1960s Beehive Hair: A Step-by-Step Guide

by Rajiv Sharma 41 views

Hey there, fashion lovers! Ready to rock a classic look? The 1960s beehive hairstyle is an iconic and glamorous choice that can add a touch of vintage elegance to any occasion. This gravity-defying updo, popularized by fashion icons like Audrey Hepburn and Dusty Springfield, remains a timeless symbol of sophistication and style. While it may look intimidating, creating a beehive hairstyle is totally achievable with the right tools, products, and techniques. So, whether you're heading to a retro-themed party, a special event, or just want to channel your inner mod girl, this comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of creating the perfect 1960s beehive. Get ready to turn heads and embrace the fabulousness of this vintage hairstyle!

What You'll Need

Before we dive into the steps, let's gather all the essential tools and products you'll need to create this iconic look. Having everything at your fingertips will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Trust me, being prepared is half the battle when it comes to hairstyling!

  • Hair Products:
    • Mousse: A volumizing mousse is your best friend for creating the foundation of the beehive. It adds texture and hold, making your hair easier to style and ensuring the beehive maintains its shape throughout the day or night. Apply a generous amount to damp hair, focusing on the roots, before blow-drying. This will give your hair the lift and body it needs.
    • Hairspray: Hairspray is absolutely crucial for setting the beehive and keeping it in place. A strong-hold hairspray will provide the necessary support and prevent the style from collapsing. Look for a hairspray that offers long-lasting hold without making your hair feel stiff or sticky. You'll be using hairspray at multiple stages, so make sure you have a good supply!
    • Dry Shampoo: Even if your hair is freshly washed, dry shampoo can add extra texture and grip, which is essential for teasing and creating volume. It also helps absorb any excess oil, ensuring your beehive looks fresh and fabulous. Spray dry shampoo at the roots before teasing for added hold and volume.
  • Tools:
    • Teasing Comb: The teasing comb is the key to achieving the beehive's signature volume. Choose a comb with fine, closely spaced teeth for optimal teasing. A rat-tail comb is ideal, as the pointed end can also be used for sectioning the hair and smoothing the final style.
    • Paddle Brush: A paddle brush is perfect for smoothing out the surface of the beehive and creating a polished look. Use it gently to avoid deflating the teased sections, but it’s essential for a sleek finish.
    • Bobby Pins: Bobby pins are your trusty sidekicks for securing the beehive and keeping it in place. You'll need a good supply of bobby pins in a color that matches your hair for a seamless look. They work wonders for tucking in stray hairs and reinforcing the structure of the beehive.
    • Hair Tie: A hair tie is used to create the initial ponytail or bun that forms the base of the beehive. Choose a hair tie that is similar in color to your hair to blend in seamlessly.
    • Blow Dryer: A blow dryer is essential for setting the mousse and creating initial volume. Use a nozzle attachment to direct the airflow and focus on the roots for maximum lift.
  • Optional Accessories:
    • Headband or Scarf: Adding a headband or scarf can enhance the 1960s vibe and add a touch of personal style to your beehive. Choose a bold color or pattern for a retro look, or opt for a classic black headband for a more sophisticated feel.
    • Hair Flowers or Clips: For a more festive or glamorous look, consider adding hair flowers or decorative clips to your beehive. These accessories can add a touch of sparkle and personality to your hairstyle.

With all these tools and products in hand, you're fully equipped to embark on your beehive adventure. Now, let's move on to the step-by-step instructions!

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Beehive Hairdo

Okay, guys, let's get to the fun part! Creating a beehive might seem a little daunting at first, but trust me, with these easy-to-follow steps, you'll be rocking a glamorous '60s updo in no time. We'll break it down into manageable steps so you can confidently achieve that iconic look. Ready? Let's do this!

