The 1920s ushered in the flapper aesthetic, encouraging women to chop off their long locks in favor of short hairstyles that highlighted their facial features. Today, these vintage hairstyles are over a century old, but they look just as good—if not better—now than they did 100 years ago. Whether you’re looking to switch up your signature look or need a stunning updo for a night out, one of these retro ‘20s hairdos could be just what you need. Here, we’ve curated a list of 30 1920s hairstyles that we’re sure you’ll be obsessed with.
The 30 Best 1920s Hairstyles
Good hair day by @pati.rodrigz.
Finger Waves
When you think of 1920s hairstyles, finger waves are likely the first thing to come to mind. Finger waves are a hairstyle that involves using a product with a firm hold, a fine-tooth comb, and your fingers to mold your hair into sea-like waves. This iconic style has become a staple hairstyle for anyone with short hair. The key to lasting finger waves is a strong-hold hair gel like Matrix Controller Gel, which will help hold your style in place without any stiffness or crunch.

Good hair day by @iamkendraalia.
Finger Wave Chignon
If you love the look of finger waves but your hair is too long for the classic pixie look, let us introduce you to one of our favorite ‘20s hairdos for long hair: the finger wave chignon. Gathering the length of your hair at the nape of your neck is an easy and stylish way to keep your hair tucked away and gives your finger waves the shine they deserve.
Sculpted Edges
Short hair was all the rage in the 1920s, and a sculpted hairline is one of the best ways to make your short hair stand out. Mizani’s Edge Controlling Taming Gel will help mold and shape your edges into an artful masterpiece that stays put all day.
Good hair day by @sunniebrook.
Gilded Updo
While the Gilded Age ended in the 1910s, the extravagant wealth of the previous decade greatly influenced fashion and beauty in the 1920s. Women of means adorned their updos with sparkling jewels and glittering gold for looks that would shine on any red carpet—in 2025 or 1925. Watch the video above for a golden style complete with gilded butterflies that’s perfect for modern day.
Good hair day by @lamajbackwards.
Slicked-Back Low Ponytail
Many 1920s hairstyles were short and sleek, but that doesn’t mean everyone raced to sheer off their locks. People with long hair could still embrace the sleek trend with styles like slicked-back low ponytails. We love how you can dress this hairstyle up for special occasions with accessories or pair it with a casual outfit.
Good hair day by @lamajbackwards.
Short Comb Coils
Comb coils are a hairstyling technique where you use a fine-tooth comb to twist small sections of natural hair into tight coils. To give super short curls some much-needed definition, reach for Mizani’s Styling Foam Wrap. The formula offers a lightweight, never-crunchy hold so you can slay your cropped ‘do.
Good hair day by @josie_sassandmaine.
Soft Waves
Soft waves are as popular now as they were in 1920. You can achieve this style in many ways, but we're partial to overnight heatless curls. Go to sleep and wake up with great hair? Yes, please.
To pick the right heatless curl technique, consider your hair type, texture, and the tools you have on hand. Head over to our complete guide on heatless curls for help finding the perfect method for your mane.
Good hair day by @darycetolliver.
Crown Braid
Braids are tried-and-true hairstyles that have made their mark every decade. Braided updos, in particular, were a staple for Black women in the 1920s. One of our favorites is this crown braid, which is equal parts regal and simple, making it suitable for any occasion. If you try it for yourself, be sure to prep your hair with a moisturizing hair styler like Mizani’s True Textures Curl Defining Pudding.
Good hair day by @darycetolliver.
Pin-Curl Updo
If you love the look of short hair but aren’t ready to part with your locks just yet, this faux pin-curl bob is calling your name. First, prime your hair with a heat protectant like Kérastase Genesis Defense Thermique Heat Protecting Spray. Starting at the back of your head, wrap small sections of hair around a 1-inch curling iron. Once a curl has formed, use a styling clip to secure the coil to your head—the result is a pin curl. Once you’ve curled your entire head, allow your hair to cool completely before removing the pins. This helps to give your curls staying power.
Gently rake your fingers through your hair before parting it down the middle to the crown of your head. Then, sculpt a soft swoop on either side of the part. Secure the S-shaped swoops on either side with several pins. Then, pin the rest of your curls to the back of your head to finish your updo. Set your look in place with a firm-hold hair spray like Pureology Style + Protect Lock It Down Hairspray.
Good hair day by @sunniebrook.
Sculpted Updo
Sculpted updos were a way to embrace the art-forward hairstyles that were popular in the 1920s without sacrificing length. You can copy the sculpted ‘do shown above, or get creative and mold your hair to your heart’s content. Either way, you’ll want to set your sculpted updo with a high-hold hairspray like Redken’s Control Hairspray.
Good hair day by @gregoryrussellhair.
Platinum Bob
Platinum hair may feel modern, but it was hot back then, too. It pairs perfectly with a classic 1920s bob, so it’s only fitting! If you try this throwback look, keep your platinum hair looking healthy and bright with the Kérastase Blonde Absolu range, which is formulated with hyaluronic acid and edelweiss flower and nourishes the hair fiber and neutralizes brassiness.
Wet Look Pixie
A wet look is a classic style that has stood the test of time, and when you have really short hair, it takes literal minutes to pull off. After washing your hair, leave your strands slightly damp and rake a quarter-sized dollop of gel through your mane. The key to this look is to saturate your hair with gel so your mane gives off a wet appearance even when it dries.
Good hair day by @naivashaintl on @ellabalinska
Blunt Fringe
Bangs seem to follow us through every decade, and the 1920s were no different. Blunt bangs perfectly complement a chin-length bob for an on-trend style in both the 1920s and 2020s.
