As the sharp lines of the 1920s softened, women’s hairstyles in the 1930s grew longer, glossier, and more fluid. Hair moved away from cropped bobs toward elegant lengths shaped into smooth waves—feminine, polished, and strongly influenced by Hollywood.
Rather than the graphic, close-set styling of the Jazz Age, 1930s hair focused on soft movement and refined silhouettes. The decade also set up a key crossover: late-1930s wave patterns flowed directly into early-1940s glamour, and later became the foundation for many 1950s “Old Hollywood” and pin-up revival looks.
The Defining 1930s Looks
-
Close S-Waves (Early–Mid 1930s)
Bette Davis, photographed in 1934 — One of the most distinctive looks of the early 1930s was the close-set S-wave, often created using Marcel irons or carefully sculpted finger waves. Unlike the sharper, graphic waves of the 1920s, these waves were smoother, more fluid, and laid close to the head, following the natural contours of the skull. The result was a glossy, elegant surface that caught the light beautifully on film, making it a favourite for evening wear and Hollywood portraits. This style marked a transition away from rigid geometry toward the softer, more romantic glamour that would define the rest of the decade.
-
Deep Side Parting with Hollywood Waves
Ginger Rogers, photographed in 1936 — The deep side part became a signature of 1930s elegance. It creates a flattering line across the forehead and works beautifully with soft waves, giving that unmistakable “Old Hollywood” framing. Also, hair to shoulder length and beyond returned. Even when worn longer, the styling stayed smooth and polished, with waves shaped for shine and softness.
-
Fringes: 1930s Roots, 1950s Pin-Up Influence
Claudette Colbert in the 1932 film Sign of the Cross — Blunt, straight fringes did appear in the 1930s, particularly in more fashion-forward and cinematic styles. When paired with flowing Hollywood waves, the result is a striking look rooted firmly in the 1930s, though later embraced by 1950s pin-up glamour. It combines authentic 1930s wave structure with a bold, graphic finish that feels timeless.
Shop the Era
From the glossy Hollywood waves of the late 1930s to the styles later revived for 1950s pin-up glamour, the 1930s established a look of controlled softness, sculpted shape, and understated drama. Defined by deep waves, smooth crowns, and elegant movement, these hairstyles framed the face with quiet sophistication. Our 1930s-inspired wigs recreate that refined screen-star silhouette in seconds, bringing classic elegance to modern wear.