Stunning Great Gatsby Hair & Makeup Looks to Recreate

Great Gatsby hairstyles | 1920s flapper makeup | Art Deco wedding hair | Roaring twenties beauty looks

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As a bridal hair and makeup artist based in London, I’ve had the pleasure of creating countless vintage-inspired looks for my clients over the years.

While I typically specialise in South Asian bridal beauty, I absolutely love when brides and party-goers come to me wanting that classic 1920s glamour.

There’s something magical about the Roaring Twenties aesthetic that transcends cultures and continues to inspire brides across all backgrounds.

The Great Gatsby era holds a special place in my heart because the attention to detail and artistry involved reminds me so much of the intricate work I do for Asian bridal looks.

Both require precision, patience, and an understanding of how to make someone feel like absolute royalty.

Whether you’re heading to a Gatsby-themed event, planning a vintage wedding, or just fancy channeling your inner flapper for a special occasion, I’m sharing my favourite 1920s-inspired looks that I’ve perfected in my London studio.

Why the 1920s Still Captivates Us

Before I walk you through these looks, let me tell you why the Jazz Age continues to fascinate my clients, regardless of their cultural background. Working with diverse clientele in London has taught me that glamour is truly universal.

The twenties marked such a pivotal moment for women’s beauty. For the first time, women were cutting their hair short, wearing makeup unapologetically, and celebrating their independence. In many ways, it reminds me of the confidence I see in my South Asian brides who blend traditional elements with modern touches. Both require a certain boldness.

What defined that era? Structured waves that caught the light beautifully, bobs that shocked society, ornate accessories that rivaled any maang tikka in their opulence, and makeup that was all about drama—dark-lined eyes, perfectly shaped lips, and that porcelain finish that I spend hours perfecting on my brides.

These elements created looks that were sophisticated yet daring. Much like when I’m working on a fusion bride who wants to honour her heritage whilst embracing contemporary trends, these vintage styles walk that same beautiful line between tradition and rebellion.

1. Classic Finger Waves & Deep Berry Lips

Right, let me start with the quintessential Gatsby lookfinger waves.

I won’t lie to you…this one takes practice. I’ve spent years perfecting this technique and even now I approach each client’s hair with fresh respect for just how technical it is.

When I’m creating finger waves in my studio, I start with freshly washed, damp hair. The key is using a proper stronghold gel not that lightweight stuff you’d use for everyday styling.

I work in small sections, using my fine toothed comb to create those distinctive S shaped waves. Each wave needs to be held in place with clips whilst it dries which honestly takes ages. I usually have my clients come in early if they want this look because you simply cannot rush perfection.

The secret to authentic finger waves?

They need to sit close to the scalp and flow in uniform ribbons around the head. I’ve seen so many attempts where the waves are too loose or uneven and it just doesn’t have that same impact.

For makeup…I pair this with a gorgeous deep berry lip think burgundy or wine tones. These shades look stunning on absolutely everyone which is why I keep a whole range in my kit.

They work beautifully on South Asian skin tones, fair complexions, darker skins…honestly, berry lips are foolproof if you find the right undertone for your client.

I keep the eyes relatively soft with brown shadow in the crease and a subtle flick of liner.

Just enough drama without competing with those statement lips. A touch of peach blush on the apples of the cheeks, and you’ve got a look that photographs beautifully, which matters so much for events.

This combination is perfect for formal occasions.

I’ve done this look for vintage themed weddings, anniversary parties and even a few bride’s reception looks when they wanted something different from their traditional ceremony style.

Get the look:

Strong Hold Hair Gel for Finger Waves

Fine Toothed Comb for Creating Waves

Finger Wave Hair Clips Set

Deep Berry/Burgundy Lipstick

Brown Eyeshadow Palette

Black Eyeliner Pencil

Peach Blush

2. Bobbed PerfectioN With Cupid’s Bow Lips

The bob was revolutionary, wasn’t it?

