30 Best 1920s Hairstyles That Still Work in 2025

Searching for a 1920s hairstyle that can still turn heads in 2025? We’ve curated a list of 30 of our favorite ‘20s hair ideas for every occasion.

By Jelani Addams Rosa & Powered By L’Oreal Professional Products Division
Update Date: 08 Jan 2025

The 30 Best 1920s Hairstyles

The 1920s ushered in the flapper aesthetic, encouraging women to chop off their long locks in favor of short hairstyles that highlighted their facial features. Today, these vintage hairstyles are over a century old, but they look just as good—if not better—now than they did 100 years ago. Whether you’re looking to switch up your signature look or need a stunning updo for a night out, one of these retro ‘20s hairdos could be just what you need. Here, we’ve curated a list of 30 1920s hairstyles that we’re sure you’ll be obsessed with.

Finger Waves

When you think of 1920s hairstyles, finger waves are likely the first thing to come to mind. Finger waves are a hairstyle that involves using a product with a firm hold, a fine-tooth comb, and your fingers to mold your hair into sea-like waves. This iconic style has become a staple hairstyle for anyone with short hair. The key to lasting finger waves is a strong-hold hair gel like Matrix Controller Gel, which will help hold your style in place without any stiffness or crunch.

Finger Wave Chignon

If you love the look of finger waves but your hair is too long for the classic pixie look, let us introduce you to one of our favorite ‘20s hairdos for long hair: the finger wave chignon. Gathering the length of your hair at the nape of your neck is an easy and stylish way to keep your hair tucked away and gives your finger waves the shine they deserve.

Sculpted Edges

Short hair was all the rage in the 1920s, and a sculpted hairline is one of the best ways to make your short hair stand out. Mizani’s Edge Controlling Taming Gel will help mold and shape your edges into an artful masterpiece that stays put all day.

Gilded Updo

While the Gilded Age ended in the 1910s, the extravagant wealth of the previous decade greatly influenced fashion and beauty in the 1920s. Women of means adorned their updos with sparkling jewels and glittering gold for looks that would shine on any red carpet—in 2025 or 1925. Watch the video above for a golden style complete with gilded butterflies that’s perfect for modern day.

Slicked-Back Low Ponytail

Many 1920s hairstyles were short and sleek, but that doesn’t mean everyone raced to sheer off their locks. People with long hair could still embrace the sleek trend with styles like slicked-back low ponytails. We love how you can dress this hairstyle up for special occasions with accessories or pair it with a casual outfit.

Short Comb Coils

Comb coils are a hairstyling technique where you use a fine-tooth comb to twist small sections of natural hair into tight coils. To give super short curls some much-needed definition, reach for Mizani’s Styling Foam Wrap. The formula offers a lightweight, never-crunchy hold so you can slay your cropped ‘do.

Soft Waves

Soft waves are as popular now as they were in 1920. You can achieve this style in many ways, but we're partial to overnight heatless curls. Go to sleep and wake up with great hair? Yes, please.

To pick the right heatless curl technique, consider your hair type, texture, and the tools you have on hand. Head over to our complete guide on heatless curls for help finding the perfect method for your mane.

Crown Braid

Braids are tried-and-true hairstyles that have made their mark every decade. Braided updos, in particular, were a staple for Black women in the 1920s. One of our favorites is this crown braid, which is equal parts regal and simple, making it suitable for any occasion. If you try it for yourself, be sure to prep your hair with a moisturizing hair styler like Mizani’s True Textures Curl Defining Pudding.

Pin-Curl Updo

If you love the look of short hair but aren’t ready to part with your locks just yet, this faux pin-curl bob is calling your name. First, prime your hair with a heat protectant like Kérastase Genesis Defense Thermique Heat Protecting Spray. Starting at the back of your head, wrap small sections of hair around a 1-inch curling iron. Once a curl has formed, use a styling clip to secure the coil to your head—the result is a pin curl. Once you’ve curled your entire head, allow your hair to cool completely before removing the pins. This helps to give your curls staying power.

Gently rake your fingers through your hair before parting it down the middle to the crown of your head. Then, sculpt a soft swoop on either side of the part. Secure the S-shaped swoops on either side with several pins. Then, pin the rest of your curls to the back of your head to finish your updo. Set your look in place with a firm-hold hair spray like Pureology Style + Protect Lock It Down Hairspray.

Sculpted Updo

Sculpted updos were a way to embrace the art-forward hairstyles that were popular in the 1920s without sacrificing length. You can copy the sculpted ‘do shown above, or get creative and mold your hair to your heart’s content. Either way, you’ll want to set your sculpted updo with a high-hold hairspray like Redken’s Control Hairspray.

Platinum Bob

Platinum hair may feel modern, but it was hot back then, too. It pairs perfectly with a classic 1920s bob, so it’s only fitting! If you try this throwback look, keep your platinum hair looking healthy and bright with the Kérastase Blonde Absolu range, which is formulated with hyaluronic acid and edelweiss flower and nourishes the hair fiber and neutralizes brassiness.