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If you love vintage beauty, retro hairstyles for long hair are a stunning way to channel classic elegance. From the polished waves of Old Hollywood to the voluminous curls of the ’80s, these timeless styles remain iconic.
Whether you’re inspired by 1920s finger waves, 1950s pin curls, or 1970s feathered layers, these looks celebrate decades of beauty trends that continue to influence modern hairstyling. Long hair is the perfect canvas for these nostalgic styles, allowing for intricate waves, dramatic volume, and elegant updos.
If you’ve ever wished to recreate vintage hairstyles for long hair, this guide will take you through some of the best styles from each era. Whether you’re preparing for a themed party, a photoshoot, or simply want to add a touch of the past to your everyday look, these styles will bring old-school charm to your hair routine.
1. 1920s Finger Waves with Long Curls
The 1920s flapper hairstyle wasn’t just about short bobs—many women with long hair styled elegant finger waves that transitioned into soft curls. This look embodies the glamour of the Roaring Twenties, perfect for formal occasions or vintage-inspired events. The precise, glossy waves frame the face beautifully, while the cascading curls add a romantic touch. Women often paired this style with feathered headbands, pearl accessories, and Art Deco fashion.
- Best for formal events and Gatsby-themed parties
- Works well with naturally straight or wavy hair
- Use a strong-hold gel to maintain the sculpted waves
2. 1930s Sleek Marcel Waves
A sophisticated evolution of the 1920s finger waves, 1930s Marcel waves featured a softer, deeper wave pattern with a sleek, polished finish. This vintage look was a Hollywood favorite, often seen on silver screen icons. The waves create a structured yet soft aesthetic that pairs beautifully with evening gowns and classic accessories. Achieving this look requires a Marcel iron or a flat iron with precise wave clamping.
- Ideal for glamorous, vintage-inspired outfits
- Looks best on medium to long hair with a smooth texture
- Requires precision styling and setting spray for long-lasting hold
3. 1940s Victory Rolls with Long Curls
The 1940s victory rolls were a defining feature of wartime fashion, creating an elegant yet playful silhouette. Long-haired women would roll sections of their hair into voluminous spirals, often leaving the rest in soft curls. This style is a staple of retro pin-up hairstyles and adds an instantly recognizable vintage flair to any look. The dramatic height and perfect symmetry make it both striking and flattering.
- Perfect for retro pin-up and rockabilly aesthetics
- Works best with thick hair that holds curls well
- Use bobby pins and strong-hold hairspray to secure the rolls
4. 1940s Bandana Updo
During WWII, women working in factories and on the home front needed a stylish yet practical way to keep their long hair out of the way. The 1940s Rosie the Riveter bandana hairstyle became a symbol of strength and resilience. This look features rolled bangs, a tucked-up back section, and a tied bandana for a chic, utilitarian style. It’s an easy and comfortable option for casual wear while still maintaining a vintage charm.
- Great for casual, everyday retro looks
- Works well for thick or curly hair that needs to be kept up
- Choose a polka-dot or paisley bandana for authenticity
5. 1950s Poodle Updo
The 1950s poodle hairstyle was a fun and youthful way to wear long hair in a voluminous updo. Tight, bouncy curls were piled high on the head, often accessorized with a silk scarf or headband. This playful style was popularized by movie stars and everyday women alike, creating a flirty, feminine aesthetic. The structured curls require a bit of patience but deliver a stunning, era-accurate look.
- Best for formal events, swing dances, or vintage-themed parties
- Requires a curling iron or hot rollers for tight curls
- Pairs beautifully with cat-eye makeup and red lipstick
6. 1950s Old Hollywood Waves
Nothing says classic elegance like 1950s Hollywood waves. This style features long, voluminous curls swept to one side, creating a glamorous and polished appearance. Often worn by silver screen legends, this look remains a go-to for red carpet events and formal occasions. The key to mastering this style is a precise side part, smooth waves, and a glossy finish.
- Perfect for formal events and vintage-inspired photography
- Works best with naturally wavy or thick hair
- Use a boar-bristle brush to soften the curls into seamless waves
7. 1960s Beehive Bouffant
The 1960s beehive hairstyle was all about volume and height. Women teased their long hair into dramatic updos, often securing them with headbands or bows. This mod-inspired style is bold, fun, and instantly recognizable. The beehive works well for both formal and casual occasions, offering a statement-making retro look.
- Ideal for mod fashion and vintage parties
- Requires teasing comb and strong-hold hairspray
- Looks great when paired with a cat-eye liner and nude lips
8. 1960s Hippie Waves with Braids
The bohemian waves of the 1960s embraced a more natural, effortless aesthetic. Long-haired women often let their locks flow freely, adding small braids and beads for a whimsical, festival-ready style. This look became a signature of the counterculture movement, emphasizing a relaxed, free-spirited vibe.
- Best for outdoor festivals, casual days, and beachy aesthetics
- Works well with naturally wavy or curly hair
- Add flower crowns or beaded accessories for an authentic look
9. 1970s Feathered Farrah Fawcett Hair
Few hairstyles are as iconic as 1970s feathered hair, popularized by Farrah Fawcett. This look features long layers curled away from the face, creating soft, voluminous movement. The feathered effect adds a touch of effortless glamour, making it a go-to style for both everyday wear and special occasions.
