The 1920s was an era of glitz, glamour, and groundbreaking fashion. Women shed the restrictive corsets and long, flowing tresses of the Victorian age and embraced a new, liberated look. Short, bobbed haircuts became all the rage, symbolizing independence and a break from traditional gender norms. If you’re looking to channel your inner flapper or jazz – age diva, here’s a comprehensive guide on how to achieve iconic 1920s hairstyles, tailored to your personal characteristics.
Understanding 1920s Hair Trends
The Classic Bob
The most iconic 1920s hairstyle is undoubtedly the bob. It was a short, sleek cut that fell just below the ears or at the jawline. The bob came in various styles, such as the shingle bob, which was extremely short at the back and longer at the front, and the Marcel wave bob, which had gentle waves added to it. This cut was a bold statement of independence and modernity. Women who were adventurous and wanted to make a fashion – forward choice would opt for a bob. If you have a round face, a bob can help elongate your features, while those with angular faces can soften their look with a bob that has a bit of wave or texture.
Finger Waves
Finger waves were a popular way to style hair in the 1920s. They created soft, S – shaped waves that hugged the head and added a touch of elegance to any look. This style was often seen on the red carpet and in high – society events. Finger waves work well for medium – to long – length hair that has been cut into a bob or a similar short style. They can add volume and texture to thin hair and give thick hair a more refined, polished appearance. If you have a heart – shaped face, finger waves can balance out your features by adding width at the jawline.
The Cloche Hat Look
Cloche hats were a must – have accessory in the 1920s, and they influenced the way women styled their hair. To wear a cloche hat, women would often tuck their hair up into the hat, creating a sleek and sophisticated look. This style was perfect for those who wanted a low – maintenance yet chic appearance. It’s suitable for all face shapes as the hat can be adjusted to frame your face in a flattering way.
Preparing Your Hair
Hair Length
Before you start, consider your hair length. If you have long hair, you can either cut it into a bob or use hairpins and hairspray to create a faux bob. For short hair, you’re already on the right track to achieving an authentic 1920s look.
Hair Texture
Understanding your hair texture is crucial. If you have straight hair, you’ll have an easier time creating the sleek, smooth looks of the 1920s. However, if you have curly or wavy hair, don’t worry. You can use a flat iron to straighten your hair or embrace your natural texture and add some waves with a curling iron or hot rollers.
Hair Products
Gather the necessary hair products. You’ll need a good – quality hairspray to hold your style in place, as well as a styling gel or mousse to add texture and definition. If you’re creating finger waves, a setting lotion can help keep the waves in shape.
Step – by – Step Guide to 1920s Hairstyles
The Classic Bob with Finger Waves
Start with Clean, Damp Hair: Wash your hair and towel – dry it until it’s damp. Apply a small amount of styling gel or mousse to your hair, focusing on the roots and ends.
Create Finger Waves: Using a fine – tooth comb, part your hair down the middle. Take a small section of hair at the front and, using your fingers, create an S – shaped wave by pressing your hair against your head. Secure the wave with a hairpin. Continue this process, alternating the direction of the waves, until you reach the back of your head.
Set the Waves: Spray your hair with a setting lotion and let it dry naturally or use a hairdryer on a low heat setting. Once your hair is dry, remove the hairpins and gently comb through the waves with your fingers to soften them.
Cut the Bob (if necessary): If you’re creating a faux bob, gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it upwards. Secure it with bobby pins, making sure to hide the pins. If you’re cutting your hair into a real bob, have a professional stylist do it to ensure a precise and flattering cut.
Finish with Hairspray: Spray your hair with a generous amount of hairspray to keep the style in place all day or night.
The Cloche Hat Look
Style Your Hair: If you have short hair, simply smooth it back with your fingers or a comb. If you have longer hair, you can create a low ponytail or a bun at the nape of your neck.
Put on the Cloche Hat: Place the cloche hat on your head, making sure it sits comfortably and frames your face. You can adjust the hat by tilting it slightly to one side for a more fashionable look.
Tuck in Any Loose Hairs: Use bobby pins to tuck in any loose hairs that are sticking out from under the hat.
The Marcel Wave Bob
Prepare Your Hair: Start with clean, dry hair. Apply a small amount of styling gel to your hair to add shine and hold.
Create the Waves: Using a Marcel iron (a special curling iron used in the 1920s), take small sections of hair and wrap them around the iron, holding the iron in place for a few seconds to create a gentle wave. Continue this process until your entire head is covered in waves.
Brush Out the Waves: Once your hair has cooled, use a soft – bristled brush to gently brush out the waves. This will create a more natural, tousled look.
Cut the Bob: If you haven’t already, have your hair cut into a bob. The Marcel waves will add texture and volume to the bob, giving it a glamorous 1920s feel.
Set with Hairspray: Finish the look with a light mist of hairspray to keep the waves in place.
Personalizing Your 1920s Hairstyle
Accessorize
Add some 1920s – inspired accessories to complete your look. Headbands, feathers, beads, and pearls were all popular choices. You can attach a feather to a hairpin and wear it in your hair, or string some pearls through your hair for a touch of elegance.
Consider Your Makeup
To fully embrace the 1920s aesthetic, pair your hairstyle with appropriate makeup. Dark, smoky eyes, thin, arched eyebrows, and dark red lips were the signature looks of the time. Use an eyebrow pencil to define your brows and a black eyeliner to create a dramatic eye. Finish off with a bold red lipstick.
Adapt to Your Lifestyle
Think about your daily activities when choosing a 1920s hairstyle. If you have a busy lifestyle, a simple bob or a cloche hat look may be more practical. If you’re attending a special event, you can go all – out with finger waves and elaborate accessories.
Conclusion
The 1920s were a time of immense creativity and flair, and their hairstyles are no exception. From the iconic bob cut to the dramatic finger wave, there’s a 1920s hairstyle to suit every personal characteristic and preference. By considering your face shape, hair texture, and lifestyle, you can choose a hairstyle that not only looks great but also feels comfortable and natural. With the right styling products, techniques, and accessories, you can easily recreate the glamour and elegance of the Roaring Twenties.
Related topics:
- How To Do 1920s Bob Hairstyle
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- The Parisian Bob: The Effortlessly Chic Short Hair Trend of 2025
