The 1950s was an iconic decade for hairstyles, and 50s curls remain a timeless classic. Known for their glamorous, voluminous look, 50s curls add a touch of vintage elegance to any long hair. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to achieve perfect 50s curls, from preparation to the final touches.
Preparing Your Hair
Clean and Dry Hair
Before you start curling, ensure your hair is clean and completely dry. Wash your hair with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to give it some extra body. Avoid heavy conditioners that might weigh your hair down. Once washed, dry your hair thoroughly. You can either air-dry it or use a blow dryer. If using a blow dryer, use a round brush to add volume as you dry.
Heat Protectant
Applying a heat protectant is crucial to safeguard your hair from the damage caused by styling tools. Choose a heat protectant spray or serum and apply it evenly throughout your hair. This will help maintain the health of your hair and ensure the curls last longer.
Tools You’ll Need
Curling Iron or Curling Wand
A curling iron or curling wand is essential for creating 50s curls. For long hair, use a curling iron with a 1.5-inch to 2-inch barrel. The size of the barrel will determine the size of your curls. A larger barrel will give you looser, more relaxed curls, while a smaller barrel will create tighter curls.
Hair Clips
Hair clips are helpful for sectioning your hair. This ensures that you curl each section evenly and avoid missing spots.
Comb or Brush
A wide-tooth comb or brush is useful for detangling your hair and ensuring it’s smooth before you start curling.
Hair Spray
A strong-hold hair spray will help set your curls and keep them in place throughout the day. Choose a hairspray that offers long-lasting hold without making your hair feel stiff.
Steps to Achieve 50s Curls
1. Section Your Hair
Start by dividing your hair into manageable sections. Use hair clips to secure each section. For long hair, it’s best to work in three to four sections: bottom, middle, and top. This allows you to curl your hair systematically and ensures even results.
2. Heat Your Curling Iron
Turn on your curling iron or wand and set it to a medium heat. For long hair, you may need a higher temperature to achieve the desired curl. Allow the curling iron to heat up for a few minutes before you begin styling.
3. Curl the Bottom Sections
Starting with the bottom section, take a small subsection of hair, about 1 inch wide. Wrap the hair around the barrel of the curling iron, starting from the root and moving towards the ends. Hold the hair in place for about 10-15 seconds, then release. Be careful not to overheat your hair to avoid damage.
4. Curl the Middle Sections
Move on to the middle sections of your hair. Repeat the curling process, making sure to curl each subsection of hair in the same direction. This will help create uniform curls and add to the vintage look.
5. Curl the Top Sections
Finally, curl the top sections of your hair. For a more polished look, you can curl the top section away from your face. This technique adds volume and gives your curls a more glamorous appearance.
6. Allow Curls to Cool
Once you’ve curled all sections, let your curls cool completely. This step is crucial as it helps the curls set properly. Avoid touching or running your fingers through the curls until they are fully cooled.
7. Gently Brush or Comb
After your curls have cooled, gently brush or comb them to separate and soften them. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently separate the curls without causing frizz.
8. Apply Hair Spray
Finish by applying a strong-hold hair spray to set your curls and keep them in place. Hold the spray about 12 inches away from your hair and lightly mist over the curls. Avoid applying too much hairspray, as this can make your hair feel stiff and unnatural.
See Also: How To Style Short Hair For A Hat
Tips for Perfect 50s Curls
Use a Curling Iron with a Clamp
A curling iron with a clamp helps in creating defined curls. The clamp holds the hair in place and ensures that the entire section is evenly heated.
Adjust Heat Settings
If your hair is fine or damaged, use a lower heat setting to avoid causing damage. For thick or coarse hair, you may need a higher heat setting to achieve the desired curl.
Experiment with Curling Directions
For a more natural look, alternate the direction of your curls. Curl some sections away from your face and others towards your face. This variation adds volume and movement to your curls.
Use Velcro Rollers
For added volume, you can use Velcro rollers on the curls after you’ve curled your hair. Roll sections of hair onto the Velcro rollers and let them sit for 10-15 minutes before removing them. This technique adds extra volume and helps your curls last longer.
Avoid Over-Curling
Be careful not to over-curl your hair. Too much curling can lead to tight, unnatural curls. Focus on curling the ends and mid-lengths of your hair to maintain a vintage yet relaxed look.
Maintaining Your 50s Curls
Avoid Washing Your Hair Daily
To maintain your 50s curls for longer, avoid washing your hair daily. Frequent washing can strip your hair of its natural oils and make your curls fall flat. Wash your hair every two to three days instead.
Use a Silk Pillowcase
Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can help preserve your curls and prevent them from becoming frizzy. Silk is gentle on your hair and reduces friction, which helps maintain the shape of your curls.
Refresh Curls with a Curling Iron
If your curls start to lose their shape, you can refresh them with a curling iron. Simply re-curl the sections that need touch-ups and apply a bit of hairspray to set them.
Avoid Heavy Products
Heavy styling products can weigh down your curls and make them lose their shape. Stick to lightweight products and avoid applying too much product to maintain the volume and bounce of your curls.
Conclusion
Achieving the perfect 50s curls for long hair is all about preparation, technique, and maintaining the look. By following these steps and tips, you can create glamorous, vintage-inspired curls that are sure to turn heads. Whether you’re heading to a special event or just want to add a touch of classic elegance to your everyday look, 50s curls are a timeless choice that never goes out of style.