The 1930s saw a shift in women’s hairstyles from short, conventional cuts to longer, more daring designs. At the start of the decade, short hair was still popular, influenced by flapper fashions from the previous decade. Yet, as the decade continued, women began to prefer longer haircuts with waves, which gave them a softer and more feminine appearance. These hairstyles frequently included side or middle parts, a departure from the 1920s’ sleek bobs and tight ringlets.
Accessories, in addition to hairstyles, played an important role in women’s fashion throughout the 1930s. Hats, purses, belts, and scarves were employed to attain a smart and trendy look without spending a fortune. These accessories completed the outfit by complementing the overall style and adding a touch of refinement. While the 1930s were a period of economic hardship, the fashion trends and haircuts of the time continue to influence modern fashion. Fluffy bobs and tongued oxfords, for example, are still fashion classics today.
1. Victory Roll
The Victory Roll hairstyle is a classic and iconic hairdo that originated in the 1930s. It gained popularity during World War II when women sought practical yet stylish ways to wear their hair. The Victory Roll is characterized by voluminous rolls of hair that are typically positioned on the crown of the head or the sides, creating an elegant and retro look.
The Victory Roll hairstyle is a timeless and elegant look that adds vintage charm to any occasion. It’s perfect for parties, weddings, or themed events and can be customized with accessories like decorative pins, flowers, or headbands. With practice, you can master the art of creating flawless Victory Rolls and enjoy the retro glamor they bring to your overall look.
To achieve the glamorous and vintage Victory Roll hairstyle, you can take inspiration from the 1920s hairstyles. These classic hairstyles were characterized by their elegant curls, waves, and intricate updos, making them perfect for creating the iconic Victory Roll look. With the help of some styling products and tools, you can recreate this timeless hairstyle for a special occasion or a retro-inspired look.
2. Pixie Cut
Short hair is clipped close to the head in the popular and daring pixie cut. It has a bold appearance that needs courage and some upkeep to stay at its best. The layers on top are longer and may be fashioned in a variety of ways, with the sides and back often being shorter. A pixie cut is a versatile option for every event since it can be dressed up or down. This style may work for people with thick or wavy hair, but it is best for those with fine, straight hair. In general, the pixie cut is a chic and daring option for anyone wishing to draw attention to their hair.
3. The Grown Out Bob
If you’re looking for a versatile and chic hairstyle that offers a balance between short and long hair the grown out bob is the perfect choice. This style captures the essence of a classic bob while allowing for a slightly longer length creating a stylish and effortless look. The grown out bob combines the elegance of a traditional bob with a touch of laid-back charm. It’s a hairstyle that embraces the beauty of a shorter length while allowing your hair to grow out naturally. With its timeless appeal the grown out bob is suitable for various occasions, from casual outings to more formal events.
To give your medium-length hair a fresh and modern look, consider trying the medium shag haircuts. With their layered texture and effortless appeal, these hairstyles can add movement and dimension to your grown-out bob. Whether you prefer a tousled or sleek finish, these versatile cuts are sure to enhance your overall style.
4. Finger Waves
Finger waves are a classic hairstyle that emerged in the 1920s and remained popular throughout the 1930s. This elegant and sophisticated style involves shaping the hair into sculpted waves that flow in an “S” or “C” pattern. Finger waves were traditionally worn by women, but they can also be adapted for men’s hairstyles today.
Finger waves can be worn as a full head style or combined with other hairstyles, such as updos or half-up half-down styles, for added versatility. While finger waves were traditionally created with shorter hair lengths, they can also be adapted for longer hair by starting the waves from the mid-lengths and working down to the ends.
5. Curly Bob
If you have curly hair and are looking for a stylish and low-maintenance hairstyle the curly bob is a fantastic choice. It combines the elegance of a bob with the natural texture and bounce of curly hair creating a trendy and playful look. The curly bob is a versatile and chic hairstyle that celebrates the natural beauty of curly hair. It is characterized by a shoulder-length or slightly shorter cut that frames the face and accentuates the curls. With its effortless charm the curly bob is suitable for various occasions, from casual outings to more formal events.
