14 Trending Retro Hairstyles For Girls To Try

Take a step back in time with these classy and cool hairstyle ideas.

Reviewed by Megan Senner, Licensed Hairstylist
Written by Jyotsana Rao, BE
Edited by Madhumati Chowdhury, MA (English Literature)
Fact-checked by Aparna Harry, MA (English Literature)  • 

In an age where every new thing gets old within hours, the old world charm still holds a great value and relevance.

We love new technology and advancement, but we do love a few traditional inventions of the 1920s even more. Like French nails! No matter how many variations have come up, the classic style is something we all still have a soft corner for. This old-school retro hairstyle is another such example. And what makes it even better is that it has come back with a big bang!

protip_icon Before You Get Started
  • Retro hairstyles are all about loud looks. Big curls, voluminous hairdos, extra-polished finishing, and vibrant hair colors.
  • Pick accessories that are just as loud in color and pattern. You can also use lots of pearls, glitter, and shiny fabric.
  • These hairstyles are best paired with heavy and dark liner, heavy lashes, shimmery eyeshadows, and face highlights.

Retro Hairstyles For Girls

Here is a list to learn more about the top 14 groovy retro-futuristic hairstyles ever.

1. Vintage Curly Lob

Vintage Curly Lob
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Image: Shutterstock

For all the women out there who adore an antique or vintage look, this 70s voluminous lob with curls will definitely satisfy your old soul. It is one of the quickest hairstyles you can sport that will create the illusion of a fuller mane, ideal for anyone with low volume or thin tresses.

Jennie, a blogger exploring diverse topics, shared her thoughts after experimenting with the Vintage Curly Lob hairstyle, expressing, “It’s basically a dream for me style wise! One thing I always envied was the hair of Martie’s girlfriend Jennifer [Film: Back To The Future] (not least because she has the same name as me). That volume! That curl! Wow (i)!”

2. Loose Ringlets With Subtle Pouf

Loose Ringlets With Subtle Pouf
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Image: Shutterstock

Nothing encapsulates the retro vibe better than loose ringlets and a gentle pouf from the 50s. If you have stunning blonde curls, then you are bound to have your own Marilyn Monroe moment. The playful hairdo exudes femme-fatale energy and speaks endless volumes, giving you a throwback to the past, perfect for casual or red-carpet events.

3. Bandana Bun

Bandana bun retro hairstyle
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Image: Getty

This hairstyle is one of the easiest ones to sport and looks cool too. The picture explains the step-by-step procedure of achieving this retro hairstyle.

protip_icon Quick Tip
A wrinkled bandana doesn’t stay in place for long. So, air-dry it after washing and iron it on low heat.

4. Side Ponytail With A Teased Crown

Side ponytail with a teased crown retro hairstyle
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Image: Getty

Side ponytail with a teased crown is almost a rage these days. Tease your crown area a little and tie a side ponytail thereafter, secure using a rubber band. Make sure the teased part stays safe by using bobby pins at the nape. Expert hair stylist Megan Senner recommends using a backcombing brush to achieve perfectly teased hair.

5. High Twice-Bound Pony

High twice-bound pony retro hairstyle
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Image: Getty

Obsessed with your pony but eager to try something different? Well, here is your answer. This style is ideal for people with lengthy hair. Follow the instructions given with the picture to sport this high and twice-bound pony.

6. Teased Double Bun

Teased double bun retro hairstyle
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Image: Getty

If you are looking for a sophisticated retro look, a teased double bun is what you are searching for.

Divide your hair into two sections, one at the middle of the head and the rest at the lower part. Now clip the upper part away and tease the lower part to get some volume. Now, cover the lower part with the upper part and make a bun. It looks formal yet casual.

7. Rolled Back Updo

Rolled back updo retro hairstyle
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Image: ; Getty

Match your lacy dress perfectly with this feminine retro hairstyle. Part your blow-dried hair from the middle. Twist one side and pin it up at the back of the nape. Do the same with the other side. Now connect both the ends and roll them making a bun and you are ready with a rolled back updo.

8. Finger Waves

Finger waves retro hairstyle
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Image: Getty

Do you think of Marilyn Monroe in her white dress and finger waves? This flirty nostalgic retro hairstyle is one of the most popular hairstyles today.

