10 Iconic 1940s Hairstyles | Rush Hair & Beauty

1940s hairstyles are celebrated for their vintage glamour and timeless elegance, being characterised by their sophisticated and polished appeal. These styles are not just a trend; they reflect a significant period in history, in particular wartime fashion, which makes them perfect for events that are all about a retro vibe and aesthetic. 

Hairstyles from the 1940s, such as victory rolls and old Hollywood waves, offer a versatile array of looks that can be adapted to various hair types and lengths. With different styling techniques and accessories, these hairstyles can be easily tailored to suit individual preferences.

History and Origins of 1940s Hairstyles

The 1940s embraced bold yet functional hairstyles influenced by wartime practicality. Popular styles included victory rolls and pin curls, chosen for their ability to keep hair neat and out of the face while women took on new roles during the war.

Vintage hairstyles of this era were relatively easy to maintain, especially with the use of rollers and pins. They often featured waves and curls, with volume achieved through techniques like pin curls and victory rolls.

Iconic stars such as Veronica Lake and Rita Hayworth significantly contributed to the popularity of these styles. Their looks, including victory rolls and Hollywood waves, became symbols of wartime glamour and timeless elegance.

Additionally, 1940s hairstyles balanced practicality with style, reflecting the societal shifts and wartime constraints of the time. Work hairstyles tended to be sleek, short, and kept off the face, often using headscarves or snoods to manage hair in factories and workplaces. In contrast, evening styles incorporated more glamorous elements, such as victory rolls symbolising patriotism and resilience, along with soft waves that offered a sophisticated appearance.

1940s hairstyles continue to be a source of inspiration for vintage glamour and retro looks today, partly due to their elegance, practicality, and ability to be adapted for modern styles. 

Key Considerations for Choosing Your 1940s Hairstyle

Hair Type

1940s hairstyles generally work best with medium to long hair because signature styles of the era, such as victory rolls and waves, rely on length for their volume and shape. While shorter cuts can still be adapted to evoke a vintage look, they may not achieve the same fullness or iconic silhouette as longer hair styled in the 1940s manner. 

In the 1940s, naturally curly hair was often favoured for its ability to create the soft, voluminous styles that were popular at the time, particularly the glamorous Hollywood waves-inspired looks. However, straight hair could also be styled into 1940s styles, particularly with the use of techniques like pincurls, which created waves and curls. While curly hair is naturally suited to 1940s styles, straight hair can also be transformed with the right tools and styling methods.

Face Shape

1940s hairstyles can be tailored to complement different face shapes, with rolls, waves and strategic partings being key elements to achieving this. 

Round Face Shape: Styles that add height and sweep the hair away from the face, such as victory rolls or deep side parts with curls, are good options.

Square Face Shape: Styles that soften angles, such as soft waves, especially when styled around the face, or styles that include wispy or side-swept fringes, are great options for this face shape.

Heart Face Shape: Styles that include side-swept waves or curls are good options as they add width to the jawline and balance the wider forehead. 

Oval Face Shape: Can wear most styles, including popular victory rolls, soft waves and side-swept styles. 

Event Type

1940s hairstyles are versatile enough for both formal and more casual events. Styles such as victory rolls, classic wave sets, and various intricate updos can offer a glamorous look that is suited to more formal events such as weddings. Shorter, more practical styles, such as those with a centre part or brushed out waves, can work well for more casual events such as a lunch date with friends.

To elevate the retro vibe, you can style with vintage accessories, such as a hairpin or headscarf, to elevate the overall look. 

Top 10 1940s Hairstyle Looks

1. The Victory Rolls

One of the most iconic and defining 1940s hairstyles, Victory Rolls feature large, dramatic rolls of hair either on the top or sides of the head. Originally a patriotic nod to wartime fashion, they became a glamour symbol of strength and femininity. Modern interpretations have been seen on celebrities such as Gigi Hadid. 

Suitable Hair Types: Best suited for medium to long hair with natural volume.
Styling Tips: Section the front hair, backcomb for lift, roll upward using your fingers or a roller, and pin firmly. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray to keep it intact. 

2. The 1940s Pompadours

This hairstyle features a voluminous front section swept upward and backwards. When paired with side rolls or a bun, it creates a bold, empowered silhouette, which was seen in wartime posters and is synonymous with that time. Modern interpretations have been seen on celebrities such as Pink. 

Suitable Hair Types: Suitable Hair Type: Medium to thick hair; although it can also work with straight hair with the right styling techniques. 
Styling Tips: Tease the crown area of the hair, smooth it down, and roll the top back into a puff. Secure it tightly and accessorise with a scarf for a classic vintage look.

3. The Omelet Fold

A chic rolled-back hairstyle that incorporates hair folded over padding, or “rats,” to create a soft, pillowy roll. It beautifully frames the face and is suitable for both daytime and evening occasions. Modern interpretations have been seen on celebrities such as Selena Gomez. 

Suitable Hair Types: Medium to long hair; works best on straight or slightly wavy hair.
Styling Tips: Use a hair roll or stuffing to create the fold. Brush the hair back, tuck it over the roll, and pin underneath. Keep it smooth and soft for a polished effect.

