1950s' Hairstyles

The 1950s saw a lot of diverse fashion changes, launches, and controversies as well. This was the time when the wars had almost ended, and there were some interesting changes going on in the field of fashion. The sack dress was worn with great enthusiasm, and poodle skirts also gained prominence. Beautiful and gorgeous stars like Audrey Hepburn, Bettie Page, and Grace Kelly, created waves with their stylish hairstyles. Chanel and Dior were at loggerheads as far as the silhouettes were concerned. The 1950s also saw the arrival of many salons on the beauty scenario. This led to a whole new dimension for the hairstyles of that era.


Poodle Cut
Hairstyles during this period saw some more detailing, and then some elaborate styling in the later period. The poodle cut was one such style that gained prominence. This framed the face and gave it a dynamic look. Women with curly hair loved to splurge on getting this look done at the beauty salon. This is something that has remained unchanged over time! As it was a short hairstyle, attention was drawn to the eyes of the woman. Many women wore their hair short and loved to flaunt it as well. The hair was let loose just below the ears. These loose tresses were generally curled, and women also wore a parting, either on the left or the right side. Bangs were used to frame the face, which were curled as well.
Bouffant
Yet another popular hairstyle was the bouffant. This was the time women relied on hair sprays to get the precise look. These often had waves that flowed down from the crown area. The edges were always curled along with the sides as well. The bouffant was popular, as it gave a voluminous look. However, this style took time and effort to achieve. The bouffant was modified in the later period and gained popularity as the beehive style, which became a rage in the 1960s.

Hairstyles in the 1950s also saw the use of scarves over the hair. Women loved to curl their hair, and this was also pinned up or pulled back into a bun, and a scarf was generally worn over this.
Men's Styles
Men simply followed Elvis Presley, who popularized the sideburns and the pompadour look. This, however, did not stay for a very long time, probably owing to the fact that sideburns were difficult to manage. The ducktail hairstyle was also popular amongst men. This was also known as the D.A. or the duck butt. Loads of grease was applied to the hair and combed back with a duck's butt created on the rear of the head. The original Dracula, Bela Lugosi's slicked back look was also imitated by men.

Who can forget the movie Roman Holiday, where Gregory Peck and Audrey Hepburn exuded charm, grace, style, and charisma, in this romantic comedy. I particularly remember the scene where she cuts off her long tresses quite against the social norms. She even had the hairdresser perplexed with her strange decision. The result was even better; Audrey Hepburn oozed style and looked completely glamorous with her short hairstyle. The soft curls behind the ears, and the delicate, jagged edges that framed her face helped to accentuate her features. Another icon who created a rage with her personal style and haircut during this period was Marilyn Monroe. Even today, women all over the world try to copy her short-cropped, curly hair look.
Some of the 1950s' hairstyles can be seen even today, although with a modern twist. This was one glorious period that saw major changes in the fashion scenario.