A Modern Take on 1920s Hairstyles for Short Hair (2024)

The Roaring ’20s hairstyles were all about edgy glam and attitude. The 1920s hairstyles for short hair included a lot of androgynous, Flapper-inspired, and bob-length look with waves, which all took center stage during this time. Some of these chic styles are almost 90 years old, but there are still tons of awesome ways to rock finger waves and curly bobs today. Styling these vintage looks in a modern way is all about using the right precuts to streamline your style and elevate the look!

1920s Hairstyles for Short Hair

To embrace some glamorous Flapper style in modern times, here are four 1920s hairstyles for short hair and tips on how you can recreate them.

1. 1920s Finger Waves Hairstyle for Short Hair

Luscious finger waves were one of the biggest styles of the ’20s, as manyold Hollywood movie stars and Flappers were known to wear this wavy look. To get this iconic look in today, start by applying a sculpting gel, like TRESemmé Extra Hold Hair Gel,onto wet, parted hair. To get that S-shaped wave, use your fingers, a comb, or a clip to carefully mold your hair into a defined S shape before the gel completely dries. Finish with Suave Max Hold Aerosol Hair Spray. We love this strong-hold hairspray because it will lock your style into place while enriching your hair with vitamins and proteins.

2. Angled Bob 1920s Hairstyle for Short Hair

Haircuts in the ’20s often boasted an androgynous vibe, as cropped and angled bobs were all the rage. However, bobs are still a trendy and chic style today, which makes them a great 1920s hairstyle for short hair that you can keep wearing. I mean, stacked cuts in particular scream sass and attitude.

To achieve this striking look, ask your stylist to cut your hair into an angled bob style. This means keeping some pieces long on one side of the header, and short on the opposite side. Next, ask for some full bangs that hit right below the brow to help infuse some drama into your look. To maintain this style, apply on wet or dry hair, starting at the midshaft of your hair and working towards the ends. This product will help smooth out any pesky frizz or flyaways that may distract from your sleek style.

3. Curly Bob 1920s Hairstyle for Short Hair

Full curly bobs were another big ’20s style; silent film actresses really made this hairdo a big hit. To create this cute curly look, you’ll want to make sure your curls are full of height and volume. Start by applying TRESemmé 24 Hour Body Foaming Mousse onto damp hair. This is a great mousse to use for this style because it will work with your heat styling tools to help maintain body throughout the entire day. Once the product has been absorbed and your hair is completely dry, use a 1-inch curling iron to create tight ringlet curls all around your head. If you want even tighter curls, use an ½ inch curling iron to achieve intense sexy curls. To finish off the look, use some hairspray on your cooled curls to help set your style into place.

4. Marcel Waves

Marcel waves proved to be another chic 1920s hairstyle for short hair, as this waving technique was made famous in 1872 by hairdresser Francois Marcel. Unlike finger waves, marcel waves usually require a curling iron in order to achieve those perfectly structured bends.

To get this look, apply TRESemmé Flawless Curls Defining Cream onto clean hair, and then divide hair into workable sections. Once it’s time to use your curling iron, carefully curl each strand of hair around the iron, aligning them perfectly into defined ridges. Make sure to use your iron on every section of your hair in order to achieve these gorgeous waves all over your head. Next, use your fingers to gently separate curls if they’re too tight. To finish, spray TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist Hairspray Extend Hold Level 4, to help lock your sultry waves in place. We love using this hair spray because it will hold your style throughout the day, without making your hair stiff.

5. Styled Waves

Use a hair gel likeEmerge Style Goals Gelto style your hair into carefully constructed finger waves. Coat your hair in gel and use a long comb to create ridged finger waves that run around the width of your head. This style is the perfect balance between vintage and modern.

Thinking about trying out a 1920s hairstyle? Be sure to share the results with us over @AllThingsHairUS!