10 Retro Hairstyles That Defined Each Decade

From finger waves to feathered locks, these 10 retro hairstyles shaped the look and attitude of every decade, leaving a timeless mark on beauty and fashion.

Sophia Zapanta
November 15, 2025
4 min read

10 Retro Hairstyles That Defined Each Decade — cottonbro studio on Pexels

Each decade brought its own signature hairstyle that reflected the spirit of the times. Whether influenced by Hollywood icons, cultural movements, or everyday trends, these looks became instant symbols of their eras. Here are 10 iconic hairstyles that defined each decade and continue to inspire new generations.

1. 1. 1920s – The Bob Cut

The 1920s bob represented rebellion and modernity. Women chopped their hair short to show independence and confidence, breaking away from traditional beauty norms. Stars like Louise Brooks made the sleek, chin-length cut iconic. Its clean lines and bold statement still influence short hairstyles today.

2. 2. 1930s – Finger Waves

Finger waves brought soft glamour to the Depression-era woman. Created using combs, clips, and plenty of styling cream, the look featured elegant, sculpted waves that framed the face. Hollywood actresses like Jean Harlow and Bette Davis made it famous. Even now, finger waves remain a go-to for vintage-inspired red carpet looks.

3. 3. 1940s – Victory Rolls

Victory rolls became a patriotic and fashionable statement during World War II. The voluminous curls symbolized strength and femininity while keeping hair off the face during factory work. Women like Veronica Lake and Rita Hayworth popularized the glamorous version of the style. It perfectly captured the mix of practicality and beauty of the 1940s.

4. 4. 1950s – The Poodle Cut

Named for its tight curls, the poodle cut was both playful and polished. Women like Lucille Ball and Elizabeth Taylor helped make it a household trend. It required frequent salon visits and lots of setting lotion, but the result was worth it. The look embodied the cheerful, well-groomed charm of 1950s femininity.

5. 5. 1960s – The Beehive

The beehive towered above all other hairstyles of the decade, literally. Created with teasing, hairspray, and creativity, it gave women extra height and drama. Singers like Dusty Springfield and The Ronettes made it an unforgettable symbol of mod fashion. It was bold, elegant, and unmistakably ‘60s.

6. 6. 1970s – Feathered Hair

Soft, flowing, and perfectly layered, feathered hair defined the carefree vibe of the 1970s. Made famous by Farrah Fawcett, it moved naturally and looked effortlessly cool. It suited both men and women, showing the decade’s relaxed beauty standards. Few styles captured freedom and flair quite like this one.

7. 7. 1980s – Big Hair

The 1980s were all about going big with curls, volume, and attitude. Perms, teasing, and gallons of hairspray made hair the ultimate fashion accessory. Rock stars and TV icons like Madonna and Bon Jovi turned “bigger is better” into a beauty rule. It was loud, bold, and unapologetically fun.

8. 8. 1990s – The Rachel

Inspired by Jennifer Aniston’s character on Friends, “The Rachel” haircut took the world by storm. Its choppy layers and face-framing shape became the must-have look for millions of women. The cut worked for almost every hair type, making it both trendy and practical. It remains one of the most famous hairstyles in TV history.

9. 9. 2000s – The Emo Fringe

The early 2000s introduced an edgy, emotional side to hair fashion. The emo fringe, paired with flat-ironed layers and dark dye, became the look of a generation. Bands like My Chemical Romance and Paramore helped popularize it among teens. It was self-expressive, rebellious, and uniquely tied to 2000s youth culture.

10. 10. 2010s – The Beach Waves

Loose, effortless beach waves took over as the go-to modern look of the 2010s. Celebrities like Blake Lively and Gigi Hadid made it the perfect mix of casual and chic. It was simple, natural, and easy to style with just a curling wand or salt spray. This laid-back look still defines modern beauty trends today.