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1920s men’s hairstyles
The 1920s were a time of great change, not just in fashion but in how men styled their hair. Known for their bold choices, men of the Roaring Twenties embraced sleek, polished looks with a touch of rebellion. 1920s men’s hairstyles were all about making a statement, whether through a refined, slicked-back style or a daring undercut. Let’s dive into some of the most iconic hairstyles of that era and how they defined the men who wore them.
1: Modern Takes on 1920s Hairstyles
Today, 1920s inspired men’s hair is making a comeback. From slicked-back styles to neat side parts, men are revisiting vintage looks to create a classic yet modern appearance. Whether you have long or short hair, the timeless charm of 1920s hairstyles can be recreated using modern styling tools and products.
Vintage haircuts can easily be modernised with today’s hair products and tools. Whether you’re aiming for a 1920s men’s hairstyle long or short, the sleek, polished aesthetic can still be achieved. The classic side part, slicked-back style, or even 1920s men’s hairstyles curly are great options to experiment with.
2. Popular Hairstyles of the 1920s
1: The Slicked Back Look
One of the most popular styles of the 1920s was the slicked-back hairstyle. Men would use pomade or gel to achieve a smooth, shiny finish, pushing their hair back from the forehead for a polished appearance. This style was seen as both elegant and practical, as it stayed in place throughout the day. The pomades of the time were oil-based, giving the hair that glossy sheen men admired.
Famous figures like Rudolph Valentino, a heartthrob of silent films, wore this style, setting trends for men across the globe. The slicked-back look wasn’t just for movie stars; businessmen, socialites, and everyday men adopted this polished appearance, showing the world they were ready for success.
2: The Side Part
Another staple of men’s hairstyles in the 1920s was the side part. This hairstyle was incredibly versatile and could be worn in both formal and casual settings. Men would part their hair on one side, using a comb and pomade to hold it in place. The side part was often combined with the slicked-back look, giving men a clean, sharp appearance.
3: The Undercut
For younger men seeking something more daring, the undercut became a symbol of rebellion. Unlike the polished styles of their fathers, the undercut featured long hair on top and short or shaved sides. This sharp contrast between lengths made the undercut stand out, giving it an edgy, bold look that young men gravitated toward.
The undercut wasn’t just about style—it represented a shift in society. As the world changed after World War I, so did the way men expressed themselves. The undercut became popular among men who wanted to break away from tradition and showcase their independence. Its rebellious vibe made it a go-to style for men who wanted to stand out from the crowd.
Men like F. Scott Fitzgerald, known for his novel “The Great Gatsby,” sported this look, reflecting the daring and adventurous spirit of the era.
4: The Finger Wave
A more unique hairstyle for men in the 1920s was the finger wave. While finger waves are often associated with women, some men embraced this wavy, polished look. The waves were created by using pomade, gel, and sometimes curling irons to shape the hair into neat, defined waves.
The finger wave was daring and less common, but for those who wore it, it was a statement of boldness. The meticulous styling required for this look meant that it wasn’t for the faint-hearted, but for men who wanted to push the boundaries of fashion.
Actors and performers, especially those in the entertainment industry, were known for wearing this style, giving it a spotlight in the public eye.
5: The Ivy League: Timeless and Clean-Cut
One of the most popular 1920s men’s hairstyles was the Ivy League. This cut, with its short sides and back and a slightly longer top, gave men the perfect balance between a formal and casual look. It was favoured by students at prestigious colleges and became synonymous with clean-cut sophistication.
To achieve the Ivy League look, men would use pomade or hair gel, then style it with a comb to ensure every hair stayed in place. This hairstyle was neat, classic, and easy to manage, making it a hit for both everyday wear and special occasions. Celebrities and famous figures, such as Cary Grant and Paul Newman, often sported the Ivy League cut, setting trends that others followed.
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6: The Pompadour: Bold and Dramatic
While the Ivy League was understated, the Pompadour was anything but. This bold style featured a voluminous top with tapered sides and back, creating a look that commanded attention. The top hair was swept up and back, often requiring a good amount of pomade, hair gel, and a blow dryer to achieve the perfect height and volume. Elvis Presley is one of the most famous men to wear the Pompadour, but the look had roots even before his time.
