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BOOK REVIEW: Authentic 1940’s Hairstyles Posted Saturday, April 22, 2000 by dleclair
Authentic 1940’s Hairstyles: Tips and Tricks For Creating Authentic 1940’s Hairstyles
by Daniela Turudich
Streamline Press
Well jitterbug, you have a special date tonight at you favorite dancehall and you can’t wait to hit that jive! You have a brand new dress to sport and your favorite pair of wedgies and you’re ready to go but wait! What about that hair? If you’ve ever wondered how to complete your vintage 40’s look or style your hair authentically like a jitterbug, pinup girl, or silver screen siren then look no further, Authentic 1940’s Hairstyles is here!
Authentic 1940’s Hairstyles: Tips and Tricks for Creating Authentic 1940s Hairstyles by Daniela Turudich is a new book that follows in the trend of books on vintage living and is available through Streamline Press publications. It can be purchased for $20 plus shipping at www.streamlinepress.com. Turudich has compiled authentic vintage illustrations of basic hair setting techniques and hairstyles as well as well as fun facts and historical notes about the forties. This book can help the beginner with a vintage coif and inspire even the most advanced hairstylist.
The first chapter is dedicated to the six basic haircuts that are the foundation for any fabulous 40’s hairdo. There are detailed instructions for the Shingle and Baby haircuts for shorter hair as well as the Middy and Long Haircuts for medium to long hair. Variations and combinations are also included to help you choose the right cut for pompadours and waves. Next you learn how to part, wave and pin curl your tresses for timeless beauty. In Authentic 1940’s Hairstyles you also learn how to find a flattering hairdo for your face shape as well as for camouflaging facial imperfections.
The final two chapters describe basic hairstyles ranging from the casual to more formal styles for special occasions. Here you will learn how to
incorporate accessories such as bows, flowers, ribbons and snoods. There is a cute section describing the hair fads started by college girls in the 1940’s. If you wear glasses you don’t have to worry, as there is a description of hairstyles to flatter your frames. The hairstyle section also includes real life 40’s pictures especially in the sophisticated and holiday hairdo pages so you can really see how these hairdos looked!
This book is slightly geared towards the more advanced stylist, as there is a lack of step by step instructions on pin curling and finger waving. More illustrations on these setting techniques would be very useful for the beginner. It would also be wise to take this book to your hairstylist when trying the basic haircuts. He or she may also give you tips on the setting techniques described in the books. Remember to give yourself ample time to try these hairdos especially if you are new to vintage hairstyling. This book could also use a little more info as to the effects of wartime practicality on women’s hairstyling in the 40’s as well as post war fashion and beauty changes as we approached the fifties. This would help the novice choose the appropriate style for the occasion - whether a swing dance, formal, USO style dance, or cocktail party.
Authentic 1940’s Hairstyles is definitely a step in the right direction when looking for a truly authentic vintage hairdo. Overall this book is very informative and is one of the few and most authentic books focusing on vintage beauty. It is highly recommended for anyone interested in vintage hairstyling whether you want to style your hair to go swing dancing or if you are an aspiring hairdresser. The beginning hairstylist should not be afraid to try this book as it has tips for every level. Even if everyday 40’s hairdos are not for you, with proms and summer weddings why not try something different? The era of the 1940’s was known for its classic elegance and beauty so you will always be the belle of the ball.
Reviewed by Isela Cossino
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