When you picture the Jazz Age, you picture short, sleek hair. The 1920s traded Victorian lengths for sharp, modern silhouettes—shimmering waves, clean lines, and statement fringes. No one defined the look better than Louise Brooks, whose jet-black blunt 'Lulu' bob and graphic fringe still set the standard for 1920s chic.
The hairstyles of the 1920s were not just fashion statements; they represented a significant cultural shift. As women gained the right to vote and entered the workforce in unprecedented numbers, their hairstyles, characterized by their boldness and practicality, reflected their desire for independence and rebellion against traditional norms. The bob, in particular, became a symbol of liberation.
The Defining 1920s Looks
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The Classic Bob
Colleen Moore, circa 1927 — Chin-length and glossy, with or without a fringe. Designed to sit neatly under a cloche and frame the eyes.
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The Shingle Cut
Louise Brooks, circa 1929 — Tapered close at the nape for a tailored, streamlined profile, drawing on the shingle cut made iconic by Louise Brooks’ razor-sharp bob.
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Finger & Marcel Waves
Nancy Carroll, late 1920s — Sculpted “S” waves that hug the head and catch the light.
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Faux Bob Style
Mae Fanning — A 1920s faux bob is a hairstyle that allowed women to achieve the fashionable short bob look of the 20s era without cutting their long hair. It typically involved pinning and curling the hair to create a chin-length illusion, often incorporating beautiful finger waves or curls.
Style Notes & Pairings
The 1920s silhouette is all about proportion. Low headbands, rhinestone slides, and cloche hats complete the line. A sleek bob balances beaded dresses and drop waists; soft waves add romance to satin and velvet.
Shop the Era
Channel the decade that bobbed the world—whether you love the razor-sharp confidence of Louise Brooks or the soft glamour of finger waves, our 1920s wigs bring the Jazz Age to life in seconds.