During the 1920s, this style was a statement of boldness and individuality, perfect for men who weren’t afraid to stand out. It embodied the lavish, carefree spirit of the roaring twenties.
7: The Middle Part: A Popular Trend Among the Youth
Another signature 1920s men’s hairstyle was the middle part, a style that gained popularity among younger men of the time. This look featured a clean, symmetrical part right down the middle, with the hair slicked back on both sides. Achieving this look was simple but required a good hold product, such as pomade or gel, to keep everything in place.
Young men loved this look because it was sleek and easy to maintain, yet stylish enough for the dance floors of the jazz age. The middle part was a staple for 1920s men’s hairstyles, short hair as well as those with longer locks, offering versatility and style in equal measure. Even today, variations of this look remain popular among fashion-conscious men.
8: The Buzz Cut: No-Nonsense Style
In contrast to the carefully styled Pompadour or Ivy League, the Buzz Cut was a no-nonsense choice, often favoured by athletes and manual labourers. This look involved shaving the hair down to a short, even length across the head. While it didn’t offer the same level of style as other cuts, it was practical and easy to maintain, making it ideal for men who led active or outdoor lifestyles.
The Buzz Cut was also a favourite in the military, providing a clean, uniform look. Over time, this simple style has seen modern adaptations, becoming a go-to look for men seeking a low-maintenance, rugged appearance.
9: Gangster 1920s Men’s Hairstyles: The Peaky Blinders Look
One can’t talk about 1920s men’s hairstyles without mentioning the influence of gangsters and mobsters on the fashion of the time. Characters like Al Capone and fictional figures from the popular series Peaky Blinders showcased sharp, slicked-back hairstyles that quickly became associated with the criminal underworld. The Peaky Blinders hairstyles, with their short, cropped sides and longer tops, are iconic representations of the era.
The gangster 1920s men’s hairstyles were a way to blend rebellion with style. These cuts were sleek, sharp, and often finished with a heavy dose of pomade to ensure the hair stayed perfectly slicked back, conveying an air of dominance and control.
3: The Rise of Black Hairstyles in the 1920s
While many focus on the sleek and polished styles of white men during the 1920s, it’s important to highlight the influence of Black men’s hairstyles during this period. 1920s men’s hairstyles black were often about embracing natural textures while incorporating elements of the era’s popular styles.
Many Black men during the 1920s sported short, tight cuts that celebrated the natural curl of their hair, while others would use pomades and gels to create sleek, sophisticated looks similar to their white counterparts. These styles became popular in jazz clubs and speakeasies, contributing to the growing cultural influence of the Black community during the Harlem Renaissance.
4: Hairstyles Through the Decades: The Influence of the 1920s
The trends of the 1920s left an indelible mark on the hairstyles of later decades. In the 1930s men’s hairstyles, we saw a continuation of the slicked-back, polished look but with softer lines and less rigidity. The 1940s men’s hairstyles adopted a more military-inspired look, while the 1960s men’s hairstyles took a wild turn with the rise of long, flowing locks.
Each of these later styles had roots in the classic 1920s hairstyles, showing just how influential this era was in shaping the look of men’s grooming.
5: Modern Adaptations of 1920s Men’s Hairstyles
Today, 1920s men’s hairstyles are making a comeback in modern grooming. Whether it’s through vintage-inspired looks like the Pompadour, Ivy League, or even the middle part, men are embracing the timeless charm of these styles.
Even short hair has evolved from the 1920s men’s hairstyles short hair, with modern adaptations offering a fresher, more textured take on the classic styles. And for Black men, the revival of natural hairstyles celebrates both the history and heritage of the 1920s while incorporating modern trends.
6: Styling Tips for 1920s Men’s Hairstyles
To recreate any of these 1920s men’s hairstyles, there are a few key things you’ll need:
- Pomade: An essential for any 1920s hairstyle, pomade provides the hold and shine that these looks require. Opt for a classic oil-based pomade to get the authentic sheen of the era.
- Comb: For slicked-back looks and side parts, a fine-toothed comb is a must. It helps distribute the pomade evenly and gives that clean, sharp finish.
- Gel or Water: For finger waves, a wet look was often created with gel or simply using water to style and shape the waves before they set.
