Top 72+ Stunning 50s Hairstyles Black Hair Unleash Your Hair's Beauty

The 1950s were a time of glamour and sophistication, and this was reflected in the hairstyles of black women. From classic updos to bold statement looks, there was no shortage of options for those with black hair. Let's explore some of the top 10 50s hairstyles for black hair that have stood the test of time.

The 1950s saw a rise in popularity of black hair styles, with women embracing their natural texture and experimenting with different looks. This was also a time of cultural change, as African American women began to reclaim their beauty and challenge societal beauty standards. Some of the most iconic black hair styles from the 50s include the beehive, pompadour, and bouffant.

One of the most recognizable and beloved hairstyles from the 50s is the beehive. This look involved teasing and backcombing the hair to create a high, rounded shape on top of the head. It was often paired with a headband or scarf for added flair. Other classic 50s hairdos for black hair include the pompadour, which featured a high, swept-back style, and the bouffant, which involved adding volume and height to the crown of the head.

The 1950s continue to inspire hair styles today, with many modern interpretations of classic looks. For black hair, this could mean incorporating elements of the iconic beehive or bouffant into a more modern updo or adding a retro scarf or headband to a sleek bob. The key is to find a balance between the old and the new, creating a unique and stylish look that pays homage to the 50s.

The 50s were also known for pin up girls, who were often seen with glamorous and elaborate hairstyles. For black hair, this could mean incorporating victory rolls, which were popular among pin up girls, into a modern look. These involved rolling sections of hair inward and securing them with bobby pins to create a sleek and elegant style. Other pin up-inspired looks for black hair could include the classic pin curl or a side swept updo.

Aside from the beehive, pompadour, and bouffant, there were many other iconic styles for black hair in the 50s. These included the popular finger waves, which involved creating S-shaped waves in the hair using a comb and styling product. The poodle cut, which featured short, curly hair, was also a popular choice. And of course, the classic afro, which became a symbol of black pride and empowerment during this time.

The 50s were a time of experimentation and innovation when it came to black hair. Along with classic styles like the bouffant and beehive, new trends also emerged. These included the Jheri curl, which involved chemically treating the hair to create soft, defined curls, and the conk, which was popularized by musicians like Little Richard and involved straightening and styling the hair to create a sleek, shiny look.

If you want to recreate the iconic curls of the 50s on your black hair, there are a few techniques you can try. One method is to use rollers or flexi rods to set the hair and create defined curls. Another option is to use a curling iron or flat iron to curl small sections of hair. And for a more natural look, you can try the twist-out or braid-out method, where you twist or braid damp hair and let it dry overnight before unraveling for beautiful curls.

The 1950s saw the rise of many influential black hair icons, whose styles continue to inspire us today. One of the most well-known is Dorothy Dandridge, who often wore her hair in a classic bob with deep side parting. Other notable icons include Josephine Baker, who was known for her signature short, slicked-back style, and Nina Simone, who often rocked a beautiful afro.

The rockabilly subculture emerged in the 1950s and brought with it a unique and edgy style. For black hair, this could mean incorporating elements of rockabilly into a classic pin up or beehive hairstyle. This could include adding a bold bandana or headscarf, or incorporating bold, bright colors into the hair. The key is to have fun and embrace the rebellious spirit of rockabilly.

Accessories were a big part of 50s fashion and this included hair accessories. For black hair, there were many options to choose from, including headbands, scarves, and hair combs adorned with pearls or rhinestones. These accessories not only added flair to a hairstyle, but they also helped hold it in place and add structure.

The 1950s saw a shift towards embracing natural beauty, and this included black hair. Women began to embrace their natural texture and wear their hair in afros, braids, and twists. This was a powerful statement and challenged societal beauty standards that often favored straight hair. This trend continues today, with many women embracing their natural hair and celebrating their unique beauty.

When it came to hair color, the 50s saw a range of trends for black hair. Some women opted for jet black, glossy locks, while others experimented with bold reds or blondes. Platinum blonde hair was also a popular choice, especially among celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and Lena Horne. Today, we see a continuation of these trends, with black women embracing a variety of hair colors and shades.

Short hair was also a popular choice for black women in the 1950s. This included the classic pixie cut, which featured short, cropped hair, and the tapered cut, which involved cutting the back and sides of the hair short while leaving the top longer. These styles were not only fashionable but also practical for busy women who didn't have the time or resources to maintain long hair.

The 50s were known for their elegant and timeless updos, and this was no different for black hair. Updos were often created using a combination of styling techniques, including pinning and twisting the hair, as well as incorporating accessories like flowers and scarves. These updos were perfect for formal occasions and added a touch of sophistication to any look.

The 1950s marked a significant shift in beauty standards for black women. It was a time of embracing natural beauty and challenging the idea that only straight hair was beautiful. The iconic black hair styles of this decade continue to inspire and empower women today, as we continue to challenge and redefine societal beauty standards.

The 50s saw the rise of many influential black women in the hair industry, who paved the way for future generations. One of these trailblazers was Madame C.J. Walker, who became the first female self-made millionaire in the United States through her hair product line. Other notable icons include Vidal Sassoon, who revolutionized hairdressing techniques, and Annie Turnbo Malone, who was a pioneer in the development of hair straightening products.

A hair scarf was a staple accessory in the 1950s and can easily be recreated for black hair today. To create a 50s-inspired hair scarf, start by folding a large scarf into a triangle. Place the longest edge of the triangle at your hairline and tie the two ends at the back of your head. Then, take the remaining fabric and tuck it into the scarf, creating a chic and retro look.

The 50s were a time of experimentation and creativity when it came to black hair. Along with the classic styles we've already mentioned, there were also trends like the ducktail, which involved slicking the hair back and creating a small point at the back of the head, and the poodle cut, which featured short, curly hair. These trends may have come and gone, but their impact on black hair continues to be felt today.

The 1950s were a time of great cultural and social change, and this was reflected in black hair styles. As more African American women began to embrace their natural hair, it became a symbol of pride and empowerment. This decade also saw an increase in representation of black beauty in media and popular culture, with icons like Josephine Baker and Eartha Kitt becoming symbols of black beauty and style.

As we can see, the 1950s were a pivotal time for black hair, with a wide range of styles and trends that continue to inspire us today. Whether you're looking to recreate a classic look or put a modern twist on a 50s hairstyle, there's no shortage of options for those with black hair. So go ahead and embrace the beauty and glamour of the 50s with these iconic hairstyles.