The Academy Awards have long been a showcase for high fashion and timeless beauty, and this year was no exception. The 97th Annual Oscars saw a resurgence of classic Hollywood glamour, as A-list celebrities embraced vintage hairstyles reminiscent of cinema’s golden era. Drawing inspiration from legendary icons like Brigitte Bardot, Elizabeth Taylor, and Gloria Swanson, stars proved that old-school elegance never truly fades.
While some attendees made bold statements with avant-garde looks—Miley Cyrus’ bleached eyebrows being a prime example—many others opted for a nostalgic nod to Hollywood’s past. Soft, cascading waves, sculpted updos, and voluminous chignons dominated the red carpet, offering a refreshing take on retro beauty.
If the Oscars were any indication, classic hairstyles from the 1920s, 1950s, and 1960s remain as relevant today as ever. Stars like Margaret Qualley, Emma Stone, and BLACKPINK’s Lisa effortlessly blended vintage aesthetics with modern sophistication, proving that some styles stand the test of time.
Margaret Qualley: A Tribute to Elizabeth Taylor
Margaret Qualley has been embracing retro hairstyles throughout awards season, but her Oscars look may have been her most striking yet. Channeling the elegance of two-time Academy Award winner Elizabeth Taylor, the The Substance star wore a sculptural, curled updo reminiscent of Taylor’s iconic Butterfield 8 era.
Selena Gomez: Marilyn Monroe-Inspired Waves
Selena Gomez has often gravitated toward classic styles, and for the 2025 Oscars, she once again embraced old Hollywood charm. Sporting a soft, wavy bob, the Emilia Pérez actress evoked the glamour of Marilyn Monroe, complementing her vintage-inspired ensemble perfectly.
Emma Stone: Silent Film Star Elegance
Proving the versatility of short hair, Emma Stone stunned with sleek, finger waves in true 1920s fashion. Her meticulously styled pixie cut paid homage to silent film icons like Louise Brooks, Gloria Swanson, and Mary Pickford, blending timeless sophistication with contemporary edge.
Elle Fanning: A Graceful ’60s Chignon
Known for her penchant for vintage-inspired beauty, Elle Fanning continued her streak of retro hairstyles at the Oscars. Her voluminous chignon was a direct nod to 1960s screen sirens such as Grace Kelly and Ann-Margret, adding a regal touch to her red carpet look.
Lisa Manobal: The Bardot Bouffant
A symbol of effortless sensuality, Brigitte Bardot remains an enduring influence on beauty trends. At this year’s Oscars, The White Lotus star Lisa Manobal brought Bardot’s signature style to life with a voluminous bouffant and wispy bangs, capturing the spirit of the ‘60s with modern-day appeal.
As Hollywood continues to reinvent itself, one thing is clear: classic beauty never goes out of style. Whether it’s a nod to Marilyn Monroe’s bombshell waves or Elizabeth Taylor’s timeless glamour, the 2025 Oscars proved that vintage-inspired hairstyles remain a red carpet staple.
