1940 is a decade which is dominated by fashion trends for both men and women. This was the time when fashion brands and companies started to draw inspiration from war and Hollywood to create unique designs for 1940s hair fashion. The influence of that time’s hair fashion was so uniformed and strong that we still see many of those trends making an appearance in even today’s world. Puffs and tight curls are two prominent examples of that.
In the forthcoming content, we will be talking about multiple styles fro that era which are still popularing, while exploring their influence on the modern-day fashion world. So, without any further discussion, let’s dig deep into the article.
1. 1940s Hair Fashion for Men
Men’s hairstyles in the 1940s were neat and polished. Haircuts were simple but refined, emphasizing clean lines and structure. Hollywood actors influenced trends that remain stylish today.
1.1 The Classic Side Part
The classic side part was a popular choice for men. Hair was combed neatly to one side using pomade. This style worked well for both formal and casual settings. Businessmen and military personnel preferred this polished look. It gave an air of confidence and professionalism. The side part is still a timeless style today.
1.2 The Slicked-Back Style
This style gave a sleek and smooth appearance. Men used pomade or oil to slick back their hair. It created a wet, glossy look that lasted all day. Many Hollywood actors made this style famous. It was suitable for formal events and evening wear. Today, this look is still worn by many men.
1.3 The Wave or Wavy Top
This style had soft, controlled waves at the top. It added volume while maintaining a neat appearance. Men with naturally wavy hair found this style easy to maintain. It was often combined with a side part. Hollywood stars helped popularize this look in the 1940s. It gave men a sophisticated and stylish appearance.
1.4 The Military Buzz Cut
The buzz cut was one of the popular styles which gained fandom for being a military staple.The main aim behind the style creation was that the soldiers needed a practical, low-maintenance hairstyle. This look was easy to achieve and required little effort. It symbolized discipline, order, and masculinity. Even after the war, many men kept this style. It remains a popular choice today.
1.5 The Pompadour and Rockabilly Influence
Early versions of the pompadour began in the 1940s. Hair was styled upward and backward for a voluminous look. This style later influenced the rockabilly trend of the 1950s. It was a bold choice compared to conservative styles. The pompadour required pomade and regular maintenance. Many musicians and actors still wear this look today.
2. 1940s Hair Fashion for Women
Women’s hairstyles in the 1940s balanced beauty with practicality. Many women worked in factories, requiring functional styles. Hollywood actresses also shaped hair trends during this decade.
2.1 Victory Rolls – The Quintessential Look
Victory rolls became an iconic 1940s hairstyle. Hair was rolled into large curls at the crown or sides. This look added height and elegance. Women used pins and setting lotion to secure the rolls. It was a glamorous yet practical style for wartime women. Today, many vintage lovers recreate this look.
2.2 The Gibson Roll (Gibson Tuck)
The Gibson roll was a neat and stylish updo. Hair was tucked and pinned at the nape of the neck. It worked well for both casual and formal occasions. Many working women used this style to keep hair off their faces. The Gibson roll paired well with scarves and hair accessories. This hairstyle is still admired for its classic appeal.
2.3 The Pageboy Cut
The pageboy cut featured smooth, shoulder-length hair with curled ends. This style was easy to maintain and looked polished. Hollywood stars often wore this fashionable hairstyle. It complemented different face shapes and hair textures. The pageboy cut could be styled with waves or a deep side part. This hairstyle remains timeless and elegant.
2.4 Short Curled 1940’s Hair Fashion
Many women had short, curled hairstyles in the 1940s. Curls framed the face, creating a soft and feminine look. Women used curlers and setting lotion to achieve long-lasting curls. This style required regular maintenance to keep curls in place. Actresses like Rita Hayworth made short curled styles famous. This look continues to inspire modern vintage fashion.
2.5 The Snood – A Functional Hairnet
The snood was a practical and stylish hair accessory. It was a decorative net that held hair in place. Many women wore snoods while working in factories. It kept hair tidy and protected while adding elegance. Snoods were often made of lace, wool, or crochet. Today, vintage fashion enthusiasts still wear this look.
3. Hair Accessories and Styling Techniques
Hair accessories played a crucial role in 1940s hairstyles. They added charm, functionality, and uniqueness to different looks.
3.1 Scarves and Bandanas
Scarves and bandanas were popular hair accessories. Women tied them around their heads to keep hair neat. Rosie the Riveter’s bandana look became an iconic image. Scarves added color and personality to simple hairstyles. They were easy to style and matched different outfits. Many modern pin-up styles use scarves in the same way.
3.2 Hair Pins and Rollers
Hair pins were essential for securing curls and updos. Women used rollers to create structured curls overnight. Setting lotion helped curls last longer throughout the day. Bobby pins kept hairstyles in place and added volume. These tools made it easier to achieve vintage styles. Today, many hairstylists still use similar techniques.
3.3 The Influence of Hollywood Icons
Hollywood stars have continued to influence not only the laymen but also multiple other industries of the world. They are very well-known for making waves with different styles like curls and pumming of the hair. Mens have been observed to follow such trends since the mid-90s. For instance, the famous actors Clark Gable and Humphery Bogart have been trendsetters in the masculine fashion industry through their appearance in the films and movies.
Conclusion
On the bottom line, 1940s hair fashion for men has continued to dominate the industry with its unique charm. At the same time, women’s hair fashion has been through multiple revolutionizing phases in the past few decades. The same is why, in the content below, we have unleashed some of the past hair fashion trends from the past era. So, make sure to read the content fully from start to end.
