Hairstyles in the 1930s: A Decade of Glamour and Sophistication
The 1930s, a decade marked by the Great Depression and the rise of Hollywood glamour, left an indelible mark on fashion, including hairstyles. This era, often referred to as the Golden Age of Hollywood, saw the birth of iconic hairstyles that continue to inspire modern trends. Let's delve into the world of 1930s hairstyles, exploring the trends, influences, and iconic styles that defined the decade.
Influences and Trends
The 1930s hairstyles were heavily influenced by the Hollywood film industry, with movie stars like Jean Harlow, Greta Garbo, and Marilyn Monroe setting the beauty standards. The trend leaned towards sleek, polished looks that accentuated the face and complemented the elegant, tailored clothing of the time. The decade also saw a shift from the short bob of the 1920s to longer, more feminine styles.
Iconic Hairstyles of the 1930s
- Marilyn Monroe's Blonde Bombshell Look: Monroe's platinum blonde curls and waves became an iconic symbol of the 1930s. This style was often achieved using heated rollers and setting lotion.
- Jean Harlow's Finger Waves: Harlow's signature style, finger waves, involved combing the hair into deep, symmetrical waves using a fine-toothed comb and setting lotion. This style was popular among women of all ages.
- Greta Garbo's Sleek Bob: Garbo's short, sleek bob with a deep side part was a timeless style that remained popular throughout the decade. It was easy to maintain and suited a wide range of face shapes.
- The Victory Roll: Popularized during World War II, the victory roll involved rolling the hair up and back from the temples, creating a soft, rounded shape. This style was often worn with victory curls at the back of the head.
Hairstyles for Different Occasions
In the 1930s, hairstyles were tailored to suit different occasions. For formal events, women often wore their hair in elegant updos like the French twist or the chignon. These styles were achieved by brushing the hair back and twisting or rolling it into a bun at the nape of the neck. For everyday wear, softer, more casual styles like the pageboy or the shingle were popular.
Hairstyles for Different Face Shapes
In the 1930s, hairstyles were also chosen to complement the wearer's face shape. For example, women with oval faces could pull off almost any style, from the sleek bob to the voluminous curls. Those with round faces often chose styles that added height at the crown to elongate their face, while women with long faces opted for styles that added width, such as the finger waves.
Hairstyling Tools and Techniques
The 1930s saw the introduction of several hairstyling tools that are still used today, such as heated rollers, setting lotion, and hairpins. Women would often set their hair at night and sleep on it to achieve the desired style by morning. The use of hairpins was also widespread, with women using them to create intricate styles and keep their hair in place.
Hairstyles for Men in the 1930s
While the focus is often on women's hairstyles, men's hairstyles also evolved significantly in the 1930s. The decade saw the rise of the side part, with men slicking their hair back or combing it to the side. The crew cut, a short, even style all over the head, also became popular among younger men. For formal occasions, men often wore their hair in a pompadour, a style characterized by a high, rounded shape at the front of the head.
Legacy of 1930s Hairstyles
The hairstyles of the 1930s continue to influence modern trends. The sleek bob, for example, remains a popular style today, as do the finger waves and victory rolls. The 1930s also saw the birth of the beauty industry as we know it today, with the introduction of new hairstyling tools and techniques. The decade's emphasis on glamour and sophistication continues to inspire modern hairstyles, reminding us of a time when style was a symbol of elegance and refinement.