Step 1: Prep Your Hair

The foundation of any great hairstyle is well-prepped hair. This is particularly crucial for the beehive, as the volume and structure depend on having the right texture and hold. Start by washing your hair and applying a volumizing mousse to damp hair. Focus the mousse on the roots to create lift and body. This will provide the grip your hair needs to be teased effectively. Next, use a blow dryer with a nozzle attachment to dry your hair. Direct the airflow at the roots, lifting the hair as you dry it. This will enhance the volume created by the mousse and set the stage for teasing. Once your hair is completely dry, spray dry shampoo at the roots for added texture and grip. Even if your hair is clean, dry shampoo can help create the necessary volume and prevent slippage. This step is a game-changer for achieving a long-lasting beehive. By prepping your hair thoroughly, you’re setting yourself up for success and ensuring that your beehive looks its best.

Step 2: Section Your Hair

Sectioning your hair is a key step in creating a structured and balanced beehive. It helps you manage the hair and ensure that the volume is evenly distributed. Start by using the pointed end of a rat-tail comb to create a horseshoe-shaped section on the crown of your head. This section will form the main volume of the beehive. Clip this section out of the way for now. Next, separate the hair at the back of your head into two sections: an upper section and a lower section. The upper section will be teased to create additional volume, while the lower section will form the base of the beehive. Clip the upper section out of the way and gather the lower section into a ponytail at the crown of your head. Secure the ponytail with a hair tie that matches your hair color. This ponytail will serve as the anchor for the rest of the hairstyle. Now, unclip the upper section and divide it into smaller sections, about 1-2 inches wide. These smaller sections will be teased individually to create maximum volume. By sectioning your hair carefully, you’re setting the stage for a beehive that is both voluminous and structurally sound. Proper sectioning makes the teasing process more manageable and ensures that the beehive looks polished and professional.

Step 3: Tease for Volume

Alright, guys, here comes the magic! Teasing, also known as backcombing, is the secret to achieving the gravity-defying volume that defines the beehive hairstyle. It might seem intimidating, but with the right technique, it’s totally manageable. Take one of the small sections you created in the previous step. Hold it taut and insert the teasing comb about halfway down the strand. Push the comb towards the roots in short, gentle strokes. Repeat this motion several times, focusing on building volume at the base of the section. The goal is to create a tangled cushion of hair that will support the beehive. Avoid teasing too aggressively, as this can damage your hair. Instead, use a gentle but firm hand and focus on building volume gradually. Once you’ve teased a section, spray it lightly with hairspray to set the volume. This will help the teased hair stay in place and prevent it from falling flat. Repeat the teasing process with each of the remaining sections, working your way around the crown of your head. Make sure to tease each section thoroughly, focusing on the roots. As you tease, you’ll see the volume start to build, transforming your hair into a cloud of glorious fluff. This is the heart of the beehive, so take your time and make sure you’re creating a solid foundation of volume. With a little practice, you’ll master the art of teasing and be well on your way to achieving that iconic beehive shape.

Step 4: Shape the Beehive

Now that you've created a mountain of teased hair, it's time to shape it into that signature beehive silhouette. This step is all about sculpting the volume and creating a smooth, polished finish. Gently brush the teased hair with a paddle brush to smooth out the surface. Be careful not to brush too aggressively, as this can deflate the volume. The goal is to create a smooth outer layer while preserving the teased structure underneath. Start by brushing the sides and back of the teased sections, working your way towards the top. As you brush, use your hands to mold the hair into a rounded, beehive shape. Tuck any stray hairs or flyaways into the base of the ponytail, using bobby pins to secure them. This will create a clean, sleek outline for the beehive. Once you’ve smoothed the surface and shaped the volume, it’s time to secure the beehive. Take the teased sections and gently fold them over the ponytail base, creating a rounded shape. Use bobby pins to secure the hair in place, working your way around the beehive. Make sure the bobby pins are hidden beneath the hair for a seamless look. As you pin, continue to shape the beehive, adjusting the volume and symmetry as needed. This is where your artistic eye comes into play, so take your time and sculpt the beehive to your desired shape. With a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll transform that cloud of teased hair into a perfectly formed beehive.