4. Pin Curls

A classic hairstyling technique from the 1940s, pin curls are made by coiling damp hair into flat curls and securing them with pins until they dry. Once released, they create soft, structured curls or waves that are full of volume. Modern interpretations have been seen on celebrities such as Zendaya.

Suitable Hair Types: All hair types; especially good for fine or straight hair that needs bounce.
Styling Tips: Use setting lotion on slightly damp hair, wrap small sections into tight coils, and pin flat. Let them dry fully before brushing out gently for uniform curls.

5. The 1940s Curled Bob

The 1940s Curled Bob features shoulder-length or shorter hair that is styled with tight curls, typically turned under at the ends. It is both practical and stylish, which makes it a popular choice for women during the war. Modern interpretations have been seen on celebrities such as Charlize Theron. 

Suitable Hair Types: Short to medium-length hair, and can work well on both fine and wavy hair types. 
Styling Tips: Use a medium curling tong or rollers to curl ends under. A side part and a bit of volume at the roots will elevate the vintage vibe. 

6. The Bouffant style

Although more popular in the 1950s and ’60s, the bouffant style started to emerge in the late ’40s. It showcased hair teased high at the crown with volume on top and smooth sides, creating a striking, dramatic look. Modern interpretations have been seen on celebrities such as Dua Lipa.

Suitable Hair Type: Medium to thick hair, preferably longer for volume.
Styling Tip: Generously backcomb the crown area, smooth the top layer, and secure with pins. Add waves or curls to the back for a soft finish.

7. The Poodle Top Hairstyle

Tight curls are piled high on top of the head, often with the back and sides slicked or pinned up. It is a fun and playful style that is full of bounce, and gained its name for the style’s resemblance to a poodle’s puff. Modern interpretations have been seen on celebrities such as Rihanna.

Suitable Hair Types: Naturally curly or permed hair works best with this style, also great for thick hair.
Styling Tip: Curl your hair tightly, then pile the curls high at the crown. Secure with hair clips, and slick the sides back for contrast.

8. Braided Crown

This style features braids wrapped around the head like a crown. It was a stylish and practical option during the war, perfect for keeping hair out of the way while still looking chic. Modern interpretations have been seen on celebrities such as Kerry Washington. 

Suitable Hair Types: Medium to long hair; great for straight or wavy textures.
Styling Tip: Braid two sections from either side of your head and then clip them over the crown. Tuck the ends neatly and add a small flower or ribbon for a stylish touch. 

9. Roller Curls

Soft, voluminous curls created with rollers. Unlike pin curls, these have more lift and structure, often used to build updos or structured wave styles. Modern interpretations have been seen on celebrities such as Beyoncé. 

Suitable Hair Types: All hair types; ideal for building volume in finer hair. 
Styling Tip: Use large or medium rollers depending on the desired curl size. Let hair cool fully before removing, then lightly comb into shape. 

10. Old Hollywood Waves 

Deep, glamorous waves that typically fall in a uniform “S” shape, and can be worn with a dramatic side part. This style of waves is all about gloss, symmetry, and glamour. Modern interpretations have been seen on celebrities such as Scarlett Johansson. 

Suitable Hair Types: Medium to long hair; works best on slightly wavy hair types. 
Styling Tip: Curl your hair in the same direction using a large-barrel curling iron. Once set, brush through gently to blend the curls into soft waves. Use clips to emphasise the wave ridges if needed, then mist with shine spray.

Maintaining Your 1940s Hairstyle

Use the Right Products

Using the right products, such as heat protectants, strong-hold hairsprays, and mousse, is recommended to keep your 1940s hairstyle intact and looking vibrant throughout the day. 

Incorporating products such as a shine serum is also encouraged to achieve the glossy, polished finish, which is key to achieving that vintage glamour. 

Regular Touch-Ups

Styles such as victory rolls and pin-up curls may require touch-ups throughout the day due to a combination of factors relating to the styling techniques used, as well as the nature of the hair. Heat styling can cause curls to drop faster, and even pin curls, while longer-lasting, can be affected by factors such as hair texture, humidity and the day’s activities. It is recommended to bring a small travel-sized hairspray and a comb for quick fixes. 

It is also recommended to schedule regular salon visits every 6-8 weeks to maintain the health of the hair and ensure the style looks fresh, vibrant and healthy.

Keep It Healthy

Deep conditioning treatments are important for maintaining healthy hair, especially when using heat styling tools regularly, as they restore moisture and nutrients, preventing dryness and brittleness caused by heat. They will also help to strengthen the hair shaft, making it more resilient to damage from heat and other factors. 

It is recommended to book a professional consultation at your nearest RUSH Hair to have your hair condition assessed, and one of our expert RUSH Stylists will then advise the best products for your hair.

Book Your 1940s Hairstyle Appointment at Rush

Looking for the perfect 1940s hairstyle? Book an appointment at your nearest RUSH salon, and let our expert stylists find your ideal look.