The 1920s, a decade of jazz, flappers, and the Roaring Twenties, brought with it a distinctive style that continues to inspire today. One of the most iconic hairstyles of this era is the chignon, a classic updo that exudes elegance and sophistication. In this guide, we delve into the world of the 1920s chignon, its history, variations, and how to achieve this timeless look.
The Rise of the Chignon in the 1920s
The chignon, derived from the French word for 'nape of the neck,' gained popularity in the 1920s as women embraced shorter hair lengths and more daring styles. The decade marked a significant shift in women's fashion, with the introduction of shorter bob cuts and the flapper look. The chignon provided a sophisticated alternative to the boyish bobs, offering a elegant, yet easy-to-maintain updo.
Variations of the 1920s Chignon
- Low Chignon: This is the most classic and iconic 1920s chignon style. It's characterized by a low, rounded bun at the nape of the neck, often secured with hairpins and sometimes adorned with a decorative comb or hairpiece.
- High Chignon: A variation of the low chignon, this style places the bun higher on the head, often at the crown. It's a more dramatic and statement look, often seen in formal events and photographs of the era.
- Messy Chignon: This style emulates the effortless, windswept look of the 1920s. It's a looser, more casual version of the chignon, often worn with a side parting or swept to one side.
Achieving the Perfect 1920s Chignon
Preparation
Before you start, ensure your hair is clean and damp. This will make it easier to style and hold the chignon. If your hair is too short for a chignon, consider using hairpieces or extensions to achieve the desired length.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Comb your hair straight back from your face, using a fine-tooth comb to smooth out any tangles.
- Gather your hair at the nape of your neck (for a low chignon) or at the crown (for a high chignon), and secure it with an elastic band.
- Twist the ponytail into a tight coil, wrapping it around the base to form a bun.
- Tuck the ends of the ponytail into the bun and secure it with hairpins, ensuring the bun is smooth and neat.
- For a more casual, messy look, gently pull out a few strands of hair around your face and at the top of the bun.
- Set your chignon with hairspray to ensure it stays in place throughout the day.
Styling Tips and Tricks
To add a touch of 1920s glamour to your chignon, consider these styling tips:
- Use a decorative comb or hairpiece to adorn your chignon, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.
- For a more dramatic look, try a side parting or sweep your fringe to one side, à la Louise Brooks.
- Pair your chignon with a string of pearls or a beaded headband for a truly vintage look.
The 1920s chignon is a timeless style that's perfect for both everyday wear and formal events. With its elegant simplicity and versatility, it's no wonder this updo remains a favorite among vintage enthusiasts and modern fashionistas alike.
