Want to nail that stunning, vintage look with your hair? You’re in the right place.
This Pinned Up Gatsby Curls Tutorial will guide you step-by-step to recreate those iconic, glamorous curls from the roaring twenties. Whether you’re prepping for a special event or just want to add some old-school charm to your style, you’ll learn easy techniques that anyone can follow.
Ready to turn heads and feel like you’ve stepped out of a classic film? Keep reading, and let’s make your hair the star of the show.
Tools And Products
Creating perfect pinned up Gatsby curls requires the right tools and products. These essentials help shape and hold the vintage waves all day. Proper preparation of your hair also plays a key role in achieving a smooth, polished look. Below, find the must-have styling items, best hair products, and tips on prepping your hair for the classic Gatsby style.
Essential Styling Tools
Start with a curling iron or wand with a small barrel for tight curls. Use a fine-tooth comb to section and smooth hair. Hair clips or pins keep curls in place while cooling. A paddle brush helps blend curls after pinning. Use a tail comb to create clean parts and shape waves precisely.
Best Hair Products For Hold
Choose a strong-hold setting spray to lock curls firmly. Mousse adds volume and helps curls last longer. Use a heat protectant spray before curling to avoid damage. Finish with a light shine serum for a glossy look. Avoid heavy products that weigh curls down or make hair stiff.
Preparing Hair For Styling
Start with clean, dry hair for best results. Apply heat protectant to every section before curling. Use a lightweight mousse to give texture and grip. Comb through hair gently to remove tangles. Avoid heavy conditioners that make hair slippery and hard to style.
Creating The Curls
Creating the curls is a key step for perfect Gatsby pin-up hair. These curls give the style its classic, elegant look. Follow simple steps to achieve smooth, defined waves.
Start with clean, dry hair for best results. Use the right tools and techniques to form curls that hold well. Patience and care make the difference in your vintage style.
Sectioning Hair Properly
Divide your hair into small, manageable sections. Use clips to hold each section apart. This helps you curl each part evenly without missing strands.
Work from the bottom layers up. Start curling the lower sections first, then move to the top. Smaller sections create tighter, well-defined curls.
Using Curling Techniques
Wrap each section around a curling iron or wand. Hold the hair tight and curl away from your face. This creates the signature Gatsby wave shape.
Keep the curling tool at medium heat to avoid damage. Hold each curl for about 10 seconds. Release the curl gently to keep its form.
Setting And Cooling The Curls
After curling, pin each curl in place using clips or bobby pins. Let the curls cool completely while pinned. Cooling locks the curls in shape for longer hold.
Once cooled, remove the pins carefully. Lightly brush or finger-comb the curls for soft waves. Finish with hairspray to keep the style all day.
Pinning The Curls
Pinning the curls is the key step to achieve perfect Gatsby style hair. It locks the curls in place and shapes the vintage look. Proper pinning keeps curls neat and long-lasting. Follow simple steps to roll and pin the curls carefully. Then secure them firmly with clips and pins. Finally, adjust for symmetry to get that flawless finish.
How To Roll And Pin
Start by taking a small section of hair. Roll it tightly towards the scalp. Hold the roll flat against your head. Tuck the ends under the curl. Pin the curl close to the scalp to keep it secure. Repeat this process for each section of hair. Make sure each curl is smooth and firm.
Securing With Clips And Pins
Use bobby pins or U-shaped clips to hold the curls. Insert pins in a crisscross pattern for extra hold. Push pins gently but firmly into the hair. Avoid pinning too loosely to prevent slipping. Check that all curls feel tight and stable. Use clips only as needed to support the pins.
Adjusting For Symmetry
Stand in front of a mirror. Compare both sides of your pinned curls. Shift pins slightly to balance the curls evenly. Make sure no curls stick out awkwardly. Smooth down any bumps or loose strands. Take your time to perfect the symmetrical shape. Symmetry gives the classic Gatsby look its charm.