Step 5: Final Touches and Secure

You're almost there, guys! This is where you add the final touches to your beehive and make sure it's secure enough to last. Once you're happy with the shape and volume, grab your strong-hold hairspray. Hold the can about 10-12 inches away from your head and spray the entire beehive thoroughly. This will lock the style in place and prevent any stray hairs from falling out. Pay special attention to the base of the beehive, where the teased hair meets the ponytail. This is a crucial area for hold, so make sure it's well-sprayed. If you notice any gaps or unevenness in the beehive, use bobby pins to fill them in. Tuck any loose strands into the style and secure them with pins. This will create a polished, seamless finish. For added security, you can crisscross bobby pins over each other. This technique creates a stronger hold and helps prevent the beehive from collapsing. If you want to add a touch of vintage flair, now is the time to accessorize! A headband, scarf, hair flowers, or decorative clips can enhance the 1960s vibe and add a personal touch to your hairstyle. Place the accessory carefully, making sure it complements the shape and style of the beehive. Once you're satisfied with the final look, give the beehive one last spray with hairspray. This will ensure that everything is locked in place and your hairstyle will last for hours. With these final touches, your beehive is complete and ready to turn heads! Step back, admire your creation, and get ready to rock that vintage glamour.

Tips for a Perfect Beehive

Creating a perfect beehive takes a little practice, but these tips and tricks will help you master the art. Remember, the key is to have fun and not be afraid to experiment! Here are some pointers to keep in mind:

  • Start with Second-Day Hair: Freshly washed hair can be too slippery to tease effectively. Second-day hair has more texture and grip, making it easier to create volume. If your hair is freshly washed, use dry shampoo to add texture before you start styling.
  • Tease in Small Sections: Teasing small sections of hair allows you to build volume gradually and create a more even distribution. This technique also minimizes the risk of damaging your hair.
  • Use the Right Tools: A good teasing comb and strong-hold hairspray are essential for creating a beehive. Invest in quality products and tools to achieve the best results.
  • Don't Over-Tease: Teasing your hair too aggressively can cause damage and breakage. Use gentle but firm strokes and focus on building volume at the roots.
  • Smooth the Surface: After teasing, gently smooth the surface of the hair with a paddle brush to create a polished look. Be careful not to deflate the volume as you brush.
  • Secure with Bobby Pins: Bobby pins are your best friends for creating a beehive. Use them liberally to secure the hair and shape the style. Hide the bobby pins beneath the hair for a seamless finish.
  • Use Strong-Hold Hairspray: Hairspray is crucial for setting the beehive and keeping it in place. Choose a strong-hold hairspray that offers long-lasting support without making your hair feel stiff.
  • Accessorize: Headbands, scarves, hair flowers, and clips can enhance the 1960s vibe and add a personal touch to your beehive. Experiment with different accessories to create your unique look.
  • Practice Makes Perfect: Don't be discouraged if your first attempt isn't perfect. Creating a beehive takes practice, so keep trying and you'll master the technique in no time.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to creating a flawless beehive that turns heads and captures the essence of 1960s glamour. Now go ahead and rock that vintage style!

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! Creating a 1960s beehive hairstyle is totally achievable with a little patience, the right tools, and these easy-to-follow steps. This iconic updo is a timeless choice for adding a touch of vintage elegance to any occasion. Whether you're heading to a retro-themed party, a special event, or just want to channel your inner mod girl, the beehive is sure to make a statement. Remember, the key to a perfect beehive is proper preparation, careful teasing, and a strong-hold hairspray. Don't be afraid to experiment with different accessories and personalize the style to suit your unique look. With practice, you'll be rocking a glamorous beehive in no time. So go ahead, embrace the fabulousness of this vintage hairstyle and let your inner fashionista shine! Happy styling!