19 Fashionable Retro Hairstyles
Found: The retro hairstyles that everyone won't stop talking about.
Retro hairstyles are back for good — thanks to the many designers and celebs embracing all things vintage, but also down to the fact that some’dos just never go out of style.
So, if you’re ready to stylishly shake things up and try out a throwback ‘do (which has been given a modern twist), all it takes is to read on and see our top 19 fashionable vintage looks.
Retro rolled updo
If you haven’t invested in anything leopard print yet, you’ll feel seriously obliged to when you see just how well it goes with this simple retro updo.
With a singular victory roll pinned back into itself and a high bun, this look is all you need to help you feel like a retro queen.
Editor’s tip: Creating this look (or any other of the retro hairstyles mentioned in this edit) will be a breeze with the VO5 Tame & Shine Spray at hand.
This can be used before straightening or curling, and as a finishing touch afterwards to make your look picture-perfect.
Roll With Donut Bun
Prefer your victory rolls to look a little more pronounced? Take style notes from this mane idol, who styles two standout victory rolls with a big donut bun.
Twisted Chignon
You might not think it, but a chignon is a retro hairstyle, too. It’ll make you look the part for weddings and work alike.
Half-Up Rolled Hair
Looking for retro hairstyles that’ll allow you to show off your long lengths and keep things under wraps? Take on the working in style with this half-up, half-down rolled hairstyle.
Teased Bouffant
When you mix a quiff with a bouffant, you get the most voluminous-looking (yet wearable) hairstyle ever. If you’re a fan of this plumped up ‘do, you really can’t go wrong with learning how to tease your hair.
Hollywood Waves
Hollywood waves are one of the most replicated retro hairstyles around, and judging from this picture, it’s easy to see why! No matter the occasion, this classic style will make your mane feel ultra-glamorous.
Retro Swoop
Ready to give your mane a quick vintage revamp? All you need to do is recreate this ’40s-inspired deep side parting. The best thing? It’s great for all hair types and an easy way for you to test drive a side-swept fringe.
Bob With Bangs
When we think of the ’20s, we think of Louise Brooks and her precisely cut flapper bob with bangs. If you want to give this look a go in 2018, think of effortless, natural texture instead of sharp angles, as demonstrated here.
Choppy Shag
Moving into trendsetter status will be a breeze with this ’70s/’90s-inspired shag hairstyle around. The question is: are you ready to take the plunge?
Editor’s tip: Mist the TONI&GUY Sea Salt Texturising Spray on your mane and choppy layers to help enhance them and keep frizz at bay.
Curly Fauxhawk
Retro hairstyles often feature waves and curls, so if you’ve been blessed with naturally curly hair, you’re in luck: because you can totally pull off this look with ease.
Instead of stiff curls, modernise these retro waves by running your fingers through your hair, to soften and separate your coils. Remember the more voluminous, the better.
Volumised Ponytail
The best retro hairstyle to team with a Bardot dress? A Bardot-inspired voluminous ponytail, of course.
Undone Half-Up Hair
This half-up, half-down beehive looks super effortless with textured, undone waves. With some winged liner and bold lip colour, you’ll be ready to convince those around you to give retro hairstyles a test run.
Finger Waves Ponytail
A classic retro look, glamorous finger waves instantly conjure up images of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby and all the fabulous parties of the time.
But to put a twist on the traditional style, make your finger waves less rigid and more touchable, by gently brushing through them and then pairing them with a ponytail.
Ponytail With Scarf
If you’re obsessed with ponytails, why not try to recreate this easy and stylish work-ready look, now?
Disco Curls
Go through with a curling iron to create these big, disco-ready curls. Push them to the side, like this, and you will be ready to make an unforgettable entrance at your next outing.
Editor’s tip: What makes the TRESemmé Botanique Curl Conditioning Mousse the best mousse for retro hairstyles? It gives you natural-looking, sexy volume — all without weighing your mane down or leave it feeling stiff.
Headscarf
Scarf-adorned retro hairstyles have always been a catwalk favourite, as they’re a fun way to inject a bit of colour and add a playful spin to a simple bun or top knot.
Just tie yours into a bow on the side of your head for a feminine touch, and you’ll have a quirky look that’ll make second-day hair feel seriously chic.
Headwrap Updo
The best thing about retro hairstyles is that you can quickly make them look modern with the help of vintage accessories. This beauty has given her mini bouffant a fresh feel with a checked head wrap — and we seriously want to do the same!
Bandana Hair
When in doubt, bandana it out. It’ll take any hairstyle from drab to vintage fab in a matter of seconds.
Hair Nets
A swift way to channel Grace Kelly vibes? By pairing a polished low bun with a pillbox beret, complete with netting detail to really dial up mane drama.
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:
14 Vintage Updo Hairstyles You’ll Adore
Get a Pin Up Hairstyle in 5 Easy Steps
16 Vintage Short Hair Styles Anyone Can Pull Off
