20 Stunning Hairstyles From the ’50s That Defined This Era
The 1950s was an era that witnessed the rise of some of the most memorable and iconic hairstyles ever.
From the perfectly coiffed curls of glamorous Hollywood starlets to the bold, edgy looks embraced by rock ‘n’ rollers, hair became a defining element of personal style.
Whether it was the polished elegance of the bouffant, the playful charm of the poodle cut, or the rebellious allure of the pompadour, each style told a unique story.
Let’s take a journey through time and explore 20 hairstyles that left a lasting impact.
1. The Pompadour
The pompadour was all about volume and height.
Named after Madame de Pompadour, the mistress of King Louis XV, it wasn’t until the ’50s that this style truly rocketed to fame.
Think Elvis Presley and James Dean – those swoon-worthy locks were the epitome of cool.
Achieving the look required copious amounts of pomade and a trusty comb to maintain that sky-high volume all day long. It was rebellious, stylish, and undeniably iconic.
2. The Ducktail
Also known as the “Duck’s Tail,” this hairstyle was a staple among the edgy and rebellious youth of the ’50s.
Achieved by slicking back the sides of the hair and leaving a ridge in the middle, it was perfect for the bad boy image.
Popular among greasers, it was both edgy and polished, symbolizing teenage rebellion.
It might be a challenge to maintain, but the ducktail was worth the effort for that unmistakable rock ‘n’ roll vibe.
3. The Beehive
The beehive was the queen of height and hairspray.
This towering hairstyle was perfect for women looking to make an impression. Popularized by stars like Audrey Hepburn in films, it was elegant and dramatic.
Creating a beehive involved teasing hair to great heights and securing it with a cloud of hairspray. It was a style that screamed sophistication and glamour, making it ideal for formal events and cocktail parties.
4. The Pageboy
Sleek, smooth, and oh-so-chic, the pageboy was a popular choice for women seeking a low-maintenance yet stylish look.
With its straight lines and rounded ends, it was flattering and easy to manage. This hairstyle symbolized the blend of modernity and elegance, making it perfect for everyday wear.
Whether paired with a headband or left as is, the pageboy was versatile and effortlessly stylish, offering a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
5. The Pixie Cut
The pixie cut was a bold move for any woman in the ’50s.
Short and sassy, it was a deviation from the longer styles of the decade. Inspired by icons like Audrey Hepburn, who made it famous in “Roman Holiday,” this style was all about confidence and charisma.
It brought a fresh, flirty vibe that was both bold and beautiful, making it a favorite for women seeking a low-maintenance, fashion-forward look.
6. The Bouffant
The bouffant is all about volume and elegance.
With its rounded shape and ample height, it was a favorite among women who wanted to add a touch of glamour to their daily look. Achieving the perfect bouffant required teasing the hair and using a substantial amount of hairspray to keep it in place.
This hairstyle was not just about aesthetics; it was a statement of poise and sophistication, perfect for both casual outings and grand events.
7. The Flat Top
The flat top was a sharp and stylish look for men who wanted to stand out.
Characterized by its flat, level top and trimmed sides, it was both modern and sleek. Popular in the military and among athletes, this hairstyle represented precision and discipline.
The flat top was perfect for those who appreciated a clean and organized appearance, making it an enduring classic that continues to inspire variations today.
8. Victory Rolls
Victory rolls were a nod to the victory of World War II, continuing their popularity into the ’50s.
This hairstyle involved rolling sections of hair towards the scalp, creating a voluminous and distinctive look. Often paired with bright red lipstick and a confident smile, it was glamorous and patriotic.
Victory rolls were not only a reflection of style but also a symbol of optimism and resilience, celebrating the post-war spirit.
9. The Crew Cut
The crew cut was a no-nonsense, practical style that suited boys and men alike.
Short and easy to maintain, it was a favorite for those who preferred a clean look without fuss. This hairstyle was especially popular among military personnel and athletes, epitomizing discipline and simplicity.
The crew cut’s timeless appeal lies in its versatility and ease, making it a go-to choice for anyone seeking a straightforward yet stylish appearance.
