34 Best 50s Hairstyles Ideas

Welcome to a journey back in time with our exploration of 34 iconic 1950s hairstyles that have left a lasting impression on fashion history.

The 1950s were a pivotal decade marked by post-war euphoria and the blossoming of pop culture, influencing women’s hairstyles with an array of glamorous, bold, and intricate designs.

This article delves into a collection of quintessential 1950s hairstyles, each embodying the elegance and innovation of the time.

Whether you’re drawn to the sophisticated simplicity of the sleek ponytail or the sculpted beauty of finger waves, these styles offer a glimpse into a decade of dramatic change and fashion awakening.

Let’s jump right into it!

50s Hairstyles Ideas

1. Classic Pin Curls

Pin curls are achieved by curling small sections of damp hair around your finger and securing them with clips or pins.

Once dry, you gently release the curls to reveal soft, voluminous waves. This style exudes a timeless glamour and works well on medium to long hair lengths.

To enhance the look, add a light hairspray to maintain the curls’ shape throughout the day.

2. Sleek Ponytail with a Scarf

Pull your hair back into a high ponytail and secure it tightly for a smooth, sleek appearance. Wrap a colorful scarf around the base of the ponytail to add a vibrant 50s flair.

This style is simple yet elegant and can be worn on any hair texture. It’s perfect for casual outings or more formal events.

3. Bouffant Hairdo

The bouffant is a voluminous style that involves backcombing the hair at the crown to create height and then smoothing the top layer over the teased hair.

Secure with plenty of hairspray to hold the volume. This dramatic look is often associated with 50s glamour and works best on medium to long hair.

4. Poodle Cut

A short, tight curly style, the poodle cut is named for its resemblance to the dog breed’s groomed fur.

Ideal for naturally curly or permed hair, it frames the face with a series of soft, defined curls. Styling gel or mousse can be used to define the curls and minimize frizz.

5. Soft Waves with Side Part

Create a deep side part and use a large barrel curling iron to craft soft, flowing waves through your hair.

This elegant and subtle look is versatile for daily wear or special occasions. Finish with a light hairspray to maintain the waves’ shape without weighing them down.

6. The Marilyn Monroe Curls

Channel the iconic Marilyn Monroe with platinum blonde hair styled in soft, brushed-out curls.

Use a small curling iron to create tight curls, then brush through several times to soften them into voluptuous waves.

7. Victory Rolls

Victory rolls are large, voluminous curls that are rolled and pinned on the top of the head, often framing the face.

This wartime hairstyle requires strong hold products and bobby pins to secure the rolls in place.

It’s a striking and historically rich style, perfect for themed events or bold fashion statements.

8. Pageboy Bob

The pageboy bob features hair cut to jaw-length, typically with curled-under ends and a rounded silhouette.

This style often includes bangs that are cut straight across the forehead. It’s a polished look that adds sophistication to straight hair.

9. Beehive

The beehive is a high-rise hairstyle that stacks the hair into a conical shape atop the head, resembling a beehive.

This style requires backcombing for volume, smoothed over with a fine-tooth comb and secured with hairspray. Ideal for long hair, the beehive makes a dramatic retro statement.

10. Chignon with a Twist

This sophisticated updo pulls hair back into a low chignon at the nape of the neck. For a 50s twist, incorporate a rolled fringe or side-swept curls into the style.

This hairstyle is perfect for formal occasions and adds an elegant touch to any outfit.

11. Rolled Bangs

Also known as a “bumper bang”, this style involves rolling the front section of your hair into a smooth, rounded bang that sits high on the forehead.

It’s a quintessential 50s look that pairs well with a ponytail or updo. Use a strong-hold styling product to keep the roll in place.

12. Pompadour for Women

The female pompadour involves sweeping the hair upwards from the forehead and wearing it high over the forehead in a roll.

Often combined with a bun or ponytail at the back, this bold style needs strong hold styling products to maintain its height and shape.

13. Betty Bangs

Named after the cartoon character Betty Boop, these short, curved bangs cut above the eyebrow and are a playful, youthful addition to any hairstyle.

Pair with a bob or curls for a full vintage effect. Styling gel can help maintain the curved shape.

14. Hollywood Waves

Soft and luxurious, Hollywood waves feature deep, smooth waves created with a wide-barrel curling iron.

This glamorous style is synonymous with red carpet looks and is perfect for adding a touch of old Hollywood elegance to your appearance.

15. Peek-a-Boo Bangs

Inspired by the sultry Veronica Lake, peek-a-boo bangs involve long, soft waves that obscure one eye.

This mysterious and seductive style works well with long, layered hair and requires minimal styling products to maintain a natural flow.