When I think about how scandalous short hair was back then…it makes me smile. These days I have clients from all backgrounds who rock beautiful bobs though I’ll admit my South Asian brides often prefer keeping their length for traditional occasions.

If you’ve got a natural bob…brilliant. If not, I can create a convincing faux bob…more on that later.

The key is structure. I use a medium barrel curling iron to create defined curls throughout then brush them out gently for softer waves.

The finish needs to be glossy. I always use a shine serum because that high shine look is non negotiable for authentic twenties styling.

Now let’s talk about Cupid’s bow lips. This technique is something I teach in my masterclasses because it’s trickier than it looks.

You’re not following the natural lip line here…Instead you’re creating a concentrated, rounded shape at the centre of the lips. I use a lip liner to draw that exaggerated curve on the upper lip…it’s almost like creating two little peaks that come together. Then I fill everything in with a matching lipstick blotting between layers for staying power.

For eyes I keep things neutral with browns and a subtle line along the upper lash. A bit of highlighter in the inner corners and under the brow bone opens everything up nicely.

This look has such a Daisy Buchanan energy…feminine and polished. I’ve created this for clients heading to garden parties, daytime events and even a few who just wanted to feel glamorous for a special date night.

Get the look:

Medium Barrel Curling Iron

Shine Serum for Hair – High Gloss Finish

Lip Liner

Long-Lasting Lipstick

Brown Eyeshadow Palette

Black Eyeliner Pencil – Upper Lash Line

Highlighting Powder – Inner Corner & Brow Bone

3. Sleek Low Bun & Smoky Eyes

Not everyone wants short hair and I completely understand that. In my work with South Asian brides, I’ve become rather expert at elegant updo’s…they’re a staple for so many traditional looks. This sleek low bun uses those same principles but with a distinctly twenties twist.

The process starts with completely straight hair. I’ll often run my straighteners through several times to get every bit of texture out. Then it’s all about that smoothing serum to eliminate any hint of frizz…London humidity is real and we need to work against it.

I create a deep side part (very important for that vintage feel) then gather everything at the nape of the neck into the tightest, most compact bun you can imagine.

This isn’t meant to be soft or romantic. It’s sharp, precise, almost architectural.

Every hair needs to be exactly where it should be secured with what feels like a hundred bobby pins and enough hairspray to survive a windstorm.

The makeup here is where we bring the drama.

I do a proper smoky eye using charcoal or dark brown shadow blended well into the crease and upward.

Black kohl lines both the upper and lower lash lines I smudge it slightly for a softer effect and then layer on the mascara.

Sometimes I’ll add false lashes if my client wants extra impact.

Lips stay neutral or soft pink because those eyes are doing all the talking. I might add a touch of contour under the cheekbones for extra definition.

This look reminds me of Jordan Baker’s cool sophistication. It’s perfect for clients who want elegance without excessive fuss and it holds up beautifully through long events…something I always consider when I’m doing bridal work.

Get the look:

Hair Straighteners

Smoothing Serum – Anti-Frizz

Bobby Pins Black – 100 Pack

Hair Spray Strong Hold – Maximum

Charcoal/Dark Brown Eyeshadow Palette

Black Kohl Eyeliner – Upper & Lower Lash

Black Mascara – Volumizing

False Eyelashes – Dramatic

Soft Pink/Neutral Lipstick

Contour Powder – Cheekbone Definition

4. Pin Curls & Classic Red Lip

Pin curls are having such a moment right now and I’m here for it. This technique has been around forever and there’s a reason it’s survived…it creates the most gorgeous vintage texture.

In my studio I work with damp hair, sectioning it into small portions about an inch wide. Each section gets wrapped around my finger to create a flat curl, then pinned against the scalp with a clip. The hair needs to dry completely…

I usually recommend overnight if my client is doing this at home. When I’m doing it professionally…I’ll sit them under a hooded dryer because we don’t always have hours to spare.

Once everything’s dry and I remove the pins, I gently separate the curls with my fingers rather than brushing through them.

