The 1940s was a defining era for fashion, characterized by distinctive hairstyles that continue to captivate and inspire today.
During a time marked by both wartime austerity and post-war celebration, women found creative ways to express their style through hair.
From elegant victory rolls to sophisticated updos, these hairstyles were not just about beauty they were powerful statements of resilience and femininity.
As we delve into the enchanting world of 1940s hairstyles, this article, “20 1940s Hairstyles,” offers a glimpse into the past with detailed guides to recreate these iconic looks.
Discover the perfect blend of glamour, practicality, and vintage charm that these styles embody, inviting you to embrace their timeless allure and elegance.
1940s Hairstyles
1. Victory Rolls
Step back into the glamorous 1940s with Victory Rolls, an iconic hairstyle that oozes elegance and poise. These voluminous rolls are styled strategically on the top or sides of your head, adding a touch of vintage charm.
To create this look, start by parting your hair and backcombing at the crown for added volume.
Using your fingers or curling iron, roll sections of hair inward and secure them with bobby pins. Finish with a spritz of hairspray to keep everything in place.
2. Pincurls with a Beret
Channel the chic vibe of the 1940s with Pincurls and a Beret, a sophisticated yet approachable hairstyle. Begin by curling small sections of your hair tightly against your head, securing them with bobby pins to form smooth, structured curls.
Once the curls are set and released, style them to frame your face beautifully. Top off your look with a stylish beret to add a Parisian flair that’s perfect for both casual outings and special occasions.
Pair this hairstyle with red lips and soft makeup for a refined and vintage appearance that’s sure to turn heads and exude timeless charm.
3. Structured Pompadour
Embrace a bold yet casual look with the Structured Pompadour, a hairstyle that offers both height and elegance. This iconic wartime style involves sweeping the front portion of your hair into a high pompadour, while the rest is curled or pinned at the back.
Start by sectioning off the top front part of your hair and backcombing it for volume. Then, sweep it back into a structured shape that stands out. This look is perfect for keeping your hair neat while still making a high-fashion statement.
The Structured Pompadour is ideal for anyone looking to combine sophistication with a touch of drama in their hairstyle.
4. Soft Retro Waves
For those who prefer a softer, romantic look, Soft Retro Waves offer the perfect touch of old-school elegance. This hairstyle is achieved by using a curling iron or hot rollers to create smooth, flowing waves.
After curling, gently brush out the waves to form sculpted curls that beautifully cascade down. A side part adds extra drama, completing the vintage vibe. This look is not only easy to achieve but also adds a nostalgic feel to any outfit.
Pair it with a vintage hat or accessory to emphasize the nostalgic charm, making it an ideal choice for those who love timeless styles.
5. Half-Up Pompadour with Curls
Transform your look with the Half-Up Pompadour with Curls, a blend of classic volume and soft romance. Begin by teasing the top section of your hair to create a high, structured pompadour.
Secure it with bobby pins for a stable hold. The rest of your hair should be styled into loose curls or ringlets that cascade beautifully down your back. This creates a charming balance of structure and elegance. Add a festive accessory, like a flower or pin, for a vintage 1940s vibe.
This style is perfect for formal occasions or a special night out, offering a timeless appeal that’s both glamorous and sophisticated.
6. Bandana Victory Rolls
Embrace a playful yet polished look with the Bandana Victory Rolls. This style features tight, structured rolls at the top of your head, secured with bobby pins. The rest of your hair can be tucked into a colorful bandana or left loose, making it both practical and chic.
Perfect for vintage enthusiasts, the bandana adds a splash of color and fun. With minimal effort, you can achieve a polished look that echoes the spirit of working women during the war.
This hairstyle is ideal for those who want to incorporate a touch of retro charm into their everyday style.
7. Double Rolls with Bow
For a playful 1940s vibe, try the Double Rolls with a Bow. Divide your hair into two sections and roll each side, meeting them neatly at the back. Secure with bobby pins for a clean finish.
Add a silk ribbon or bow at the base of your neck for a feminine touch that completes the look. This style is perfect for daytime outings and social gatherings, offering a fun and charming appearance.
The double rolls bring a touch of vintage whimsy, while the bow adds a sweet accent. It’s an easy way to capture the playful elegance of the era.
8. Pageboy Roll
Achieve timeless sophistication with the Pageboy Roll. This sleek style involves rolling the ends of your hair under to create a smooth, rounded shape that curves inward.
Part the top to the side for a flattering silhouette that’s both polished and elegant. Use a large-barrel curling iron or hot rollers to curl the ends, then brush through for a refined finish. The Pageboy Roll is versatile, and perfect for both formal events and casual settings.
It offers a classic 1940s appeal that never goes out of style, making it ideal for those seeking a sophisticated and sleek hairstyle.
9. Classic Hollywood Waves
Step into the glamorous world of the 1940s with Hollywood waves, a hairstyle that epitomizes elegance and sophistication. These waves are soft and voluminous, with perfectly defined curls cascading around the shoulders.
To achieve this look, use a large curling iron or hot rollers to craft loose, structured waves. Once the curls are in place, gently brush them out to form smooth, seamless waves. A deep side part is essential to enhance the vintage allure.
Pair this stunning hairstyle with bold red lips for a timeless and elegant appearance, perfect for any formal event or a sophisticated night out.
10. Ribboned Curls with a Headband
Embrace the charming style of the 1940s with ribboned curls, featuring soft curls enhanced by a ribbon or headband. Start by curling your hair into voluminous waves using a medium-barrel curling iron.
Sweep the top back and secure it with a decorative headband or ribbon. This style exudes a sweet, youthful vibe while keeping hair away from the face.
