24 Vintage Hairstyles With Bangs Ideas That Prove Retro Never Goes Out of Style
If you’ve ever scrolled through old Hollywood photos and thought, “Wow, why don’t people wear their hair like that anymore?”, then buckle up.
Vintage hairstyles with bangs are making a serious comeback—and not just for themed parties or your aunt’s rockabilly phase.
Whether you love a soft 1920s wave or a bold ‘70s shag, these looks are timeless for a reason.
I’ve personally fallen down this retro rabbit hole way too many times, trying to copy Brigitte Bardot’s volume or Bettie Page’s perfect fringe. Spoiler: It’s not as easy as it looks, but it’s definitely worth it.
So, if you’re ready to add some old-school glam to your look, here are 24 vintage hairstyles with bangs ideas that’ll make you wish you lived in another era (minus, you know, the lack of Wi-Fi).
1. The Classic 1940s Victory Rolls
If you want a hairstyle that screams “vintage bombshell,” victory rolls are it. This look became iconic during the 1940s—think Rosie the Riveter meets Hollywood glamour.
Pair them with short blunt bangs for a perfect balance between structured and flirty. Add red lipstick, and you’re basically a pin-up queen.
Pro tip: Use strong-hold hairspray, because gravity doesn’t care how cute your rolls look.
2. Bettie Page Bangs
You can’t talk vintage bangs without mentioning Bettie Page—the original bang icon. Her signature short, curved fringe paired with jet-black hair became an instant classic.
The best part? It works with long curls, short bobs, or even messy waves. Just make sure your bangs are precisely cut and slightly curved across your forehead for that retro charm.
3. 1960s Brigitte Bardot Curtain Bangs
Let’s be honest—Bardot bangs never really went out of style. These soft, center-parted bangs frame your face perfectly and pair effortlessly with tousled waves or voluminous ponytails.
They give that “I woke up like this” energy (even though we both know it took 30 minutes with a curling iron).
4. The Flapper Bob With Baby Bangs
Nothing says 1920s like a sleek bob with micro bangs. It’s bold, it’s dramatic, and it instantly adds that art-deco edge.
Pair it with a smoky eye and pearls, and you’ll look like you just stepped out of a Gatsby party.
5. 1950s Poodle Curls With Bangs
The 1950s were all about tight curls and volume. The poodle cut—yes, that’s really what they called it—was super popular among glamorous housewives and screen sirens.
Add short, curled-under bangs to complete the look. It’s vintage perfection with a playful twist.
6. The Retro Beehive With Side Bangs
Channel your inner Audrey Hepburn with a high beehive updo. The height alone makes this style an instant attention-grabber.
Pair it with soft side-swept bangs for balance. Bonus: It gives you a few extra inches of “height” without the heels.
7. 1970s Feathered Layers With Wispy Bangs
Farrah Fawcett defined an era with her feathered hair and wispy bangs. It’s soft, voluminous, and has that effortless cool-girl vibe.
FYI: A round brush and a blow dryer are your best friends here. If you can’t get the flips just right, no judgment—we’ve all been there.
8. The Gibson Tuck With Bangs
Want a vintage updo that looks intricate but is surprisingly easy? The Gibson tuck gives that romantic Edwardian vibe.
Pair it with blunt or side bangs, and you’ll look like you walked straight out of a period drama (minus the corset).
9. 1960s Mod Bob
The Mod bob became iconic thanks to Twiggy and the London fashion scene. It’s sleek, geometric, and oh-so-stylish.
Add choppy bangs just above the brows to complete the structured look. Pair it with dramatic eyeliner, and you’ve nailed the vibe.
10. Retro Ponytail With Bangs
A high, teased ponytail with bangs never fails to look retro-fun. Think 1960s cheerleader meets modern-day chic.
Wrap a strand of hair around your elastic, add a ribbon, and bam—you’re camera-ready.
11. The 1950s Rockabilly Bangs
For a bolder look, try rockabilly bangs, also called bumper bangs. These are rolled under and styled into a mini curl above your forehead.
They pair perfectly with victory rolls, red lips, and winged eyeliner. Just don’t forget the setting spray—humidity is the enemy here.
12. The Marilyn Monroe Curls With Bangs
Channel your inner bombshell with soft blonde curls and side bangs. Monroe’s signature waves exude glam and confidence.
If you want that iconic shine, use a smoothing serum and a large-barrel curling iron. Confidence sold separately.
