Pinup Hairstyles

May 28, 2024 article Comments (0)

Hey there, gorgeous! I want to let you in on a little secret… Pinup hairstyles are making a major comeback, and I am HERE for it. These vintage-inspired ‘dos are all about embracing your inner bombshell and channeling the likes of Marilyn Monroe, Rita Hayworth, and Bettie Page. And the best part? You don’t need a time machine to rock these iconic looks.

I’ve been obsessing over pinup hairstyles lately, and I’ve got to say, they’ve totally transformed my style game. There’s just something about those voluminous curls, victory rolls, and perfectly coiffed bangs that screams confidence and glamour. Plus, with a few modern twists, these retro styles can easily fit into your everyday look.

So, are you ready to unleash your inner pinup girl? Let’s dive into 10 must-try pinup hairstyles that will have you feeling like a total knockout. Trust me, you won’t be able to resist the urge to snap a selfie (or twenty).

10 Iconic Pinup Hairstyles to Try

Pinup hairstyles are timeless. They’re the epitome of vintage glamour, with polished curls, sleek waves, and mind-blowing victory rolls that scream bombshell. The best part? There’s a pinup look for every hair length, texture, and style preference. Whether you’re rocking a pixie cut or waist-length locks, you can channel your inner pinup girl with the right styling techniques.

Victory Rolls

Victory rolls are the ultimate pinup hairstyle. They’re named after the victory rolls performed by fighter planes during World War II, and they’re all about volume and drama. To create victory rolls, you’ll need to section off the front portion of your hair and backcomb it to create a cushion of volume. Then, roll the hair back on itself and secure with bobby pins. Repeat on the other side for symmetrical rolls.

Rita Hayworth Waves

Rita Hayworth was the queen of Old Hollywood glamour, and her signature waves are still coveted today. To get the look, start by creating a deep side part and curling your hair with a large-barrel curling iron. Brush out the curls to create soft, glossy waves, and finish with a shine spray for extra luster. The key is to keep the waves looking polished and defined, just like Rita’s.

Rosie the Riveter Updo

Rosie the Riveter is an iconic pinup image, with her red bandana and determined expression. To recreate her look, pull your hair up into a high ponytail and secure with an elastic. Take the ponytail and roll it towards the base, tucking the ends under and pinning in place. Tie a red bandana around your head, knotting it in the front for an authentic Rosie vibe.

Bumper Bangs

Bumper bangs are a pinup staple, adding height and drama to any hairstyle. To create them, section off the front portion of your hair and backcomb it thoroughly. Smooth the top layer of hair over the backcombed section, using hairspray to keep everything in place. The result should be a voluminous, rounded fringe that frames your face beautifully.

Pin Curls

Pin curls are a classic pinup technique that creates tight, defined curls. To create them, take small sections of damp hair and wrap them around your finger, securing with a bobby pin. Let the pin curls dry completely before removing the pins and gently brushing out the curls. The result is a head full of bouncy, retro-inspired curls that would make any pinup girl proud.

How to Create a Classic Pinup Hairstyle

Creating a classic pinup hairstyle is all about mastering a few key techniques. With a little practice and the right products, you can achieve a vintage-inspired look that’s perfect for any occasion.

Prep Your Hair

Before you start styling, it’s important to prep your hair properly. Start by washing your hair with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to give it extra body and bounce. Towel-dry your hair and apply a heat protectant spray to prevent damage from styling tools. If your hair is naturally curly or wavy, you may want to blow-dry it straight first to create a smooth base for your pinup style.

Create Volume and Curls

Volume and curls are the foundation of any good pinup hairstyle. To create volume, start by applying a volumizing mousse or root lift spray to your roots and blow-drying your hair upside down. Once your hair is dry, use a large-barrel curling iron or hot rollers to create big, bouncy curls all over your head. If you have naturally curly hair, you can skip this step and work with your natural texture instead.

Style Your Pinup Look

Now it’s time to style your hair into your desired pinup look. Whether you’re going for victory rolls, bumper bangs, or a classic updo, the key is to work in sections and take your time. Use a fine-toothed comb to create clean, precise parts and sections, and secure each section with bobby pins as you style. Don’t be afraid to use plenty of hairspray to keep everything in place – pinup styles are all about hold and staying power.

Set with Hairspray

Once you’ve finished styling your hair, it’s time to set everything in place with hairspray. Look for a strong-hold hairspray that won’t leave your hair feeling crunchy or sticky. Spray your hair from about 10 inches away, focusing on the areas that need the most hold (like your victory rolls or bumper bangs). Let the hairspray dry completely before touching or brushing your hair, to avoid disturbing your carefully crafted style.

