I have been in love with the hairstyles of the 1920s, 30s, and 40s since I can remember. But I always found period hairdressing books frustrating. First of all, they were written at a time when the tools and products needed to do the hairstyles were readily available. So it’s difficult to know what 21st century products and tools will work. Secondly, they start with 1920s, 30s and 40s haircuts, which very few people nowadays have.

Lauren Rennells’ book Vintage Hairstyling: Retro Styles with Step-by-Step Techniques was like a godsend to me. Ms. Rennells didn’t write this book for styling professionals, but for you and me. With easy, step-by-step instructions, she shows the reader how to make pin curls, finger waves, and many other techniques that simply aren’t practiced in salons today. She also shows the modern hairstyles of her models before she creates their vintage styles, proving that it can indeed be accomplished with 21st century hair.

As a supplier of goods to historical reenactors who portray the early 20th century, I seized my earliest opportunity to carry this book in my shop. When we go to events, we simply cannot keep it on the table. Both historical reenactors and vintage-lovers can’t get enough of it. I’m constantly running out of stock copies. I’ve even sold my personal copy a few times!

Ms. Rennells’ book makes all the hairstyles look so easy and so appealing that I’m thinking of trying some of the 1950s and 60s styles too!

I purchased a copy of this book with my own funds and was in no way remunerated for this article.

Please follow this link to buy your copy of Vintage Hairstyling: Retro Styles with Step-by-Step Techniques