The 1930s introduced a blend of elegance and innovation in hairstyles, captivating fashion enthusiasts then and now. We explore the timeless looks that defined the decade, from sleek finger waves to sophisticated updos. Each style reflects the era’s charm and the creative spirit of its time.
As we journey through these iconic hairstyles, we’ll uncover the techniques and inspirations behind them. Whether you’re seeking to recreate a classic look or simply appreciate the artistry, our guide offers insights and tips to bring 1930s glamour to your modern style. Embrace the vintage allure and let these historic styles inspire your next hair transformation.
Popular 1930s Hairstyles
The Finger Wave
Finger waves dominated the 1930s, exuding elegance and sophistication. We loved how this style added depth and texture to any look. By carefully shaping the hair with fingers and setting it with a curling iron, we achieved those signature S-shaped waves. Celebrities like Jean Harlow and Greta Garbo made finger waves synonymous with Hollywood glamour. Today, recreating finger waves can bring a touch of vintage charm to modern styles.
The Marcel Wave
The Marcel wave offered a fuller, more voluminous alternative to finger waves. We appreciated its structured yet natural appearance, perfect for both short and long hair. Originating from the innovative techniques of hairstylist Marcel Granger, this style involved creating deep, cascading waves that framed the face beautifully. Icons like Joan Crawford showcased the versatility of Marcel waves, making them a timeless choice. Incorporating Marcel waves into contemporary looks can effortlessly blend classic flair with current trends.
Iconic Celebrity Hairstyles
Greta Garbo’s Signature Look
Greta Garbo stood out as a true style icon in the 1930s. She showcased shoulder-length soft waves that gracefully framed her face. Many women eagerly emulated her elegant and timeless hairstyle, striving to capture her sophisticated beauty. Using the Nessler permanent wave machine, Garbo’s waves became a benchmark for chic and refined looks of the decade.
Shirley Temple’s Classic Curls
Shirley Temple brought youthful charm to 1930s hairstyles with her classic curls. Her hair was styled in tight, bouncy ringlets that highlighted her playful personality. Temple’s curls were easy to maintain and became a favorite among young girls looking to mirror her adorable and spirited appearance. This iconic look not only defined her on-screen persona but also influenced children’s fashion across the nation.
Styling Techniques and Tools
Use of Curling Irons
- Create defined waves and curls with curling irons, essential for achieving the polished Marcel wave look popularized by Joan Crawford.
- Style hair into controlled, set waves that add volume and sophistication, making them a staple of 1930s glamour.
- Achieve the signature “S” shaped finger waves by first using a curling iron to lay the foundation for intricate wave patterns.
Hair Pins and Accessories
- Secure elaborate updos and buns with bobby pins, ensuring styles like the chignon remain flawless throughout the day.
- Add decorative hair clips and combs to enhance braided buns, providing both function and a touch of elegance.
- Enhance hairstyles by using ornamental pins and barrettes, reflecting the era’s attention to detail and stylish flair.
Influence of Fashion Trends
Fashion trends in the 1930s were shaped by various cultural and artistic movements. Two important influences were Art Deco and Hollywood’s flourishing celebrity culture.
Art Deco Inspirations
Art Deco’s geometric shapes and elegant lines deeply influenced 1930s hairstyles. We saw structured styles that mirrored the symmetry and sophistication of the era’s architecture and design. Women embraced sleek, polished looks with defined parts and smooth finishes, reflecting the streamlined aesthetics of Art Deco. This artistic movement encouraged the use of bold, clean lines in hairstyles, making them appear more refined and modern.
Hollywood’s Impact on Hairstyles
Hollywood played a crucial role in shaping 1930s hairstyles through its glamorous stars. Actresses like Jean Harlow, Gloria Swanson, and Veronica Lake became style icons whose looks were widely emulated. Jean Harlow’s platinum blonde hair, achieved through bleaching, set a trend that many women eagerly adopted. Veronica Lake’s signature side-swept bangs inspired countless women to recreate her effortlessly chic style. These celebrities not only defined beauty standards but also made sophisticated hairstyles accessible and desirable to the public.
Men’s Hairstyles of the 1930s
During the 1930s, men’s hairstyles became more refined, emphasizing neatness and sophistication.
Slicked-Back Styles
We saw a shift from the long slicked-back looks of the 1920s to more angled slick-back styles. This modern approach featured longer sides paired with a side or center part, creating a balanced and polished appearance. By using less oil, men achieved a natural lift instead of a flat, plastered look. Icons like Clark Gable exemplified this style, blending elegance with practicality for everyday wear.