13. 1930s Finger Waves With Baby Bangs
The 1930s gave us one of the most elegant hairstyles ever: finger waves. Pair them with short, straight-across bangs for a dramatic retro twist.
It’s a bit high-maintenance, but worth it if you’re aiming for that old-Hollywood red carpet vibe.
14. 1970s Shag Cut With Fringe
The shag cut is messy, layered, and effortlessly cool. Add thin, face-framing bangs, and you’ll look like you just hopped off a vintage album cover.
It’s the perfect “I didn’t try, but I still look amazing” hairstyle—IMO, one of the most underrated looks ever.
15. Pin Curls and Bangs
This one’s for true vintage enthusiasts. Pin curls were a 1940s staple, and they still look stunning today.
Pair them with short, curled bangs for a full retro transformation. Warning: You may suddenly crave swing music.
16. The Retro Half-Up With Bangs
A half-up, half-down style gives you vintage charm without the full commitment. Add some volume at the crown and soft, wispy bangs for a romantic finish.
Perfect for date nights or when you want to look like you actually tried.
17. Bouffant With Blunt Bangs
Want drama? Go big or go home. The bouffant is all about volume, teasing, and hairspray (so much hairspray).
Pair it with blunt bangs, and you’ll instantly feel like a ‘60s pop star. Just maybe don’t sit too close to an open flame.
18. Retro Pixie Cut With Baby Bangs
The pixie cut isn’t just modern—it has serious vintage roots. Think Audrey Hepburn or Jean Seberg.
Add micro bangs for that classic gamine charm. It’s chic, low-maintenance, and honestly, a little rebellious.
19. The 1980s Glam Blowout With Bangs
Okay, technically not ancient vintage, but the ‘80s blowout is too iconic to skip. Think big curls, full bangs, and unapologetic volume.
It’s bold, fun, and basically impossible to ignore.
20. Victory Rolls With a Ponytail Twist
Take those classic victory rolls and pair them with a high ponytail. It’s vintage with a playful edge—like pin-up meets modern-day sass.
Add a polka-dot scarf, and you’re good to go.
21. Vintage Waves With Curtain Bangs
For a more romantic look, try loose vintage waves with soft curtain bangs. It’s effortless, glamorous, and timeless.
I’ve worn this combo to weddings and brunches—it works for both, trust me.
22. Rolled Bangs With a Scarf
If you love accessorizing, you’ll adore this. Roll your bangs inward and tie a retro scarf or bandana around your head.
It’s the perfect lazy-day hairstyle that still looks intentional. Plus, it hides any bad bang days (we’ve all been there).
23. Victory Bob With Curled Bangs
Combine a sleek bob with curled-under bangs for a polished, vintage finish. It’s sophisticated without being stuffy.
Perfect for office looks or when you want to give off “elegant but approachable” energy.
24. The Retro Updo With Fringe
Last but not least, the vintage updo with fringe is the ultimate blend of class and sass. Think Audrey Hepburn meets Dita Von Teese.
It’s ideal for formal events—or, you know, pretending your kitchen is a ballroom. 🙂
Tips for Nailing the Vintage Bangs Look
Alright, so you’ve got the inspo. Now let’s make sure your bangs actually cooperate.
- Use a round brush: It helps create that soft vintage curve.
- Go for setting spray or pomade: These styles rely on hold and shine.
- Invest in a curling iron or hot rollers: They’re your best tools for retro texture.
- Trim regularly: Vintage bangs need upkeep to stay sharp and shaped.
- Play with accessories: Scarves, pins, and ribbons complete the look.
Final Thoughts: Vintage Bangs Are the Ultimate Comeback
Here’s the thing—vintage hairstyles with bangs never truly disappeared. They just evolve, finding their way back through every new trend cycle. Whether you’re going for a full retro transformation or just testing the waters with some soft fringe, there’s a style here for you.
I’ve tried half these looks myself (some wins, some… let’s not talk about them), but that’s the beauty of vintage hair—it’s playful, expressive, and a little rebellious.
So grab your curling iron, channel your inner old-Hollywood diva, and give one of these 24 vintage hairstyles with bangs ideas a try. Because fashion changes—but great hair? That’s forever.

Hi, I’m Ashley Miller, a wife, a busy mom, and someone who loves to share all the things that make life a little more fun and beautiful.
From easy DIY projects, delicious recipes, and chic hairstyles to nail ideas and home decor tips, I share everything I’ve learned and love.
My goal is to inspire other women to explore their creativity and make their homes even more special.