For those with curly hair, a curly bob is a stunning option. This shoulder-length to chin-length hairstyle adds volume and bounce to your curls, while still maintaining a chic and fashionable look. Embrace your natural texture with this versatile and trendy style.
6. Wavy Medium Hair
The 1930s’ wavy medium hair was distinguished by its glam and classy appearance. Ladies frequently use deep waves or finger waves to style their hair, giving it a voluminous and beautiful appearance. Hollywood luminaries from the era, including Greta Garbo and Jean Harlow, helped make this hairstyle famous by showcasing its ageless allure in motion pictures.
In the 1930s, wavy medium hair was a popular and elegant hairstyle known for its glamorous and classy look. Women often style their hair with deep waves or finger waves, creating a voluminous and stunning appearance. This hairstyle gained even more popularity thanks to Hollywood icons like Greta Garbo and Jean Harlow, who showcased its timeless charm in movies.
7. Ivy League
An Ivy League crew cut, also known as a Harvard Clip or a Princeton clip, is a type of crew cut in which the hair on the top front of the head is long enough to style with a side part while the hair on the crown of the head is cut short. The length of the top hair and the degree of graduation from the front hairline back vary depending on the shape of the skull, the density and coarseness of the hair, and the individual’s styling preferences: side-parted crew cut, standard crew cut, brushed forward.
To achieve a polished and sophisticated look like the Ivy League hairstyle, you’ll need to maintain a shorter cut with neatly styled hair. Consider trying out one of the older men’s hairstyles featured on Hood MWR. These hairstyles offer a refined and timeless appeal, perfect for showcasing your maturity and elegance.
8. Sleek Curl
The Classic Sleek Curl is a popular hairstyle that features smooth, polished curls. It is a timeless look that adds elegance and sophistication to any outfit. The Classic Sleek Curl starts with preparing the hair with heat protectant spray to prevent damage from hot styling tools. Next, small sections of hair are wrapped around a curling iron or wand, starting from the roots and working towards the ends. The curls are held in place for a few seconds before being released, creating a tight and defined curl. Once all the hair is curled, a light hairspray is used to set the style and add shine. The result is a beautiful cascade of smooth, bouncy curls that exude glamor and sophistication.
9. Curly Men’s Hairstyle
In the 1930s, men’s hairstyles underwent a transition from the longer, more relaxed styles of the previous decade to a more polished and refined aesthetic. This era was marked by sleek and sophisticated looks that exuded elegance and class. Curly hair for men, in particular, was styled in a way that embraced its natural texture while still maintaining a sharp and well-groomed appearance. During this time, grooming and personal style were highly valued, and men put significant effort into achieving a well-coiffed look.
If you have naturally curly hair, you can embrace your curls with a stylish and modern look. Consider trying out some of the short curly hairstyles for men that are perfect for showcasing your curls. From textured crops to curly quiffs, these hairstyles will enhance your natural texture and give you a trendy and confident look.
10. Teddy Boy Hairstyle
Teddy Boy is a height-, volume-, and natural-textured haircut. In the early styles, hair was left to grow roughly two inches long and was fashioned to reflect the natural curves of the head without any form of over-the-top treatment. Teddy Boys began to include more dramatic aspects, such as longer sideburns and slicked-back hair, as the trend matured. The Teddy Boy hairstyle is still a popular choice for individuals who want to add a nostalgic touch to their look nowadays. Men were able to grow their hair up to three inches long, which they combed up to form names with plenty of volumes as the trend advanced.
11. Waves Pulled Low
The Waves Pulled Low hairstyle was another popular choice during the 1930s. It featured soft, finger waves that were pulled down and positioned low on the head. This style was often complemented by a center or slightly off-center part, allowing the waves to frame the face beautifully. The waves were carefully sculpted and set in place using pins or clips to maintain their shape. This hairstyle was a sophisticated and feminine option that added an air of elegance to any look.
