7 Vintage Hairstyles That Are Making A Stylish Comeback

Then: Curtain Bangs

Curtain bangs have always had that effortlessly cool, “I woke up like this” energy. In the past, they were tied to icons of the ’60s and ’70s: soft, parted bangs that opened around the face like curtains. They were romantic, a little undone, and perfect with long layers, blowouts, or tousled waves. They had a dreamy, vintage feel. Think face-framing fringe, soft volume, and a look that felt polished without trying too hard.

Now: Curtain Bangs

The modern take is a little more approachable and low-maintenance. You can part them decidedly in the center to appear more like face-framing layers, or you can spread them across the forehead to veer more full-coverage.

For 2026, ask your stylist for curtain bangs that hit around your cheekbones or lips and blend into soft face-framing layers. Style them with a round brush, a blow-dryer, or even heatless rollers for that relaxed, expensive-looking finish.

Then: Shag Haircut

It became popular because it had attitude. Choppy layers, messy texture, movement, bangs, and a cool rock-and-roll feel gave the shag its rebellious charm. We also can’t forget the famous shag haircut that looked like a helmet, made popular in the movie Klute. Later on, stars like Stevie Nicks, David Cassidy, and Mick Jagger copied the style but made it more messy and layered.

They added bangs, more texture, and a rough look instead of the smooth style from the original.
The vintage shag was bold. It was not sleek or controlled. It looked like music, freedom, and late nights. It worked beautifully with natural texture and gave hair a wild, lived-in shape.

Now: Shag Haircut

The 2026 shag haircut is softer, more natural, and easy to manage. Instead of sharp layers, it uses blended layers for smooth movement and a relaxed look. Bangs can be light and flexible, like curtain or wispy styles. Nowadays, curls make the perfect avenue for a shag cut that makes the most of texture and layers.

Then: Banana Clips

Banana clips were everywhere in the ’80s and ’90s. You could clip your hair up in seconds and suddenly have volume, shape, and lift. For many people, banana clips bring back memories of school mornings, mall fashion, glossy ads, and big hair energy. The U-shaped accessory with two plastic sides comes together in the middle with stretchy teeth that hold the hair in place.

Now: Banana Clips

The new banana clip is less about plastic nostalgia and more about easy volume. It works with curls, waves, thick hair, natural texture, and long layers. Modern versions come in sleeker materials, better grips, and more stylish shapes. The best way to wear a banana clip now is with intention.

Try it with loose curls, a soft half-up style, or a low, romantic ponytail. Leave a few face-framing pieces out so it feels modern rather than overly retro. It is quick, flattering, and perfect for second-day hair.

Then: Flipped Hair

In the 1960s, the flipped ends looked neat and feminine. In the 1990s, the style became smooth, shiny, and fun. The flip could be soft or bold, but it always added a bit of character. Even a simple bob or shoulder-length haircut looked more styled when the ends turned outward. The overall look felt tidy, playful, and full of charm.

Now: Feathered Hair

Flipped hair in 2026 is smooth, soft, and shiny with a modern feel. It works best on shorter cuts like bobs and adds shape with gently flipped ends. Inspired by the ’90s and the C-curl trend, it’s easy to style and gives a fresh, polished look with minimal effort.

Then: Bumpits

From the tall bouffants of the 1960s to the puffed-up bangs of the 2000s, big hair has always made a comeback over time. Bumpits may not have been around during Priscilla Presley’s famous bouffant days, but they definitely would have been useful back then.

Now: Bumpits

Many people remember those old Bumpit commercials that claimed to add big volume to your hair using a small, half-moon plastic insert. Well, you might want to dig that Bumpit out again—full, voluminous hairstyles are making a comeback.

Then: French Bob

The old French bob felt artistic and elegant. It was the haircut of someone who did not need to try too hard. It looked beautiful with a red lip, a simple outfit, and quiet confidence.

Silent film star Louise Brooks became a symbol of 1920s flapper style, especially known for her very short, sleek bob with bangs—often called the French bob.

Now: French Bob

It is still short and chic, but now it has more texture, movement, and personality. The Zoe Report says the textured French bob is expected to have a big year, describing it as a classic French bob with intentionally flipped ends like a Parisian bob meeting a subtle ’90s flip.