When we think of vintage hair, we often envision something classic, something that has been in fashion (and maybe out, and back in again) and something that stands the test of time.

Lately, we’ve seen a resurgence of utilising historic influences, as well as a trend towards natural texture in hairstyling, particularly among music icons like Chappell Roan and Charli XCX. These artists have recently appeared to be embracing their natural waves and curls, showcasing a look that feels effortless yet intentional—a perfect metaphor for contemporary self-expression. But beyond just texture, we are seeing the incorporation of historic elements into the aesthetic, blending past and present in a way that redefines beauty on their own terms.

History as Inspiration: From Medieval Majesty to Modern Magic

One of the most striking aspects of Chappell Roan’s recent aesthetic is her fusion of medieval influences in her fashion and hair choices. She pairs elements of medieval armour in her costumes, symbolizing strength and masculine energy, with feminine headpieces and materials, creating a striking juxtaposition. This interplay of masculine and feminine energy speaks volumes about the evolution of beauty and gender expression.

Historically, hair was often a reflection of societal norms and expectations. In medieval times, elaborate braided crowns and veiled headpieces symbolized status and virtue, while looser hairstyles were considered rebellious or improper. Fast forward to today, and we see these same elements being reinterpreted as symbols of power, confidence, and self-expression.

Drawing from historic inspirations is more than just about aesthetics—it’s about telling a story. When we embrace styles that nod to the past, whether it’s a vintage Hollywood wave, a Renaissance-inspired braid, or a voluminous, textured look, we’re connecting to something greater than just a
trend. We’re embracing (Eurocentric) beauty standards that have evolved through generations, reflecting the journey of beauty and individuality and societal standards, through time.

The Freedom of Natural Texture and Volume vs Overly Styled

Another compelling thing I am noticing is the celebration of natural texture, existing amidst more rigidly, perfectly styled mid 20th century styles (as Zendaya and Selena Gomez have both recently worn). So on the one hand, the trendsetters are embracing full-bodied curls, undone waves, and a
sense of movement that feels organic and free, alongside a look that speaks to ‘retvrn with a v’ IYKYK.

There’s something deeply symbolic about these shifts occurring side by side— people are choosing looks that explore different themes of history and the values that they convey, and using that to create a look that will feel authentic to them.

This return to natural texture isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about allowing hair to take up space, to be bold, to be a reflection of personal identity and wider societal standards. Whether inspired by the
voluminous, dramatic curls seen on stage or the classic, refined elegance of past eras, hair can be a powerful form of self-expression and will instantly create a vibe in the voyeurs among us that reflects our own values and perceptions of that time.

Hair That Tells a Story

That’s why so many historic films and TV series don’t get thehair ‘right’ for the era they are representing. I mean, I generally think that the costume designers and hair people aren’t stupid and don’t know how to research what is period appropriate or historically accurate. It’s not hard to
either employ a historic specialist or even Google it. They know. But, they still make choices to represent the hair in a certain way to reflect the way they want the audience to perceive a character. Sometimes it’s about taking elements that once symbolized restriction and turning them into symbols of empowerment. That is what I see in Chappell Roan, with her huge swathe of wildly
flowing hair tumbling around her medieval chain mail and armour embellished costumes.

Interestingly, this is all taking place in the context of what we see in our time, looking back at the past. It’s through the lens of our biases, our own values, our own beauty standards. I give you an example – The Lady Of Shallot, by John Waterhouse, a print of which takes pride of place in my own home. Waterhouse is a Victorian era artist, his work inspired by a much earlier medieval Arthurian legend, and looking at his work from my own post-modern viewpoint, I see that he has depicted that long flowing hair, the wind dancing in stray strands, unkempt, unfashionable and out of sync with his eras standard of what a woman’s hair should look like.

But, hair has always been more than just fashion; it’s a statement,a reflection of individuality, and a way to connect with history. And the choice was made to use the Lady’s hair to depict a feeling, and an emotional response in the viewer.

For us today, whether it’s abandoning straightening our hair and rocking a bold, voluminous textured style or taming it carefully as a nod to the elegance of a bygone era, there’s power in embracing a look that explores historic influence and presents it in a modern context. It just depends on what you want to say with it. I'm reminded of this as I create 90's inspired bouncy blowouts on the salon floor, or the old Hollywood style waves on my brides on their wedding day. We are fascinated with the past, and what it represents and means to us, yet we can only interpret it from where we are standing.

- Michelle, Daisie & Me