Overall, the Waves Pulled Low hairstyle was a highly favored and fashionable choice in the 1930s. Its soft finger waves, positioned low on the head, were complemented by a center or slightly off-center part, creating a beautiful frame for the face. The carefully sculpted waves were secured with pins or clips to maintain their shape, adding to the sophistication and femininity of the style. Ultimately, this hairstyle brought an air of elegance to any look during this time period.
12. Sleek Bob
The sleek bob is a classic and stylish haircut that has a straight, smooth cut that is chin-length or just a little shorter. For individuals seeking a sophisticated and classy appearance, this design has been enduringly popular. Using a straightening iron or a round brush to blow-dry the hair straight can give you a sleek bob. Depending on the occasion, this style may be dressed up or down and can be worn with either a center or side part. For people with hectic schedules or who want a basic yet beautiful appearance, the sleek bob is a terrific alternative because it requires little upkeep and is simple to style.
To achieve a sleek and sophisticated look, opt for a sleek bob hairstyle. This timeless style works well for older women with thin hair. You can check out some classy bob hairstyles for older women with thin hair for inspiration. (Link: Classy Bob Hairstyles For Older Women With Thin Hair). These hairstyles offer a chic and elegant option for those looking to enhance their thin hair with a stylish bob cut.
13. Crown Braid
The hair is braided in a lovely and complex design around the crown of the head to create a lovely and feminine crown braid. This hairstyle is perfect for any occasion, whether it be a casual day out or a formal event. It can also be accessorized with flowers or jewels to add some extra flair. To achieve this style, it is recommended to start with clean and dry hair. Begin by parting the hair down the middle and then braiding each side. Once both braids are complete, wrap them around the crown of the head and secure them with bobby pins.
This design is ideal for important events like weddings or proms since it is stunning and elegant and will undoubtedly attract attention. All things considered, the crown braid is a classy, romantic hairstyle that is certain to leave a lasting impression.
14. Middle Part Permed Hairstyle
The middle part permed hairstyle is a popular choice that combines the timeless appeal of a middle part with the added texture and volume created by a perm and this style offers a versatile and trendy look, suitable for various hair lengths and types. The middle part permed hairstyle is characterized by a distinct center parting and a head full of bouncy curls or waves. The perm treatment involves chemically altering the hair structure to create long-lasting curls or waves. This process adds body, texture and volume to the hair making it easier to style and enhancing its natural movement.
For a trendy and timeless look, try rocking a middle part permed hairstyle. Adding some waves or curls to your hair can instantly elevate your style. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out these iconic men’s hairstyles from the 80s. These retro looks are still rocking today and can give you some ideas for your own middle part permed hairstyle.
15. Tight Barrel Curls
Tight barrel curls were another fashionable choice during the 1930s. Women would create small, uniform curls all over their head, giving the appearance of a sculpted and structured hairstyle. This look required precision and attention to detail, as each curl needed to be meticulously crafted. Women often used curling irons or even rolled their hair around small strips of fabric to achieve this style.
Overall, tight barrel curls were a popular and fashionable choice for women during the 1930s. This hairstyle required careful precision and attention to detail, as each curl needed to be meticulously crafted. Women often used curling irons or fabric strips to achieve this sculpted and structured look.
16. Hard Side Part
The Hard Side Part is a classic 1930s cut that would have been worn by cinema stars and celebrities at the time, but it is still as popular and stylish today as it was then. Yet, there are other ways to rock the cut and put your own touch on the iconic 1930s style. The simplest element is a dividing line between two parts of hair, but the tough portion considerably intensifies the impact with an actual line shaved into the hair for dramatic effect. Regular trims are required to keep the shaved line crisp and distinct on the Hard side. To hold the hair in place and add shine, apply styling tools such as pomade or wax.
For a polished and classic look, consider the hard side part hairstyle. This timeless style pairs well with a variety of face shapes and can be achieved with any hair length. To enhance the clean and sharp appearance of this hairstyle, you can try a low taper undercut like the ones featured in this article. The combination of a hard side part with a low taper undercut creates a stylish and sophisticated look.
