If you watched Downton Abbey and loved it (who didn’t?), one of the things that must have drawn you to the show was all the lovely ‘20s style – the flowy fabrics, the long necklaces, and of course, the gorgeous hair! Particularly, Mary’s wedding hair, with that beautiful hairpiece. Now, that elegant and understated do is an example of pure vintage wedding hairstyles!
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Now, vintage is a term that gets tossed around a lot these days, so what exactly does it mean? To the uninitiated out there, vintage doesn’t simply mean old!! Vintage refers to something that is from the past, yes, but it also refers to something classic that doesn’t go out of style, and is still relevant in some way. And this is very true of vintage wedding hairstyles too, which still look good and give out that lovely, old world charm.
Well yes, the ladies in Downton Abbey did have their own personal maids to help them dress every morning, but today, you have the benefit of irons, curlers, and a whole array of hair products! Just be sure to discuss exactly what you want with your stylist well in advance, so that she can try it out and see if it suits you and goes with your wedding dress. If you’re confused about which vintage wedding hairstyle is more ‘you,’ check out our list below where we feature some of the most iconic and classic vintage hairstyles for weddings!
Suggested read: Best wedding updos to suit your hair texture and type
15 vintage wedding hairstyles for a classic look
1. Twenties bob with statement hairpiece
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The twenties’ have been represented mostly by Louise Brooks’ bob and by the hair accessory placed prominently across the forehead. The look was either glitzy (The Great Gatsby) or understated (Downton Abbey). You don’t need to chop off your hair for this; instead opt for a faux bob. Choose a headband that’s proportionate to your face, choosing between slim or broad ones. You can also go for a jeweled version to add some bling. This is a dramatic look, so be sure to get it right. If you’re opting for a faux bob, make sure your hair stays inside the bob all day!
2. Side Waves
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There’s something very classy and romantic about the thirties’ side waves. They were usually very tight, with the use of water wave combs, but you can make them looser if you’d like. There are many ways to carry off this look, although the best way to make the waves stand out would be with a simple updo at the back. If you’re having waves only on one side, draw attention to it with a simple and elegant hair accessory.
3. The Audrey Look
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One wonders if Audrey Hepburn’s style was as popular in the sixties as it is today!! It is easy to customize her signature ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’ look for a wedding. Sweep hair up in a classic ‘60s updo, leaving just a few teeny tiny fringes in the front. Put in a blingy hair accessory or a very small tiara to avoid overwhelming the style. If your outfit allows, wear long gloves for more authenticity. Oh, and don’t forget the eyeliner and the pearls!!
4. Forehead Roll
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The fifties were a time when hot rollers became increasingly popular and women went to town with their roller sets! The forehead roll was very common in those days, with women opting for either two on either side or just one. (Check out Rachel McAdams’ looks in The Notebook). You can go for one or two, but with two rolls, it’s better to skip the hair accessories. With one roll, you can balance the look with one vintage accessory or a flower.
5. Piled High
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Contrary the short cuts and tight curls of the 20s – 50s, the sixties saw the emergence of ‘big’ hair, evident in the bouffant and beehives of the day! One of the popular classic wedding hairstyles of the era is where the hair is gathered and piled high on top of the head; but we assure you it is nowhere as messy as it sounds! This hairstyle is great for long locks which’ll stay in place for the whole day, and look very classy and elegant at the same time. This is one hairstyle that is ideal for all kinds of hair accessories, but we would suggest medium sized diamante studded ones, to match your jewelry.
Suggested Read: How to make your bridal makeup last really long
6. Bouffant
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Yes, this is the classic do from the swinging sixties! While not as dramatic as the beehive, the bouffant has its own charm, and is much more customizable (just think of all the ladies in Mad Men). This is a beautiful vintage pick among wedding hairstyles, and not very difficult to achieve as well. Leave your bangs loose to the side for a soft romantic look, or go bold with bright red lips!
7. Fringes
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To be honest, we don’t know when the fringe was ever out of fashion, it seems to have always been ‘in’!! Most people think it got cult status ever since Elizabeth Taylor rocked the look in the movie Cleopatra. You can also look like a queen on your special day by simply leaving your fringes loose; it immediately makes for a relaxed look. Make it more formal by putting the rest of your hair in an elegant chignon, or go for a more casual look with a half-up half-down style.
8. Braids
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Ah, nothing spells vintage like a soft braid!! This is a perfect hairstyle for summer weddings, particularly outdoor ones. You can either braid hair on one side and sweep it over the head or do it on both sides. This hairstyle is better left free from bling and glitzy accessories and looks much more charming with fresh flowers. Soft makeup in pastel colors and you’ll look lovely!
9. Beehive
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We couldn’t let a list of vintage wedding hairstyles go without mentioning the beehive!! Now, it’s easy to go overboard with a beehive, especially if you were a big fan of Amy Winehouse, so remember to tone it down. For a wedding, while smaller beehives are safer, you can go big if you think you can rock it! However, do discuss it with your stylist, since everything has to be in sync for the entire look to come together.
10. Tousled Waves
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While the sixties were all about putting up hair as high as you could, the seventies brought it all down! On one end, there was big, Farrah Fawcett-like hair, while on the other was sleeker locks with the hippy headband. You can channel the seventies too for your wedding – but lose the hippy headband!! A centre parting is classic seventies, so keep the hair straight but use a curling iron on the ends for that tousled look. And if you really want the headband, we suggest a bandana-style veil that comes over the head.
Suggested read: How to find the perfect wedding dress for your body type
11. Short Waves
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This is another look from the forties and fifties, and one you can also see in The Notebook. This is probably the most low maintenance look for girls with short locks, and works with straight or curly hair, provided you have the right tools and products. Don’t make the waves too tight, but make them firm enough, so that they don’t become limp over the course of the day. This is a lovely vintage look, and one that allows you to go a little more bold with makeup and jewelry.
12. Side Swept Updo
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A very elegant look if ever there was one! This is vintage wedding hair in a style that never dies, no matter what the trends are. Let the hair on the side sweep softly towards the back, covering part of the ears. At the back, you can braid your hair and twist it a la Jane Eyre, or arrange it into a neat chignon or updo. Add a big flower on the side for a nice, romantic touch.
13. Cascading Curls
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If you’ve seen Reign and marvel at those beautiful waterfalls of curls, don’t worry – you can get them too!! One person who popularized this look in the forties and fifties is Rita Hayworth, and this hairstyle is soon seeing a comeback. It has a certain regal look, making it perfect for weddings.
14. The Twiggy Look
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Twiggy says that it was her super short haircut was what launched her career in the sixties, and we’re not surprised! This is a great hairstyle for a summer wedding when it can get too hot and you’d rather enjoy the wedding than spend time fussing with your hair. This is a cute vintage style that lends itself well to out of the box hair accessories and veils. We think it would suit most wedding dresses too!
15. Retro Hairband
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The hairband in this look gives it a vintage retro look, while channeling your inner Greek goddess, and we’re not talking about The Fifty Shades of Grey here! A bit of backcombing is required here to get the volume at the back and the hairband really lends character to this hairstyle. With dewy fresh makeup, this look is sure to get loads of compliments.
Suggested read: Time to pick the perfect wedding veil that matches your personality
As we mentioned earlier, consider the overall look when picking out your hairstyle – the theme, dress, venue etc. Your stylist should be very clear about your requirements, which is why we’ve given you loads of pop culture and historical references! The best part of opting for vintage wedding hairstyles is that you’re actually reviving a piece of history, a tradition. It also goes on to show that a classic never really dies, such is its value.
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