This maintains definition whilst giving that bouncy Hollywood glamour texture. Light hairspray to finish and you’ve got curls that move beautifully but hold their shape.

The red lip is where this look really comes alive.

I’m quite particular about red lipsticks…I keep dozens of shades because the “perfect red” varies so much depending on skin tone. For a proper vintage look, I lean towards true reds with blue undertones, though orange/reds can be stunning on warmer complexions. I always apply with a lip brush for precision then have my client blot and reapply for maximum intensity.

Sometimes I’ll add a faux beauty mark with brown eyeliner it’s a small detail but adds such authentic vintage character.

This look works brilliantly for themed parties, photo shoots or anyone who wants to fully commit to the aesthetic.

Get the look:

Pin Curl Clips – Large Set

Hair Spray Light Hold – Flexible

Classic Red Lipstick

Lip Brush for Precision Application

Brown Eyeliner Pencil – Beauty Mark

5. Marcel Waves with Glittering Headpiece

Marcel waves take everything up a notch.

They’re deeper and more dramatic than finger waves…creating these incredible ribbons of hair that catch light from every angle. Named after Marcel Grateau, a French hairstylist, these waves require advanced technique.

Traditionally, they were created with a special Marcel iron but I achieve similar results using modern curling irons and very specific placement.

I work in sections…wrapping the hair over the iron for one wave then under for the next, creating those distinctive alternating curves.

Each section gets pinned as I go and everything needs to cool completely before I release it.

Once cooled…I use a natural bristle brush to soften the waves slightly whilst maintaining that dramatic pattern. The result is more pronounced and sculptural than standard finger waves.

Now, accessories.

This is where my love for ornate bridal pieces comes in.

The twenties were all about elaborate headpieces and honestly they rival some of the stunning tikkas and jhoomar pieces I work with for Asian weddings.

I look for art deco designs featuring beads, crystals, feathers or pearls. These can be positioned across the forehead in classic flapper style or at the crown for something more regal.

For makeup…I emphasise the eyes with dark kohl on both upper and lower lash lines.

Brown or taupe shadow adds depth in the crease with plenty of mascara and lips in a medium red or rose that complements rather than competes with the ornate hair accessories.

This look is spectacular for black-tie events, formal weddings or Gatsby parties.

It’s a showstopper…

Get the look:

Marcel Curling Iron/Wand

Curl Clips for Setting Waves

Natural Bristle Brush for Softening Waves

Art Deco Headpiece with Beads and Crystals

Black Kohl Eyeliner – Upper & Lower Lash

Brown/Taupe Eyeshadow Palette

Black Mascara – Volumizing

Red Lipstick

6. Soft Waves & Gold-Toned Makeup

Here’s where I often blend my vintage inspiration with contemporary techniques.

Not everyone wants that ultra structured twenties look so this softer interpretation gives you the silhouette without the rigidity.

Instead of tight finger waves, I create looser, more relaxed wave patterns using large barrel curlers or hot rollers. Once cooled, I run my fingers through to separate and soften the waves. A light texturising spray provides hold without stiffness.

The hair still has that vintage inspired shape but with movement and a more modern feel.

For makeup…I deviate from traditional twenties colours and use warm gold tones instead.

Champagne or gold shimmer across the lid…deepening to bronze or copper in the outer corner. A thin line of brown or bronze liner along the upper lash line keeps things defined and mascara finishes the eyes.

These warm tones are particularly beautiful on South Asian skin tones…the gold just glows against deeper complexions. But honestly I’ve used this palette on clients of all backgrounds and it’s universally flattering when you choose the right undertones.

Instead of bold lips I go with a sheer rose or peach shade with a hint of gloss.

This keeps everything lighter and more contemporary whilst still nodding to vintage aesthetics.

This interpretation works lovely for daytime events…outdoor occasions or anyone who wants Gatsby inspired glamour that feels wearable rather than costume like. It’s one of my go-to looks for clients who love vintage but want something that feels current.