17. Short Back And Sides
The short back and sides hairstyle, also known simply as a regular cut, requires no introduction. However, for those of you who have recently horse-and-carted it out of your old life in an Amish community, it is and has been the classic male haircut for over a century. When a barber asks what you want, if your most descriptive response is “a haircut, please,” 99.9% of the time they will give you a variation on the theme of a short back and sides.
The Short Back and Sides hairstyle, also known as a short fade or undercut, is a classic men’s haircut that features shorter hair on the sides and back of the head while leaving more length on top. This style creates a clean and polished appearance while allowing versatility in styling.
18. Simple, Classic Hairstyle
In the 1930s, men’s hairstyles for simple and classic exude a sense of sophistication and timeless charm. One classic look that was particularly popular during that era was the slicked-back undercut. This hairstyle embodied a polished and refined appearance that has stood the test of time. Achieving this simple yet classic hairstyle is relatively straightforward. It involves keeping the sides and back of the hair short, while allowing the top to grow longer.
19. Greaser Hairstyle
The Greaser hairstyle emerged in the 1930s and became increasingly popular among working class and subculture groups in the United States. It was closely associated with the youth subculture known as the greasers who were often rebellious and had a distinct sense of style.
The greaser hairstyle was characterized by its slicked back high shine appearance. To achieve this look men would use generous amounts of hair oil or pomade which gave their hair a shiny and greasy texture. The hair was combed back and away from the face creating a sleek and polished look.
20. Jimmy Stewart Haircut
The Jimmy Stewart haircut refers to the signature hairstyle worn by the legendary American actor James Stewart. Jimmy Stewart was known for his timeless and classic style both on and off the screen and his haircut became an iconic part of his overall image.
The Jimmy Stewart haircut is a traditional and versatile men’s hairstyle that features short sides and back with slightly longer hair on top. It is a tapered cut, with the hair gradually getting shorter as it reaches the sides and back. The length on top is typically left long enough to allow for some styling versatility.
To achieve the classic Jimmy Stewart haircut, opt for a refined and polished look that exudes sophistication. Consider trying men’s hairstyles from the 70s for inspiration, as they often featured clean lines and a medium length. This style pairs well with both formal and casual attire, making it suitable for various occasions.
21. Vintage Bob
Vintage Bob is loved for its simplicity and elegance; it is suitable for many faces and shows sophistication and elegance. The vintage style has been a timeless trend that never goes out of fashion. It is perfect for those who want to achieve a classic and refined look. Vintage Bob hair care likely refers to a hair care routine or products that are designed to maintain or style a classic or vintage bob hairstyle. A bob hairstyle is a classic haircut that features hair that is typically cut straight around the head at jaw level, and it has been popular for many decades.
22. Slicked Back
A classic haircut that has endured over the years is the slicked-back look. To get a sleek, finished appearance, the hair is combed back and smoothed down using styling products. Women are becoming increasingly attracted to this look, which is predominantly worn by men. It is appropriate for both informal and formal settings and may be worn with either a clean-shaven or bearded appearance. For people who like a simple yet attractive appearance, a slicked-back hairstyle is a terrific option because it is simple to develop and maintain. Additionally, it looks good on hair of many lengths and varieties, including short hair.
For a polished and sophisticated look, try the slicked-back hairstyle. This timeless style works well for both men and women. To achieve the sleek and smooth appearance, you can use a strong-hold gel or pomade and comb your hair back away from your face. Check out these slicked-back hairstyles for inspiration on how to rock this classic look.
23. Bouffant Hair
Bouffant Hair became a popular hair trend in the 1930s in Europe and America because it was bold and dramatic. It was also seen as a symbol of femininity and glamour during that time. The style involved teasing and backcombing the hair to create a voluminous look that was often accessorized with ribbons or bows. Bouffant Hair creates a very distinctive and eye-catching look, helping the wearer to stand out and feel more confident. Expressing elegance and class is a complicated hairstyle that requires a lot of time and effort to style, so it is often used on special occasions to show elegance and class.
