Vintage updos borrow their shapes from specific decades, and knowing which era you are aiming for makes them easier to recreate. This collection spans flapper-style faux bobs and finger waves from the twenties, pin-up swirls, victory rolls and scarf back rolls from the forties, a flirty fifties updo and a sixties-style beehive. There are also softer options, such as a braided updo finished with a flower, crisscrossed braids topped with a bow, rosettes and twisted updos for natural hair.
Most of these styles depend on a good set. Rolls, swirls and waves hold far better on hair that has been curled first, whether with hot rollers, a curling iron or pin curls overnight. Fine hair benefits from texturising spray and light backcombing for grip; thick or long hair may need more pins but delivers bigger, fuller rolls.
Many of the looks here suit themed parties, vintage weddings and costume events, but the simpler ones, like the reverse tuck, the effortless roll and the scarf back roll, are practical enough for everyday wear.
1. Reverse Tuck
Fairy-tale romance meets everyday practicality in this reverse tuck updo. The hair is rolled inward at the nape for a soft, polished shape that looks ready for a ball, yet takes only minutes and a few pins to create at home.
2. Elegant Vintage Beehive Updo
Sixties volume is the signature of this beehive updo, which brings to mind retro office glamour. The height comes from a padded base under the crown, so you can recreate the big shape at home without endless backcombing.
3. Elegant Braided Vintage Updo
For a softer vintage style, split the hair into three sections. French braid each side along the hairline, then braid both together with the middle section and tuck the result into a small bun. A flower adds a pretty finishing touch.
4. Swirl and Twirl
Victory rolls and swirls make this updo stand out at prom or any big night. It looks polished and individual, but it needs plenty of hairspray to hold its shape during hours of dancing. Pin rolls from underneath.
5. Simple Faux Bob Vintage Updo
Daisy Buchanan from The Great Gatsby inspired this faux bob, ideal for a twenties-themed party or costume. The long hair is tucked under to mimic a short bob, and a decorative headband completes the flapper look.
6. My Fair Lady Inspired Vintage Updo
Soft curls pinned into an elegant updo take their cue from Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady. It is a feminine, romantic style that lifts your look whenever you want to feel especially polished. Set the curls with rollers first.
7. Pin-Up Swirl Updo
Only the front centre section is needed for this pin-up swirl. Curl the ends lightly, add hairspray and backcomb for volume, then shape the hair into a swirl and pin it securely in place. Finish with a light hairspray.
8. Vintage Updo For Natural Hair
Natural hair takes a break from heat styling in this elegant vintage updo. Pulled back neatly, the hair shows off the face and earrings, so pick a statement pair to wear with it. Moisturise the hair before styling.
9. Gatsby-Inspired Updo
Another Gatsby-inspired option, this soft updo uses a headband and gently curled hair to create a relaxed flapper feel. It works brilliantly with a twenties costume or an art deco themed event. Set the curls with a curling iron first.
10. Back Roll Vintage Updo
A pretty scarf is the secret to this back roll. Tie it around the head from the nape to just above the hairline, pin it, then tuck the hair into the scarf all the way around for a smooth, picture-perfect roll.
11. Rolled Updo With A Flower
Pinning flowers into elaborate updos was a common finishing touch in earlier decades. This rolled updo revives the idea, with a single bloom adding colour and a flourish to the retro shape. Choose a silk flower for lasting wear.
12. Twisted Vintage Updo On Natural Hair
Twisted sections form a cute vintage updo on natural hair. It suits outings as well as relaxed evenings at home and keeps hair off the face and neck, which is a bonus in summer heat.
13. Rockabilly Roll Hairstyle
A front roll gives a simple high ponytail rockabilly personality. Spray and backcomb the front pieces for volume, then shape the roll, taking care not to flatten it as you smooth the surface. Finish with firm-hold hairspray.
14. ‘20s Inspired Vintage Updo With Finger Waves
Finger waves like those in classic black-and-white films depend on a proper set. Dampen the front pieces, clip them into wave shapes and spritz with hairspray, then pin the rest into a simple updo. Let the waves dry fully before removing clips.
15. Flirty ‘50s Updo
A flirty fifties updo is a lovely choice for bridesmaids at a vintage-themed wedding. Pair it with a retro dress, ideally one with a fuller skirt that falls above the knee, for a coordinated look.
16. Fancy Rosettes Vintage Updo
Rosettes pinned at the back make this updo feel special for a big night, whether a date, an exhibition or a recital. A swipe of cherry red lipstick completes the vintage glamour. Pin each rosette from underneath.
17. Vintage Roll Hairstyle
Voluminous rolls and twists were everywhere in past decades, but not every morning allows time for elaborate styling. This simpler roll gives a retro feel on blonde hair without taking long. Use a few U-pins to secure it.
18. Crisscross Vintage Updo
Two braids and a loose jumble of pinned curls create the illusion of a complicated crisscross updo. Top it with a bow for a finished, styled appearance. Leave a few curls loose around the face to soften the look and pin the rest firmly.
Tools that make retro styling easier
- Hot rollers or a 1-inch curling iron to set curls that later become rolls and swirls.
- Bobby pins and U-pins in your hair colour; U-pins hold rolls without flattening them.
- Teasing comb for backcombing the base of victory rolls and beehives.
- Duckbill clips to set finger waves while they dry.
- Firm-hold hairspray, applied before shaping and again to finish.
Keeping a vintage set crisp all evening
Let curls cool completely before brushing them out or rolling them; warm hair loses its shape quickly. Pin rolls from underneath, crossing two pins in an X for extra hold. If you are dancing or spending hours outside, tuck a few spare pins and a travel hairspray into your bag. A silk scarf tied over the style on the way to your event protects it from wind and humidity.