The 1920s were a decade of dramatic change in fashion and hairstyles. Known for its glamorous, flapper-inspired looks, the era celebrated bold, stylish, and often intricate hair designs. This article will guide you through creating an authentic 1920s hairstyle for long hair, capturing the essence of the Jazz Age with ease.
Understanding 1920s Hairstyles
The 1920s were characterized by a shift from the opulent, voluminous hairstyles of the previous decades to more streamlined and manageable looks. Key features included sleek bobs, finger waves, and soft curls. For long hair, the challenge is to recreate the essence of these styles while accommodating the extra length.
Preparing Your Hair
Before diving into the styling process, it’s crucial to prepare your hair. Proper preparation ensures that your hairstyle will hold and look authentic.
1. Wash and Condition
Start by washing your hair with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner. This helps to add body and manageability.
2. Apply Heat Protectant
Since you’ll be using heat tools, apply a heat protectant spray to shield your hair from damage.
3. Dry Your Hair
Blow-dry your hair until it’s completely dry. For added volume, use a round brush while blow-drying.
Creating a 1920s Inspired Hairstyle
Now that your hair is prepped and ready, follow these steps to create a classic 1920s hairstyle.
1. Set the Foundation
To achieve a 1920s look, start with smooth, controlled hair. You may want to use a curling iron or hot rollers to add gentle waves to your hair.
- Part Your Hair: Create a deep side part. The 1920s styles often featured a dramatic side part to one side.
- Add Waves: Use a large barrel curling iron to create loose waves. Roll sections of hair around the barrel and hold for a few seconds before releasing.
2. Create Finger Waves
Finger waves are iconic to the 1920s look and are perfect for long hair.
- Apply Styling Gel: Work a generous amount of styling gel through your hair while it’s still damp.
- Form the Waves: Using a comb and your fingers, create the S-shaped waves by pinching sections of hair between your fingers and combing them into place. Secure with clips as you go.
- Dry the Waves: Allow the waves to air dry or use a hooded dryer to set the style.
3. Pin Curls and Setting
Pin curls were also popular during the 1920s, especially for longer hair. They add a vintage charm and help in creating volume.
- Roll Sections: Take small sections of hair and roll them into tight curls. Pin each curl to your scalp with bobby pins.
- Let Set: Allow the curls to set for at least an hour. You can speed up the process with a blow dryer if needed.
- Release and Brush: Once the curls are set, remove the pins and gently brush through the curls to achieve a soft, wave-like effect.
4. Add Accessories
Accessories can enhance your 1920s hairstyle. Consider adding some vintage touches.
- Headbands and Clips: Decorate with a flapper-inspired headband or decorative clips. Opt for pieces with feathers, rhinestones, or pearls.
- Feathers and Flowers: Small feathered or floral accessories can add a touch of glamour and are perfect for a more authentic 1920s look.
Finishing Touches
After styling, it’s essential to finish with the right products to ensure longevity and shine.
1. Apply Hairspray
Use a flexible-hold hairspray to keep your style in place without making it stiff.
2. Touch Up
Throughout the day, you may need to touch up any fallen curls or waves. Keep a small comb and hairspray handy for quick fixes.
3. Maintain Your Style
To maintain the look overnight, loosely pin your hair or cover it with a silk scarf to prevent frizz and maintain the wave pattern.
See Also: How To Do A Flapper Hairstyle With Long Hair
Additional Tips for 1920s Long Hair
- Use Lightweight Products: Heavier products can weigh down your hair and make it less manageable.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Creating the perfect 1920s hairstyle may take a few tries. Practice different techniques and find what works best for your hair type.
- Seek Inspiration: Look at photos from the 1920s to get inspiration and understand the nuances of the hairstyles from that era.
Conclusion
Recreating a 1920s hairstyle for long hair involves understanding the era’s distinct features and techniques. By preparing your hair correctly, using the right tools, and adding vintage accessories, you can achieve a classic look that’s both stylish and authentic. Embrace the elegance of the Jazz Age and enjoy showcasing a glamorous 1920s-inspired hairstyle that turns heads and transports you back in time.