Best Vintage Hair Styling Products for a 1950s Look
Want to recreate the iconic 1950s vintage hairstyle—think soft curls, structured volume, and perfectly styled bangs?
The secret isn’t just technique. It’s using the right vintage hair styling products and tools to get that polished, long-lasting finish.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best products for creating a 1950s look, along with simple styling tips to help you achieve that classic pin-up glam at home.
What Defines a 1950s Hairstyle?
Before we get into products, it helps to understand the look.
Classic 1950s hair is:
- Smooth and controlled
- Full of volume
- Softly curled (not messy or beachy)
- Structured around the face
Think:
- Rolls
- Pin curls
- Curled ends
- Voluminous fringes
- High pony tails
- Soft volumous waves and curls
The Essential Vintage Hair Styling Products
To achieve this look, you need a combination of tools + styling products.
1. Pillow Rollers (For Heatless Vintage Curls)
If you want authentic, soft curls without heat damage, pillow rollers are essential.
They allow you to:
- Set curls overnight
- Create smooth, uniform shape
- Avoid frizz and dryness
Perfect for beginners and anyone wanting healthier styling.
How to use:
- Apply to slightly damp hair
- Roll sections evenly
- Leave overnight or until fully dry
2. Bumper Bangs Tool (For Instant Volume)
The classic 1950s fringe is full, rounded, and structured.
A bumper bangs tool helps you:
- Create instant volume at the front
- Shape your fringe easily
- Achieve a polished vintage silhouette
Ideal if you don’t want to cut your hair but still want the look.
SHOP THE RIBBON ROLLER HAIR TOOL HERE
3. Strong-Hold Hairspray (But Brushable)
To lock in your style, you need a hairspray that:
- Holds structure
- Doesn’t leave hair crunchy
- Can be brushed through without flakinG
This is what keeps curls and rolls in place all day.
SHOP VICTORY SPRAY SETTING AND FINISH HAIRSPRAY HERE
4. Setting Lotion or Styling Spray
This is what gives your curls their lasting shape.
Use it before rolling your hair to:
- Improve hold
- Reduce frizz
- Create that smooth, vintage finish
SHOP THE SETTING LOTION AND CONTINUOUS SPRAY BOTTLE KIT HERE
5. Shine-Enhancing Finishing Products
1950s hair is never dull—it has a soft, healthy shine.
Use a firm hold, smoothing pomade that won't weight your hair down.
Step-by-Step: Creating a 1950s Hairstyle
Here’s a simple routine using the products above:
Step 1: Prep the Hair
- Start with slightly damp hair
- Apply setting lotion evenly
Step 2: Set with Rollers
- Section hair
- Roll using pillow rollers
- Allow to fully dry (or leave overnight)
Step 3: Brush Out the Curls
- Gently brush through to soften
- Shape into waves or curls
SHOP THE PERFECT SMOOTHING PADDLE BRUSH HERE
Step 4: Add Volume
- Use a bumper bangs tool for the front
- Backcomb lightly if needed
SHOP THE BACKCOMBING BRUSH HERE
Step 5: Finish the Look
- Set with hairspray
- Add pomade product for polish
Styling Tips for a Perfect Vintage Finish
- Always brush curls into shape—don’t leave them too “defined”
- Focus on smoothness and structure
- Less is more with product—build gradually
- Practice makes a huge difference with vintage styles
FOR FULL HAIR TUTORIAL GUIDES, SHOP OUR VINTAGE HAIR AND MAKEUP EBOOKS HERE
Watch the Look Come Together
For a full visual tutorial, check out our styling videos and see exactly how to create a 1950s look step-by-step.
LYNSEY LE KEUX'S VINTAGE TUTORIALS ON:
Shop Vintage Hair Styling Essentials
If you’re ready to create your own vintage hairstyle, explore the collection at Le Keux Cosmetics.
From styling tools to glam-enhancing products, everything is designed to help you achieve that timeless, polished finish.
Final Thoughts
Creating a 1950s hairstyle isn’t about complicated techniques—it’s about using the right products and taking your time to shape the look.
With the right tools, a bit of practice, and attention to detail, you can recreate that iconic vintage glamour anytime.
WANT TO GET YOUR HAIR STYLED BY THE EXPERTS INSTEAD? CHECK OUT THESE VINTAGE SALONS.