24. Classic Middle Part
The classic middle part of 1930s hairstyles was a defining feature of the era’s glamorous and sophisticated look. It was characterized by a perfectly straight and sleek parting down the center of the head, with hair neatly styled on either side. This iconic hairstyle exuded elegance and was often paired with finger waves or soft curls to add even more charm and allure to the overall look.
Overall, the classic middle part of 1930s hairstyles was a key element in creating a glamorous and sophisticated appearance. With a perfectly straight and sleek parting down the center of the head, this hairstyle exudes elegance. It was commonly paired with finger waves or soft curls to enhance its charm and allure.
To achieve the timeless and elegant Classic Middle Part hairstyle, consider exploring middle part hairstyles for women. These hairstyles offer a stylish and iconic look that can be worn with confidence. Whether you have long or short hair, there are various options to choose from to suit your personal style and face shape. Experiment with different textures and lengths to find the perfect middle part that enhances your features.
25. Comb Over Part
The Classic Combover Part is a popular hairstyle choice for men who want a polished and sophisticated look. It involves combing the hair on one side of the head over to the other side, creating a sleek and structured appearance. This style works well with both short and long hair, allowing for versatility in styling options.
The Classic Combover Part can be achieved by using a comb and some styling products, such as pomade or gel, to keep the hair in place. To create the look, start by parting the hair on one side of the head, using the comb to create a clean and defined line. Then, comb the hair on the longer side over to the opposite side, smoothing it down and tucking it behind the ear if desired. This hairstyle can be worn for both formal and casual occasions, making it a versatile choice for any man looking to elevate his style.
26. Buzz Cut
Unsurprisingly, the buzz cut is still among the most preferred short haircuts for males. It has a bold and daring appearance while still being useful and low-maintenance. You can display your facial characteristics like never before because it is so short. It can also be done in numerous ways and is effective for all hair textures. The buzz cut is a popular and low-maintenance hairstyle for men. It involves cutting the hair very short or shaving it close to the scalp. It is a versatile haircut that can be styled in various ways, such as adding a fade or leaving some length on top. Additionally, it is perfect for men who lead an active lifestyle or have a busy schedule since it requires minimal styling and upkeep.
For those looking for a low-maintenance, edgy hairstyle, the buzz cut is a great option. With its close-cropped length, this style is easy to maintain and requires minimal styling. If you’re interested in exploring different variations of the buzz cut, check out our article on Asian buzz cuts, where you’ll find inspiration and ideas to rock this trendy look with confidence.
27. Low Curls and Bangs
In the 1930s, hairstyles with low curls and bangs were a popular choice for women, exuding a glamorous and feminine charm. This era was characterized by a transition from the bobbed and cropped styles of the 1920s to longer and more voluminous hair. The low curls and bangs combination created a soft and romantic look that complemented the fashion trends of the time.
Women with naturally curly hair had an advantage in achieving this style, as their curls could be styled into graceful waves and cascading curls. However, even those with straight hair could create the illusion of curls using various techniques and styling tools.
28. Medium Thick Bob
The medium thick bob offers a balance between a shorter, more classic bob and a longer, more relaxed lob. It is characterized by a shoulder-length cut with a clean and blunt edge, creating a chic and sophisticated look. The thickness of the hair adds volume and texture to the bob giving it a fuller appearance. It is an excellent choice for individuals with medium length hair and a manageable hairstyle. Whether you’re seeking a professional look or a more casual style the medium thick bob is a go to choice for those who desire a fashionable and easy-to-maintain haircut.
For those with medium-length and thick hair, the medium thick bob is the perfect choice. This versatile hairstyle offers a sleek and polished look while still maintaining volume and texture. Check out these fabulous medium-length hairstyles for thick hair to find the inspiration you need to rock this stylish bob. Whether you prefer a classic bob or want to experiment with bangs, there’s a style for everyone.
29. Side-swept Bangs
Side-swept bangs are a fashionable haircut that involves cutting hair diagonally across the forehead and angling it to one side. This style is adaptable and may be tailored to various facial shapes and hair types. Side-swept bangs can be worn long or short, blended in, or chopped sharply. This style may lend a bit of glitter to any haircut and is ideal for individuals who desire a low-maintenance yet fashionable and elegant look. Overall, side-swept bangs are a timeless haircut that can quickly modernize any appearance while also nicely framing the face.
