8 Flapper Hairstyle Ideas to Channel Vintage Glamour and Jazz Age Style

Amy M Clifton

The 1920s marked a bold shift in women’s hairstyles, reflecting newfound freedom and a break from tradition. Flapper hairstyles became iconic symbols of this era, showcasing short bobs, finger waves, and glamorous accessories that defined the Roaring Twenties.

These looks were not just about fashion but a statement of independence and modernity. Today, flapper hairstyles continue to inspire with their timeless elegance and edgy charm.

Whether it’s a sleek bob or a finger wave fringe, these styles offer a perfect blend of vintage flair and contemporary appeal.

Discover eight stunning flapper hairstyle ideas that capture the spirit of the Jazz Age and remain stylish choices for any occasion.

1. Finger Waves

Finger Waves

Finger waves create the iconic 1920s look with smooth, defined S-shaped waves. Start by applying a strong-hold gel evenly on damp hair.

Use a fine-tooth comb and your fingers to shape the hair into waves, securing each wave with clips. Let the hair dry completely before removing clips for long-lasting, glossy waves that embody flapper elegance.

2. Bob with Straight Bangs

Bob with Straight Bangs

They cut hair into a sleek bob ending just below the ears, pairing it with straight-cut bangs to frame the face.

They use a flat iron for precision and apply light serum to keep strands shiny and smooth. They set the look with a shine spray for that iconic polished finish.

3. Glamorous Pin Curls

Glamour Pin Curls

Create glamorous pin curls by starting with damp hair. Section the hair into small strands, wrap each strand around your finger, then pin it flat against the scalp.

Let curls set until dry, then gently release pins for defined, vintage waves. Finish with a light mist of strong-hold spray to ensure lasting hold without stiffening the style.

4. Short Curly Bob Cut

Short Curly Bob

A short curly bob cut channels the flapper spirit with soft, defined curls adding volume and flair. Start by cutting hair just below the ears in a blunt bob shape.

Use a curling iron with a small barrel or set pin curls to create tight, uniform curls. Finish with a light-hold spray to maintain bounce and shine, capturing the playful yet elegant 1920s vibe.

5. Sleek Back Bob

 Slicked-Back Bob

He or she starts by cutting the hair into a sharp, chin-length bob with clean, blunt edges. They then apply a smoothing serum to damp hair and use a fine-tooth comb to slick the hair straight back.

Next, a flat iron locks in the sleek texture. Finally, a strong-hold shine spray keeps the style polished and in place all night.

6. Braided Crown Hairstyle

Braided Crown Hairstyle

They create a braided crown by parting hair down the middle and braiding both sides into tight three-strand braids. They wrap each braid around the head, securing ends with bobby pins tucked underneath.

They finish with light hairspray to hold the style’s vintage elegance without stiffness, perfect for embodying the glamour of the 1920s flapper look.

7. Polished Bob

Polished Bob

They start by cutting the hair into a sharp, chin-length bob with clean, blunt edges. They apply a smoothing serum to damp hair and use a fine-tooth comb to create a sleek, straight look.

They lock in the style with a flat iron and finish with a strong-hold shine spray for a flawless, polished finish.

8. Headband Style with Loose Waves

Headband with Loose Waves

The timeless allure of flapper hairstyles continues to inspire modern looks that balance vintage charm with contemporary flair.

These styles offer versatility, allowing anyone to channel the bold spirit of the 1920s with ease and confidence.

Whether for special events or everyday elegance, embracing these iconic hairdos adds a touch of glamour that never goes out of style.

Exploring these flapper-inspired ideas opens up creative possibilities that celebrate both history and personal expression.

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Amy M Clifton

My approach to hairstyling is deeply personalized. Before every session, I consider each client's lifestyle, skin tone, face, and body shape. Inspired by childhood memories of my mother leaving the salon glowing with confidence, I knew this was my calling. Now, I send my own clients out the door—feeling confident and looking fantastic. I'm located upstairs at Willow's Dream Salon, 210 Merrimon Ave, Asheville. Many clients call me afterward, thrilled by the compliments they receive—that’s the best endorsement! Specialties: Every guest receives a thoughtful consultation before we begin. LinkedIn

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