15 Incredible 1920s Hairstyles for Men in 2024

 Introduction

The 1920s was a decade of transformation, not just in society and culture but in fashion and grooming as well. Men's hairstyles during this era reflected the roaring spirit of the times—sharp, stylish, and meticulously groomed. Whether you’re looking to recreate a vintage look or simply draw inspiration from the past, these 15 iconic 1920s hairstyles for men are timeless options that can still turn heads today.

The Classic Slicked-Back

One of the most quintessential looks of the 1920s, the slicked-back hairstyle was all about smooth, polished hair. This style involves combing the hair straight back, using a generous amount of pomade to achieve a high-shine finish. It’s a versatile look that works well for formal occasions and everyday wear.

2. The Side Part

The side part was another popular style in the 1920s, characterized by a clean, sharp parting on one side of the head. Often paired with a slicked-back top, this hairstyle exuded sophistication and was a go-to choice for gentlemen of the era. The key to nailing this look is precision—ensure your part is straight and your hair is sleek.

3. The Tapered Fade

The tapered fade, which gradually shortened the hair towards the nape of the neck, emerged in the 1920s as a stylish and refined option. This style was often combined with a slicked-back top or side part, creating a modern yet timeless look. The tapered fade added a touch of sophistication, making it a popular choice among men who wanted a clean and polished appearance.

4. The Finger Wave

While finger waves are often associated with women’s hairstyles, they were also embraced by men in the 1920s. This style involved creating soft, S-shaped waves in the hair using a comb and pomade. Finger waves added texture and elegance to shorter hairstyles, making them a distinctive and fashionable choice for formal events.

5. The Short Back and Sides

Practical and easy to maintain, the short back and sides hairstyle was a staple in the 1920s. The hair was kept longer on top, with the back and sides closely cropped. This style was often paired with a side part or slicked back, making it a versatile option for men who wanted a clean, polished look without too much fuss.

6. The Pompadour

The pompadour made waves in the 1920s as a bold and statement-making hairstyle. Characterized by voluminous hair at the front, swept upwards and back, the pompadour was typically achieved with the help of pomade to keep the hair in place. This style added height and drama, perfect for men looking to make a lasting impression.

7. The Ivy League Cut

The Ivy League cut, also known as the Harvard clip or Princeton cut, was a popular preppy style in the 1920s. This haircut kept the hair short on the sides and back, with a slightly longer length on top that could be parted to the side or styled back. It was a neat and sophisticated look that conveyed a sense of class and refinement, ideal for young men in academia or those seeking a polished appearance.

8. The Caesar Cut

Inspired by the Roman emperor, the Caesar cut gained popularity in the 1920s for its distinct short fringe. The hair is cut to a uniform length, with the fringe brushed forward, giving the style a clean and controlled look. This hairstyle was practical, easy to maintain, and suited men who preferred a shorter, low-maintenance cut that still looked sharp.

9. The Bowl Cut

The bowl cut, although simple, was a notable hairstyle in the 1920s. As the name suggests, this cut involved trimming the hair evenly around the head, resembling the shape of a bowl. While it was often considered a youthful or casual style, some men embraced this look for its straightforward and fuss-free approach.

10. The French Crop

The French crop, featuring short hair on the back and sides with a slightly longer fringe at the front, was a stylish choice in the 1920s. This hairstyle was similar to the Caesar cut but allowed for more versatility with the fringe, which could be styled forward, to the side, or slightly tousled for a relaxed look. The French crop was a refined yet easygoing option, making it suitable for various occasions.

11. The Slicked-Back Undercut

The undercut became a defining style in the 1920s, with the slicked-back version being particularly popular. This look featured closely shaved sides and back, with longer hair on top that was slicked back using pomade. The contrast between the short sides and voluminous top created a sharp, edgy look that resonated with the rebellious spirit of the time.

12. The Fade with Waves

The fade with waves was a popular style among African American men in the 1920s, combining the elegance of a taper fade with the texture of waves. This look was achieved by brushing the hair regularly to create wave patterns, while the fade added a modern twist to the classic style. It was a sophisticated and culturally significant hairstyle of the era.

13. The Crew Cut

The crew cut, with its military origins, became a popular choice for men in the 1920s. The hair was cut short all around, with the top slightly longer than the back and sides. This style was practical, clean-cut, and easy to maintain, making it ideal for men who preferred a no-nonsense, masculine look that required minimal styling.

14. The Faux Hawk

While the full mohawk didn’t gain popularity until later decades, a subtle version known as the faux hawk was seen in the 1920s. This style involved longer hair in the center of the head, styled upwards to create a small crest, with the sides kept shorter. The faux hawk was a daring, avant-garde choice for men who wanted to stand out and make a bold statement.

15. The Peaky Blinders Cut

Popularized by the notorious gangsters of the time, the Peaky Blinders cut was a bold and edgy hairstyle that featured short sides with a longer, textured top. Often paired with a heavy side part or undercut, this look embodied the rebellious and fearless attitude of the 1920s. The Peaky Blinders cut remains a popular style today, thanks to its association with the gritty yet stylish aesthetic of the era.

Conclusion

The 1920s were a time of significant change, and men's hairstyles were no exception. These 15 iconic styles reflect the diversity and creativity of the era, offering a range of looks that can still inspire modern-day grooming. Whether you're drawn to the sleek elegance of the slicked-back styles or the boldness of the Peaky Blinders cut, these vintage looks continue to offer timeless charm and sophistication.