Do you look at old movies and think "Wow, their hair looks so fancy!"? The style is known as old Hollywood hair. It's all about silky waves, shiny curls and a glam style like a movie actor on the red carpet. In this tutorial you'll discover How To Style Old Hollywood Hair step by step. Be assured that it will be easy and secure. There are simple methods to curl your hair, form it into gorgeous waves and then add cute headbands or clips. With just a bit of practice
What Is "Old Hollywood" Hair?
When people talk about "Old Hollywood hair," they refer to the glamorous hairstyles that movie stars wore from the 1930s through in the 50s.
Consider:
- Shiny, soft wave shaped like an S
- Parts of the deep side
- Straight curls that fit neatly and are not messy or wild.
- Hair that appears polished and polished, as if you're getting dressed to walk the red carpet.
The old Hollywood hairstyles are elegant smooth and extremely well-put-together. It's not a messy bedhead. It appears like you've did a lot of work on it (even when you did not!). The good news is that you don't have to be old or wealthy to experience it. It's all you need to do is
- A few tools that are basic
- A bit of practice
- Patience (and perhaps, a helpful adult)
Safety First (Very Important!)
Before we discuss waves and curls it is important to discuss security. How To Style Old Hollywood Hair a lot of Old Hollywood styles use heat tools such as:
- Curling irons
- Flat irons
- Hot rollers
These devices are extremely hot and could burn hair or skin if misused.
Rules:
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Always seek an adult for assistance with any hot instrument. Never plug in or use a curling iron your self if it's not authorized to.
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Be sure to keep hot tools away from the water.
Don't use them near a sink, or bath. -
Use a heat-protectant spray on the hair.
This is spray that protects hair from damage caused by heat. -
Switch off your tools and unplug them once you're completed.
Don't leave them on the bed, chair, or fabrics.
If you aren't able to use heat, don't fret. You can still achieve old Hollywood-style waves with non-heat techniques such as:
- Foam rollers
- Braids
- Pin curls made with Bobby pins
We'll cover heating options and those that don't.
Read also: Party Wear Styling Tips For Women
What You'll Need (Basic Toolkit)
You don't not need expensive salon tools. Start with the tools you have.
Must-Have Tools
- Wide-tooth combing used to remove wet hair with ease.
- Normal brush to smooth hair.
- A fine-toothed comb to separate and work on detail.
- Bobby pins to secure sections and curls.
- Hair tie soft ones that won't pull.
Nice-to-Have Tools
- Foam rollers and bent rollers perfect for non-heat curls.
- Curling iron, or Wand Only with an adult.
- Hot rollers less complicated than curling irons, however, they are still hot.
Helpful Products
- Spray for heat protection If you're using heat.
- Hairspray or setting spray (light holding) - to keep curls in position.
- A styling or mousse can help hair keep curls.
- The hair conditioner or small amount of oil to give smoothness and shine (use just a small amount).
There isn't a need for every item listed on this list. Select what you have and what your parents say is fine.
Getting Ready: Wash, Dry & Prep
Old Hollywood hair appears smooth and without frizz. Properly prepared hair makes a major difference.
Step 1: Wash (Optional But Helpful)
You can try these styles on:
- Hair that is clean for silky and shiny waves
- Hair that is day-old can hold curls better
If you shampoo your hair:
- Use conditioner and shampoo as normal.
- Squeeze water gently with an old towel. Don't rub it hard (that creates frizz).
Step 2: Detangle
- Make use of a comb with a wide-toothed.
- Begin with the end and move towards getting to the root.
- Be gentle to ensure you don't scratch your scalp or break your hair.
Step 3: Dry
- If you plan to use the heat tool later on, your hair should be completely dry.
- You can dry your hair by air or make use of the blow-dryer in conjunction with an adult.
If blow drying is used:
- Spray the heat protector first.
- Make use of a hairbrush to soften your hair after drying.
- Try blowing your hair the same way (down) to make it dry easier.
Step 4: Choose Your Part
Old Hollywood hair is usually characterized by the appearance of a long side section that is deep..
To make:
- Make sure you hold a fine-tooth comb.
- Begin the process that is above the arch of your eyebrow..
- Make a straight line to the scalp.
