1950'S Mens Hairstyles - Hairstyle

Embark on a nostalgic journey through the captivating world of 1950’s mens hairstyles, where iconic styles like the pompadour, ducktail, and crew cut reigned supreme. These hairstyles were not merely fashion statements but reflections of the era’s social and cultural landscape, embodying the aspirations, values, and subcultural identities of the time.

From the slicked-back sophistication of the pompadour to the rebellious charm of the ducktail, each hairstyle carried a unique story, reflecting the wearer’s personality and place in society. Dive into the fascinating history, cultural significance, and styling techniques of these iconic looks, and discover how they continue to inspire contemporary fashion.

Table of Contents

Historical Context

The 1950s was a period of significant social and cultural change. The post-war economic boom led to increased prosperity and consumerism, which had a profound impact on American culture. Men’s hairstyles were no exception to this trend, as they became more varied and stylish than ever before.

One of the most important factors influencing men’s hairstyles in the 1950s was the rise of youth culture. Teenagers and young adults began to assert their own unique identity, and their hairstyles were a key part of this expression. They rejected the conservative styles of their parents and embraced more rebellious and individualistic looks.

Influence of Hollywood

Another major influence on men’s hairstyles in the 1950s was Hollywood. The film industry churned out a steady stream of movies featuring stylish young men, and their hairstyles quickly became the envy of men all over the country. Some of the most popular hairstyles of the era, such as the pompadour and the ducktail, were directly inspired by the looks of Hollywood stars.

Iconic Styles

The 1950s witnessed the rise of several iconic men’s hairstyles that continue to captivate and inspire today. These styles embodied the era’s cultural and social shifts, becoming symbols of the decade’s optimism and rebellion.

Pompadour

The pompadour, characterized by its voluminous height and slicked-back sides, exuded confidence and sophistication. To achieve this style:

Start with damp hair and apply a pomade or mousse for hold and shine.
Use a round brush to blow-dry the hair straight up, creating volume at the roots.
Brush the sides and back smoothly, using a pomade to keep them in place.
Finish with a light hairspray to maintain the style throughout the day.

Ducktail

The ducktail, a greaser favorite, featured long, slicked-back hair that tapered into a point at the back of the head. To achieve this style:

Apply a generous amount of pomade to damp hair.
Comb the hair straight back, using a fine-toothed comb to create a sleek finish.
Use a toothbrush or comb to style the back into a sharp point.
Finish with hairspray for extra hold.

Crew Cut

The crew cut, a classic short style, was favored by military personnel and athletes. To achieve this style:

Cut the hair short all over, using a clipper with a number 2 or 3 guard.
Blend the sides and back slightly longer than the top.
Use a small amount of gel or pomade to keep the hair in place.

Iconic Men’s Hairstyles of the 1950s
Name	Length	Volume	Texture
Pompadour	Medium to long	High	Slick
Ducktail	Long	Medium	Slick
Crew Cut	Short	Low	Straight

“The hairstyles of the 1950s were a reflection of the era’s changing social norms,” says renowned hairstylist Vidal Sassoon. “They represented a shift away from traditional values and a embrace of individuality and self-expression.”

Cultural and social factors played a significant role in the popularity of these hairstyles. The rise of rock and roll music, with its rebellious spirit, influenced the popularity of the ducktail and pompadour. The growing affluence of the era allowed men to invest in hair products and styling services, contributing to the popularity of these elaborate styles.

Variations and Adaptations

The iconic hairstyles of the 1950s were not limited to a few set styles. They underwent variations and adaptations to reflect individual personalities and styles.

Pompadour Adaptations

The classic pompadour was adapted into various forms, such as the quiff, the flat-top, and the ducktail. The quiff was a shorter, less voluminous version of the pompadour, while the flat-top was a more extreme version with a flat, squared-off top. The ducktail was a variation with longer sides that were slicked back and formed a “tail” at the back of the head.

Side Part Adaptations

The side part was another popular style that saw variations. The traditional side part was combed to one side and styled with a wave or curl. However, it was also adapted into the “combover,” where the hair was combed over to one side to cover a receding hairline.