Accessories to Elevate Your Pinup Hair

No pinup look is complete without the right accessories. From flowers and bows to headbands and hair nets, there are endless ways to elevate your vintage-inspired hairstyle.

Flowers and Bows

Flowers and bows are classic pinup accessories that add a touch of femininity and whimsy to any hairstyle. Look for oversized flowers in bright colors, or dainty bows in polka dot or gingham prints. Secure your flowers or bows with bobby pins or small hair clips, placing them just above one ear or at the base of an updo for a playful, retro vibe.

Headbands and Scarves

Headbands and scarves are another pinup staple, perfect for adding color and interest to your hairstyle. Look for wide, stretchy headbands in solid colors or printed fabrics, or tie a silk scarf around your head for a more casual, rockabilly-inspired look. If you’re feeling extra daring, try tying a scarf around your victory rolls or bumper bangs for a unique, eye-catching accessory.

Hair Nets and Snoods

Hair nets and snoods were popular in the 1940s and 50s, and they’re making a comeback in the pinup scene today. These accessories are perfect for keeping your hair in place while adding a touch of vintage charm to your look. Look for hair nets in classic colors like black or brown, or try a snood in a fun, printed fabric. Secure your hair net or snood over a simple updo or bun, or wear it over your victory rolls for a more dramatic effect.

Modern Twists on Vintage Pinup Hairstyles

While classic pinup hairstyles are always in style, there’s no reason you can’t put a modern twist on these vintage looks. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next pinup-inspired ‘do.

Beachy Pinup Waves

Give your pinup waves a beachy, tousled vibe by adding some sea salt spray and scrunching your hair as it dries. The result is a more relaxed, effortless version of the classic pinup wave that’s perfect for summer. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep your waves in place without weighing them down. The key is to embrace a bit of frizz and texture for a more modern, undone look.

Braided Victory Rolls

Add some interest to your victory rolls by incorporating braids into the mix. Start by creating a Dutch braid on either side of your head, stopping just above your ears. Then, roll the ends of the braids up and secure them with bobby pins to create your victory rolls. The combination of braids and rolls creates a unique, eye-catching look that’s perfect for special occasions.

Half-Up Pinup Styles

If you’re not ready to commit to a full pinup updo, try a half-up style instead. Start by creating volume at the crown of your head with backcombing or a volumizing product. Then, take the top half of your hair and style it into victory rolls, bumper bangs, or pin curls, leaving the bottom half loose and wavy. Secure the top half with bobby pins and finish with hairspray for a flirty, feminine look that’s perfect for everyday wear.

Celebrities Who Rocked Pinup Hairstyles

Pinup hairstyles have been a Hollywood staple for decades, with countless celebrities rocking victory rolls, pin curls, and more on the red carpet and beyond. Here are just a few of the most iconic pinup-inspired looks from over the years. Rita Hayworth was the ultimate pinup icon, with her signature waves and bold red lipstick. Her soft, glamorous curls were the perfect complement to her bombshell persona, and they’re still inspiring women today. Rosie the Riveter may have been a fictional character, but her impact on pinup fashion is undeniable. Her red bandana and rolled-up sleeves became synonymous with the working woman during World War II, and her determined expression and iconic updo continue to inspire pinup enthusiasts around the world. Lana Turner was another Hollywood bombshell known for her pinup-inspired looks. Her high, voluminous updos and soft, wavy curls were the epitome of 1940s glamour, and they’re still a go-to look for vintage enthusiasts today. Vivien Leigh may be best known for her role as Scarlett O’Hara in “Gone with the Wind,” but her off-screen style was just as iconic. Her victory rolls and pin curls were the perfect complement to her classic, elegant beauty, and they’re still inspiring women decades later. Ingrid Bergman was another Hollywood icon known for her timeless beauty and classic style. Her soft, wavy curls and simple, elegant updos were the epitome of 1940s glamour, and they’re still a go-to look for vintage lovers today.

Key Takeaway:

Pinup hairstyles bring vintage glamour to life, offering something for every hair type and length. Master a few techniques like victory rolls, Rita Hayworth waves, or pin curls for that bombshell look. Remember, practice makes perfect and the right accessories will take your style up a notch.

Conclusion

Pinup hairstyles are the ultimate way to channel your inner retro goddess and add some serious glamour to your look. Bring on the nostalgia with hairstyles like victory rolls and pin curls – perfect for women who love mixing their grace with a pinch of sassiness.

Rocking any pinup hairstyle starts with your confidence and adding a personal twist to it. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different accessories, like flowers, bows, and headbands, to really make your look pop.

So go ahead, gorgeous, give these pinup hairstyles a whirl and get ready to turn some heads. Whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion or just want to add some retro flair to your everyday look, these styles are sure to make you feel like a total bombshell.