The Modern Bride's Guide to Old Hollywood Waves

Nothing says timeless glamour quite like Old Hollywood waves - the smooth, cascading curls that defined 1940s movie stars. This bridal hairstyle exudes sophistication and is a nod to the golden era of silver screen glitz. It's also a look that's often mentioned by women visiting our bridal accessory boutique!

So, we thought we'd take a look into this gorgeous down-do and share how it's different from loose curls (another popular style) and what  wedding hair accessories are best.

The Story Behind Hollywood Waves Wedding Hair

This hairstyle is often referred to as 'Veronica Lake waves.’ The reason for this is that superstar Veronica Lake made this look a glamour girl classic! Women all over the world—including other stars—emulated her look. As a result, back in the 1940s and 1950s, sexy, sophisticated allure was defined by screen sirens like Rita Hayworth, Mae West, Jean Harlow, and Marilyn Monroe, all of whom wore their hair in soft, glossy, and structured waves.

Crystal Bridal Hair Accessories for Old Hollywood Waves

Pairing this fabulous wedding day hairstyle with a dazzling accessory renders your look iconic. We're talking crystal-encrusted hair vines, combs, and headbands! These bridal waves hair accessories work beautifully with any Hollywood curls wedding variation.

Crystal hair combs: Nestle a stunning bridal hair comb into the side of your Old Hollywood waves—this will accentuate the waves while adding a sparkle that catches the eye.

Crystal hair vines and halos: For a bolder, more dramatic look, intertwine a long bridal hair vine into your Old Hollywood waves, or top it with a glittering halo. These versatile, flexible accessories will add a luxurious touch to your hairstyle.

Crystal bridal tiaras: For the bride aiming to make a statement, adorn your waves with a crystal tiara. It introduces a regal elegance that channels both vintage glamour and modern-day princess vibes.

Crystal bridal headbands: Opt for a bridal headband to frame your glam waves. This will elevate the look, enhancing the refinement and elegance of the style.

Old Hollywood Waves vs. Loose Curls

Both are striking styles that exude romance and glamour. However, Hollywood waves differ from loose curls in three key ways:

1. Structure and form: The defining feature of Old Hollywood waves is their smooth, structured shape. That's what lends the hairstyle its polished look. On the other hand, loose curls are relaxed and free flowing.
2. Glamour quotient: While loose curls present a boho romantic aesthetic, Old Hollywood waves are all about high glamour with a low-key retro feel.
3. Curl positioning: Hollywood waves generally begin around ear level, flowing down on one side, whereas loose curls start from the top or mid-section and are scattered around.

Hollywood Waves Styling Options

This red-carpet-inspired style can be styled in lots of ways, but the most popular among are brides are a variation of side swept and middle part waves.

Side swept Hollywood waves wedding hair—the traditional Veronica Lake style that many of our brides wear—creates dramatic asymmetry. A statement hair comb tucked above your ear accents the hairstyle's drama. 

Some brides choose middle part Hollywood waves, which is not only striking but also a natural match for crystal tiaras, headbands, and bridal hair vines. We also love a wedding halo for middle-parted waves. Together, the hairstyle and headpiece convey such a bewitchingly glambohemian aesthetic!

Hollywood Waves with Veil

Hollywood waves are gorgeous, but if you wear a veil (and honestly, everyone should - so dramatic!) strategic placement and anchoring is a must. 

For women who wear their waves side swept or parted down the middle, the veil typically attaches where the top of your head begins to curve downward. That's the perfect spot for your stylist to create a hidden bobby pin foundation for the comb to grip. If you want a little extra stay-put insurance, choose a headpiece like a wedding halo, crown, or headband that has the built in structure for affixing a veil.  

Another option is to wear half-up, half down Hollywood waves. This hairdo calls for gathering hair at your crown, which also happens to be just the right place for a veil's comb.  

Find Your Perfect Hollywood Waves Accessory

Our luxury bridal headpieces are designed to make your Hollywood waves unforgettable. Shop our collection online, visit us at our NYC bridal accessory boutique to try everything in person, or contact us to create a custom piece just for you.