It’s perfect for an everyday vintage style, adding a touch of elegance with accessories. Whether you’re heading to a casual outing or simply enjoying the day, this style blends charm with practical beauty.
11. Shoulder-Length Curls with a Hair Clip
Capture the refined elegance of the 1940s with shoulder-length curls adorned with a hair clip. Curl your hair into smooth waves that rest just at the shoulders, and add a decorative clip or pin on one side for a feminine touch.
Use a curling iron to curl the ends, then brush them out slightly to create soft, structured waves. A decorative hair clip enhances the vintage glamour.
This versatile style is perfect for both formal occasions and casual daytime events, offering a blend of simplicity and grace that never goes out of style.
12. Vintage Pin-Curled Updo
For a classic, structured hairstyle that suits any formal setting, try the pin-curled updo. This 1940s-inspired look involves curling small sections of hair tightly and pinning them at the back in a neat fashion.
Begin by creating small pin curls using your fingers or a curling iron, then secure them at the crown and back of your head. This style maintains an elegant, polished appearance while embracing vintage flair.
It’s a versatile look that works beautifully for both casual events and more formal occasions, ensuring you always stand out with timeless grace.
13. Glamorous Curly Updo with Scarf
Embrace the vintage charm of the 1940s with this glamorous curly updo. Start by curling your hair into soft waves using a small-barrel iron.
Gather the curls, leaving a few loose for a carefree vibe, and pin them elegantly at the back. This style is perfected with a sheer scarf tied around your head, adding a touch of sophistication.
This look is timeless, offering a balanced blend of polish and relaxation, ideal for both casual gatherings and special occasions. Whether you’re heading to a picnic or a party, this hairstyle ensures you stand out with a chic, vintage flair.
14. Sleek Low Chignon with Flowers
The sleek low chignon captures the elegance of the 1940s with its simple grace. Begin by parting your hair in the middle and smoothing it down with gel or cream.
Gather the hair into a low chignon at your neck’s nape. Add a touch of beauty by pinning decorative flowers into the bun. This understated style was a favorite at formal events, bringing a vintage-inspired charm to any occasion.
Whether you’re attending a wedding or a formal dinner, this hairstyle provides a refined and timeless look that speaks volumes with its simplicity.
15. Old Hollywood Glam Curls
Channel the screen legends of the 1940s with Old Hollywood glam curls. Achieve this look by curling your hair in large sections with hot rollers or a curling iron.
Once curled, gently brush out the waves to create smooth, luxurious curls that seamlessly frame your face. Part your hair to one side to enhance the style’s elegance.
Perfect for evening events or red-carpet-inspired occasions, these glamorous waves offer a touch of retro sophistication, making you feel like a movie star from the golden era of Hollywood.
16. Vintage Bob with Bangs
Step into the bold style of the 1940s with a vintage bob with bangs. This hairstyle features a shoulder-length bob with defined curls at the ends and short, blunt bangs for a striking appearance.
To recreate this look, curl the ends of your bob with a curling iron, and use a straightener for sleek bangs. Pair this hairstyle with bold makeup, like red lips and winged eyeliner, to enhance its fierce, vintage allure.
This modern yet retro style offers a bold, sophisticated feel, perfect for making a statement wherever you go.
17. Turban with Victory Rolls
Transport yourself to the glamorous 1940s with the Turban with Victory Rolls. This style is both bold and practical, perfect for covering unstyled hair. Start by sectioning off the front part of your hair and crafting two elegant victory rolls on top of your head.
Tuck the rest of your hair under a chic turban, tying it securely in place. The addition of bold red lips and sunglasses elevates this look to Hollywood heights.
Whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion or simply embracing vintage style, this look offers a perfect blend of glamour and practicality, ensuring you steal the spotlight with ease.
18. Curly Hair with Net Hat
Channel elegance with the Curly Hair with Net Hat style, a structured, vintage look that adds sophistication to any outfit. Begin with tight, defined curls that frame your face beautifully.
Use a curling iron to create small, precise ringlets and pin them close to your scalp for that neat, polished appearance. Top off your curls with a vintage net hat, which lends a refined, formal finish to this hairstyle.
Ideal for formal events or whenever you want to exude a polished, vintage charm with minimal fuss, this style makes sure you look effortlessly graceful and timeless.
19. Voluminous Curls with Headscarf
For a dramatic yet feminine flair, try the Voluminous Curls with Headscarf. This look is all about big, bouncy curls that frame your face beautifully.
Use a large-barrel curling iron to create these lush curls, allowing them to cascade naturally over your shoulders. Enhance the style with a vibrant headscarf tied around the crown, which can be secured under the chin or at the back of your neck.
This hairstyle strikes the perfect balance between glamour and practicality, making it ideal for casual outings or relaxed gatherings where you want to make a stylish statement.
20. Rolled Updo with Ribbon Hat
Embrace 1940s chic with the Rolled Updo with Ribbon Hat, an elegant and sophisticated look that suits any formal gathering. Start by rolling your hair into a neat bun or chignon at the nape of your neck, pinning it securely in place.
Complete this timeless hairstyle with a wide-brimmed ribbon hat for a refined finish. This look adds a touch of grace and vintage style to any outfit, ensuring you stand out with understated elegance.
Perfect for weddings, receptions, or any occasion where you want to channel classic sophistication, this style is a sure head-turner.
Hi, I’m Ashley Miller, a wife, a busy mom, and someone who loves to share all the things that make life a little more fun and beautiful.
From easy DIY projects, delicious recipes, and chic hairstyles to nail ideas and home decor tips, I share everything I’ve learned and love.
My goal is to inspire other women to explore their creativity and make their homes even more special.
