how to get 1920s hair waves

"1920s Hair Waves: A Step-by-Step Guide"

By Christopher Brown
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Embracing the glamour of the Roaring Twenties? Achieving those iconic 1920s hair waves is easier than you think. With the right tools, techniques, and a bit of patience, you can transform your locks into a timeless, elegant style that's perfect for a themed party, a vintage photoshoot, or just because you love the look. Let's dive into the world of 1920s hair waves and learn how to achieve this stunning style at home.

Understanding 1920s Hair Waves

Before we begin, let's understand the signature 1920s wave. This style is characterized by deep, loose waves that cascade down the length of the hair, often with a side part and a shorter, layered cut in the front. The waves were created using heat and various tools, and the look was made popular by stars like Louise Brooks and Clara Bow.

Gather Your Tools

To create 1920s hair waves, you'll need a few tools. Here's a list to help you gather everything you need:

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How to do fingerwaves✨
How to do fingerwaves✨
Amazing hair tutorial Credits:@iren_franc
Amazing hair tutorial Credits:@iren_franc
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  • Heated curling iron or marcel iron (1-1.5 inch barrel)
  • Heat protectant spray
  • Bobby pins
  • Rat-tail comb
  • Hair clips
  • Hairbrush or comb
  • Hair oil or serum (optional, for added shine)

Preparing Your Hair

Start with clean, damp hair. Apply a heat protectant spray to prevent damage and enhance your waves. If you have fine hair, you can use a lightweight mousse to add volume. For those with thick or curly hair, a smoothing serum can help tame frizz and enhance the wave pattern.

Creating the Waves

Now comes the fun part – creating those beautiful 1920s waves! Here's a step-by-step guide:

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1930s Flapper, 1920s Womens Hair, Fashion Hairstyles, 20s Hairdo, Jazz Hairstyles, Jazz Hair, Retro Hair Styles, 1920s Flapper Hair, 1920s Hairstyles For Long Hair
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How to Do 1920s Hairstyles? - Hair Style Inspirations
How to Do 1920s Hairstyles? - Hair Style Inspirations

Sectioning Your Hair

Using your rat-tail comb, create a deep side part. Clip the top section of your hair away, leaving the bottom section free. This will make it easier to work with smaller sections of hair.

Curling Your Hair

Take a 1-2 inch section of hair and wrap it around the barrel of your heated curling iron, starting from the mid-length and working your way down to the ends. Hold the iron in place for 5-10 seconds, then release the hair. Repeat this process, working your way around your head in small sections.

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Setting Your Waves

Once you've curled all your hair, it's time to set the waves. Starting at the nape of your neck, take a 2-3 inch section of hair and gently roll it up towards your scalp, using your fingers to create a loose wave. Secure the rolled section with a bobby pin, creating a pin-up style curl. Repeat this process all over your head, ensuring that each section is rolled in the same direction for a uniform wave pattern.

1920s inspired wavy updo Geena Hunt
1920s inspired wavy updo Geena Hunt
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Hair tutorial
Hair tutorial
Try These 16 Glamorous 1920s Hair Looks
Try These 16 Glamorous 1920s Hair Looks
1920s Cuban Woman Brent Studio in Havana, Cuba
1920s Cuban Woman Brent Studio in Havana, Cuba
Finger Waves Styles You Must-Try in 2026
Finger Waves Styles You Must-Try in 2026

Letting Your Waves Set

Allow your waves to set for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for more defined waves. The longer you let them set, the more pronounced your 1920s hair waves will be.

Finishing Your Style

Once your waves have set, gently unroll each section and remove the bobby pins. Use your fingers to gently break up the waves, creating a looser, more natural look. If desired, apply a small amount of hair oil or serum to your fingertips and run them through your hair for added shine.

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Styling Tips

For an authentic 1920s look, consider adding a few styling touches. A feathered headband or a beaded hairpiece can add a touch of glamour, while a string of pearls or a vintage brooch can complete the look. Don't forget to set your waves with a strong-hold hairspray to ensure they stay in place all night long.

Vintage Pictures Show a Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Make the Marcel Waves Hair That Were Popular During the 1920s
Vintage Pictures Show a Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Make the Marcel Waves Hair That Were Popular During the 1920s
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Vintage Hairstyle Techniques - How To Create Rag Curl
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Heatless 1920s faux bob hairstyle #vintagehair #1920shair #heatlesshairstyles
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20 Stunning 1920s Finger Wave Hair Looks to Try Right Now - Lovelyish
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Finger wave Tutorial (soft waves)
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Create Easy Vintage Hairstyles
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Vintage Pictures Show a Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Make the Marcel Waves Hair That Were Popular During the 1920s
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1920s Party Hairstyles Explained – Gatsby Glam
Vintage Pictures Show a Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Make the Marcel Waves Hair That Were Popular During the 1920s
Vintage Pictures Show a Step-by-Step Tutorial on How to Make the Marcel Waves Hair That Were Popular During the 1920s
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Slicked Edges, Easy Dance Hairstyles For Short Hair, Finger Wave Hairstyles, Slick Short Hair, Pixie Party Hairstyles, Easy 1920s Hairstyles For Long Hair, Short Hair Gel Style, Gatsby Hairstyles, Flapper Hair Short
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20 Stunning Finger Waves Hairstyle Ideas for a Retro Look - Lovelyish
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HALLOWEEN LOOK: FABULOUS FLAPPER finger waves using sarah potempa beachwaver pro and wrap up
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29 Vintage Hairstyles for Short Hair That Will Never Go Out of Style

Achieving 1920s hair waves is a skill that takes practice, but with patience and the right techniques, you'll be rocking that iconic look in no time. So go ahead, channel your inner flapper, and embrace the glamour of the Roaring Twenties!

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