- Hair is combed down on both side.
Take a look in the mirror. Adjust until you're happy with the position of the part.
Basic Skills You Should Know
Before you can do a full look, we need to master these fundamental moves. These are mini-skills that you'll need for every style.
Skill 1: Sectioning Your Hair
Sectioning refers to cutting your hair in sections which makes it simpler to cut and style.
The basic way to do it:
- Part your hair in the direction you'd like it (side or the middle).
- Divide hair into two halves both sides: left and right.
- Make sure you clip one side upwards so that it's off the ground.
- For each of the sides, you could create two smaller sections from forward to back.
This allows you to curl your hair neatly and you won't miss any pieces.
Skill 2: Using a Roller (No-Heat or Hot Rollers)
- Make a small piece of hair (about equal to the thickness of the finger).
- Smooth it out.
- Place the roller on the end that you have hair.
- Hair is rolled towards the back towards your scalp.
- You should roll in the same direction on both sides (usually towards your face to create Old Hollywood waves).
- Attach the roller using the clip.
If using no-heat foam rollers:
- Place your hair into moist hair, but not so in water.
- Doze off or let them out for at least a couple of hours.
If using hot rollers:
- Have an adult demonstrate how to make use of these devices safely.
- Let them cool to room temperature before removing them.
Skill 3: Pin Curls (Classic Old Hollywood Technique)
Pin curls are tiny curls which are flatly pinned to your scalp.
How to make it:
- Make a 1-2cm (thin) piece of hair.
- The strand should be wrapped around your fingers to create an elongated loop, similar to the shape of a donut.
- Remove the loop from your fingers, but make sure to keep it neatly folded up.
- Make sure the loop is flat against your head.
- Utilize two bobby pins that are that are crossed as the shape of an "X" to hold it.
Repeat until your head is completely covered in pin curly hair. Let them completely dry (air dry or let them sit overnight if they're damp). How To Style Old Hollywood Hair after you take them off and wash them, you'll see bouncy curls.
Skill 4: Brushing Out Curls
This is the secret Here's the secret: The old Hollywood hair isn't just rings. It's not enough to leave hair with tight curls. You gently brush them out cautiously until they become silky waves.
- When your rollers or curls are done, gently remove them off.
- Your hair may appear curly in the beginning. Don't panic.
- Make use of a gentle brush and gently stroke into the curls.
- When you brush, you can use your hands to form hair into a s-shaped shape.
- You could also use your fingers like combs to direct the waves.
It may at first seem like you're "ruining" the curls, however, you're actually transforming these into soft curls.
Read also: Womens Wardrobe Essentials 2025
Style 1: Classic Soft Old Hollywood Waves (Beginner Friendly)
This is a basic elegant, beautiful style that looks elegant, yet isn't overly difficult.
What You Need
- Comb and brush
- Foam rollers or hot rollers or curling iron (with adult)
- Bobby pins (optional)
- Light hairspray
Step-by-Step (No-Heat Version with Foam Rollers)
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Begin with damp hair
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It's not dripping, it's just a little wet.
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Add a little mousse (if you already have it)
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Apply a small amount of it on your palms.
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Smooth your hair from the middle to the ends.
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Take your part in the side
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A deep side parting to create an impressive Old Hollywood look.
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Section your hair
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Right and left sides.
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Then, there are 3 smaller sections of each side.
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Hairstyles to roll
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You should take a piece the same thickness as your finger.
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Comb it up smooth.
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Place the roller on the end.
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Roll towards the face and then up towards your scalp.
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Each section is rolled in the in the same direction.
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Wait
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Dry your hair completely.
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You can even sleep in the rollers, if they are comfortable.
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Remove rollers
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Gently tear each roll off.
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Don't pull or yank.
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Brush out
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Make use of a soft brush.
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The curls are gently brushed until they are a wave.
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Make use of your fingers to push the hair to create "S" shapes near your face.
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Create the design
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Spray hairspray in a light mist on your hair.
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You don't require much.
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Smooth the top
- Make use of the hands and smooth your hair, so there aren't any bumps.
- You could add a little bit of serum to give shine.
Now you can enjoy classic, soft waves!