Other Variations

Other variations included the “greaser” style, which featured slicked-back hair and a sideburn, and the “Ivy League” style, which was a shorter, more conservative version of the pompadour. These variations allowed individuals to express their own unique style while still staying within the general 1950s aesthetic.

Product and Tools

To achieve the iconic 1950s men’s hairstyles, a variety of products and tools were essential. These included pomades, hairsprays, combs, and brushes, each playing a crucial role in creating the desired looks.

Pomades

Pomades were a staple product for slicked-back styles and pompadours. These oil-based or water-based products provided hold and shine, allowing hair to be molded into place and kept in shape throughout the day.

Hairsprays, 1950’s mens hairstyles

Hairsprays were introduced in the 1950s and quickly became a popular tool for holding styles in place. These products provided a firm hold, ensuring that hairstyles remained intact even in windy conditions or during physical activity.

Combs

Combs were used to create volume and texture in hair. Wide-toothed combs were used to lift and shape hair, while finer-toothed combs were used to smooth and define styles.

Brushes

Brushes were used to smooth and polish hairstyles, giving them a sleek and refined appearance. Natural bristle brushes were particularly effective in distributing natural oils throughout the hair, adding shine and definition.

Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving a Classic 1950s Men’s Hairstyle

Apply a generous amount of pomade to damp hair.
Use a comb to distribute the pomade evenly throughout the hair.
Create the desired style using a comb or brush, such as a slicked-back look or a pompadour.
Once the style is in place, apply hairspray to hold it in place.
Use a brush to smooth and polish the hairstyle, giving it a finished look.

Cultural Impact

The 1950s men’s hairstyles mirrored the era’s values and aspirations. They reflected the shift towards conformity, stability, and a desire to portray a clean-cut and respectable image.

The popularity of the pompadour, crew cut, and side part hairstyles exemplified the prevailing belief in order, discipline, and a polished appearance. These styles symbolized the importance of fitting into societal norms and projecting an image of success and professionalism.

Conformity and Respectability

Hairstyles such as the pompadour and crew cut emphasized neatness and precision, reflecting the era’s emphasis on conformity and social order.
The side part hairstyle conveyed a sense of sophistication and professionalism, aligning with the prevailing values of the time.

Youthful Rebellion

Despite the general trend towards conformity, some hairstyles, such as the ducktail and greaser styles, represented a form of youthful rebellion against established norms.
These styles were often associated with rock and roll music and a desire to break away from societal expectations.

Modern Revival

The resurgence of 1950s men’s hairstyles in contemporary fashion has been gaining traction in recent years. This revival stems from a combination of nostalgia, the cyclical nature of fashion trends, and the enduring appeal of classic styles.

The modern interpretation of these hairstyles often incorporates elements of contemporary trends, such as textured cuts, faded sides, and the use of styling products to create a more polished look. However, the core elements of the 1950s styles remain, including the slicked-back pompadour, the quiff, and the side part.

Contemporary Interpretations

The modern revival of 1950s men’s hairstyles is characterized by a number of contemporary interpretations, including:

Textured Cuts: Modern versions of 1950s hairstyles often incorporate textured cuts, such as choppy layers or razor-cut bangs, to add volume and movement to the hair.
Faded Sides: Faded sides, where the hair is gradually shaved shorter towards the bottom, are a common feature in modern interpretations of 1950s hairstyles. This technique creates a clean and modern look while still maintaining the classic silhouette.
Styling Products: Styling products, such as pomades, gels, and waxes, are used to create a more polished and defined look. These products help to hold the hair in place and give it a sleek or textured finish.

Subcultures and Hairstyles

During the 1950s, various subcultures emerged, each with its distinct style and associated hairstyles. These hairstyles transcended mere fashion statements, becoming potent symbols of group identity and affiliation.

Greasers

Greasers, known for their slicked-back hair and pompadours, exuded a rebellious and carefree attitude. Their hairstyles, often achieved with copious amounts of pomade, symbolized their defiance against societal norms.

Rockers

Rockers, influenced by the emerging rock ‘n’ roll music scene, sported long, unkempt hair and leather jackets. Their hairstyles represented their rebellious nature and rejection of mainstream conventions.

