Updos & hairstyles for your wedding, prom or formal event

1930s Fashion & 1930s Hair Styles

View hair styles from the 30's

The coiffure of 1930s hairstyles was essentially defined by shorter waves in an array of styles. There were few women who wore their hair longer than chin length because beyond this, it simply becomes much more work to set. Hair was clean and polished as 1930s fashion involved a genteel, ladylike appearance.

An Overview of 1930s Fashion

The wardrobe of women of all social classes became softer and more feminine during this era, influencing the gentle wave of many 1930s hair styles. Skirts were often longer in the back with knee pleats and with improved fabrics like cotton, rayon and fine wool crepes, apparel was made to highlight curves.

1930s fashion was taken to a whole new level by the end of the decade when nylon hosiery was created which essentially transformed the lives of many women who were previously bothered by baggy stockings. It’s amazing how much more feminine you feel in a pair of proper fitting nylons! The zipper was also introduced during this era. This simple tool made it easier for women to get into their clothes without messing up their glamorous 1930s hairstyle.

1930s Hair

It is unbelievable just how many wave styles were created during the 1930s and the fact that some were reserved for special occasions while others were considered more casual for everyday wear.

Saucer Wave – This 1930s hairstyle received its name by the way the wave of hair essentially formed a circle either centered around the crown or off to one side.
Finger Waves – When many people hear the term 1930s fashion, they immediately visualize sensational finger waves. These are created by making sharp ridges at various intervals on the head. Finger waves take a lot of practice and are still worn for formal wear today.
Water Waves – A setting lotion is used along with a comb to create a wave pattern. When the hair is dried, the special combs are removed.
Wet May Murray – This 1930s hair style was reserved for evening wear and it is said that it was preferred by smaller women who wanted to appear a bit taller. This was a combination of finger waves around the face, along with an abundance of pincurls.
Brush Curling – Those who had thin or very fine hair often wore this 1930s hairstyle instead of finger waves. Brush curling offers a softer, fluffy effect.
Bias Wave – This was a popular look to wear underneath hats. This 1930s hair style offered one side straight with the other side being biased, combed with the wave created toward the middle of the eyebrow and curved around toward the crown.
Straight Back Combination Wave – The hair is brought back into a pompadour and then the wave is created from that point, traveling across the head. The single-dip, double-dip and quarter are all popular varieties of this look.