Style 2: Glam Side-Sweep (Red Carpet Vibes)
This is similar to the classic waves, however all hair is swept towards one side. Very old Hollywood!
What You Need
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Everything is Style 1
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A couple of more Bobby pins
Steps
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Make waves first
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Apply the same technique for Style 1 (rollers or curls on pins).
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Let your hair loose and create soft waves.
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Choose your "show" side
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This is the area that your hair falls.
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Most often, it's that side with the hair that is longer following your side part.
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Hair should be swept to one side
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Hair is gathered gently and moved it across one shoulder.
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Make sure the top is clean.
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The back of the pin
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The vacant portion on your scalp (the side with the least hair) Use Bobby pins behind your ears to keep the hair running across your back.
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The pins are crossed with the "X" shape to hold better.
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Create of the Front wave
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Make use of your combs or fingers to create a large "S" wave over your forehead and down your cheeks.
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It is possible to hold the wave with clips as you spray it lightly. After that, you can take them off.
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Finish by spraying
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A light mist of hairspray spray to keep your hair tidy.
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Now you've got a glamorous side-sweep like you're heading to a premiere of a film.
Style 3: Faux Short Old Hollywood Waves (Fake Bob)
A lot of Old Hollywood stars had hair that was short and wavy. How To Style Old Hollywood Hair in case your hair seems long it is possible to pretend to have it.
What You Need
- Elastic hair tie
- Bobby pins
- Comb and brush
- Alternative: pins or rollers curls at first
Steps
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Curls or waves
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You can follow the same techniques as Style 1 (rollers, pin curls and pin curls, etc. ).
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Let your hair sway in soft waves.
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Decide on how "short" you want it
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Take a look in the mirror and keep your hair in the length you prefer (around the jawline or shoulder).
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Tie a ponytail with a low-profile
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Create a loose, low ponytail that is placed at the nape of your neck.
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Do not pull it too tight.
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Let the ponytail roll under
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Make a ponytail, then move it up and then tuck it into your neck.
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Continue rolling till the end is hidden beneath the hair's top layer.
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Pin in place
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Use bobby pins for securing the roll to your hair.
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Make sure to use a lot of pins when needed. They should be concealed under the hair.
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Release the front
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Carefully pull small pieces of the hair towards your face, so that the waves appear organic and soft.
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You don't want to appear stiff.
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Set using spray
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Spray of light to help hold the fake Bob. Spray light to hold the fake.
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From the sides and front your hair will appear like a wavy, short Old Hollywood bob.
Read also: Classic Style Vs. Trendy Fashion
Style 4: Pin-Curl Set for True Vintage Vibes
This film takes a bit longer, but it's very "real" Old Hollywood. It's great for weekend or sleepovers.
You'll Need
- Many Bobby pins
- Fine-tooth Comb
- Make use of a bottle spraying with water, or lightly damp hair
- Silk or a soft scarf (optional for sleeping in)
Steps
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Start with hair that is damp.
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Not soaking, just a little wet.
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Be a part of the team
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Deep side parts are ideal for this look.
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Make small segments
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Begin at the front of your area.
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You can take a tiny piece the size of your finger.
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Create the curl
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The strand should be wrapped around your finger to create an elongated curl.
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Take the curl off of your fingers; make sure it is neatly curled.
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Place it flatly on your head.
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Pin it
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Utilize two bobby pins to create the "X" shape over the curl.
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Do not pin through the curl. Instead, pin it across it to keep it in the right place.
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Repeat on your head
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Maintain curls that are about equal in size to achieve evenly shaped waves.
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Try curling the hair with the same direction both facet of the head to create more supple curls.
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Sleep and cover (if you're able)
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If you're doing this in the evening you can tie a loose scarf around your head to stop the curls at bay.
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Next day: remove pins
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Be sure to take all Bobby pins.
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You'll see a lot of small curls.
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The brush transforms into waves
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Make use of a soft brush to gently massage the curls into waves.
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Use your fingers to form "S" waves around your face.
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Finish by spraying
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Sprays of light spray to keep the waves in line.
This set offers an authentic vintage styleas if you were a movie star in the 1940s.
Adding Accessories (The Fun Part!)
Accessories can help make the Old Hollywood hairstyle even more unique.