By mastering these basic tools, any man can achieve a vintage 1920s hairstyle that transports them back to a time of elegance and rebellion.
7: Cultural Significance of 1920s Men’s Hairstyles
The hairstyles of the 1920s weren’t just about appearance—they symbolized the changing dynamics of society. After World War I, men were eager to leave behind the somber looks of the past and embrace styles that reflected optimism and modernity. Hair became an expression of self, with slick styles representing control and neatness, while the undercut and finger wave embraced the new and the daring.
8: Hair Care in the 1920s
Men in the 1920s were serious about their grooming. 1920s hair products for men included pomades, hair tonics, and oils to achieve that sleek, shiny finish. Pomades were essential for keeping hair in place, giving it a glossy appearance. Hair tonics, which were commonly used, nourished the scalp and added shine to the hair. Grooming was not just a task; it was a ritual. Regular barber visits were a must, ensuring that hair was kept neat and tidy at all times.
Maintaining hair was a sign of status and pride. Men would often spend significant time in front of the mirror, combing their hair into place and applying pomade generously. These efforts were part of a larger grooming culture that reflected the values of the time.
9: Influence of the Jazz Age
The Jazz Age wasn’t just about music; it was a cultural revolution that influenced fashion, behaviour, and of course, hair. The rise of jazz, speakeasies, and nightlife created a vibrant atmosphere where men could experiment with bold new styles. Jazz Age hairstyles often carried a sense of freedom and rebellion, influenced by the lively music and the underground culture of speakeasies.
Nightclubs were filled with jazz musicians and patrons who set trends with their slicked-back hair and neat side parts. Many of these styles are still recognized today as classic men’s hair trends from the jazz culture of the 1920s. The influence of jazz wasn’t limited to just fashion or music; it became a lifestyle that people embraced wholeheartedly, including in their hairstyles.
10: Iconic Men of the 1920s
Many famous figures from the 1920s shaped men’s hairstyle trends. One of the most notable was Rudolph Valentino, who popularised the slicked-back look. His suave and polished appearance set the standard for men’s hairstyles during the decade.
Then, there was Charlie Chaplin, who became famous for his iconic side-parted hair. His hairstyle became synonymous with classic men’s grooming. Buster Keaton was another star who sported the undercut, a style that showcased neatly cut sides with longer hair on top.
These men didn’t just shape hair trends; they became symbols of style and sophistication, embodying the polished yet daring look of the time.
11: The Influence of Hollywood
Hollywood played a crucial role in shaping men’s grooming trends. Stars like Fred Astaire and Rudolph Valentino set the bar high for how men should look. Astaire’s elegant style, combined with his perfectly groomed hair, made him an icon of the era.
1920s Hollywood men’s hair was all about refinement. Movie stars, through their on-screen presence, dictated how men styled themselves off-screen. Haircuts were precise, polished, and perfectly styled, making it clear that Hollywood was a trendsetter in men’s grooming.
12: The Role of Barbershops
Barbershops were a cornerstone of men’s grooming culture in the 1920s. Regular visits to the barber were essential to maintain the clean, polished look that was in vogue. Typical barbershop services included haircuts, shaves, and scalp massages. Pomade and hair tonic were often applied liberally, helping men achieve that shiny, slicked-back look.
The evolution of barbershops over the years has continued to reflect changes in men’s grooming trends. Today, while barbershops offer modern services, many still pay homage to the traditions of the past.
13: Hairstyles and Social Status
In the 1920s, a man’s hairstyle often reflected his social and economic status. Upper-class men typically sported polished and well-groomed hairstyles that required regular maintenance. These men could afford frequent trips to the barbershop, where their hair was carefully styled using pomade and other grooming products.
In contrast, working-class men often had simpler styles that were easier to maintain. However, as jazz culture grew in influence, it began to blur the lines between class and style. Men from all walks of life began to embrace the clean, slicked-back look, making it a unifying symbol of the decade.
14: FAQs
What were popular hairstyles in the 1920s for men?
In the 1920s, popular men’s hairstyles included the slicked back look, side parts, and the undercut. These styles were neat, polished, and often styled with pomade or tonics to give a glossy finish.
What was the 1920 hairstyle called?
