The 1920s were a revolutionary time for fashion, culture, and, of course, hairstyles. Known as the “Roaring Twenties,” this decade saw women embracing bold and daring looks, discarding traditional Victorian styles, and expressing their individuality through sleek, structured, and sometimes rebellious hairdos. Here are 8 timeless 1920s hairstyles that not only define the era but have also stood the test of time.
The bob is undoubtedly the most iconic hairstyle of the 1920s. This short, blunt-cut hairstyle was a statement of freedom and modernity. Typically chin-length, the bob frames the face with straight or slightly wavy hair. Louise Brooks, a famous actress of the time, popularized this look, with her jet-black bob becoming synonymous with the rebellious flapper lifestyle.
Finger waves were another defining hairstyle of the 1920s. This look features sleek, shiny waves that are tightly pressed to the scalp, creating an “S” shape. Finger waves added a sense of elegance and sophistication to a woman’s appearance. Women often wore finger waves with short hair, especially bobs, to soften their features. Jean Harlow, the 1930s bombshell, wore this style, though it was first widely embraced in the '20s.
Invented by French hairstylist François Marcel, the Marcel wave was a popular hairstyle of the 1920s. This style was achieved by using a heated curling iron to create deep, structured waves, similar to finger waves but less flat. It provided a glamorous, textured look that was ideal for both formal and casual occasions. Clara Bow, one of Hollywood’s most famous silent film actresses, frequently sported this hairstyle.
The Eton crop was one of the shortest hairstyles of the 1920s, characterized by its close-cropped look that emphasized the shape of the head. This boyish style was a bold departure from the long, flowing hair of previous decades. Josephine Baker, the world-famous entertainer, made this look popular with her slicked-down Eton crop paired with shiny, glossy hair.
A variation of the classic bob, the shingle bob is characterized by its short, sharp layers in the back that taper down towards the nape of the neck. The front is typically longer, and the contrast between the lengths gives the hairstyle a dramatic flair. Actress Colleen Moore, another symbol of the 1920s flapper girl, made the shingle bob her signature look.
The faux bob gave the illusion of short hair without committing to the chop. Women with longer hair would tuck their hair under and pin it to create the appearance of a bob. This style was a perfect way for those not ready to cut their hair to still embrace the flapper trend. Greta Garbo, known for her enigmatic beauty, was often seen sporting this style, adding to her glamorous and mysterious allure.
For those with naturally curly hair or those who preferred a voluminous look, the curly bob was the answer. This style maintained the short length of the bob but added soft, bouncy curls to create a fuller, more dynamic look. Clara Bow, known for her energetic and fun persona, frequently rocked the curly bob, which perfectly matched her vibrant on-screen presence.
Though most women of the 1920s preferred short hair, some still opted for longer styles, often putting their hair up in elegant chignons. A popular variation was the chignon with a twist, where the hair would be swept back into a low bun, often adorned with feathers, headbands, or decorative clips. The style was popular for formal events and galas. Silent film actress Gloria Swanson often wore a chignon, adding a touch of sophistication to her glamorous outfits.
Comments