emphasize the natural texture of your curls. If you have straighter hair and want curls, use large rollers or a curling iron to create the necessary volume. Before you start styling, let your hair cool completely, as this will help the shapes hold better.

Step-by-Step Guides for an Authentic 50s Look

For an authentic 50s look, you can focus on classic hairstyles like Victory Rolls or the Pompadour. Here's a step-by-step for the Victory Rolls:

1. Part your hair in the middle or to the side and section off the front hair portions.
2. Roll a strand tightly upwards with your fingers until it forms a spiral roll.
3. Secure the roll to your head with bobby pins and repeat the process on the other side.
4. For a stronger hold and to tame flyaways, finish the rolls with hairspray. For the Pompadour, follow these steps:
5. Section off a large piece of hair from your forehead to the top of your head.
6. Tease this section slightly to create volume.
7. Carefully smooth the surface and roll the teased section inward or outward.
8. Secure the pompadour and set it in place with hairspray.

Accessories and Hair Ornaments Suitable for 50s Hairstyles

No 50s look is complete without the right hair accessory. Bandanas or headbands, tied under the chin or at the back of the head, add the finishing touch to your style. They stand out particularly well when paired with a loose updo or cascading waves. Hairclips with pearls or rhinestones are another way to give your hair a festive vintage touch. They are ideal for updos and add a touch of elegance even to the plainest bun. Last but not least, floral accessories like artificial orchids or roses can be attached to one side of the head, exuding the charm of the 50s. Be sure that the color of your hair ornament complements your hairstyle and outfit to create a cohesive overall look.