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Are you looking to try a different look? The elegant and straightforward pageboy hairstyle that was immensely popular between 1950-1960 is making a comeback. This hairstyle has many different adaptations that give it a modern look to leave you feeling fresh and stylish. If you want to try a look that is timeless and makes you stand out, keep reading!
What is the Pageboy Haircut?
The medieval English page boys inspired the pageboy hairstyle; it was worn in the ’20s and popularized in the ’50s and ’60s. This haircut is straight, hanging just below the ear with rounded volume and ends that tuck in. This style typically has bangs that seamlessly connect with the rest of the hair. It has multiple variations, including bangs, no bangs, different lengths, etc. But the one element that makes a pageboy haircut a pageboy haircut is precise and even lines (1).
This hairstyle is feminine and youthful and evokes an innocent feel. Great for those who want a hairstyle that is simple but will make you stand out.
Even though this look is named after the medieval English pageboys, its origins date back to ancient Egypt. Looking at ancient Egyptian imagery, you can observe both men and women sporting a pageboy style wig—straight, above the shoulder length with a straight and thick fringe. Most common amongst Egyptian nobility (2).
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1. Retro Look
If you love the retro look of the ’50s and ’60s, you’ll love this adaptation of the pageboy style. This style features long and stylish side-swept bangs instead of short front fringes. The beautifully set locks with rolled-up ends give you a refined and sophisticated appearance reminiscent of the ’50s. To achieve this hairstyle, you’ll first need to get the pageboy cut a little bit longer than its standard length (tell your stylist to leave a longer fringe). To style at home, you’ll need a hair curler, pins, and lots of hairsprays. Segment your hair in layers and curl small sections—curl each layer in a different direction. After curling one section, roll the curl and pin it to your head. Repeat until your whole head is done. Apply hairspray and let the curls cool and set. After removing them, you’ll notice tight curls and gently brush to smooth them after removing them. You’ll be left with a timeless and classic look. Remember that this look can be time-consuming to achieve at first, but it will come more naturally with practice.
2. Gracefully Long
This variation is similar to a long bob haircut; however, it keeps the pageboy aesthetic with rounded ends. The long bob gives the classic pageboy a modern twist; the classic elements like the bangs and roundness are still there. However, the fringe is disconnected from the rest—the result is a polished and smart look. The long bangs and chin-length hair suit those with a heart face shape as it hides a broad forehead. This style requires regular bang-trims, but other than that, it is relatively simple to style. Use your round brush and blowdry curling the ends in.
3. Classic Volume
If you are here for the volume, you’ll love this style. It keeps the classic pageboy shape but is amplified with lots of volume at the base. The ends are perfectly rounded, giving the hair many dimensions and bounces. The long fringe starts at the top of the head and ends right above the lash-line, drawing attention to the eyes. This hairstyle is best for those with thick hair. The weight added naturally from the thickness of the hair will contribute to the volume created. Due to the length of the bangs and the seamless connection of the hair, it requires regular upkeep to maintain the polished look—you might need a trim once a month. This hair-do is for you if you are fashionable and have a great sense of style.
4. Short and Cute
If you have a round or oval face shape and a preference for short hair, this cute pageboy hairstyle will suit you best. This variation has a boyish aesthetic but is still sweet and feminine. The length of this style helps frame your face for an innocent look. Additionally, this version has more layers than a single length, giving the style more movement and spontaneity. It also requires less upkeep than the previous mentions on this list! This is great if you want a low-maintenance style that is practical and cute. To style, you have to blow dry it into shape.
5. Sexy Bangs
The pageboy hair-do gets a sexy twist. Instead of having a part right in the middle, this version has a middle part with long side-swept bangs. The roundness at the ends and precise cuts are still there, but the volume at the root and smoothness of the fringe gives this style a more stylish and elegant appearance. Great for those with a strong bone structure thinner hair—the long fringe is easier to manage and keep in place. Keep in mind that this haircut does need to be styled to achieve a polished look.
6. Dramatic Geometry
If you are looking to make even more of a statement with your hairstyle, this one is for you. The pageboy haircut is not all about roundness. This dramatic hairstyle features sharp and geometric cuts in the classic pageboy shape with short straight bangs and a length right below the cheekbones. This style best suits those with sharp features and a strong bone structure. The precision of this hairstyle will highlight your bone structure and make you notice. It looks great on a striking hair color like platinum blonde or jet black. If you are going for this style, invest in regular trims to maintain the geometry and precision that makes this look dramatic and edgy.
