17 Pin-Up Hairstyles for a Vintage Look

Pin-Up Hairstyles

Quick answer

Victory rolls, finger waves and bumper bangs: 17 vintage hairstyles and how to create them.

In this guide 20 sections

Pin-up hairstyles bring back the glamour of the 1940s and 50s: sculpted curls, victory rolls, short bangs and bright headscarves. They are perfect for weddings, themed parties or anyone who loves vintage style.

These 17 pin-up hairstyles range from easy faux bangs to full victory roll updos. Each one comes with a quick how-to.

1. Classic Short-Bang Pin-Up Look

Short, rounded bangs with long, glossy curls are the most recognisable 1950s pin-up look.

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How to do it: Curl the bangs under with a round brush and set the lengths in pin curls.

2. 1920s Gatsby-Inspired Waves

Sleek finger waves and a low bun give a roaring-twenties feel.

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How to do it: Create S-shaped waves with gel and a fine comb, then pin the back into a low bun.

3. Vintage Wavy Hairstyle

Soft, brushed-out curls create a glamorous vintage wave.

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How to do it: Set the hair in rollers, then brush the curls out gently.

4. Victory Roll Pin-Up

Victory rolls are the signature pin-up style.

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How to do it: Roll a front section around two fingers and pin it in place.

5. Vintage Bridal Pin-Up

Soft rolls and curls look romantic for a vintage wedding.

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How to do it: Add a birdcage veil or flower for a bridal finish.

6. Faux Bangs

Faux bangs create the pin-up look without cutting your hair.

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How to do it: Roll a front section under and pin it to look like a fringe.

7. Victory Rolls

Two victory rolls on top frame the face.

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How to do it: Tease the base of each section for more volume.

8. Accessorised Pin-Up Hair

Scarves, flowers and bows complete the pin-up look.

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How to do it: Tie a bright scarf around the head with the bow on top.

9. Victory Rolls and Curls Updo

Victory rolls at the front with an updo at the back look polished.

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How to do it: Pin the curls up at the back after creating the rolls.

10. Rockabilly Ponytail

A high ponytail with curled bangs is fun and flirty.

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How to do it: Curl the ponytail and add a scarf.

11. Gibson Roll

A Gibson roll tucks the hair into a neat roll at the nape.

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How to do it: Wrap the hair around a headband and pin it.

12. Holiday Pin-Up Hairstyle

Festive accessories add holiday sparkle to pin-up hair.

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How to do it: Add a red bow or sparkly clip.

13. Birdcage Veil Pin-Up

A birdcage veil adds instant vintage glamour.

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How to do it: Pin the veil on the side opposite your part.

14. Bumper Bangs

Bumper bangs are rolled under for a smooth, rounded fringe.

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How to do it: Roll the front section over a padded roller and pin.

15. Pin-Up Bob

A curled bob looks retro and chic.

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How to do it: Set the bob in pin curls overnight.

16. Victory Rolls with a Twist

A twist adds a modern detail to victory rolls.

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How to do it: Twist the section before rolling it.

17. Pin-Up Updo

A sculpted updo is elegant and timeless.

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How to do it: Use plenty of pins and finish with hairspray.

Tips for Perfect Pin-Up Hair

Set the curls

Pin curls or rollers set overnight give long-lasting shape.

Use teasing

Teasing at the roots helps rolls hold their shape.

Finish with hairspray

A strong-hold spray keeps the style in place all day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the easiest pin-up hairstyle?

Faux bangs or a headscarf with curls are the easiest.

Do pin-up hairstyles work on short hair?

Yes. A curled bob or bumper bangs suit short hair.

What are victory rolls?

Victory rolls are rolled sections of hair pinned at the front or top of the head, popular in the 1940s.

Final Thoughts

Pin-up hairstyles add instant vintage glamour. Start with faux bangs or a headscarf, then try victory rolls when you are ready for more.

For more ideas, see our vintage hairstyles for short hair, hairstyles for greasy hair and elegant Christmas hairstyles.

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