Step back in time to the vibrant decade of the 1950s, an era renowned for its iconic fashion and hairstyles. The '50s were a time of change and optimism, reflected in the bold and glamorous hairdos that dominated the scene. Let's delve into the world of vintage hairstyles and explore the most popular looks from this dynamic decade.
From the elegant updos favored by Hollywood stars to the playful ponytails worn by teenagers, the '50s offered a wide range of styles that catered to every taste and occasion. As we embark on this journey through time, we'll uncover the secrets behind these timeless looks and learn how to recreate them for modern-day events.
The Power of the Perm
The 1950s were the heyday of the permanent wave, or "perm" as it was commonly known. This heat-based treatment created natural-looking curls that required minimal styling effort. The perm was a symbol of femininity and glamour, embraced by women of all ages.
Perms came in various sizes, from tight, bouncy curls to loose, cascading waves. They were often worn short or medium-length, with the hair shaped into a rounded or wedge-like style. To achieve a '50s-inspired perm at home, consider using a medium-sized perm rod and a gentle, ammonia-free perm solution.
Marilyn Monroe's Signature Curls
No discussion of '50s hairstyles would be complete without paying homage to Marilyn Monroe, the ultimate blonde bombshell. Marilyn's voluminous, cascading curls were achieved with the help of a skilled hairdresser and a liberal application of hairspray. To recreate her iconic look, use a large-barreled curling iron and set the curls with strong-hold hairspray.
For a more subtle nod to Marilyn's style, try a soft, face-framing curl. This can be achieved by wrapping sections of hair around your finger and securing them with a clip while they cool. Once released, gently comb through the curls with a wide-tooth comb for a soft, romantic look.
The Victory Roll
Another popular perm-inspired style was the victory roll, a playful updo that originated during World War II but remained popular throughout the '50s. To create a victory roll, part the hair on the side and brush it smooth. Then, take a section of hair from the opposite side and roll it under, tucking the ends inside the roll and securing it with bobby pins.
For a modern take on the victory roll, try creating multiple rolls on either side of the head, leaving the rest of the hair down in loose waves. This look is perfect for a retro-inspired wedding or special occasion. To keep the rolls in place, use plenty of bobby pins and a strong-hold styling product.
Ponytails and Pixie Cuts
While perms dominated the '50s, there were plenty of other styles to choose from, including ponytails and pixie cuts. These styles offered a refreshing alternative to the curls and waves that were so prevalent during this time.
Ponytails were a popular choice for both casual and formal occasions. They could be worn high or low, with or without bangs, and were often dressed up with a bow or a decorative hairpiece. The pixie cut, made famous by stars like Audrey Hepburn and Mia Farrow, was a bold and daring statement that required confidence and a skilled hairdresser.
The High Ponytail
The high ponytail was a staple of the '50s, worn by everyone from schoolgirls to Hollywood starlets. To achieve this look, brush the hair smooth and gather it at the crown of the head, securing it with an elastic band. For added volume, tease the hair at the roots before gathering it into the ponytail.
To give your high ponytail a modern twist, try adding a deep side part or incorporating a braid into the style. For a more dramatic look, tease the hair at the roots and use plenty of hairspray to create a sky-high ponytail with plenty of lift and volume.
The Pixie Cut
The pixie cut was a bold and daring statement that required confidence and a skilled hairdresser. This short, layered style was often worn with a side part and a touch of height at the crown, creating a playful and youthful look.
To recreate the pixie cut at home, start by cutting the hair short all over, using a pair of sharp hairdressing scissors. Then, use thinning scissors to create layers and texture throughout the hair. For a modern take on the pixie cut, try adding some face-framing pieces or a sweeping bang to soften the look.
As we've explored the world of '50s hairstyles, it's clear that this decade was a time of innovation and experimentation. From the power of the perm to the playful ponytail, these iconic looks continue to inspire modern hairstyles today. So go ahead, embrace your inner retro goddess, and give one of these timeless styles a try. Who knows – you might just find your new favorite look!