The year 1959 represents a fascinating pivot point in the history of female beauty, sitting squarely between the severe elegance of the late decade and the liberation of the 1960s. While often overshadowed by the iconic bouffant of 1960 or the sleek jet cut of 1963, the hairstyles of 1959 reveal a culture experimenting with newfound volume and sophisticated grace. The enduring appeal of these styles lies in their versatility; they manage to be both dramatically retro and surprisingly modern, offering a wealth of inspiration for anyone looking to channel mid-century sophistication.
The Defining Trends of Late Fifties Hair
As the decade progressed, the severe updos of the mid-50s began to soften. Hair started to fall lower on the neck and off the forehead, creating a more open and youthful face framing. The heavy, helmet-like styles of 1955 were giving way to more relaxed interpretations of glamour. In 1959, the goal was to look polished and controlled while allowing for greater movement and a softer silhouette. This shift made the hair more approachable and less severe, aligning with the growing cultural desire for a more relaxed form of elegance.
The Rise of the Soft Bouffant
Perhaps the most significant evolution in 1959 was the refinement of the bouffant. Unlike the rigid, teased domes of previous years, the 1959 version was softer and more voluminous. The focus shifted from height to overall shape, with hair gently swept up and away from the face, creating a cloud-like effect around the crown. This "soft bouffant" required less teasing at the roots and more strategic pinning to achieve a full yet flattering shape. It was the perfect compromise between dramatic glamour and everyday wearability.
Iconic Styles and Variations
While the soft bouffant dominated, 1959 offered a spectrum of styles to suit different tastes and face shapes. Younger women often embraced the "ducktail" or "pompadour" variations, where the hair was slicked back from the forehead and allowed to settle in a neat wave over the collar. For mature women, the bob saw a resurgence, often worn sleek and straight or wrapped with a soft curl at the nape. Long hair was typically worn down in loose waves or pinned up in a sophisticated chignon, demonstrating the year's embrace of both length and freedom.
- The Soft Pouf: A voluminous cloud of hair atop the head, gently falling over the back.
- The Elegant Bob: A chin-length cut, often razor-straight or softly curled, embodying sharp sophistication.
- The Romantic Pin-Up: Vintage-inspired curls pinned high on the head, exuding old Hollywood glamour.
- The Side-Swept Fringe: Heavy bangs brushing the brow, creating a dramatic and flattering frame for the face.
Tools, Products, and the Art of Setting
Achieving these signature looks relied heavily on specific tools and products. Teasing combs, hair spray, and setting lotion were staples in every bathroom. The process often began with setting the hair in pin curls or rollers overnight to create a strong foundation for the volume. In the morning, hair would be carefully brushed out and sculpted using a round brush and a powerful hairdryer. The finishing touch was always a firm hold hair spray, ensuring the style remained impeccable from morning coffee to evening dancing.
The Cultural Context and Lasting Legacy
The hairstyles of 1959 were inextricably linked to the cultural landscape of the late 1950s. They reflected the era's fascination with youth and consumerism, with magazines constantly showcasing new products and techniques. The shift toward softer styles signaled a move away from the wartime austerity of the previous decade toward a more optimistic and indulgent view of femininity. These styles remain incredibly popular today, frequently appearing on runways and red carpets, proving that the elegance and sophistication of 1959 continue to resonate with modern audiences.
For the modern woman or man looking to experiment with vintage hair, 1959 offers the perfect entry point. The styles are not overly complex or severe, but rather forgiving and chic. By focusing on creating soft volume and smooth lines, it is possible to capture the effortless glamour of the late fifties without looking like you've stepped out of a time machine. The key is to embrace the texture and the romance, allowing the hair to possess a soft, sculptural quality that is both timeless and deeply evocative.
