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10 Classic Updo Hairstyles from the 1960s

Nothing spells elegance and drama like the decade’s beehive buns and high ponytails.

The 1960s were the decade of updos! Every hairdo was large, including beehives, half updos, backcombs, and ponytails. So we created a collection of 1960s updo hairstyles! And once you’ve looked over our selections, you’ll understand why!

From elegant and classy to hippie and laid-back, a ’60s updo will speak to your heart and soul. So, scroll down to see these hairstyles and choose your favorite.

Classic Updo Hairstyles From the 1960s

Hairstyles from the 1960s had an important role in the counterculture revolution. They were louder, more elaborate, and emphasized individualism. Although most current trends lean towards minimalism, the 1960s continue to inspire inventive and unusual hairstyles.

Jessican Noonan, a hair stylist, shares some styling ideas for achieving the 1960s-inspired look. She suggests using bobby pins, hair pins, hair ties, and hair spray. Apply a heat-protective styling lotion, gel, or mousse to damp hair. Begin with a roller set or blow-dry and curling iron to add volume and movement to your hair. Velcro rollers are my go-to. Wait until the hair is completely dry and cool before style. Shape and fix hair into the desired style with a workable hairspray. To weather-proof your style, apply an anti-humidity hair spray.

She continues: “If you are going to the salon for styling and you need to change later, remember to wear a button-up shirt!”
With a little practice and ingenuity, you can easily recreate these classic updo hairstyles from the 1960s at home. Check these out for inspiration.

1. Vintage Bun

Image: Shutterstock

This vintage bun looks straight out of a 1960s fashion catalog. This sort of slicked-back updo was often seen in magazines and movies of that era. The neat fanned-out bun at the back adds an elegant and professional appeal to this look. You can sport it with a high-neck dress and pearl studs to finish off that ‘60s look.

2.  Face-Framing Updo

We love the contrast between the ’60s-style bun in the back and the untidy face-framing pieces in the front. This hairdo is the epitome of a vintage-inspired modern look. You can wear this attractive, chic, and classy haircut to a wedding or on a casual night out.

3. Side-Swept Beehive

Image: Getty

Marion Cotillard deserves high praise for channeling 60s flair with this stunning beehive at the Blood Ties premiere in Cannes. The actress looks stunning with this hairstyle, and we especially love Marion’s right parting, which frames her face well. To create this style, apply anti-frizz and carefully pin your hair up to prevent flyaways. When you’re finished styling, wear minimal makeup and neutral lipstick.

4. Half Beehive

Image: Getty

Adele styled her hair in a half beehive for the 85th Academy Awards, a great glam look. We adore her throwback design, which features volume in the back and big, face-framing bangs on either side. She complemented her back-combed updo with ultra-long lashes, porcelain smooth skin, and a nude, matte lip. Sharon Tate, the 1960s ‘it-girl’, was also known to wear this puffed-up beehive half-bun.

5. Half Up Half Down

Image: Getty

Add an odd bun to your trendy half updo for a sophisticated and classic style, like Zooey Deschanel does. To get this look, separate your hair into two portions and pin the bottom one off. Backcomb the top section gently, twist it into a larger bun, and fasten with bobby pins. Release the bottom section of hair and finish with a shine serum.

6. Beehive With Bangs

Image: Getty.

If you’ve always wanted to wear Audrey Hepburn’s beehive with side bangs but don’t have the time or the right hair care product, here’s a solution: Gizzi Erskine wears a vintage beehive during a pre-BAFTA celebration. The actress combined her sleek updo with a black dress, stunning statement jewelry, and sleeker, more simple make-up, including a coral pout, just like Audrey. Jackie Kennedy, the first lady of the 1960s, had a similar bouffant hairstyle.

7. Bumped Up Bun

Image: Getty

Wow, indeed! Cheryl Cole looks stunning in her romantic and chic Hollywood-style updo. At the Foxcatcher Premiere in Cannes, the lovely singer teamed her disheveled, pushed up bun with a black Mullet dress, a dreamy smokey eye, and nude lips. To add texture to your vintage bun, twist parts of hair into a bun behind your head.

8. High Twisted Bun

Image: Getty

Katie Cassidy’s two-toned blonde high twisted hairstyle and stunning, wide smile are instantly recognizable. The bun adds a fun element, while the twisted twists evoke memories of a bygone period. And the outcome? A timeless look for every occasion.

9. Beehive Low Pony

Image: Getty

Joelle Carter looks lovely with her copper blonde hair in a ’60s beehive low ponytail, suggesting that this hairstyle will never go out of style. We adore the wispy, side bang that grazes her cheek while concealing her forehead. Take the actress’s lead and practice until you’ve mastered the look.

12. Twisted Updo

Image: Getty

A little bit retro, a little bit modern, and a whole lot of fantastic. Julia Roberts’ twisted voluminous updo is ideal for weddings and gatherings. The Oscar-winning actress completes her sculpted and beautiful updo with flicks of black eyeliner and nude lipstick.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the most popular hairstyle in the 1960s? The beehive was the iconic hairstyle of the 1960s. It appeared in various forms on magazine covers and movie posters of the time. This versatile look could be styled as an updo, half up-half down, low bun, or ponytail, often paired with loose hair to create volume and height at the crown.

What are five essential tips for creating an updo?

  • Choose a hairstyle that suits the occasion.
  • Gather all your tools and products before you start.
  • Work in sections, focusing on one at a time.
  • Take your time; don’t rush the styling process.
  • Use hairspray to set the updo and ensure it holds.

Should you wash your hair before getting an updo? If you’re visiting a salon, wash your hair a few hours before your appointment. If you’re styling your own hair, it’s best to wash it the night before.

How long should your hair be for an updo? Updos work with any hair length—short, medium, or long. If your hair is short, extensions can add extra drama and length for more elaborate styles.

How do you keep an updo secure? Use a strong-hold product like hair gel or hairspray to lock your updo in place.

Which 1960s female celebrities are known for their hairstyles? For vintage inspiration, look to style icons like Brigitte Bardot, Edie Sedgwick, Nancy Sinatra, Jane Fonda, Twiggy, Mia Farrow, Marianne Faithfull, and Mary Quant. Their hairstyles defined the look of the era.

Tags: , , , , , , Last modified: August 15, 2024