7. Korean Inspired
Inspired by the women of Korea, this adaptation is sweet and versatile. The cut is similar to the classic volume style; however, this is a more relaxed version that is easier to maintain. The fringe is long and goes below the eyebrows in a bowed shape, and connects to the rest of the hair. The length is short, right by the chin. This style is best for those with naturally straight hair, as styling is not necessary. It looks great if it is slightly untidy—tuck the hair behind your ears for a cute and effortless look.
8. Smart Bob
This is a smart version of the pageboy look. Vogue Magazine’s Editor famously wears this style in Chief Anna Wintour; it is her signature look. The smart bob has become synonymous with fashion, simplicity, and elegance. It features straight bangs cut right on the brow and a length that reaches the chin and rounds at the ends. The single length of this style makes your hair look neat and shiny. Get a regular trim to maintain the length and precision of this style. You can either style it with a round brush or a flat iron. Great for all ages; this look is timeless.
9. Sharp and Shiny
Glossy, sharp, and beautiful. This style is characterized by “piecey” ends that give dimension and movement. This style is best for thinner hair, as the movement and sharp edges will add extra volume. Ask for short and slightly uneven bangs to get more of that undone and sexy look. Finish off with a shine spray or a light hair wax to get that nice reflective shine. An exciting haircut that will keep heads turning. To get this look, keep the edges of the hair razor sharp.
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10. Platinum Beauty
Finally, a pageboy style with a twist of color. Get a mod supermodel look with platinum hair and the classic pageboy style. We particularly like this style due to the thick side-swept fringe that is great and easy to maintain. This is an editorial look that can be easily translated to everyday wear. When you see your stylist, ask for a classic pageboy haircut but keep the bangs long. Create a side part and style your bangs to create that striking side sweep and hold it with hairspray and pin if needed. You will “train” it to hold that shape as you continue to style your hair.
P.S. This hair + oversized sunglasses = supermodel look!
Why should you get a pageboy cut?
- Fast dry time. Due to its short length, you don’t have to spend hours drying your hair.
- You want to make a statement with a haircut that makes you look and feel confident.
- Look ten years younger. Short hair takes years off of you and makes you look young and fresh.
The pageboy haircut is part of the feminist movement; it represented an era of women’s liberation in the 1920s. The short hair was worn by women who wanted to be defined by their intelligence and confidence. These were women who wanted to free themselves from the traditional gender roles and looked to pursue a career.
Tools to Style Your Pageboy Hairstyle
Choose a haircut that accommodates your lifestyle and skills; some require more maintenance and upkeep. Depending on the style you choose, you might need the following tools:
Blowdryer:
Its smoothness and rounded finish characterize the pageboy haircut. This is achieved by styling the hair while it is damp using a hairdryer and a round brush. Low heat is recommended to protect your hair and keep it shiny.
Hairspray:
You want to make sure that your hard work lasts. Hairspray will make sure your hair stays in place and control any flyaways. Also, choose a humidity-resistant hairspray if your hair tends to frizz up due to humidity.
Round Brush:
Using a round brush to style your hair will give that rounded volume. Start at the root and place the brush under a section of the hair, then blowdry, holding your hair in between the dryer and the brush. Wrap your hair at the end of the brush for that bounce.
Styling Cream:
Using a styling cream on damp hair before styling will help shape your hair the way you want it. It will also help hold the style for longer.
Heat Protectant:
Since you’ll be applying heat with the hairdryer, you must protect your hair from damage. So apply a heat protectant before drying. It will keep your hair healthy and shiny.
Hair Straightener:
Using a hair straightener, you can quickly and easily smooth out any unruly hairs, shape your bangs and give your ends that rounded finish.
Summary
Next time you are due for a haircut, switch things up with a unique look. The pageboy haircut accentuates your bone structure and gives a very feminine look. There are many variations of the popular pageboy style so you can adapt it to your personal preference, lifestyle, and hair type. Whether you are looking for a low-maintenance look, or a sophisticated and sexy do, there is a pageboy variation for you. Don’t forget to take this article to your hairstylist to show them your inspiration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What hair types are best suited for a pageboy hairstyle?
Due to this hairstyle’s long and straight nature, it is best suited for those with naturally straight and thick hair. In addition, the weight of the hair helps accentuate the rounded shape. You might need to straighten it regularly to maintain that classic pageboy form if you have slightly wavy hair.
How can I explain this haircut to my stylist?
The keywords are rounded ends, fringe that connects, short to medium length. Some might describe it as mushroom-like. But, it is always best to take a picture with you for reference.
References –
- “The Pageboy: Timeless and Stylish” – schwarzkopf.international
- “Ancient Egyptian Hairstyles” – ethanholman.com
