1920s

12 Modern Celebrities Who Have Rocked 1920’s Hairstyles

1920s hairstyles are back and they're here to stay. Now, all we need is an invite to a Great Gatsby party.

Let’s face it: there’s nothing we don’t love about 1920s hairstyles. There were bold bobs, dazzling accessories and glamorous finger waves. And it was these iconic waves that really set the Roaring Twenties apart from other retro decades. But this stunning hairstyle isn’t just reserved for that bygone era, don’t you know?

1920s hairstyles have been popping up on our style radar for quite some time and we’re pleased to report that they are now fully back in fashion – and it’s about time, too. So, if you’re looking for some ’20s hair inspiration, you’ve come to the right place!

Below, we’ve compiled a nifty gallery of all our favourite 1920s hairstyles from the catwalks to the red carpet. So grab a cuppa’ and get ready to step back in time…

Cardi B

cardi b on debut album cover with bold yellow short fingers waves style with monochrome checked outfit
Bold and out there finger waves on Cardi B. Credit: Instagram.com/iamcardib

Cardi B (AKA our fave girl crush right now) loves the finger waves trend so much she was wearing the style on her hotly anticipated debut album – in her own unique way of course.

Keeping her hair short, Cardi went for a bold yellow hue that we could never imagine a young Bette Davis wearing. Credit: @iamcardib

Demi Lovato’s Flapper Waves

demi lovato at american music awards with finger wave dark brown bob wearing backless dress
Demi looks like the flapper girl we all wish we could be. Credit: Rex by Shutterstock

There is literally nothing we don’t love about this hairstyle on Demi. The whole look is styled together perfectly for any Great Gatsby themed parties. The glossy, high-shine finish to her dark brown bob, her bold lip and eye make-up and the final touch, a backless dress – we are speechless. Kudos, Demi, kudos!

 

 

Editor’s tip: Give your hair brilliant shine and polish while helping to control static with the VO5 Tame & Shine Spray. Spray evenly over blow-dried hair and brush through before styling.

Finger Waves Ponytail

1920s hairstyles: front facing view of woman with finger waves 1920s hair Stella McCartney
We love these finger waves. Credit: indigitalimages.com

Fashion week shows are renowned as much for their stunning clothing designs as they are for the amazing makeup and hair choices. So it comes as no surprise that designers have been quick to capitalise on the glamorous era that was the 1920s.

Recently, we’ve spotted models on the runway sporting finger waves swept neatly to one side and styled back into low ponytails, with the combination of 1920 hairstyles and contemporary clothes working wonders to bring this look into the 21st century.

Yara Shahidi’s Curly Pony

yara shahidi at MTV VMA awards with dark rbwon long hair in low ponytail with finger wave detailing along the hairline wearing a one shouldered yellow dress
Yara added a 1920s finger wave to her stunning updo. Credit; Rex by Shutterstock

Thought you couldn’t rock finger waves on curly hair? Think again.

Showing us how to rock this 1920s hairstyle with longer curly tresses, actress Yara Shahidi added a slight but very noticeable touch to her pulled back style with the addition of finger waves along the hairline.

Marc Jacobs’ Take On Finger Waves

image of a woman with 1920s hairstyles finger waves from the catwalk
Create a parting and rock finger waves on both sides! Credit: indigitalimages.com

Marc Jacobs was also quick to bring about a 1920s hair revival, just with a slightly more bold stance. The models’ hair was parted neatly down the middle, before being styled into tight, wet-look finger waves that had an alluring edge to it.

Yet while the high-impact waves may have taken centre stage, the rest of the models’ hair – worn down and textured – gave a touch of free movement to the otherwise rigid feel of the style.

Futuristic Waves

front facing image of Cara Delevingne with short hair and finger waves
Cara Delevingne gets it to spot on with this 1920’s hairstyle for short hair. Credit: Rex by Shutterstock

If you’ve got a pixie cut and you’re wondering whether you can sport ’20s hair – the answer is yes! Cara oozes retro glamour with this gorgeous ‘do that she rocked on the red carpet. It’s as if she just stepped out of a scene from The Great Gatsby with a touch of Westworld. We love!

Loose Finger Waves

two women with 1920s hairstyles - finger waves Marni hair
We’re loving these loose, laid back waves from the Marni show. Credit: indigitalimages.com

This loose take on 1920s hairstyles saw the models debut loose, voluminous finger waves. The traditional ’20s hair kinks were reformed to ooze modern vibes, with the large, soft waves swept up into slightly undone updos. The ornate drop earrings and deep maroon lip gave the look an undeniably cool-girl finish.

TRESemme Ultimate Hold Hairspray

Editor’s tip: After all your hard work it’s important to lock in your style with a holding spray. We love TRESemmé Ultimate Shine Hold Hairspray for setting looks.

Greta Gerwig’s Laid-back Look

image of Greta Gerwig with loose blonde finger waves - 1920's hairstyles
We heart Greta Gerwig’s laid back 20’s hair. Credit: Rex by Shutterstock

1920s hairstyles for short hair don’t get much prettier than this! We love the laid-back look of this retro hairstyle. It’s almost beach-chic meets old Hollywood glamour.

Simply create loose finger waves and then gently brush them out for a more relaxed feel. If you ever get bored with short locks, this is a great look to play around with.

Zendaya’s Low bun

image of actress Zendaya with a low bun and finger waves
Zendaya rocks a low bun with 20’s hair! Credit: Rex by Shutterstock

Actress and singer Zendaya looks beautifully polished and put together, proving that 1920s hairstyles don’t have to be complicated. Simply style the front section of your hair into finger waves, then sweep the rest of your hair back into a low bun – sorted!

Single Finger Wave

1920s hairstyles: side view of a woman with long hair in 1920s hairstyles - finger waves Salvatore Ferragamo
Elegant 1920’s hairstyles are so fashionable. Credit: indigitalimages.com

If you’re looking for 1920s hairstyles for long hair, this single finger wave is a subtle take on classic finger waves. We just love the idea of working vintage waves in such a sophisticated way. Stunning!

Editor’s tip: Ensure your tresses have a frizz-free finish by using the VO5 Frizz Free Cream. Not only is this nifty product fab for controlling frizz and creating a smooth glossy finish, but it also comes with heat defence too!

Finger Wave Fringes

1920s hairstyles: image of a woman with 1920s hairstyles - wet look at Opening Ceremony AW16 finger waves
We’re digging this wet look. Credit: indigitalimages.com

The wet look trend worked with retro waves is also a firm favourite of ours. The shape of the waves was exaggerated for dramatic effect and styled into a very striking finger wave fringe. Who would have expected such a complementary combination?

Finger Waves Bun

1920s hairstyles: Close up shot of a woman with dark brown hair styled into a finger waves low bun with peacock detailing, wearing a nude jacket and posing at Goodwood festival
The best way to top off finger waves? With accessories. Credit: Verity Jane Smith

Love accessories? If you want to give your finger waves a fresh update, try experimenting with different vintage-inspired hair accessories, like this lady has done with a peacock feather and headband.

 

Psst! All Things Hair are going to be at Goodwood Revival at Betty’s Salon, so don’t forget to come say hello!

Recommended reads:

7 Modern Ways To Wear 1930s Hair

12 Gorgeous 1940s Hairstyles

How To Create ’20s-Inspired Flapper Hair

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