Hairstyles Through History

You know how sometimes you can date an old photograph by how you wore your hair? Oh, I had a perm there, must have been the summer of 1988…. Of course it’s not just your hair that speaks to what year it was. Often, a hairstyle in a vintage photograph will immediately reveal the decade. Today, we’re looking back at some of the most recognizable hairstyles through the years, and offering tips on how to bring that look into the twenty-first century.

1910

The Victorian era left a lasting mark on early twentieth century hairstyles, but the rigidity of the era gave way to more flowy styles in the early 1900s. While more "undone" than their Victorian predecessors, these hairstyles were still much more assembled and refined than what we might think of as free-flowing today. These early 1900s styles often featured a center part, partial pin ups, and some embellishments—think metallic headpieces and floral adornments. The ultimate goal of hairstyles during this time was to highlight one’s volume, which is evident in the choice of long drop curls and ringlets during this era.

Tap into the voluminous beginning of the twentieth century and keep it modern by opting for big, loose waves. We recommend applying Style on damp hair prior to blow drying hair. Smooth some more product on dry hair before using a curling iron to protect from heat, and finish with Tame to hold your curls. Use metallic bobby pins to pull hair half back, nodding to the polished looks of the 1910s.

1920s-30s

While long hairstyles remained fashionable in the 1920s, the new decade marked an increased interest in hair accessories, like felt and wool hats, jeweled pins, hair bows, and headbands. Soon, a new hairstyle emerged amidst the prevailing trend of long tresses—the short bob. A radical change from the norm for women’s haircuts, the bob took a firm hold in the 1920s, and its popularity extended into the next decade. The style could be elevated with the use of hair accessories, and in Depression-era America, women appreciated the ease of the finger wave—a style women could do at home without the expense of a stylist or the need for an iron. These face-framing styles were able to reflect both the prosperity of the 20s and the scarcity of the 30s, all in one signature look.

Although women in the 1930s were big fans of the finger wave, it’s actually a very challenging style to achieve at home—at least if you want to style your hair quickly. You can achieve the feel of the early twentieth century look by setting simple pin curls overnight and opting for a deep side part when styling. For a nod to the 20s, use a bejeweled hairclip or headband.