16. Audrey Hepburn’s Pixie Cut

This pixie cut made famous by Audrey Hepburn features short, softly styled layers with elegant side bangs.

It’s a minimalist and chic look that emphasizes facial features beautifully. Use a bit of pomade or wax to style the bangs and give the overall cut a polished look.

17. The Elizabeth Taylor Bob

A glamorous bob cut that falls just below the ears, characterized by voluminous, soft curls and often paired with short bangs.

This look captures Elizabeth Taylor’s signature 1950s glamour. Use a curling iron to achieve the curls and finish with a shine-enhancing hairspray.

18. Finger Waves

This sculpted wave style is created by setting the hair in waves held with clips while drying, then carefully brushing out.

It’s known for its defined wave patterns, perfect for very short to medium-length hair. Gel is crucial to hold the style and maintain its distinct lines.

19. Teased Crown with Headband

Backcomb the hair at the crown to create volume before smoothing the top layer and adding a headband for a chic, controlled look.

This style adds height and drama, making it perfect for both casual and formal settings. Secure with hairspray to maintain the volume throughout the day.

20. French Twist

An elegant updo where the hair is twisted at the back of the head and pinned vertically.

This classic style is versatile and sophisticated, ideal for weddings or other formal events. Ensure a neat finish with plenty of bobby pins and a firm-hold hairspray.

21. Half-Up Bouffant

Achieve this look by teasing the hair at the crown, then pulling the top half back and securing it while letting the rest flow freely.

This hairstyle blends drama with simplicity and works well for medium to long hair. Use hairspray to keep the teased portion voluminous.

22. Bubble Cut

A voluminous hairstyle where the hair is set in large curls all over the head, resembling a helmet or bubble shape.

It’s particularly suitable for thick, curly hair. Mousse will help to define the curls and keep them bouncy and full.

23. Tousled Bob

A shorter, more casual take on the traditional bob, styled with a bit of messiness for a relaxed look.

Perfect for those who prefer a low-maintenance but stylish haircut. Use a texturizing spray or salt spray to add body and an effortless finish.

24. Curly Updo with Bandana

Pull your curly locks up into a high updo, and secure with pins before tying a bandana around your head for a retro 50s touch.

This style is ideal for managing long curly hair and adds a fun, colorful element to your outfit.

25. Side-Swept Curls

Curl your hair with a medium-barrel iron and then brush it to one side for a soft and romantic look. Secure with bobby pins discretely under the swept hair.

This style works best with medium to long hair and is enhanced with a light hairspray to hold the curls in place.

26. The Lucille Ball Puff

Famous for its rounded, voluminous front puff, this style epitomizes 50s TV glamour.

Achieve this look by teasing the front section of your hair and securing it with pins, creating a prominent puff at the forehead.

27. Glamorous Up-sweep

This sophisticated hairstyle involves sweeping the hair back from the face and pinning it into a low, elegant updo at the back of the head.

It’s perfect for showcasing jewelry and elegant necklines. Use smoothing serum and hairspray for a sleek finish.

28. Sleek and Smooth Bob

A classic straight bob cut right at the chin, often with a precise, flat fringe. This clean and simple look is timeless and works particularly well on straight hair.

Use a flat iron for a super sleek finish and a serum to add shine.

29. High Ponytail with Waves

Pull your hair into a high ponytail, then curl the lengths to create soft waves.

This combines the practicality of a ponytail with the elegance of waves, suitable for both casual and formal looks.

Secure with a hair tie and use hairspray to enhance the wave’s longevity.

30. Low Bun with Side Sweeps

Create a smooth, low bun at the nape and leave a few strands out at the front to curl lightly around the face.

This hairstyle is understated yet elegant, perfect for formal events. Use bobby pins to secure the bun and light hairspray for hold.

31. Wavy Pixie Style

A short pixie cut styled with waves to add texture and volume. It’s a modern twist on a traditional cut, ideal for those looking to combine ease with style.

A small curling wand and texturizing spray can help achieve the desired effect.

32. Double Bun Twist

Part your hair down the middle and twist each section into a bun at the back of your head.

This playful look is great for casual days and keeps hair neatly out of the face. Use bobby pins to secure each bun and a mist of hairspray for all-day hold.

33. Sleek Flip

A long bob or shoulder-length style flipped out at the ends for a distinctly 50s look.

Achieve this by using a round brush and blow-dryer to curl the ends outward. This style is simple yet impactful and works best on straight or slightly wavy hair.

34. Dramatic Stacked Curls

Stack your curls atop your head in a structured yet voluminous arrangement, securing with pins and setting with a strong-hold hairspray.

This elaborate style is perfect for special occasions where making a bold statement is key.