Credit: vintagehairstyling.com
Forming The Vintage Waves
Forming the vintage waves is the heart of the Pinned Up Gatsby Curls style. These waves create the classic, elegant look that defines the Gatsby era. The process requires patience and gentle handling to achieve smooth, flowing S-shaped waves. Follow each step carefully for the best results.
Brushing Out The Curls
Start by gently brushing out your curls with a wide-tooth comb or a soft bristle brush. This softens the curls and begins to form the smooth wave pattern. Brush slowly to avoid breaking the curl shape. The goal is to blend the curls into soft, continuous waves.
Shaping The S-waves
Use your fingers or a comb to shape the brushed curls into distinct S-waves. Work section by section, guiding the hair into smooth curves that flow into each other. Pin each wave carefully to hold its shape. This step builds the vintage look’s signature rhythm and flow.
Adding Volume And Texture
After shaping the waves, add volume by gently lifting the roots. Use a light hairspray or texturizing spray to keep the waves in place without stiffness. Avoid heavy products that weigh hair down. The right texture gives the hairstyle a natural, lively finish.
Finishing Touches
Finishing touches bring your Pinned Up Gatsby Curls to life. This stage ensures your hairstyle stays perfect and looks polished all day. Small details make a big difference. Let’s explore key steps for a flawless finish.
Applying Hairspray For Longevity
Use a strong-hold hairspray to keep curls in place. Spray lightly from a distance to avoid stiffness. Hold the can about 10 inches away from your hair. This method locks your style without weighing it down. Apply more if needed, focusing on curls and pinned sections.
Taming Flyaways
Flyaways can spoil the smooth, vintage look. Use a small amount of hair serum or pomade on your fingertips. Gently smooth down any loose strands around your face and crown. A fine-tooth comb also helps tame stray hairs. Keep the finish neat and polished.
Accessorizing Your Look
Add vintage-inspired accessories for an authentic Gatsby style. Think pearl pins, decorative combs, or feather clips. Place them where curls meet pins for extra charm. Accessories highlight your curls and add elegance. Choose pieces that match your outfit and event.

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Style Variations
Pinned up Gatsby curls offer a timeless look with many style options. Adjust the curls to fit your hair length and personal taste. Each variation highlights the classic vintage charm in unique ways. This guide shows how to style Gatsby curls on short, medium, and long hair.
Gatsby Curls For Short Hair
Short hair can have soft Gatsby curls that frame the face gently. Use smaller curling irons for tighter curls. Pin curls close to the scalp for a neat look. Focus on the front and sides to create that vintage wave. Finish with a light hold hairspray to keep curls in place all day.
Gatsby Curls For Medium Hair
Medium hair suits fuller and more defined Gatsby curls. Curl sections away from the face for a classic effect. Pin the curls up to add volume and elegance. Leave some curls loose at the ends for softness. Use hairpins that match your hair color for a clean finish.
Gatsby Curls For Long Hair
Long hair allows for dramatic and glamorous Gatsby curls. Create large curls using a bigger barrel curling iron. Pin curls along the crown for height and vintage flair. Let some curls cascade down for a romantic touch. Secure with strong-hold hairspray to maintain the style all day.
Troubleshooting Tips
Troubleshooting your pinned up Gatsby curls can make all the difference in achieving that classic, elegant look. Small fixes prevent style mishaps and keep your hair looking polished. Follow these simple tips to solve common problems and enjoy flawless curls every time.
Fixing Flat Curls
Flat curls lose their bounce and charm quickly. To revive them, spray a bit of water or light hairspray. Use your fingers to gently lift and reshape each curl. Avoid combing, as it can flatten curls more. Try re-pinning curls with bobby pins to add volume. Heat your curling iron slightly and touch up curls that feel limp.
Preventing Frizz
Frizz spoils the smooth, sleek look of Gatsby curls. Start with clean, dry hair and use an anti-frizz serum. Avoid touching your curls too much during the day. Use a light hairspray that tames flyaways without stiffness. Sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce friction. If humidity affects your hair, carry a small smoothing brush for quick touch-ups.
Maintaining Style All Day
Keeping your Gatsby curls intact takes some care. Set your curls with a strong-hold hairspray right after styling. Avoid heavy products that weigh curls down. Pin curls securely with quality clips or pins. Try not to brush your hair too often; finger styling works best. Refresh curls mid-day with a little mist of water and reshape as needed.

Credit: vintagehairstyling.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Curl Hair In Gatsby Style?
Section hair and apply mousse. Curl small sections using a curling iron or pin curls. Pin each curl to set. Let curls cool completely. Gently brush curls into soft waves. Finish with hairspray to hold the vintage Gatsby style.
How To Do Vintage Pin Up Curls?
Section dry hair and apply mousse. Curl small sections with a curling iron. Pin each curl to cool. Brush gently to shape waves. Secure with hairspray for long-lasting vintage pin-up curls.
How To Do 1920s Finger Waves?
Apply mousse to damp hair. Use a comb and fingers to create S-shaped waves. Pin each wave, let dry. Remove pins and set with hairspray for classic 1920s finger waves.
How To Pin Up Hair For Beginners?
Start with clean, dry hair. Section your hair and curl each part. Twist or roll curls, then secure with pins. Use hairspray for hold. Adjust pins for comfort and style.
Conclusion
Pinned up Gatsby curls add timeless charm to any look. With simple steps, you create elegant vintage waves. Practice helps you perfect the style with ease. Use the right tools for smooth, lasting curls. Try this tutorial for a classic, polished finish.
Enjoy your beautiful, retro-inspired hair every day. Keep experimenting to find what suits you best. This look fits many occasions, from parties to casual outings. Embrace the Gatsby vibe and stand out with grace.
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