The Classic Side Part
The classic side part dominated men’s hairstyles in the 1930s, offering a timeless and versatile option. This style incorporated a clean taper fade from the ear to the nape, ensuring a sharp and tidy finish. The top was kept longer, allowing men to tailor the hairstyle to their face shape. Fuller sides and a softer crown provided a harmonious and flattering look, suitable for both formal settings and casual outings.
Conclusion
Embracing 1930s hairstyles lets us add timeless elegance to our modern looks. These classic styles bring a perfect blend of sophistication and charm that never goes out of fashion. By incorporating elements like finger waves or sleek updos we achieve a polished and stylish appearance. Whether dressing up for a special occasion or improving our daily style these vintage inspirations offer endless possibilities. Let’s celebrate the glamour of the past and make it a part of our contemporary beauty routines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some iconic 1930s hairstyles for women?
The 1930s featured elegant styles like finger waves, sophisticated updos, and Marcel waves. Celebrities such as Jean Harlow and Greta Garbo popularized these looks, characterized by S-shaped waves and voluminous framing around the face. Shirley Temple’s tight, bouncy ringlets also became a symbol of youthful charm. These styles emphasized glamour and sophistication, reflecting the era’s fashion trends and Hollywood influence.
How can I create finger waves like in the 1930s?
To achieve finger waves, start with damp hair. Apply a styling gel for better hold. Using your fingers, shape S-shaped waves by pressing the hair against a comb. Secure each wave with bobby pins while it dries or use a curling iron to set the shape. Finish with hairspray to maintain the waves throughout the day. Practicing the S-curve technique is key to replicating the classic 1930s finger wave look.
Which tools are essential for 1930s hairstyles?
Essential tools include a curling iron for creating defined waves and curls, wide-tooth combs for shaping finger waves, and bobby pins to secure updos. Additionally, hair clips and decorative combs enhance the styles, adding flair and holding intricate arrangements in place. Using quality styling products like gels and hairsprays helps maintain the structure and longevity of these classic looks.
How did men’s hairstyles change in the 1930s?
Men’s hairstyles in the 1930s became more refined and sophisticated. The transition moved from the long slicked-back styles of the 1920s to angled slick-backs with longer sides and side or center parts. Icons like Clark Gable exemplified the classic side part, often featuring a clean taper fade. These styles emphasized neatness and versatility, suitable for both formal and casual settings.
How can I incorporate 1930s hairstyles into modern looks?
Incorporate 1930s hairstyles by blending vintage elements with contemporary trends. For example, add finger waves to loose, flowing hair or use modern hair accessories to enhance classic updos. Modern tools and products can help achieve the defined waves and volume characteristic of the era while adapting the styles to suit today’s preferences. This fusion creates a unique look that honors vintage glamour with a fresh twist.
What role did Art Deco play in 1930s hairstyles?
Art Deco influenced 1930s hairstyles by inspiring geometric shapes and elegant lines. This architectural style promoted sleek, structured hairstyles that mirrored its aesthetic, emphasizing symmetry and polish. The influence of Art Deco led to more defined and sophisticated hair designs, reflecting the era’s emphasis on modernity and elegance in both fashion and personal style.
Which celebrities were style icons for 1930s hairstyles?
Celebrities like Jean Harlow, Greta Garbo, Joan Crawford, and Shirley Temple were major style icons for 1930s hairstyles. Their signature looks, such as Garbo’s soft waves and Crawford’s Marcel waves, set trends that many women and children adopted. These stars’ glamorous and distinctive hairstyles played a significant role in shaping the fashion and beauty standards of the decade.
What are the key techniques for achieving a Marcel wave?
To create a Marcel wave, start with clean, slightly damp hair. Use a wide-tooth comb to section the hair into horizontal layers. Apply a heavy styling gel for hold. Using a comb and a curling iron, create deep S-shaped waves by bending the hair around the comb and heating with the iron. Secure each wave with bobby pins as it cools. This technique results in voluminous, structured waves typical of the 1930s Marcel style.
Are 1930s hairstyles suitable for all hair types?
Yes, 1930s hairstyles can be adapted to suit various hair types. Finger waves and Marcel waves work well with straight to wavy hair, while tight curls like Shirley Temple’s ringlets can complement different textures. Using the right styling tools and products can help achieve the desired look regardless of hair type. Customizing the techniques ensures that vintage styles can be flattering and manageable for modern individuals.
What inspired the elegant updos of the 1930s?
1930s updos were inspired by the era’s emphasis on elegance and sophistication, drawing from Art Deco’s structured aesthetics and Hollywood’s glamorous image. Influences included geometric shapes and sleek lines, resulting in styles that were both stylish and refined. Decorative accessories like hair clips and combs added detail and flair, making these updos perfect for formal events and everyday elegance.