30. Side Chignon
A side chignon is a stylish and elegant hairstyle that involves gathering the hair to one side of the head and creating a low bun or twist. It’s a versatile look that can be worn for both casual and formal occasions, depending on how it’s styled. You can incorporate braids, twists, or different bun shapes to create a unique and personalized style. Practice and patience will help you achieve the desired result, and don’t be afraid to adapt the technique to suit your hair type and length.
For a sophisticated and elegant look, try a beautiful side chignon hairstyle. This timeless updo is perfect for special occasions like weddings or formal events. To achieve this style, mother of the bride hairstyles can provide inspiration and guidance. The side chignon adds a touch of class and glamour to any outfit and is suitable for women of all ages.
31. Marcel Waved Hair
Marcel waved hair is a classic and elegant hairstyle that originated in the late 19th century and gained immense popularity in the early 20th century. It is named after Francois Marcel, a renowned French hairdresser who revolutionized hairstyling by inventing the curling iron. Marcel waves are characterized by deep, sculpted waves that create a sophisticated and timeless look. This hairstyle was widely embraced by women during the Roaring Twenties, as it perfectly complemented the glamorous and luxurious fashion trends of the era.
32. The Pageboy
Step back in time to the glamorous 1930s, an era known for its elegant and refined fashion. Among the classic hairstyles that graced the heads of both men and women during this period was the iconic Pageboy. This sophisticated and polished look featured a sleek and defined style that added an air of grace and poise to any individual. The Pageboy was characterized by its distinct shape, with the hair gently curled under towards the face, framing the forehead in a rounded fashion.
For a classic and sophisticated look, you can try the pageboy hairstyle. This timeless haircut features a straight, shoulder-length bob with blunt ends. It was popularized in the 1950s and has remained a fashionable choice ever since. To achieve this style, visit a hairstylist who specializes in short 50s hairstyles. They will ensure that your pageboy haircut is precise and perfectly suited to your face shape.
33. Side Part Waves With A Roll
The 1930s were characterized by elegant and glamorous hairstyles that reflected the fashion and societal changes of the time. One popular hairstyle during this period was the Side Part Waves with a Roll. This hairstyle featured soft, voluminous waves cascading down from a deep side part. To achieve this look, women would often use hot rollers or pin curls to create waves and then brush them out for a smooth and polished appearance. The hair would be styled to one side, accentuating the deep side part, and a small roll or twist would be added near the forehead to create a classic and feminine touch.
Overall, the Side Part Waves with a Roll was a popular and stylish hairstyle during the mentioned time period. Women would create soft and voluminous waves using hot rollers or pin curls, and then brush them out for a polished look. The hair would be styled to one side, emphasizing the deep side part, and a small roll or twist near the forehead would add a classic and feminine touch to the overall appearance.
34. Classic Chignon
The traditional chignon is a classy and timeless hairstyle that is ideal for formal occasions or even everyday use. To get this look, the hair at the nape of the neck is gathered, twisted into a low bun or knot, and then fastened with pins or clips. A variety of embellishments, such as flowers or jeweled pins, can be added to the chignon to make it more appealing to varied facial shapes and hair types. The timeless classic chignon is a chic style that is appropriate for every event because of its adaptability and sophistication.
35. French Twist
A timeless and elegant hairdo that is ideal for formal occasions is the French twist. To get this look, collect the hair at the nape of the neck and twist it upward into a neat, vertical roll. Secure the roll with bobby pins and tuck in any loose ends. For added sophistication, accessorize with a jeweled hairpin or a delicate headband. It is also a great hairstyle for those with long hair who want to keep their hair off their face and neck during the hot summer months.
Additionally, the French twist can be made more casual by loosening the roll and allowing some strands to fall out for a more relaxed look. Any formal event, including weddings and black-tie affairs, is ideal for the classic and refined French twist.