- Ideal for medium to thick hair with layered cuts
- Works best with a round brush and blow-dryer technique
- Pair with bell-bottom jeans and a fitted blouse for a true ‘70s look
10. 1970s Long Bohemian Hair with Middle Part
The boho-chic style of the ‘70s embraced ultra-long, naturally flowing hair with a sleek middle part. Women often paired this simple but striking look with suede jackets, flared jeans, and earthy accessories. The effortless, laid-back appeal of this style makes it a timeless choice for those who love a relaxed yet elegant aesthetic.
- Best for naturally straight or slightly wavy hair
- Works well with minimal styling and a smoothing serum
- Looks great when accessorized with a floppy hat or layered necklaces
11. 1980s Teased Crimped Hair with Side Ponytail
The 1980s crimped hairstyle was all about volume, texture, and bold styling. Women with long hair would tease their locks to extreme heights, often incorporating crimped sections for added texture. The side ponytail was a fun and youthful way to wear this style, often secured with scrunchies or colorful accessories. This high-energy look was a favorite among pop stars and trendsetters of the era.
- Best for parties, themed events, and bold fashion statements
- Works well with thick hair that holds texture well
- Requires a crimping iron, teasing comb, and plenty of hairspray
12. 1980s Power Curls with Bold Bangs
Big hair ruled the 1980s power look, and voluminous curls were a defining feature. Women wore their long hair in structured curls, often paired with bold, teased bangs. This look exuded confidence and made a statement, whether in professional settings or nightlife scenes. Achieving this style requires plenty of body, mousse, and a strong-hold finishing spray.
- Ideal for thick or naturally curly hair
- Works well for formal and casual settings alike
- Looks great with bold makeup and statement jewelry
13. 1990s Grunge-Inspired Layered Hair
The 1990s grunge hairstyle took a rebellious turn with ultra-long, choppy layers and a messy, undone finish. Often paired with dark lipstick and flannel shirts, this style was popularized by alternative rock culture. It embraced a “just rolled out of bed” aesthetic, making it an effortlessly cool look.
- Perfect for casual wear and alternative fashion
- Works best with straight or slightly wavy hair
- Minimal styling required—just a bit of texturizing spray
14. 1990s Sleek Supermodel Hair
The supermodel hair of the 1990s was all about long, ultra-sleek locks with a center part. Think of catwalk icons with glossy, perfectly straight hair that flowed effortlessly. This look was chic, minimalistic, and sophisticated, making it a timeless choice for any occasion.
- Best for straight or chemically smoothed hair
- Requires a flat iron and shine-enhancing products
- Pairs well with a slip dress and simple accessories
15. 2000s Spiky Y2K Tendrils
The early 2000s Y2K hairstyle featured long hair pulled back with spiky, face-framing tendrils left loose. This futuristic-meets-playful aesthetic was a favorite among pop stars and teen idols, often styled with butterfly clips and shimmery accessories. It’s a fun throwback style that’s making a modern comeback.
- Best for playful and nostalgic fashion looks
- Works well with straight or slightly wavy hair
- Use gel or wax to define the spiky tendrils
16. 1920s Gatsby Waves with Pearl Accessories
A variation of the classic finger waves, Gatsby-style waves took the 1920s elegance to another level. Women with long hair would enhance their waves with pearl hairpins or embellished clips. This ultra-glamorous style was a go-to for high-society parties and sophisticated gatherings.
- Ideal for weddings, formal events, and vintage-themed parties
- Requires precise finger-waving techniques and setting lotion
- Best paired with pearl necklaces and Art Deco fashion
17. 1940s Hollywood Waves with a Side Part
The 1940s Hollywood wave hairstyle gave long hair a structured yet soft look. This classic side-parted wave style created an air of sophistication, often worn by leading ladies of the golden age of cinema. The key to this look is sculpting each wave with precision and finishing with a glossy shine.
- Great for vintage glamour and classic evening looks
- Works best on medium to thick hair for structure
- Requires pin curls or a curling iron with brush-out styling
18. 1960s Tousled Bardot Hair with Curtain Bangs
Brigitte Bardot’s 1960s tousled hair became a timeless beauty icon. This voluminous yet effortless style featured long, slightly messy waves with curtain bangs framing the face. It gave off a sultry, undone look that worked for both casual and glamorous occasions.
- Best for thick hair with natural texture
- Requires teasing at the crown for a voluminous lift
- Pairs beautifully with winged eyeliner and a nude lip
19. 1970s Rockstar Shag with Bangs
The 1970s shag haircut was a staple of rockstars and fashion rebels. This layered, choppy cut gave long hair a wild, effortless vibe. The tousled texture and curtain bangs made it a low-maintenance yet stylish choice that still holds up today.
- Great for wavy or textured hair types
- Works well with minimal styling and texturizing products
- Looks best with a leather jacket and boots for a full rockstar look
20. 1980s Big Curls with a Prom Queen Updo
The 1980s prom queen hairstyle was all about height and drama. Big, tightly curled hair was often styled into a half-up, half-down look with exaggerated volume. Satin bows, pearls, or tiaras were common accessories to complete the prom-perfect aesthetic.
- Best for formal events and nostalgic throwback looks
- Requires a curling iron and teasing comb for volume
- Works great with statement earrings and bold lipstick
21. 1990s High Half-Ponytail with a Sleek Finish
The 1990s high half-ponytail was a red carpet favorite, often worn by pop stars and actresses. Long, straight hair was gathered into a high ponytail while the rest flowed freely. This simple yet striking look gave off a youthful and polished vibe.
- Best for sleek, straight hair with a bit of volume at the crown
- Requires a smoothing serum for a frizz-free finish
- Works well with hoop earrings and glossy lips for a full ‘90s effect
