Hairstyle How-To: Modernize Hollywood Vintage Glamor Waves For Any Occasion

A modern take on vintage glamor waves is perfect for an eye-catching beach day.

When the 1940s film star Veronica Lake got cameras clicking at her new hairstyle –– a glorious undulating wave cascade that opens the face-frame, drawing attention to cheekbones, lips, and eyes –– she made the “Hollywood Wave” synonymous with red carpet beauty and glamor. Eighty years on from the Hollywood heyday, tumbling waves and a side-part is still the sexiest, most sophisticated style in Tinsel Town. Today, softer, subtler interpretations of this style are great for a date, night out, beach day, or special occasion. Tailor the style according to the event for a beautifying look that never goes out of fashion. Nowadays, Hollywood Waves can be created in minutes rather than hours, thanks to modern hair tools and products. All the more reason to get your everyday glam on. Here’s my how-to.  
 

Prep: On clean, wet hair, apply Styling Crème liberally from roots to ends and blast dry while gently tossing hair around to get some lift at the roots. Generously apply Protective Thickening Lotion over dried hair for heat protection and shine.  

Curl: Using a 1-inch Curling Wand curl whole head of hair.  After each curl, use a pin-curl clip to fix. Once all curls are pinned, mist with Primp Working Spray for flexible hold and texture with another layer of shine.  

Brush: Use the cool shot button on your blow-dryer to apply cool air to pin-curls. Cool completely, then unclip pin-curls clips. Gently brush out curls until they fall into the shape you want. The more you brush, the more the ‘S shape curls turn into ‘C’ shape waves.  

Style: Use the outside arch of the eyebrow as a placement guide for the short side of the parting and make a clean part. Tuck back the short side behind the ear and allow the long side to spill over eyes, cheeks, lips, nape, and clavicle. The asymmetrical shape is a big part of the appeal.  

Finish: Mist lots of Fierce Firm Hold Hairspray over the completed style to add hold and another shine layer. 

BY NICK ARROJO

This dramatic interpretation of glamor waves is edgy and street-inspired. To recreate, finish style with Refinish Dry Shampoo to make the texture and volume that gives this look its power.

A classic interpretation of Hollywood Waves is great for special occasions.