arab retro hairstyle

Arabic Retro Hairstyles: Timeless Styles for Modern Trends

By Hannah JonesApril 21, 2026

In the realm of fashion and grooming, trends come and go, but some styles stand the test of time. One such timeless trend is the Arab retro hairstyle, which has been making a comeback in recent years, captivating men and women alike with its unique charm and cultural significance. Let's delve into the world of Arab retro hairstyles, exploring their history, popular styles, and how to achieve them.

Understanding Arab Retro Hairstyles

Arab retro hairstyles are deeply rooted in Middle Eastern culture, with a rich history dating back centuries. These styles were popularized in the 1950s and 1960s, a period often referred to as the "Golden Age" of Arab cinema and music. The hairstyles of this era were characterized by their elegance, simplicity, and the use of natural oils and herbs for grooming.

Popular Arab Retro Hairstyles for Men

For men, the most iconic Arab retro hairstyles include:

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Elaborate Pompadours: Popularized by legendary Egyptian singer Omar Khorshid, this style features a high, voluminous pompadour with a sharp side part and slicked-back sides.
Sleek Side Parts: This style, often seen on actors like Rushdi Abaza, involves a deep side part with the hair combed over to one side, creating a smooth, polished look.
Curly Afros: Many Arab men, like the late Egyptian singer Abdel Halim Hafez, embraced their natural curls, styling them into round, full afros.

Popular Arab Retro Hairstyles for Women

For women, Arab retro hairstyles are equally diverse and striking:

Voluminous Bouffants: Inspired by stars like Umm Kulthum, these hairstyles feature high, rounded volumes at the crown, often paired with a deep side part.
Long, Wavy Locks: Many Arab women, like Lebanese singer Fairuz, wore their hair long and wavy, often styled with a center part and loose curls.
Braided Updos: Intricate braided updos, often adorned with flowers or jewels, were popular among Arab women, reflecting their cultural heritage.

Achieving the Arab Retro Hairstyle

Achieving an Arab retro hairstyle involves more than just a trip to the salon. It's about understanding the era's grooming culture and using the right products. Here's a simple guide to help you:

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Hairstyle	Steps
Men's Pompadour	Start with damp hair and apply a generous amount of pomade. Using a comb, create a deep side part and slick the hair back on both sides. With a round brush, blow-dry the hair at the crown to create volume. Style the pompadour into shape using your fingers or a comb.
Women's Bouffant	Start with dry hair and backcomb the roots for volume. Using a round brush, blow-dry the hair in sections, lifting it at the roots. Once the hair is completely dry, shape it into a bouffant using your fingers or a comb. Set the style with hairspray.

Remember, the key to achieving an authentic Arab retro hairstyle is patience and practice. Don't be afraid to experiment with different products and techniques until you find what works best for you. And most importantly, embrace the style as a celebration of your cultural heritage.