15+ Retro Hair Trends to Instantly Boost Your Look and Confidence

Looking to switch up your style this summer? The trendiest hairstyles aren’t exactly new — they’re throwbacks with a modern twist. From tousled ‘70s shags to the sharp, edgy ‘90s bob, retro-inspired cuts are dominating salons. If you’ve ever found yourself saying, “I wish that style would make a comeback,” this is the season to make it yours.

Roaring bobs: 1920s

The 1920s bob cut symbolized freedom and redefined femininity. Sleek and often paired with finger waves, it was typically cut to jaw length, sometimes shorter at the back in a V-shape, known as the “shingle” bob.

The bob wasn’t just a style — it was a rebellious act. Cutting off long, “proper” hair signaled a break from tradition and embraced women’s independence.

To modernize the iconic bob, blend its vintage charm with today’s styling trends:

• You can add beachy waves or subtle tousled curls instead of traditional finger waves. It gives a more relaxed, wearable vibe.
• Try a jawline bob or even a lob (long bob) for a more versatile look that flatters various face shapes and works for more lifestyles.
• Introduce asymmetrical edges, graduated cuts, or invisible layers for a contemporary edge while maintaining that sharp bob silhouette.
• Use ultra-sleek, high-gloss styling for a futuristic take, or opt for matte, piecey texture for an editorial twist.
• Pastel tones, bold roots, or balayage highlights can also breathe new life into a traditional cut.
• Try adding a deep side part or accessory clip for a Gatsby-glam update.

Glossy waves: 1930s

The 1930s hairstyles were known for their elegant, structured waves, such as the Marcel wave, often styled close to the scalp with smooth, flowing curls. These hairstyles were a major shift from the more angular bob cuts of the 1920s and leaned into more voluminous forms.

Here are a few ways to add a modern twist to 1930s hair:

• While traditional 1930s finger waves were tightly sculpted, today’s version can be more relaxed, with looser waves that add texture and volume. Use a flat iron (or curling iron) for a faster, looser version of the style.
• Instead of using vintage rollers, you can use a curling iron for a more contemporary finish, giving a softer look that maintains the charm of the 1930s.
• The bob was iconic in the 1930s, and it’s still in style today. A modern twist can include adding texture or even ombre coloring to give it a more youthful, trendy appearance.

Pin curls, victory rolls, and volume: 1940s

This vintage style was a staple of that time. The classic 1940s look was with structured, symmetrical victory rolls and sculpted waves. It symbolized both glamor and resilience.

The structured waves and strategic volume emphasized femininity while still being manageable under hats or for factory work. Women achieved these styles using pin curls, setting lotion, and careful brushing — a timeless look that’s still iconic today

For a modern spin:

• Go for smoother rolls with softer edges, looser waves, and a fresh finish. It retains the iconic silhouette but feels more wearable for today’s fashion aesthetics.
• Roll just one side.
• You can also pin it with a bold accessory while leaving the rest natural or in loose curls.

Hollywood rollers: 1950s

Bouffants and perfectly coiffed curls reigned supreme. Hollywood Rollers from the 1950s represent the classic glamour.

These voluminous, sculpted curls were the hallmark of stars like Marilyn Monroe, Rita Hayworth, and Elizabeth Taylor.

Today’s takes on Hollywood rollers:

• Use modern curling tools and styling sprays to mimic the shape with more flexibility.
• Looser curls, less teasing, and natural finishes update the look while preserving its vintage charm.
• Update the look with a teased crown and soft ponytail or half-updo for elegant retro vibes.

Sweeping curtain bangs: 1960s-1970s

Drawing inspiration from the ‘60s and ‘70s, this vintage-inspired look showcases bangs parted down the center, gently draping to the sides like curtains. Curtain bangs stand out for their versatility, pairing seamlessly with nearly any style — from flowing, layered locks to a chic shoulder-length lob or a bouncy shag cut.

They create a soft, face-framing effect that highlights your features while adding movement and dimension to your hair. Plus, they grow out effortlessly, making them a perfect choice for anyone hesitant to commit to a full fringe.

The shag: 1970s

The shag haircut, a timeless classic that has resurfaced time and again, is once more taking center stage. Known for its effortlessly edgy, layered texture, this style brings volume, movement, and a playful edge to any look. Versatile and flattering, the shag works beautifully on all hair types and complements everything from cropped cuts to flowing lengths.

• Use a curling wand for loose, beachy waves or let your natural texture shine.
• Style with center parts and add thin braids for a festival-ready update.
• Opt for modern shag cuts or curtain bangs for a retro touch that still feels current.
• Incorporate accessories like braided strands, floral headbands, or loose scarves. It’s all about looking effortlessly undone and romantic.

The mullet: 1970s-1980s

The mullet, once one of the most polarizing hairstyles, has staged a surprising comeback. Now embraced as a bold, trend-forward statement, it appeals to those with a fearless sense of style. Known for its signature “business in the front, party in the back” silhouette, this cut blends shorter front and side sections with longer lengths at the back.

While it once symbolized rebellious fashion, today’s mullet has been modernized with sleeker, more polished layers, giving it a fresh, elevated edge.

Grunge chic and supermodel era: 1990s

The grunge look often featured choppy, unkempt haircuts, typically paired with accessories like chokers, flannel shirts, and loose-fitting clothes. The bob haircut, particularly with bangs, was a popular choice for those embracing the grunge movement. This style gave off a rebellious, effortless vibe, often featuring a more natural, tousled look rather than polished, perfect hairstyles.

There was also “The Rachel” haircut, worn by Jennifer Aniston’s character, Rachel Green, on the popular TV show Friends. It was one of the most iconic and widely copied hairstyles of the 1990s.

To modernize the look, you could:

• Add a sleeker finish to the bob, opting for a slightly textured and tousled finish to achieve that “lived-in” feel.
• Alternatively, pair this with a bit of shine and less extreme volume would offer a more contemporary take, while still paying homage to the grunge era.
• Combine minimalist clothing (like band tees or plaid) and the disheveled yet purposeful hairstyle to keep the look fun.

Pop chic: 2000s

Y2K hair trends are making a massive comeback. This aesthetic was all about boldness and playful spirit.

Iconic looks like crimped hair, chunky highlights, space buns, and butterfly clips are all part of this nostalgic aesthetic. The vibe was fun and experimental, often focusing on volume and texture, with the use of accessories like mini hairbands and clips.

To style these looks today, modern twists include:

• Making them sleeker and more polished. For example, while crimped hair was once bold and voluminous, today’s take is more controlled with minimal frizz and added shine for a sophisticated finish. Space buns are no longer just messy pigtails but refined and symmetrical with soft waves for a more chic and versatile look. Butterfly clips have also evolved into more elegant versions, often seen paired with minimalistic hairstyles for a touch of nostalgia without being over-the-top.
• Incorporating Y2K elements into contemporary fashion can also include opting for sleek, high ponytails or using a mini crimper for texture without making the look too “dated.” Accessorizing with metallic or subtle pastel-colored clips, as opposed to bright, neon hues, also modernizes the style.

Who says the past has to stay behind? In 2025, fashion is boldly turning back time — and we’re here for it. Timeless vintage trends and iconic silhouettes we once thought were gone for good are making a striking comeback, reimagined with a fresh, modern twist.