Dry your hair and separate into different 1-2 inches’ sections. Use some mist on your hair and use a curling rod. When the rod cools completely, use your fingertips to sculpt the curls and your flirty finger waves are ready to be flaunted. Licensed hair stylist Megan Senner adds, “You can also use a large barrel crimping wand to achieve this look.”

protip_icon Trivia
The finger wave hairstyle was popular during the 1920s and early 1930s. Famous actresses Josephine Baker and Esther Philips are known to have popularized it.

9. Long Waves

Long waves retro hairstyle
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Image: ; Getty

Curl your long hair using hot curling rollers. Now spray some dry shampoo just at the crown to get some lift and volume. In this way your curls would be much more manageable and look more natural. Let your curls be open and enjoy the long waves created by the curls.

10. Wavy Bob With A Side Part

Wavy bob with a side part retro hairstyle
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Image: Getty

If you love your bob, you would love this trendy hairstyle even more. Use hot rollers to curl each 1-inch section of your hair. When you feel the rollers have cooled down, let your hair out and curl them using your fingertips and style them the way you want. Make a deep parting of your hair and let the waves add fun to your look.

11. High Side Pony

High side pony retro hairstyle
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Image: Getty

This is another variation for people who love sporting their ponytails. You just need to tie your pony high at the crown but position it sideways. You may even curl the end of the pony with a curling iron to get a more authentic retro look.

12. Low And Wavy Side-Bun

Low and wavy side-bun retro hairstyle
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Image: Getty

If you are blessed with wavy hair, this one is for you. Curl the ends of your hair. Now comb them all together and collect at one of the sides behind your ear. Now start rolling it into a bun and secure using bobby pins. You may use hair accessories to adorn this look.

13. Long Cornrows Hairstyle

Zendaya in cornrows hairstyle
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Image: Shutterstock

We are absolutely in awe of this stunning cornrows hairstyle on long tresses! And, who can carry this look better than our very own Zendaya. This protective hairstyle is also a chic and neat look that can be variously styled for a range of events, from everyday work lunches to late night bar hopping with besties.

14. Voluminous Afro

Viola Davis in afro hairstyle
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Image: Shutterstock

This afro hairstyle donned by the gorgeous actress, Viola Davis is one that is bound to fetch you endless compliments. The veteran star has often been captured with this statement hairstyle, choosing to spruce up her god-gifted kinky hair to say curly is beautiful. It is super easy to rock, and some texturising spray can make it come alive.

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Infographic: All Things Retro

Retro hairstyles are classic, elegant, chic, and timeless. They offer women a chance to experiment with different styles for any occasion. If you need some inspiration for your own retro hairstyle, check out the celebrities who sported different retro hairstyles over the years. Additionally, we have listed a few accessories you can use to take your retro hairstyle to the next level.

Check out the infographic below to know more.

all things retro (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

As the saying goes, “old is gold”, there are certain things labeled as old-fashioned that stand tall even now after ages. One such example is the retro hairstyles popular among people even now. These hairstyles have not lost their charm and still have a place in the fashion industry. Some of the trendiest hairstyles that returned with a bang are bun bandana, side ponytails, high twice-bound pony, teased double bun, and rolled back updo. The list mentioned above discusses all the other retro hairstyles in detail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hairstyles were popular in the 70’s?

Farrah Fawcett’s feathered hair, the shag, the wedge, curtain bangs, dreadlocks and deep side part hairstyle are some of the most popular hairstyles from the 70’s.

How do I get 80’s fluffy hair?

Add volume by using a dry shampoo on your hair, and then blow dry it upside down. You can also use hot rollers to get some fluffy waves in.

Is 80’s hair coming back?

Yes, some popular styles such as crimped hair, high ponytails, fluffy hair and deep side parts are making a comeback in these modern times.

Key Takeaways

  • Retro hairstyles have timeless appeal, offering classic, chic, and elegant looks that are making a comeback in modern times.
  • Ponytail lovers can add a twist to the classic pony with a high and twice-bound style.
  • Vintage curly lobs are ideal for those with low volume or thin tresses.
  • Loose ringlets with subtle pouf style are perfect for those with stunning blonde curls, suitable for casual or red-carpet events.
  • Rolled back updo perfectly complements lacy dresses, offering a feminine and retro touch.
retro hairstyles

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team


Learn how to create a glamorous and retro hairstyle that exudes elegance and captures the essence of timeless beauty in this tutorial video. Get ready for picture-perfect perfection!

Image source: 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10

Personal Experience: Source

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