Victory Rolls: The Hairstyle That Defined the 1940s Women

In the midst of war, during the 1940s, women found a powerful way to express both patriotism and personal style through a hairstyle that became iconic: Victory Rolls. More than just a beauty trend, Victory Rolls were a statement of resilience, femininity, and national pride, embodying the spirit of an era defined by sacrifice and transformation.

The term “Victory Rolls” is believed to have originated from the aerial manoeuvres performed by fighter pilots during World War II. These celebratory spins, called “victory rolls,” symbolised triumph and bravery. The hairstyle, with its dramatic upward curls and sculpted waves, mirrored those loops and spirals, quickly becoming a fashionable tribute to the war effort.

As men went off to battle, women stepped into new roles in factories, offices, and the armed forces. Hairstyles like Victory Rolls became a way for women to maintain a sense of elegance while adapting to their evolving responsibilities. With the wartime slogan “Keep the Home Fires Burning” in mind, women used their appearance as a morale booster—both for themselves and for the soldiers abroad.

The Look and Its Appeal

Victory Rolls typically involved sections of hair rolled upward and pinned into place, often on the top or sides of the head. The look varied from symmetrical double rolls to asymmetrical styles paired with waves or curls. These rolls framed the face in a flattering way and added height and drama to the silhouette.

What made Victory Rolls particularly popular was their versatility. They could be neat and formal for the office, glamorously exaggerated for the silver screen, or practical and tucked away for factory work. Stars like Veronica Lake, Betty Grable, and Rita Hayworth popularized the style in Hollywood, while Rosie the Riveter’s iconic red bandana and rolled hair brought it to the working-class woman.

A Symbol of Feminine Strength

Victory Rolls were more than just a fashion trend; they were a symbol of the cultural shift occurring during the war years. Women were no longer confined to domestic roles—they were welders, engineers, nurses, and codebreakers. The Victory Roll became a visual metaphor for this dual identity: strong yet feminine, capable yet stylish.

Despite rationing and shortages, women found creative ways to maintain the look. Hairpins were repurposed, scarves doubled as accessories, and setting lotion was often homemade. Maintaining Victory Rolls took time and effort, but that process itself became a form of empowerment. Creating the style was almost ritualistic, reinforcing a sense of normalcy and self-worth amid the chaos.

Decline and Legacy

After the war ended in 1945 and soldiers returned home, many women were expected to relinquish their wartime jobs and return to more traditional roles. Fashion, too, shifted—hairstyles became softer, more romantic, and less structured. The rigid, symbolic styles of the war years slowly faded out of everyday wear.

However, Victory Rolls never truly disappeared. They’ve been revived in vintage and rockabilly subcultures and frequently appear in retro fashion shows, period films, and pin-up photography. Today, they represent more than just nostalgia—they stand as a tribute to the women who kept industries running, raised families alone, and redefined what it meant to be feminine during wartime.

How to Wear Them Today

Modern interpretations of Victory Rolls have adapted to contemporary sensibilities. While the full style may not be worn daily, elements of it—like side rolls or vintage waves—are often incorporated into event hairstyles, weddings, or themed photo shoots. Tutorials on platforms like YouTube and Instagram keep the tradition alive, teaching new generations how to craft these timeless rolls.

Whether worn as a fashion statement or a historical nod, Victory Rolls remain a powerful symbol of beauty in the face of adversity. They remind us that even in the darkest of times, women have always found ways to express strength, identity, and resilience—with nothing more than a comb, a few bobby pins, and an indomitable spirit.