Gibson girl hair: Vintage updo how-to & styling ideas

Always wanted to try Gibson girl hair? Well, we’ve got a fabulous treat in-store for you: we asked British beauty vlogger Nikki’s Secret (N1kk1sSecr3t on YouTube) to put together a video tutorial showing us how to create a Gibson tuck hair updo, AKA one of the most sophisticated classic hairstyles around.

So if you’re planning on attending a cocktail party, interview or any other formal soiree, then this is the hairstyle to covet. To copy this stunning vintage style, watch Nikki’s simple video tutorial above, or read on to see our step-by-step breakdown and inspirational Instagram finds!

Your step-by-step guide to the Gibson tuck

1

1

Wash & detangle hair.

To rock the perfect Gibson roll, start by washing your hair with a smoothing shampoo and conditioner like the TRESemmé Silky Smooth Salon Silk Shampoo and Conditioner.

Then, gently brush through your damp hair to remove any knots and tangles.

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2

Dry your hair.

After you’ve brushed your hair, apply some VO5 Frizz Free Creme,  which will not only help keep frizz at bay, but it’ll also help protect against heat damage, too.

Then, using a paddle brush and a hairdryer, dry your hair. You can do this section by section if you have long, thick hair like Nikki’s.

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3

Section & twist.

Using a comb, create a centre parting. Then, take a small section of hair from one side of the front of your face, and twist it away from you. As you twist, begin to incorporate bits of hair from the underneath, until you reach the nape of your neck.

Temporarily secure this twist in place by slipping in a sectioning clip at the bottom. Then, repeat the same process on the other side of your head. This is the base of your Gibson roll.

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4

Twist your pony.

Next, start by rolling your ponytail over on itself. Once you get to the top, create a small opening at the base of your ponytail.

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5

Loop your ponytail through.

After twisting your ponytail, tuck it into the opening that you created in step 4 to create your Gibson tuck (which looks almost like a chignon!).

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6

Pin in place.

Using bobby pins that are the same colour as your hair, pin your Gibson girl hairdo in place.

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7

Set with hairspray.

To help keep the Gibson tuck in place all day, set it with some TONI&GUY Tousled Texture Creation Hairspray. Spray this at arm’s length, then finish by tidying up the front of your updo by ensuring that it looks symmetrical.

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8

Final look.

And there you have it: a chic, sophisticated hair updo, perfect for just about any occasion – from weddings to cocktail parties! Now you know to choose the Gibson girl hairdo for your next soiree!

 

How to do a Gibson tuck on shoulder-length hair

Featured video

Not got ultra long locks but still want to rock this retro ‘do? We have you covered. Just watch out step-by-step video guide above and you’ll be a Gibson girl reincarnate in no time!

Now you’ve got the basics of Gibson girl hair down, you can play around with all sorts of different styles with just a few accessories and tweaks here and there. Here are some of our favourites from Instagram…

More Gibson girl hair inspiration you’ll want to try out

Great Gatsby hair

If it’s true vintage glamour that you’re after, then why not rock a hairstyle that would be worthy of a Great Gatsby shindig!

We love how the Gibson tuck has been styled with a retro beaded headband for a dose of added glamour. Perfect for a formal occasion or fancy dress party! Credit: @antoniahairartist

Full Gibson roll

Ladies blessed with thick locks should definitely rock the Gibson girl hairdo! Not only is it understated and glamorous, but your thick tresses will help to add volume to the Gibson roll, making it look full and fabulous.

Start your roll at the top of your ears for a slightly U-shaped tuck, that looks oh-so pretty from the back. Credit: @madijayy_

Laid back tuck

For a more undone approach to Gibson girl hair, then don’t worry about keeping your tresses neat and tidy.

Simply add in an intricate hair slide to dress up the look and make it evening ready. Keep your hair texturised and ensure you’re using plenty of hairspray to re-create this laid back look. Credit: @cchannel_girls

Dainty accessories

As you can tell by now, a hair accessory really transforms the Gibson tuck into something truly unique – and we can’t get enough of the simplicity of this delicate crystal band.

Create the same look by securing a head band with bobby pins in to the outer corners of your tuck and you’ve just sorted your new party go-to. So pretty! Credit: @bestdayeverbridal

The classic Gibson tuck

Even in it’s simplest form, the Gibson tuck is such an elegant hairstyle to sport. And we think you’ll agree: this look is absolutely ideal for a wedding day!

Create plenty of volume in your hair by blasting your roots with the hairdryer and gently teasing with a comb. Pull out small sections of hair around your face for a pretty and flattering finish. Credit: @inspired.hair

Retro hair

If you want to give your look a true retro edge, then team your Gibson girl hair with Victory waves and carefully-placed pin curls.

Not sure how to go about creating Victory rolls? We have that covered, too! Just follow our step-by-step tutorial for the most glamorous retro locks in all the land. Credit: @pearls_pinup_parlour

Undone Gibson

Got lovely long tresses? Then this is the look for you! The undone Gibson tuck, is a stunning way to rock this style, as it’s got a laid back appeal, yet still oozes glamour.

It also doesn’t matter if your tuck is on the messier side, as it all helps to give drama to the look. The bigger the better, we say! Credit: @beautymarkedbysarah