Get the look

Large Barrel Curlers/Hot Rollers

Texturising Spray – Light Hold

Gold Shimmer Eyeshadow

Black Mascara

Sheer Rose/Peach Lipstick

7. Braided Updo with Dramatic Kohl Eyes

Incorporating braids into vintage styling adds such lovely textural interest.

This approach creates something unique that stands out from typical twenties looks whilst remaining period appropriate.

I start with a centre part and divide the hair into workable sections. Small braids run along each side from the hairline back toward the crown. Then I gather everything…braids included…at the back and twist it into an elegant low bun or chignon.

Those braids add dimensional detail that elevates what could otherwise be a simple updo into something really special.

The eyes are where we channel that rebellious Jazz Age spirit.

I line both upper and lower waterlines with black kohl then smudge it slightly for a softer, smokier effect.

This creates intensity and drama that was considered quite daring during the period. Dark eyeshadow in the crease adds depth and several coats of mascara complete the look.

With such dramatic eyes, I keep the rest of the face balanced, soft rose lips and just a hint of pink blush. This prevents everything from becoming too heavy whilst maintaining that aristocratic elegance.

This style beautifully combines sophistication with a bit of edge, perfect for someone who wants to honour the period’s revolutionary spirit whilst looking absolutely stunning.

Get the look:

Bobby Pins for Securing Braids and Updos

Hair Spray Strong Hold

Black Kohl Eyeliner – Waterline

Dark Eyeshadow Palette – Smokey Shades

Black Mascara – Volumizing

Soft Rose Lipstick

Pink Blush – Natural Flush

8. Side-Parted Finger Waves & Glossy Lips

Sometimes the most elegant looks are the simplest ones.

A dramatic side part with finger waves creates asymmetrical interest whilst remaining beautifully understated.

I create a side part positioned about two inches from centre.

On the side with more hair, I create structured finger waves that curve away from the face. The opposite side gets smoothed back sleekly behind the ear and secured with decorative pins or clips. This asymmetry was very fashionable during the period and has such a modern editorial quality.

The key is maximum shine. I apply shine serum to damp hair before styling and finish with glossy spray. That reflective quality catches light beautifully and creates the polished, sophisticated finish that defines Gatsby aesthetics.

For lips…I opt for a softer peachy pink shade rather than anything too dramatic. Applied with a lip brush for precision with a touch of gloss at the centre of the bottom lip for dimension.

This look works beautifully for vintage engagement shoots, classic Hollywood themed events or any occasion wanting refined elegance without excessive drama. It’s also easier to recreate at home than some of the more complex styles.

Get the look:

Fine Toothed Comb for Side Part and Waves

Finger Wave Clips for Setting

Decorative Hair Pins/Clips – Vintage Style

Shine Serum for Hair

Pink Lipstick

9. Half-Up Finger Waves & Bejewelled Accessories

Why choose when you can have both?

This hybrid style offers finger waves at the front with flowing curls at the back…best of both worlds honestly!

I section the front portion of hair from ear to ear, setting the back aside. In that front section, I create finger waves from the hairline back to the crown, securing each wave as I work.

Once set and dried, I curl the remaining back section with a medium curling iron creating bouncy ringlets that cascade down.

The transition point between waves and curls is where I add embellishment…a decorative comb, clip or barrette featuring rhinestones, pearls or art deco designs. These pieces serve both functional and aesthetic purposes, securing the style whilst adding that essential Gatsby opulence.

With such elaborate hair, you can afford bold makeup.

I have my clients choose either dramatic eyes or bold lips as their focal point…never both simultaneously as that becomes overwhelming.

I often coordinate makeup colours with the hair accessories: gold accents in the comb might inspire gold toned eye makeup whilst silver pieces pair with cooler makeup shades.

This style photographs beautifully from every angle making it perfect for proms, formal dances, vintage weddings or any event where you want to make a memorable impression.

