Sydney Swing Katz

Before we get started, here is a list of the things you'll need to successfully create a variety of 1940's styles.

* Brushes and combs
* Hot rollers (in various sizes) or..
* Curling irons (in sizes 1/4" to 1/2"; 3/4" to 5/8"; and 1 1/2" to 2")
* Bobby pins
* Hair rats
* Thermal setting spray
* Spray setting gel
* Hair Spray (light hold)

Optional Accessories

* Barrettes (2"-3")
* Hair ties (made of patterned fabrics or solid ribbons)
* Turban
* Snood
* 1940s hats

Don't worry about what all these items are or where to buy them just yet
-- we'll get to that when we explain how to create the hairstyles.

Parting your hair
Remember that the most important part of styling your hair in the 1940s is where you place the part. My favorite one is a rectangular part. If you are going to roll your hair or create a pompadour, you should use this one. The most important part of this decade was the side part which was also the most versatile because you can use it for day looks or the ultra glamourous looks.

Rolling your hair
Rolls are the most important part of 1940s style hairstyles. The key is not to make them tall and stiff, but keep them soft and feminine looking. Height isn't important as most rolls were medium sized.
1. With damp hair, make a rectangular part.
2. Then create rolls of curls - go from the back to the front (the more hair you use, the larger the roll will be).
3. After your hair dries, comb out the curls and spray with a gentle hold hairspray.
4. Tuck the ends of the curls under the bobby pin.

Tips for making your 1940s styles look good:
• Try not to let your bobby pins show. As much as you would love for your hairstyle to stay all night and sometimes
all week, do not use a firm hold hairspray. The best thing that you can do to keep the style all night is to spray your hair at the base of the rolls. You should really only use hairspray as a finishing touch.
• For a smooth look, you can use pomade (which, can be difficult to wash out). If your hair is thin and won't hold rolls, you can place a "rat" in the roll which they sell at most beauty supply stores. This is a soft mesh netting in a similar hair color as your own.

Click on a style for complete step by step instructions
on how to get that look!