The 1920s is known for its iconic and glamorous fashion, makeup, and hairstyles. The hairstyles, in particular, were a significant departure from the long and elaborate hairdos of the Victorian era that were popular during the 19th century. The 1920s hairstyles were characterized by short and sleek haircuts that were simple to maintain yet elegant and stylish.
In this guide, we will take you through the steps on how to do a 1920s hairstyle. We will discuss the different types of haircuts popular during the 1920s, the tools, and products you need, and the step-by-step process to achieve the look. We will also include a FAQ section to address any lingering questions you may have.
So let’s dive in!
Types of haircuts popular in the 1920s
The 1920s was a decade of rebellion and change, and this revolution was also seen in hairstyles. The haircuts that were popular during this time were short, sleek, and low maintenance. Some of the popular haircuts of the time include:
1. The bob haircut
The bob haircut is an essential style of the 1920s and is still fashionable today. It’s a short haircut that typically falls between the chin and earlobe. The bob haircut is characterized by a blunt cut, where the hair is cut straight across. This style is perfect for those with straight hair, as it requires minimal styling.
2. The shingle haircut
The shingle haircut is a variation of the bob. The hair is cut shorter at the nape of the neck and gradually becomes longer towards the front. It is a great low-maintenance style for those with wavy or curly hair.
3. The Eton crop
The Eton crop is a very short haircut that’s mostly associated with flappers. It’s a boyish cut that’s only a couple of inches long. It’s a bold haircut that requires confidence, but it can be a fantastic and liberating style.
Tools and products needed to create a 1920s hairstyle
To create a 1920s hairstyle, you will need a few essential tools and products. These include:
1. Hairbrush
A hairbrush is essential for achieving a sleek and polished look. Choose a brush with a soft bristle that can easily glide through your hair.
2. Hairpins
Hairpins were used extensively in the 1920s to keep the hair in place. You will need several hairpins of varying sizes for creating a 1920s hairstyle.
3. Clips
Clips are used to keep the hair out of the way while you style it. You can use small clips to hold the hair in place while you work on one section.
4. Curling Iron
A curling iron is not a necessary tool for creating a 1920s hairstyle, but it can help add some texture and volume to the hair. Choose a curling iron with a small barrel size, as you don’t want to create big curls.
5. Pomade
A pomade is a styling product that’s commonly used to create a slicked-back hairstyle. Choose a water-based pomade, as it’s more comfortable to wash out than the oil-based options.
Step-by-step process to create a 1920s hairstyle
Now that you have your tools and products ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process of creating a 1920s hairstyle.
Step 1: Prep your hair
Start by washing and conditioning your hair as you usually would, then allow it to air dry for a few minutes. Apply a small amount of pomade to your hair, and use a comb to distribute it evenly. The pomade will help create a sleek look and keep your hair in place.
Step 2: Create a side part
Use a comb to create a deep side part, separating the hair on one side of your head from the other.
Step 3: Pin the hair at the nape of your neck
Gather the hair at the nape of your neck and pin it in place using hairpins.
Step 4: Twist the hair at the side of your head
Take a section of hair from the side of your head and twist it downwards. Pin the twisted hair in place using hairpins. Repeat this process on the other side of your head.
Step 5: Create Finger Waves
To create a finger wave, take a section of hair at the front of your head. Use your finger and a hairpin to create an S-shape wave. Pin the S-shape wave in place, and spray it with hairspray to hold it.
Repeat this process on the other side of your head, and continue creating finger waves until you’ve achieved the desired look.
Step 6: Finish the look
Spray a generous amount of hairspray over your entire head to keep your hair in place. You can also use a little more pomade to add shine to your hair.
FAQs
1. Can I create a 1920s hairstyle without a bob or shorter haircut?
Yes, you can! It’s possible to create a 1920s-inspired hairstyle using longer hair. The key is to create a sleek and polished look by using the right tools and products. You can create a deep side part and twist the hair at the side of your head, as we have shown in the above steps, to achieve a similar look.
2. How long does it take to create a 1920s hairstyle?
The time it takes to create a 1920s hairstyle depends on the type of haircut and the complexity of the style you’re going for. If you have a bob or a shingle cut, it can take anywhere from 10-20 minutes to style your hair. If you have longer hair, it may take longer, especially if you’re creating more complex styles.
3. What type of pomade should I use for maximum hold?
Choose a water-based pomade if you’re looking for a product with maximum hold. Water-based pomades are easier to wash out than oil-based ones and provide excellent hold.
4. Can I create a 1920s hairstyle on curly or wavy hair?
Yes, you can! The shingle haircut is a perfect style for those with wavy or curly hair. You can also use a curling iron to create loose waves or add some texture to your hair.