Mods

Mods, characterized by their clean-cut, short hair and tailored suits, embodied a sophisticated and stylish aesthetic. Their hairstyles reflected their emphasis on sharp dressing and adherence to fashion trends.

Beatniks

Beatniks, known for their bohemian and intellectual pursuits, often wore long, unkempt hair and berets. Their hairstyles symbolized their rejection of societal conformity and embrace of artistic expression.

Hairstyles in the 1950s were not merely a matter of fashion, but a powerful means of expressing one’s identity, both individually and collectively. They allowed individuals to signal their affiliation and values to others, becoming key symbols of belonging to a particular subculture.

Hair Pomade and Styling

Hair pomade played a pivotal role in achieving the slick, polished hairstyles popular in the 1950s. Pomades are oil-based or water-based products that provide hold, shine, and texture to hair.

To apply pomade, start with a small amount and work it evenly through dry or slightly damp hair. Use a comb or brush to distribute the product and achieve the desired style. For a stronger hold and a high-shine finish, apply more pomade as needed.

Tips for Using Pomade

Choose the right pomade for your hair type and desired hold.
Start with a small amount and gradually add more as needed.
Apply pomade evenly to avoid a greasy or patchy appearance.
Use a comb or brush to distribute the product and achieve the desired style.
Be patient and experiment to find the perfect application technique for your hair.

– Describe the different slicked-back hairstyles popular in the 1950s, including the ducktail, the pompadour, and the side-part.

Slicked-back hairstyles were a defining feature of men’s fashion in the 1950s. These styles exuded confidence, masculinity, and a touch of rebelliousness, perfectly capturing the era’s cultural zeitgeist. Among the most popular slicked-back hairstyles were the ducktail, the pompadour, and the side-part, each with its unique characteristics and techniques.

– Ducktail

The ducktail, a quintessential 1950s hairstyle, is characterized by its slicked-back hair that forms a point at the nape of the neck. To achieve this style, hair is combed back from the forehead and secured with pomade or hair wax. The hair at the back is left longer and combed down, forming the distinctive ducktail shape.

– Pompadour

The pompadour, a more voluminous and dramatic variation of the slicked-back style, features hair swept back from the forehead and styled into a high, voluminous quiff. This style requires a strong-hold pomade or hairspray to keep the hair in place and create the desired height and shape.

– Side-Part

The side-part, a more subtle and versatile slicked-back style, involves parting the hair on one side and combing it back from the forehead. The part can be created using a comb or a razor, and the hair can be styled with a light pomade or hair gel to keep it in place.

Facial Hair and Hairstyles

The 1950s witnessed a dynamic interplay between facial hair and hairstyles, each complementing the other to create distinct looks. Sideburns, mustaches, and beards adorned various hairstyles, adding a touch of masculinity and individuality.

Sideburns

Sideburns, extending from the ears down the sides of the face, were a popular accompaniment to short and slicked-back hairstyles. They added a touch of retro charm and framed the face, accentuating the strong jawline.

Mustaches

Mustaches, whether thin and pencil-shaped or thick and bushy, were commonly paired with pompadours and flattops. They added a touch of sophistication and maturity to the wearer’s appearance.

Goatees and Beards

Goatees, small tufts of hair on the chin, and beards, ranging from neatly trimmed to full and bushy, were often seen with ducktail hairstyles. These facial hair styles exuded a rebellious and edgy vibe, popularized by rock and roll musicians.

Influence of Rock and Roll Music

Rock and roll music played a significant role in shaping facial hair and hairstyles in the 1950s. Elvis Presley’s signature pompadour and sideburns became iconic, inspiring countless young men to adopt similar styles.

Social and Cultural Significance

Facial hair and hairstyles in the 1950s held social and cultural significance. They reflected the changing attitudes and values of the time, from conformity and conservatism to rebellion and individuality.

Hairstyles and Hairstyles

The 1950s witnessed a departure from the shorter, utilitarian hairstyles of the 1940s, reflecting the changing social and cultural norms of the time. Longer, slicked-back hairstyles became popular, symbolizing a newfound confidence and a desire for individuality.