Ideas
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Hair clips with sparkles
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Put one on top of your ear on the lower side of your ear.
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Pearlbobby pins
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Put a few of them into a straight line over your ears.
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Headbands
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Headbands that are shiny and thin are elegant.
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It should be placed just in front of the wave, so it is able to pop.
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Bows
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Sweet satin bows on the back or sides are a lovely and classic look.
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Keep in mind that old Hollywood fashion is all about being elegant and not overloaded.
Choose one or two beautiful accessories, not 10.
Common Problems (And How to Fix Them)
Many adults have hair issues at times. Here are some problems you could encounter and ways to fix these issues.
Problem 1 "My curls are too tight!"
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Solution:
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Make sure to brush them gently the softest brush.
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You can also smooth a small amount of serum or conditioner onto your hands and then run your hands through the curls.
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Problem 2 "My waves fall out fast."
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Solution:
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Use a little mousse before styling.
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Allow the curls to dry fully before removing them.
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Ask a grown-up for advice on how to make use of a little more hairspray (not excessively).
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Third problem "My hair gets frizzy."
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Solution:
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Don't rub your hair using the towel. Apply pressure lightly.
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Apply a small amount of oil or serum at the end.
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Make sure to use a soft brush, not a hard one.
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4 "The top of my hair is bumpy."
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Solution:
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Before curling your hair, dry it off or gently brush your roots.
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After styling after styling, use a comb or your fingers for smoothing the root. spray lightly.
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Simple Old Hollywood Routine (Step-by-Step Summary)
If you're looking for a short list of things to do, here's a basic procedure for the perfect non-heat old Hollywood waves:
- Shampoo hair (optional) and gently dry with a towel.
- Comb out knots using a comb with a wide tooth.
- Include mousse (if you already have it).
- Create an extended side.
- Use pin curls or foam rollers across your entire head.
- Do not wait until they dry (or lie down over them).
- Use the rollers or pins be careful.
- Brush curled into waves using the softness of a brush.
- Form S-waves all over your face using your fingers.
- Add a beautiful clip or other accessory.
- Hairspray light to create.
Done! Now you're rocking the iconic Old Hollywood hair.
Read also: 5 Steps To Finding Your Personal Style
FAQ's: How To Style Old Hollywood Hair
Question 1: Will I require long hair to wear Old Hollywood styles?
Vintage Hollywood styles look fantastic on medium, short long, and medium. Short hair may have straight curls or waves. How To Style Old Hollywood Hair longer hair may have large soft waves or fake hairstyle called a bob.
Q2 What can I do with curls or curly hair?
Yes, but it'll appear a little different but that's fine!
- If your curls are already there you may not require rollers.
- The best way to do this is create curls using curl cream, and then form the front part into waves by using Bobby pins.
- Old Hollywood is all about sparkle and glamour but not having one particular hairstyle.
Q3: At what age do you have to be before using heating tools?
That's the responsibility of your parental or legal guardian. A lot of kids in your age utilize curling irons in the presence of an adult in the room as well as helping. If you're not permitted to use heat devices yet, stick to heat-free methods such as foam rollers or pin curls.
Q4 How long do you expect the look to last?
It's based on:
- Your hair type
- How much product do you use?
- Weather (humid air that can make curls fall more quickly)
In general, curls that are not heated can last for for a few days or even longer particularly when you rest with your hair loose hairstyle, soft bun or braids to shield the curls.
Q5: Is old Hollywood hair appropriate for special occasions?
Yes! It's great for:
- School plays, performances or even shows
- Picture day
- Birthday celebrations
- Family events or weddings
It's pretty, but it can be elegant and comfortable.
Conclusion on How To Style Old Hollywood Hair
You've learned the fundamental steps on How To Style Old Hollywood Hair starting with curls and creating smooth waves. Also, you've learned you can add accessories and correct common hair issues, like frizz, hair that is too tight. Remember that your first attempt doesn't have to be flawless. Hairstyles are similar to learning a new sport or a new skill. The more you work at it, the better you will get. Be playful, gentle with your hair and test different hairstyles until you have found your ideal Old Hollywood style. You may glance at your reflection and consider, "I really do look like a movie star!"