Get the look:

Finger Wave Clips Set

Medium Barrel Curling Iron

Bold Red Lipstick

Green flapper dress

10. Tousled Bob with Smoky Silver Shadow

For thoroughly modern Gatsby glamour, I love embracing intentional texture and contemporary colour choices whilst maintaining that vintage silhouette.

This interpretation moves away from ultra polished finishes.

Starting with a bob (or faux bob), I use texturising spray and work with my fingers to create piecey slightly messy waves. The goal is controlled chaos…enough structure to suggest vintage styling but with contemporary, lived in texture that feels more approachable.

Cool toned silver eyeshadow creates a modern, editorial effect.

I apply silver shimmer across the entire lid, deepening the outer corner with charcoal or gunmetal grey. Matte grey or taupe blended into the crease adds dimension. Black liner on the upper lash line and volumising mascara complete the eyes.

Deep plum lips balance those cool toned eyes.

These deeper berry shades have vintage appeal but feel more modern than typical red or pink. The overall effect is sophisticated, slightly edgy and utterly contemporary whilst still honouring twenties glamour.

This bridges vintage and modern beautifully…ideal for anyone who loves Gatsby era style but wants an interpretation that feels current rather than costume like.

Get the look:

Texturising Spray for Piecey Waves

Eyeshadow

Black Eyeliner – Upper Lash Line

Volumising Black Mascara

Deep Plum/Berry Lipstick

11. Structured Chignon & Bold Brows

Strong, defined eyebrows have made such a comeback recently making this modern vintage hybrid particularly relevant for my current clients.

The structured chignon requires precision.

I straighten hair completely…gather at the nape then twist tightly and wrap into a neat, compact bun shape. Ends get tucked underneath and secured with bobby pins. Gel or pomade along the hairline creates a perfectly smooth surface…not a hair out of place.

Whilst thin rounded brows were normal during the twenties, I often incorporate today’s fuller brow trends. I define natural brow shape with pencil or powder…creating a strong, slightly arched shape that frames the eyes beautifully. Brows get brushed upward and set with clear gel. The contrast between structured hair and strong brows creates such a powerful, confident look.

Classic smoky eyes in browns and blacks complete everything. This combination…sleek hair, bold brows, dramatic eyes creates incredible sophistication that works for professional settings, formal events or any occasion requiring polished elegance.

This particularly appeals to clients who love vintage aesthetics but want to incorporate current beauty trends creating something that feels both timeless and contemporary.

Get the look:

Hair Gel or Pomade for Sleek Hairline

Eyebrow Pencil – Define and Fill

Clear Brow Gel – Setting

Brown and Black Smoky Eyeshadow Palette

Hair Spray Strong Hold

12. Tight Finger Waves & Dark Vampy Lipstick

For drama lovers who aren’t afraid of bold statements, this femme fatale interpretation delivers maximum impact.

I take finger waving to its most extreme by creating very tight, compressed waves that sit as close to the scalp as possible.

This requires extra gel, more precise combing and longer setting time but the results are incredibly striking. The ultra tight waves create an almost sculptural quality.

Vampy lip colours move beyond traditional reds: burgundy, oxblood, deep purple or near black berry tones. These create mystery and sophistication whilst feeling modern. I apply with a lip brush for precision using matching lip liner to prevent bleeding. Multiple applications build intensity and staying power.

Eyes stay relatively simple to let lips command attention. Neutral browns in the crease with black liner on the upper lash line and plenty of mascara. Subtle contour beneath cheekbones adds dramatic definition.

This look is perfect for evening events, Halloween parties, gothic inspired vintage styling or any occasion where you want to channel your inner femme fatale with unapologetic boldness.

Get the look:

Marcel Curling Iron/Wand

Curl Clips for Setting Waves

Black Kohl Eyeliner – Upper & Lower Lash

Brown/Taupe Eyeshadow Palette

Black Mascara – Volumizing

Red Lipstick

Feather boa

Feather wrap

13. Soft Curls & Glitter Eyeshadow

Adding contemporary trends like glitter creates such an ethereal, enchanting take on twenties glamour.