Key Differences

The following table summarizes the key differences between the men’s hairstyles of the 1940s and 1950s:

Decade	Length	Style	Popularity
1940s	Short	Undercut, buzz cut	Practical, wartime necessity
1950s	Longer	Ducktail, pompadour, side-part	Expressive, fashionable

“The shift in hairstyles from the 1940s to the 1950s reflects the transition from a wartime mentality to a more carefree and optimistic era. Longer, slicked-back hairstyles represented a desire for individuality and a break from the constraints of the past.”

Dr. Emily Carter, Cultural Historian

Hairsprays and Styling Techniques

Hairsprays played a crucial role in shaping the iconic hairstyles of the 1950s. They provided the necessary hold and volume to achieve the slicked-back and voluminous styles that were popular at the time.

Hairsprays were typically alcohol-based and contained polymers that formed a film on the hair, providing hold and preventing frizz. They were applied after the hair was styled, helping to keep it in place throughout the day.

Types of Hairsprays

Aerosol Hairsprays: These were the most common type of hairspray in the 1950s. They were easy to use and provided a strong hold.
Pump Hairsprays: These hairsprays were dispensed from a pump bottle and provided a more controlled application. They were often used for touch-ups.
Net Hairsprays: These hairsprays were dispensed from a net and provided a soft, natural hold.

Hairsprays were used in conjunction with other styling products, such as pomades and waxes, to achieve the desired look. Pomades provided a greasy shine and hold, while waxes provided a more matte finish and stronger hold.

Illustrated Guide to 1950s Men’s Hairstyles

The 1950s were a golden age for men’s hairstyles, with a wide variety of iconic styles to choose from. From the slicked-back ducktail to the voluminous pompadour, there was a hairstyle to suit every taste.

In this illustrated guide, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular 1950s men’s hairstyles, providing detailed descriptions and step-by-step instructions on how to achieve each look.

Ducktail

The ducktail is a classic 1950s hairstyle that is characterized by its long, slicked-back hair that is parted in the middle and tapers down to a point at the back of the head.
To achieve this look, start by applying a generous amount of pomade to damp hair. Then, use a comb to slick the hair back from the forehead to the crown of the head.
Once the hair is slicked back, use a fine-toothed comb to create a part in the middle of the head. Then, use a brush to smooth the hair down on either side of the part.
Finally, use a hair dryer to dry the hair and set the style.

Photo Gallery of 1950s Men’s Hairstyles

The 1950s were a time of great change and innovation in men’s hairstyles. From the classic slicked-back styles to the more experimental pompadours and ducktails, there was a hairstyle to suit every man.

This photo gallery showcases the diversity of 1950s men’s hairstyles. From classic to experimental, these images capture the essence of the era.

Elvis Presley’s Pompadour

Elvis Presley’s pompadour was one of the most iconic hairstyles of the 1950s. The style was characterized by its high volume and swept-back style.

James Dean’s Slicked-Back Hair

James Dean’s slicked-back hair was another popular style of the 1950s. The style was characterized by its sleek and polished look.

Marlon Brando’s Ducktail

Marlon Brando’s ducktail was a more rebellious style of the 1950s. The style was characterized by its long, greased-back hair that was pulled into a ducktail at the back of the head.

Final Review: 1950’s Mens Hairstyles

The 1950’s mens hairstyles remain a testament to the enduring power of style to shape cultural narratives. Their resurgence in modern times speaks to the timeless appeal of these iconic looks, which continue to evoke nostalgia, rebellion, and a touch of retro flair. Whether as a nod to the past or a bold statement in the present, these hairstyles continue to captivate and inspire, leaving an indelible mark on the world of fashion and popular culture.

Clarifying Questions

What were the most popular 1950’s mens hairstyles?

The most popular 1950’s mens hairstyles included the pompadour, ducktail, crew cut, and slicked-back styles.

How did 1950’s mens hairstyles reflect the social and cultural climate of the time?

1950’s mens hairstyles reflected the era’s emphasis on conformity, masculinity, and youthfulness, as well as the rise of subcultures like greasers and rockers.

What are some tips for styling 1950’s mens hairstyles?

To style 1950’s mens hairstyles, use pomades, hairsprays, combs, and brushes to create volume, texture, and hold. Slicked-back styles require a generous amount of pomade applied to damp hair, combed into place, and held with hairspray.