Wraparound Headband
A wraparound headband is one of the easiest ways to channel your inner flapper. Whether you tease your strands for a voluminous style or opt for a sleek look, a strategically placed headband will complete your ‘do.
Blunt Bob
Flappers were the ultimate trendsetters, and the blunt bob haircut has been on-trend ever since. While the day-to-day styling is pretty low maintenance, be sure to head back to the salon for a trim every 8-12 weeks to keep your blunt bob looking sharp.
Curly Bob
Sleek bobs were very popular in the ‘20s, but a chin-length bob looks equally stunning on curly hair. Use a styling mousse like L’Oréal Professionnel Curl Expression 10-In-1 Cream In Mousse to give your curls a defined look without weighing them down.
Good hair day by @lamajbackwards.
Angled Bob
Angled layers can elevate the classic 1920s bob hairstyle. To recreate this striking look, have your stylist snip your strands shorter in the front while maintaining a longer length in the back.
Good hair day by @marcellaxxv and @luis_alvarez_images
Touchable Pixie
Pixie haircuts are not known for movement and volume, but this ‘do is all body! Use a pomade like Shu Uemura Art of Hair Ishi Sculpt Hair Paste to give your ‘20s hair a touchable texture that lasts all day.
Braided Updo
Braids and updos go together like Instagram and filters—flawless. Perfectly sculpted baby hair sets this braided updo apart from the rest. Use an edge brush and hair gel to swoop and style your edges for an artistic finishing touch.
Good hair day by @beautybylee.
Curly Pixie
Super short haircuts are one of the best ways to show off your enviable curly texture. The finger comb technique helps to make curls pop, giving them definition that will last all night long. For extra help in the frizz control department, work a bit of the Biolage Professional Curl Defining Elixir through damp strands before styling.
Good hair day by @jeehye_lee____.
Blunt Bob Mullet
If you’re looking for a modern take on a classic style, this fusion of a quintessential 1920s style and an iconic 1980s look fits the bill. This striking haircut pairs blunt baby bangs with face-framing layers while the remaining hair is long and luscious. The key to nailing this geometric style is a seriously talented stylist and clear communication, so bring this photo to the salon as inspiration. (Use our salon locator to book a haircut at a salon near you.)
Good hair day by @nandyncdm and @pekelariley.
Bowl Cut Bob
This isn’t your average middle school haircut: A blunt bowl cut is a dramatic ‘do that’s a great conversation starter for those ready to turn some heads. It features all the boldness of a blunt bob, but softens the edges for a fresh finish. To style it, use a blow-dryer and a round brush to curl your ends inward.
Slicked-Back Pixie
The best 1920s hairstyles were the ones that were also functional. This slicked-back pixie was a go-to for keeping your hair out of your face as you got down on the dance floor.
Good hair day by @guidopalau.
Slicked-Back Sculpted Updo
Opulent parties defined the 1920s, and this updo is the perfect style for your next black-tie event. This slicked-back, sculpted style is the intersection of the wet look, finger waves, and a chignon—effortless, timeless, and chic.
Good hair day by @lorenmarie_c.
Relaxed Bob
Black women began experimenting with relaxing their hair in the 1920s, after relaxer was invented in the previous decade. More recently, when the natural hair movement exploded in 2010, relaxers got a bad reputation for damaging hair. However, it’s totally possible to have healthy, relaxed hair—the key is to make an appointment at a salon with a trusted haircare professional who can help maintain the integrity of your strands.
Good hair day by @mr_alexandrycosta.
Rolled Faux Bob
As we touched on, a lot of popular ‘20s hair ideas center around short strands. But embodying this era doesn’t necessitate a big chop—all you have to do is fake it. Create a faux bob by rolling your long hair under and pinning it to secure. This is a great way to make a dramatic change without any commitment. When you’re ready to show off lengthy locks again, simply unpin your hair.
Good hair day by @sunshinecoastpinupschool.
Art Deco Accessories
The easiest way to transform an everyday style into a ‘20s masterpiece is to add an art deco accessory. Think geometric barrettes, bejeweled clips, and intricate headbands. And since this look is totally customizable, it’s a great 1920s hairdo for long hair and short hair alike.
Good hair day by @alexandralee1016.
Rolled Updo
Low updos were one of the hottest 1920s beauty trends, and this rolled style is one of our favorite variations. Simply roll the hair up and pin it into place as seen in the video above. Or, you can wear an elastic headband and roll your hair around it. This can help give your style some built-in structure and tends to be easier for beginners.
To give the headband technique a try, place the elastic band around your head with the length of your hair hanging loose underneath. Then, split the hair into 1-2 inch sections and tuck each one around the headband. When all your hair is tucked in, you should have a rolled updo. You can adjust it with your fingers to hide the headband, then pin everything into place for added security.
Glamorous Side-Swept Waves
We’ve already touched on the beauty of soft 1920s waves, but there’s so much more you can do with this look. Here’s one extra glamorous option: Sweep your hair to one side and spritz with a shine spray, like Redken’s Shine Flash Spray. You’ll immediately evoke Old Hollywood vibes. You can even add a jeweled hair clip to the side for a bit more glitz.
Good hair day by @pati.rodrigz.
Layered Pearl Pins
Nowadays, pearls make us think of coquette hairstyles, but they were also a staple in the 1920s. And while a long strand of pearls always elevates an outfit, we’re partial to pearl-adorned hairdos. Twist your hair into an elegant low bun, then add pearl hair pins throughout. It’s the perfect blend of timeless and trendy.
Next Up: 35 Best Cute Hairstyles You Can Easily Do At Home
Header photo credit: @sunshinecoastpinupschool
Make sure your haircare routine is up to 2025 standards (not stuck in another decade) with our quick hair quiz.