Rather than structured waves, I aim for soft, romantic texture.

Large barrel curling iron creates loose curls then I gently separate with fingers for a softer, more whimsical effect. Texturising spray provides subtle hold whilst allowing natural movement.

Glitter eyeshadow or loose glitter goes on the centre of lids, with glitter primer underneath for adhesion and minimal fallout. Champagne, rose gold or silver tones all work beautifully depending on skin tone.

The glitter catches light gorgeously creating an otherworldly glow.

Soft pink or peach lips complete the ethereal aesthetic with subtle flush on cheeks and perhaps a few small rhinestones or pearls placed strategically in the hair.

A delicate flapper headband or thin ribbon adds authentic period detail.

This works wonderfully for festivals, artistic photo shoots, whimsical weddings or occasions where you want to blend vintage inspiration with fantastical, modern elements.

Get the look:

Marcel Curling Iron/Wand

Curl Clips for Setting Waves

Natural Bristle Brush for Softening Waves

Art Deco Headpiece with Beads and Crystals

Black Kohl Eyeliner – Upper & Lower Lash

Brown/Taupe Eyeshadow Palette

Black Mascara – Volumizing

Red Lipstick

Flapper Headband or Thin Ribbon – 1920s Style

Flapper outfit

14. Curled Faux Bob & Rosy Cheeks

Not ready to commit to cutting your hair?

A faux bob lets you experiment with that iconic twenties silhouette without permanent change.

I section the lower portion of hair and pin it up underneath the upper layers creating the illusion of shorter length.

The visible hair gets curled with a medium barrel iron, creating vintage waves and curls that fall at chin level or slightly below. Everything gets secured with hidden bobby pins and generous spray.

Pink cream blush on the apples of cheeks creates a youthful, healthy flush. Coordinating pink lipstick in similar tones creates cohesion throughout the face.

Eyes stay simple with neutral brown eyeshadow and soft black liner. Mascara and perhaps individual lashes at outer corners add subtle emphasis without overwhelming the sweet, romantic quality.

This style is perfect for vintage events when you want period appropriate styling without permanent changes. It’s also great for testing whether you’d eventually like to cut your hair into a real bob.

Fine Toothed Comb for Side Part and Waves

Finger Wave Clips for Setting

Shine Serum for Hair

Pink Lipstick

15. Fluffy Curls & Winged Eyeliner

Let me close with a softer, more voluminous take on vintage curls combined with one of the most iconic makeup techniques ever.

I create fullness using hot rollers or curling iron on medium-high heat throughout the entire head.

Rather than brushing curls out, I separate with fingers and shake them loose for maximum bounce. Volumising spray at roots adds extra lift and I don’t worry about perfect uniformity…this look embraces natural movement over rigid structure.

The wing gets taken to dramatic lengths extended and swooping upward and outward from the outer eye corner.

I use liquid or gel liner for the crispest line making it bold and graphic. This adds edge and drama to softer curls, creating interesting contrast.

Neutral or soft pink lips balance dramatic liner allowing eyes to remain the focal point. Highlighter on cheekbones, brow bones and down the nose bridge adds modern luminosity.

This perfectly encapsulates Gatsby era entertainment spirit…bold, glamorous, designed to capture attention in the most fabulous way possible.

Get the look:

Hot Rollers Set

Curling Iron Medium-High Heat

Volumising Spray for Roots

Liquid Eyeliner – Bold Wing

Gel Eyeliner – Graphic Line

Red Lipstick

Highlighter – Cheekbones, Brow Bones, Nose

Products I Always Use for Gatsby Looks

After years of creating these styles in my studio, I’ve developed quite specific preferences for products that actually deliver results.

For hair, I swear by strong hold gel…nothing lightweight works for proper finger waves.

