Last week, I shared a little snippet of this hairstyle in my Instagram stories, and the response was overwhelming—so many of you asked for a step-by-step guide! I’m thrilled you loved it as much as I do, because while it looks intricate, this style is actually quite approachable once you know the tricks. Think of it as equal parts old Hollywood glamour and a healthy dose of hairspray.
So let’s dive in.
The Styling Tool I Swear By
Before we get into the “how,” let’s talk about the “what.” For this particular hairstyle, my not-so-secret weapon is a tool called Hot Sticks. If you’ve never heard of them, let me introduce you to your new best friend for vintage hairstyling.
Hot Sticks are little rubber rods that you wrap your hair around and then secure by snapping the ends together. They heat up just like hot rollers, but because of their design, they create tighter curls with more lasting power. If your hair tends to resist curling (mine is notoriously stubborn), Hot Sticks are a game-changer.
What I love most is how versatile they are—you can use them for everything from soft waves to elaborate retro sets. In fact, they’re perfect for styles ranging all the way from the powdered curls of the 1700s to the glamorous waves of the 1940s.
A quick note on brands: I personally prefer the Babyliss Hot Sticks because the set comes with 20 rollers. Conair makes a version with 14, but for those of us whose hair doesn’t hold curl easily, more rollers equal more definition. Whichever you choose, give them at least 15 minutes to heat up before styling.
What You’ll Need
Gather your tools before you start, and you’ll find the process goes much smoother:
- Hot Sticks (or a small curling iron if you don’t have them)
- Hairspray for hold
- Paddle Brush to smooth things out
- Bristled Teasing Comb (I love my Spornette)
- Dry Texturizing Spray (Kerastase Volume in Powder is a favorite)
- Bobby Pins in a mix: standard, U-shaped, and straight pins
The Real Secret to This Style
Let me tell you the truth upfront: the magic isn’t in how perfectly you place each curl, or whether every strand falls into place. The real secret lies in two things: tight curls and serious teasing.
Don’t be afraid to go big here. Teasing isn’t just a little fluff at the roots—it’s the scaffolding that makes vintage hairstyles so iconic. Once your hair is curled and teased, the rest of the style practically builds itself.
Step One: Curl
Start by sectioning your hair and wrapping each piece around the Hot Sticks. Secure them and let them heat-set until your whole head is full of little rubber rods. If you’re using a curling iron instead, keep the sections small and consistent, wrapping tightly to mimic the Hot Stick effect.
When you remove the curls, don’t brush them out immediately. Let them cool in place to set the shape.
Step Two: Tease
Now it’s time for volume. Using your bristled teasing comb, backcomb the roots generously, especially at the crown. Think of this as creating a cushion or base that the rest of your hair will sit on. Yes, it feels a little wild at first, but trust me—this is where the “vintage” in the hairstyle comes alive.
A mist of texturizing spray at this stage helps hold the tease while adding grip.
Step Three: Shape and Pin
With your teased base ready, begin sculpting the curls into the shape you want. Vintage hairstyles are all about curves and softness, so guide the curls with your paddle brush and pin them strategically into place.
U-shaped pins are great for anchoring sections without flattening the curls, while straight pins can be used to refine and secure edges. Keep stepping back to check the overall silhouette—this style is about balance as much as detail.
Step Four: Finish with Hairspray
Once you’re happy with the shape, lock it all in with a strong-hold hairspray. Don’t be shy here; vintage hair is meant to stay put. A little extra mist ensures the volume and curls will last well beyond the first hour.
Why I Love This Hairstyle
What I adore about this look is its drama—it’s bold, glamorous, and instantly elevates even the simplest outfit. But despite its impact, the process is surprisingly straightforward once you have the right tools.
For me, there’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming my naturally straight, hard-to-curl hair into something with so much body and character. It feels like stepping into a different era, one where “done” hair was an everyday art form.
Final Thought
If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at vintage-inspired hairstyling, this is the perfect entry point. Invest in a set of Hot Sticks, embrace the power of teasing, and don’t forget that hairspray is your best friend. Once you’ve mastered this routine, you’ll find endless ways to tweak and adapt it for different looks.
Because sometimes, a great hairstyle isn’t just about how it looks—it’s about the confidence and fun it brings with it.
