Explore a century of hairstyles with this collection of 29 captivating photos. From the flapper bob in the 1920s to the bold colors and textures of modern day, see how each decade brought its own flair and personality to hairstyling.
1. 1920s – Flapper Bob
The 1920s flapper bob was a symbol of liberation. Short, sleek, and paired with finger waves, it broke tradition. Women embraced it for its rebellious charm.
2. 1930s – Hollywood Waves
Hollywood waves defined the 1930s glam. Soft, cascading curls framed the face, creating an aura of sophistication.
3. 1940s – Victory Rolls
Victory rolls soared in the 1940s. Inspired by wartime triumphs, they featured large, rolled curls pinned atop the head. Both practical and stylish, they kept hair out of the face during work.
4. 1950s – Ducktail
The ducktail, or ‘D.A.’, became a symbol of rebellion in the 1950s, originating from rock and roll culture. It was popularized by movie stars and musicians, making it an iconic look of the decade.
5. 1960s – Beehive
The beehive was an icon of the 1960s. Towering and teased, it required serious hairspray. Popularized by figures like Audrey Hepburn, it was the epitome of mod fashion, turning heads with its sky-high structure.
6. 1970s – Shag Cut
The shag cut of the 1970s was effortlessly cool. Layers and bangs created a casual, tousled look. Rock stars embraced it, making it synonymous with the free-spirited counterculture.
7. 1980s – Big Hair
Big hair reigned supreme in the 1980s. The bigger, the better was the motto. Bold and unapologetic, it captured the extravagant spirit of the decade in every curl.
8. 1990s – The Rachel
“The Rachel,” made famous by Jennifer Aniston, defined the 1990s. Sleek layers and face-framing highlights created a flattering, chic look. Many emulated this style, making it a symbol of 90s pop culture.
9. 2000s – Emo Bangs
Emo bangs made a statement in the 2000s. Long, straight, and often colored, they conveyed youthful angst. Covering one eye, they were both mysterious and expressive.
10. 2010s – Balayage
Balayage brought subtle sophistication to the 2010s. This freehand coloring technique created natural, sun-kissed highlights. Low maintenance yet high impact, it became a favorite among fashionistas.
11. 2020s – Natural Texture
Embracing natural texture is key in the 2020s. Curls, waves, and coils are celebrated in all their glory. With a focus on authenticity and acceptance, this trend encourages individuals to flaunt their natural beauty.
12. 1920s – Eton Crop
The eton crop, a daring departure from previous norms, was a short, sleek hairstyle that epitomized the rebellious spirit of the 1920s. Cutting one’s hair was a radical statement of independence and liberation.
13. 1930s – Finger Waves
Finger waves, a hallmark of 1930s style, showcased elegance through meticulously sculpted waves. This hairstyle was synonymous with Hollywood glamour, often seen gracing the heads of silver screen sirens.
14. 1940s – Pin Curls
Pin curls defined the 1940s, offering a versatile and elegant styling option. Women would create tight, small curls by pinning sections of wet hair, resulting in a bouncy and lively look once dried.
15. 1940s – Snood
The snood was a pragmatic yet fashionable choice during the 1940s, especially for women working in factories. It involved securing hair in a net-like accessory, protecting hair while looking elegant.
16. 1950s – Bouffant
The bouffant became synonymous with the 1950s, characterized by its large, teased volume and dramatic presence. Women embraced this style for its glamorous and sophisticated allure.
17. 1960s – Mod Cut
The mod cut, popularized in the 1960s, reflected the youthful, edgy spirit of the decade. It was an embodiment of rebellion and innovation, influencing fashion and hairstyles for years to come.
18. 1960s – Pixie Cut
The pixie cut emerged in the 1960s, offering a fresh, bold look that challenged traditional norms. This short, cropped hairstyle highlighted facial features, exuding confidence and charm.
19. 1970s – Afro
The afro became a powerful symbol of cultural pride in the 1970s, celebrating natural beauty and afrocentric identity. It was a visual expression of the civil rights movement’s ideals.
20. 1970s – Farrah Fawcett Waves
Farrah Fawcett waves, made famous by the actress herself, epitomized 1970s glamour. This hairstyle featured feathered layers that framed the face, exuding a carefree, sun-kissed appeal.
21. 1980s – Mullet
The mullet, known for its ‘business in the front, party in the back’ style, gained popularity in the 1980s. It became a symbol of individuality and non-conformity, often seen in music and sports icons.
22. 1980s – Hi-Top Fade
The hi-top fade emerged in the 1980s as a defining hairstyle within hip-hop culture. Characterized by its flat, high top and sharply tapered sides, it symbolized creativity and boldness.
23. 1990s – Grunge
The grunge hairstyle captured the essence of 1990s alternative culture, characterized by its unkempt, laid-back appearance. Paired with flannel shirts and combat boots, the grunge hairstyle became synonymous with the era’s rebellious spirit.
24. 2000s – Frosted Tips
Frosted tips brought a playful twist to the 2000s, featuring hair with lightened ends that stood out against darker roots. This style was both trendy and casual, appealing to those seeking a pop of color.
25. 2000s – Spiky Hair
Spiky hair became a hallmark of early 2000s style, characterized by gelled, upright strands that defied gravity. This edgy look was popular among young men, offering a bold way to express personal style.
26. 2010s – Man Bun
The man bun became a defining hairstyle of the 2010s, offering a blend of practicality and style. It was embraced by men seeking a contemporary look, allowing for easy maintenance and a sleek appearance.
27. 2010s – Undercut
The undercut gained popularity in the 2010s for its bold, contrasting look. It offered a modern twist on traditional haircuts, allowing for creative styling options.
28. 2020s – Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs have become a standout hairstyle in the 2020s, featuring long, parted bangs that frame the face. This soft, versatile look complements a variety of face shapes and hairstyles.
29. 2020s – Wolf Cut
The wolf cut has emerged as a bold style in the 2020s, blending elements of the shag and mullet. Popular among fashion-forward youth, it symbolizes a break from tradition, embracing individuality and creativity.