10. The Afro
Though it gained more prominence in later decades, the Afro was beginning to make its mark in the ’50s.
Embracing natural curls, this hairstyle was a celebration of cultural identity and pride. With its voluminous shape and distinctive silhouette, the Afro was both bold and beautiful.
It symbolized a movement towards embracing natural beauty and individuality, laying the groundwork for a style that would become iconic in its own right.
11. The French Twist
Elegant and timeless, the French twist was a go-to hairstyle for formal occasions.
This updo involved twisting the hair and pinning it into place, creating a sleek and polished appearance. Often adorned with decorative pins or combs, it was perfect for showcasing elegance and grace.
The French twist was the epitome of sophistication, offering a classic look that complemented gowns and pearls, making it a staple for glamorous events.
12. The Mohawk
The mohawk might not be the first hairstyle you associate with the ’50s, but it began to emerge among subcultures seeking to break away from the norm.
Defined by its shaved sides and spiky top, the mohawk was a bold statement of individuality and defiance.
While it was not mainstream, it symbolized a growing movement towards self-expression and nonconformity, setting the stage for the more radical styles of later decades.
13. The Bubble Cut
The bubble cut was a playful and fun hairstyle that captured the whimsy of the ’50s.
With its rounded, voluminous shape, it was reminiscent of a bubble, offering a carefree and youthful vibe. Popular among young women, it was easy to style and maintain, making it ideal for those who wanted a low-maintenance yet fashionable look.
The bubble cut was all about embracing the lighter side of life and enjoying the simple pleasures.
14. The Quiff
The quiff was the perfect blend of pompadour and flat top.
This hairstyle offered volume at the front with a sleek finish at the back, embodying both style and attitude.
Popular among rock ‘n’ roll enthusiasts, the quiff required careful styling and a generous amount of pomade to achieve that signature lift. It was a statement of rebellion and charm, making it a favorite among those who wanted to turn heads.
15. The Betty Grable
Named after the famous actress, the Betty Grable hairstyle was all about curls and femininity.
With its perfectly coiffed waves, it exuded elegance and charm. This style was both versatile and glamorous, suitable for both day wear and special occasions.
Achieving the Betty Grable look required precision and practice, but the results were undeniably stunning. It was a hairstyle that captured the spirit of Hollywood glamour and timeless beauty.
16. The Spit Curl
Spit curls were small, delicate curls often positioned near the forehead or temples.
They added a touch of refinement and flair to any hairstyle. Popular among young women, spit curls were a playful way to accentuate facial features and add a retro twist to modern looks.
Whether paired with a ponytail or an updo, these curls were a charming addition that brought out the cheeky, fun-loving spirit of the ’50s.
17. The Chignon
The chignon was the epitome of simplicity and elegance.
This hairstyle involved gathering the hair at the nape of the neck and pinning it into a bun, creating a sleek and polished look. Ideal for both formal events and casual outings, the chignon was versatile and sophisticated.
It could be adorned with accessories or left plain, providing a timeless style that complemented any outfit, making it a favorite for women of all ages.
18. The Short Fringe
The short fringe was a daring choice for women who wanted to make a statement.
With its blunt cut and above-the-eyebrow length, it was a style that emphasized eyes and cheekbones. This hairstyle was both edgy and chic, offering a modern twist on classic cuts.
Perfect for those who wanted to stand out, the short fringe was a bold expression of individuality and confidence, setting the stage for future fashion-forward trends.
19. The Boule
The boule hairstyle was all about rounded elegance.
With its smooth curves and spherical shape, it was reminiscent of a perfectly styled helmet. This look was sophisticated and refined, ideal for those who wanted a polished appearance.
The boule required precise cutting and styling to maintain its shape, making it a statement of elegance and control. It was a hairstyle that offered both structure and grace, making it perfect for elegant gatherings.
20. The Flip
The flip was a playful and youthful hairstyle that became a hit in the late ’50s.
Characterized by its outward curls at the ends, it offered a sense of fun and movement. This style was perfect for young women who wanted to embrace a carefree and cheerful look.
Easy to achieve with a roller set or curling iron, the flip added a touch of whimsy to everyday fashion, making it a beloved choice among teens and young adults.