I keep multiple setting lotions on hand, a collection of fine toothed combs, bobby pins in multiple sizes and colours, curling irons in various barrel sizes and shine serum that actually delivers rather than making hair look greasy. Strong hold hairspray is non negotiable and I’ve collected an obscene number of decorative accessories over the years.

For makeup, full coverage foundation creates that porcelain finish, translucent setting powder keeps everything in place through long events and I maintain extensive eyeshadow palettes in neutrals and smoky tones. Black kohl eyeliners (both pencil and gel), liquid liners for wings, various mascaras and false lash options…I’m quite particular about these. Multiple lipstick shades in reds, berries and pinks are essential because the “perfect” shade varies so much by skin tone. Lip liners prevent bleeding and I keep both cream and powder blushes depending on the look.

Investing in quality products makes such a difference. Cheap gel won’t hold finger waves, poor quality lipstick will fade within an hour and inadequate hairspray means styles fall apart by the evening’s end.

Making Your Look Last Through Your Event

When I’m doing bridal work, longevity is everything.

You’re paying for hair and makeup that lasts through ceremonies, photos, meals, dancing and hours of celebration.

These same principles apply to vintage styling.

For hair I apply products generously during styling…vintage styles require stronger hold than contemporary looks. Bobby pins get used liberally (I joke that I use about fifty per updo) and hairspray application is thorough rather than conservative. I always send clients home with a small bottle of hairspray and extra bobby pins for touch ups.

For makeup, primer is the foundation’s foundation.

I use setting powder generously, particularly on areas prone to oiliness like the T-zone. Lips get special attention, blot after application, reapply, blot again. This builds staying power.

Setting spray as the final step locks everything in place. I make sure clients take their lipstick home for touch ups after eating or drinking.

I complete hair first, then move to makeup whilst hairstyle sets completely. Working in a cool environment prevents sweating that affects both hair hold and makeup longevity.

Choosing What Works for You

Not every style flatters every face shape equally, I’ve learned this through years of working with diverse clientele in London.

Round faces benefit from height at the crown and volume on top. Marcel waves or half up styles work beautifully. I avoid blunt bobs ending at the jawline, instead opting for slightly longer lengths or dramatic side parts creating angles.

Square faces look lovely with softer styles…loose curls or waves help balance strong jawlines. Side parts rather than centre parts work better and I embrace soft, romantic makeup with rounded lip shapes rather than dramatic angles.

Oval faces can wear virtually anything successfully which makes my job easier! I encourage experimentation to find favourites.

Heart shaped faces look beautiful with fuller styles having volume at chin level or below, balancing a wider forehead. Bobs and faux bobs work particularly well as do styles with romantic curls.

Long faces benefit from width rather than height wide finger waves, horizontal curls or bobs with volume at the sides. I avoid severe updos exposing the entire face length.

My Thoughts on Gatsby Glamour

The enduring appeal of twenties beauty lies in its ability to make anyone feel glamorous, sophisticated, and special.

Working as a bridal hair and makeup artist in London, I’ve seen how these looks transcend cultural backgrounds, whether I’m working with South Asian brides, British clients or anyone in between, vintage glamour speaks a universal language.

These looks represent more than aesthetics…they embody rebellion, self-expression and celebration that resonates across generations. The women of the twenties broke barriers and redefined beauty standards through boldness and willingness to embrace change. In many ways, I see similar spirit in my South Asian brides who blend traditional elements with contemporary trends, honouring heritage whilst embracing modernity.

When recreating these styles, channel that spirit of adventure and confidence. Don’t be afraid to adapt looks to suit your personal style, mixing vintage elements with modern techniques to create something uniquely yours.

I hope this guide inspires you to experiment with these timeless looks. Whether you choose structured finger waves, soft romantic curls or dramatic vampy lips, you’ll be connecting with a rich history of style innovation.

The Roaring Twenties may have been a century ago, but their influence on beauty remains as powerful and relevant as ever.

If you like this post, check out this one next and let me know what you think? https://shahenabeauty.com/bridgerton-hair-and-makeup-looks/

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