The popular hairstyles of the 1920s were often referred to as the slick back, finger waves, and side part. The undercut was also iconic, where the sides were short, and the top was left longer.
Did men have long hair in the 20s?
No, long hair was not common for men in the 1920s. Men typically wore their hair short, neat, and groomed. The trend was all about polished and refined looks.
How to do a 1920s hairstyle?
To recreate a 1920s hairstyle:
- Apply pomade or gel to damp hair.
- Use a comb to slick the hair back or create a sharp side part.
- For finger waves, comb the hair back and then press the hair into S-shaped waves with your fingers.
Did Jesus have long hair?
Historically, Jesus is often depicted with long hair, though there is no concrete evidence about his actual appearance. Artistic interpretations from different cultures have influenced this imagery.
Why is long hair attractive to guys?
Long hair can be seen as attractive because it often symbolises femininity, health, and youth. Some guys find it appealing because it creates a versatile and flowing look.
Did men have facial hair in the 1920s?
In the 1920s, clean-shaven faces were more popular. While facial hair was common in earlier decades, the 1920s saw a trend toward smoother, more polished looks.
Did men shave in the 1920s?
Yes, men regularly shaved in the 1920s. Clean-shaven faces were fashionable, and safety razors became widely available, making shaving more accessible.
When did men start styling their hair?
Men have styled their hair for centuries, but modern men’s hairstyling, particularly with products like pomades and tonics, became more prominent in the early 20th century, especially during the 1920s.
What male hairstyles were popular in the 1920s?
Popular 1920s men’s hairstyles included the slicked back look, side part, and undercut. These styles were sleek and well-groomed, often held in place with pomade.
What was the 1920 hairstyle called?
One of the key 1920s hairstyles was called the slick back. The undercut and side part were also common during this time.
What is a traditional men’s haircut called?
A traditional men’s haircut is often referred to as a gentleman’s cut or a classic taper, where the hair is short on the sides and longer on the top.
What facial hair did men have in the 1920s?
Men in the 1920s typically did not have facial hair, as clean-shaven looks were in style. Moustaches and beards were generally out of fashion during this decade.
How to do a 1920s hairstyle?
To achieve a 1920s hairstyle:
- Use a comb to create a side part or slick your hair straight back.
- Apply pomade or hair tonic for a shiny, controlled finish.
- For added flair, style finger waves by combing the hair into S-shaped curves.
Did men have long hair in the 20s?
No, long hair was uncommon for men in the 1920s. Short, sleek styles were the trend, with hair carefully groomed and styled.
What was the fashion style of hair in the 1920s?
The fashion style of hair in the 1920s for men was polished, slicked back, and refined. Side parts, finger waves, and the undercut were popular styles, all contributing to the clean and neat look of the time.
How to create 1920s waves in hair?
To create 1920s waves:
- Apply a strong hold gel or pomade to damp hair.
- Use a comb to create an S-shape in the hair.
- Press the waves into place with your fingers and let the hair set.
- Use a brush to smooth out the hair for a glossy, polished finish.
Why did hairstyles change in the 1920s?
Hairstyles changed in the 1920s due to cultural shifts, the influence of Hollywood, and the rise of jazz culture. Men moved away from facial hair and unkempt styles, embracing cleaner, more polished looks that reflected modernity.
What is a classic gentleman’s hairstyle?
A classic gentleman’s hairstyle is a side-parted cut with the sides neatly trimmed and the top styled with pomade for a sleek look. This timeless style exudes sophistication and refinement.
What is a gentleman’s cut?
A gentleman’s cut is a traditional men’s haircut that’s short on the sides with longer hair on top, styled neatly with a side part or slicked back for a polished, elegant appearance.
What is the most famous haircut for men?
One of the most famous haircuts for men is the slicked-back look or the side part. These styles have been iconic for decades and remain popular due to their timeless appeal.
Conclusion
The 1920s men’s hairstyles were more than just a fashion statement—they were a reflection of an era filled with change, elegance, and a touch of rebellion. From the slicked-back styles to the side parts, these looks have stood the test of time and continue to inspire men today. Whether you’re aiming to recreate a vintage look or add a modern twist, the timeless appeal of 1920s men’s hairstyles offers endless possibilities. Why not try one out and channel the charm and sophistication of the Roaring Twenties?