Pin curls are a classic styling technique that creates beautiful, defined waves and curls. Popular in the 1920s to 1950s, pin curls have made a huge comeback in both vintage-inspired and modern hairstyles. Whether you’re aiming for a Hollywood glam look, retro updo, or soft romantic waves, pin curls can be styled in many stunning ways.
Here are 10 gorgeous pin curl hairstyles to try for any occasion!
1. Classic Pin Curl Updo – Timeless & Elegant
✔ Best for: Weddings, vintage parties, or formal events
Why It Works:
- Creates a polished, vintage-inspired updo
- Keeps hair neat and elegant for long wear
- Works beautifully with floral or jeweled accessories
How to Style:
– Set hair in pin curls overnight or with heat.
– Brush out curls gently and twist sections into a soft updo.
– Secure with bobby pins and a light-hold hairspray.
✔ Bonus: Add pearl pins or a birdcage veil for a bridal look!
2. Hollywood Waves with Pin Curls – Glamorous & Red Carpet Ready
✔ Best for: Formal events, weddings, or vintage glam looks
Why It Works:
- Creates deep, defined waves for a dramatic effect
- Looks stunning on medium to long hair
- Gives a luxurious, voluminous look
How to Style:
– Set hair in pin curls using a curling iron or wet set.
– Let curls cool and gently brush them out to form waves.
– Secure waves with clips while setting, then spray with hairspray.
✔ Bonus: Perfect for Old Hollywood-themed events!
3. Victory Rolls with Pin Curls – Retro & Fun
✔ Best for: 1940s-inspired pin-up looks
Why It Works:
- Combines vintage flair with structured elegance
- Works well for medium to long hair
- Adds height and volume to the front of the hair
How to Style:
– Create pin curls all over the hair.
– Roll the front sections into large Victory Rolls and secure with pins.
– Leave the back in soft curls or sweep into an updo.
✔ Bonus: Pair with a bold red lip and winged eyeliner for the full vintage look!
4. Half-Up Pin Curl Style – Soft & Romantic
✔ Best for: Casual vintage wear or weddings
Why It Works:
- Keeps some hair up while showing off curls
- Creates a balanced, elegant look
- Works for all hair lengths
How to Style:
– Create pin curls throughout your hair and let them set.
– Take the top half of your hair and gently pin it back.
– Leave the bottom curls loose for a cascading effect.
✔ Bonus: Add a vintage-inspired comb or barrette for extra charm!
5. Pin Curl Bob – Chic & Flirty
✔ Best for: Short to medium hair
Why It Works:
- Creates soft, voluminous curls for a bouncy bob
- Perfect for 1920s or 1950s-inspired styles
- Works well for straight or slightly wavy hair
How to Style:
– Set hair in small, structured pin curls.
– Let them fully dry and brush out gently for soft volume.
– Shape the curls into a rounded bob style.
✔ Bonus: Wear with a deep side part for a flapper-inspired finish!
6. Modern Pin Curl Ponytail – Vintage Meets Trendy
✔ Best for: Day-to-night glam looks
Why It Works:
- Combines pin curls with a stylish ponytail
- Adds vintage texture with a modern twist
- Perfect for medium to long hair
How to Style:
– Set front sections in pin curls.
– Once set, pull the rest of the hair into a sleek ponytail.
– Arrange pin curls at the crown for a voluminous effect.
✔ Bonus: Wrap a strand of hair around the ponytail base for polish!
7. Pin Curl Faux Bob – Short-Looking & Elegant
✔ Best for: Long hair wanting a short bob effect
Why It Works:
- Allows long-haired individuals to achieve a bob style
- Creates an elegant, vintage illusion
- Perfect for special occasions and themed events
How to Style:
– Set hair in pin curls all over.
– Brush out and tuck the ends under at the nape.
– Secure with pins and hairspray for hold.
✔ Bonus: Great for Great Gatsby or Roaring ‘20s parties!
8. Soft Pin Curls with Headband – Cute & Retro
✔ Best for: Everyday wear or casual vintage styling
Why It Works:
- Adds a touch of vintage without being overly formal
- Works with short, medium, or long hair
- A great way to add volume and shape to fine hair
How to Style:
– Set hair in pin curls and let them set.
– Brush them out for soft, fluffy curls.
– Add a thin headband or scarf for a vintage touch.
✔ Bonus: Try a polka-dot or floral headband for a fun 1950s look!
9. Bridal Pin Curl Updo – Elegant & Timeless
✔ Best for: Brides and special occasions
Why It Works:
- Keeps hair secure and elegant all day
- Pairs beautifully with veils and bridal accessories
- Works for long or medium hair
How to Style:
– Set entire hair in pin curls overnight or with heat.
– Brush out and gently shape curls into an updo.
– Pin curls into a voluminous, elegant bun or side-swept updo.
✔ Bonus: Add pearl or crystal pins for an ethereal touch!
10. Side-Swept Pin Curl Waves – Romantic & Glamorous
✔ Best for: Formal occasions or evening wear
Why It Works:
- A blend of vintage waves and modern sophistication
- Works beautifully with long, layered hair
- Adds soft drama and elegance
How to Style:
– Set hair in deep pin curls and let set.
– Brush out and sweep all hair to one side.
– Secure with pins and apply light hairspray.
✔ Bonus: Pair with statement earrings for a Hollywood-inspired look!
Final Tips for Perfect Pin Curls
✔ Use setting lotion – Helps pin curls last longer and hold their shape.
✔ Let them set fully – Overnight or until completely cool for best results.
✔ Use clips or bobby pins – To keep curls secure while styling.
✔ Brush out gently – For soft waves, use a boar bristle brush to blend curls.
✔ Finish with hairspray – Keeps curls defined and frizz-free.
With these beautiful pin curl hairstyles, you can achieve a timeless, elegant look for any occasion! Which style will you try first? Let me know!