Hairstyles in the 1950s

Fernando Lamas Danielle Darrieux

Hairstyles in the 1950s were a reflection of the significant social and cultural changes that were happening during the decade. This period marked a transition from the conservative styles of the World War II era to a new era of experimentation and individuality in fashion and hairstyles. The 1950s saw the emergence of several iconic hairstyles that are still celebrated and replicated today.

Popular Hairstyles of the 1950s

The Poodle Cut

The Poodle Cut was popularized by famous actresses such as Lucille Ball. It was characterized by tight curls and voluminous shapes around the face, resembling the fur of a poodle. This style was particularly favored by women with naturally curly hair, although many would perm their hair to achieve the desired effect.

The Pompadour

Inspired by the style of the 18th-century French court, the Pompadour was adapted for both men and women during the 1950s. For men, it involved combing the hair away from the forehead and wearing it high over the head, often with a slicked-back appearance. Women's versions were more elaborate, involving backcombing for volume at the front of the hair, creating a pronounced uplift.

The Ducktail

The Ducktail, or "D.A." for duck's ass, was a style predominantly seen in men's fashion. The hair was combed to the back and sides to meet in the middle, resembling the rear end of a duck. This style was particularly associated with the rock and roll culture of the 1950s and was epitomized by celebrities like Elvis Presley.

The Bouffant

The Bouffant was a hairstyle that featured hair being piled high on the head and hanging down at the sides. It was a symbol of elegance and was widely popular among women of all ages. The style required a lot of backcombing and hairspray to maintain its voluminous shape, reflecting the era's fascination with larger-than-life fashion statements.

The Pageboy

The Pageboy haircut was another popular style for women, characterized by a smooth, rounded cut that framed the face, often with bangs. It was inspired by the medieval pageboy look and was considered a more manageable and everyday hairstyle compared to the more elaborate bouffant or beehive styles.

Cultural Impact

The 1950s hairstyles were not just about fashion; they were deeply intertwined with the cultural and social movements of the time. For instance, the rebellious nature of the Ducktail and Pompadour reflected the rise of the teenage culture and rock 'n' roll music. Meanwhile, the elegance of the Bouffant and Poodle Cut mirrored the era's desire for sophistication and glamour after the austerity of the war years.

Conclusion

The 1950s were a transformative decade for hairstyles, with each style reflecting the changing attitudes and cultural shifts of the era. From the rebellious Ducktail to the elegant Bouffant, these hairstyles were more than just fashion statements; they were symbols of identity and self-expression. Today, they continue to inspire fashion and hairstyling, serving as a reminder of a pivotal period in history.