Most Iconic Oscar Hairstyles of All Time (Top 15 List )
by Surya
Updated Mar 15, 2023
15 Most Iconic Oscar Hairstyles
For beauty enthusiasts, the Academy Awards is not just a film awards show, it is a significant beauty event too. This is because the Oscars have been setting and redefining hair and makeup trends for almost 100 years. From Elizabeth Taylor's diamond-studded tiara to Halle Berry's pixie cut, and Zendaya's modern tousled waves, the red carpet moments at the Oscars have become timeless and iconic. These hairstyles not only reflect the glamour of Hollywood but also represent their respective eras. The Oscars have set the standard for beauty and fashion, inspiring people to experiment with their hair and makeup. The hairstyles that have graced the Oscars red carpet are not just about looking good, but they have also made history by becoming cultural touchstones that continue to influence beauty trends today.
For those who enjoy observing the glamourous looks showcased on the red carpet, there's good news as the Academy Awards are just a few days away. On Sunday, March 27th, the 94th annual Academy Awards will be broadcasted live, providing fans with a whole new set of beauty looks to admire. It's the perfect opportunity to get ready with some popcorn and settle in to watch your favorite star-studded event return to live TV.
Top 15 Most Iconic Oscar Hairstyles of All Time
We have provided you with the 15 most iconic Oscar hairstyles of all time, in the table below:
1
Audrey Hepburn’s Micro Bangs
2
Liz Taylor’s Diamond Tiara
3
Barbra Streisand’s Era-Defining Bob
4
Lola Falana’s Voluminous Curls
5
Goldie Hawn’s Floral-Accented Half-Updo
6
Cher’s Feather Headdress
7
Whoopi Goldberg’s Braided Half-Updo
8
Drew Barrymore’s Daisy-Adorned ‘Do
9
Kate Winslet’s Romantic Waves
10
Halle Berry’s Iconic Pixie
11
Rooney Mara’s Blunt Bangs
12
Lupita Nyong'o’s Gilded Strands
13
Lady Gaga’s Twisted Bouffant
14
Amandla Stenberg’s Finger Wave Braids
15
Janelle Monáe’s Crystal Hood & Side Part
S.no.
Famous hairstyles
Audrey Hepburn’s Micro Bangs
Audrey Hepburn's beauty look at the 1954 Academy Awards was undoubtedly one for the ages. Winning Best Actress for her standout performance in Roman Holiday, she also made waves with her classic and effortless beauty look that has stood the test of time. Her short and sleek hairstyle, complete with delicate micro bangs, was perfectly balanced by her bold and expressive eyebrows, creating a harmonious and timeless look that remains iconic even today.
The beauty industry has been significantly influenced by Hepburn's timeless style, and her look has continued to inspire and shape modern beauty trends. Her understated elegance and natural beauty have become a benchmark for many, with countless beauty enthusiasts trying to emulate her signature look. Her influence on beauty trends has been especially profound, with many opting for short haircuts and bold eyebrows in tribute to Hepburn's legendary style.
Liz Taylor’s Diamond Tiara
Elizabeth Taylor's status as Hollywood royalty has been undeniable since the start of her career. Her impeccable sense of style and fashion-forward looks have made her an enduring icon of glamour and elegance. One of her standout moments was at the 1957 Academy Awards, where she graced the red carpet in a show-stopping look that left onlookers in awe.
Taylor's hair was styled in an elegant updo that was expertly crafted to showcase her delicate features. The updo featured perfectly curled tendrils that framed her face beautifully, adding a touch of softness to her look. The pièce de résistance was undoubtedly the crystal-embellished tiara that adorned her hair, adding a touch of opulence and sophistication to her overall appearance.
This iconic beauty look has continued to inspire and influence modern beauty trends, with many attempting to recreate Taylor's effortless glamour and timeless elegance. Her style and beauty have been an enduring influence on the industry, cementing her status as one of the greatest icons of all time.
Barbra Streisand’s Era-Defining Bob
Barbra Streisand's beauty look at the 1969 Academy Awards has become synonymous with the era-defining style of the time. Her award-winning performance in Funny Girl was matched only by her unforgettable beauty look, which has become iconic in its own right.
Streisand's signature face-framing bob was styled to perfection, with playful bangs that added a touch of youthful exuberance to her overall appearance. The hairstyle was expertly crafted to accentuate her features, creating a look that was both modern and timeless. Her hair was a perfect complement to her stunning gown, which added a touch of sophistication and glamour to her red carpet look.
This unforgettable beauty look has continued to inspire and influence modern beauty trends, with many attempting to recreate Streisand's effortless and playful style. Her influence on the beauty industry has been significant, and her enduring legacy has cemented her place as one of the greatest icons of all time.
Lola Falana’s Voluminous Curls
Lola Falana's appearance at the 1970 Academy Awards was a true showcase of her unique beauty and natural style. As a singer, dancer, and actress, Falana was known for her charismatic performances and unmistakable talent. Her beauty look at the awards ceremony was no less memorable, as she embraced her naturally voluminous curls to stunning effect.
Falana's jaw-dropping hairstyle perfectly embodied the glamour and elegance of Hollywood. Her curls were styled to perfection, adding a touch of volume and texture to her overall appearance. The natural beauty of her hair was complemented by her stunning gown, which was the epitome of sophistication and style.
This iconic beauty look has continued to inspire and influence modern beauty trends, with many attempting to recreate Falana's natural and effortless style. Her enduring influence on the beauty industry is a testament to her remarkable talent and enduring legacy, cementing her place as one of the greatest icons of her time.
Goldie Hawn’s Floral-Accented Half-Updo
Goldie Hawn's appearance at the 1969 Academy Awards was a show-stopping moment that captured the essence of the era's romantic aesthetic. Her beauty look was a head-turning masterpiece, featuring a gorgeous half-updo that perfectly complemented her stunning gown.
Hawn's half-updo was styled to perfection, with a beautiful flower adorning the top of her head that matched the pattern on her dress. This subtle touch added a touch of elegance and sophistication to her overall appearance, while also highlighting her natural beauty.
Her dramatic curtain bangs were another highlight of her beauty look, adding a touch of drama and intrigue to her overall appearance. The bangs framed her face beautifully, adding a softness and femininity that perfectly captured the romantic aesthetic of the time.
This iconic beauty look has continued to inspire and influence modern beauty trends, with many attempting to recreate Hawn's natural and effortless style. Her enduring influence on the beauty industry is a testament to her remarkable talent and enduring legacy, cementing her place as one of the greatest icons of her time.
Cher’s Feather Headdress
When it comes to Cher's beauty looks at the Oscars, it's difficult to choose just one. However, her appearance in 1986 was undoubtedly one of the most memorable, thanks to the dramatic feather headdress that she wore. Cher has always been known for pushing boundaries when it comes to fashion and beauty, and this look was no exception. The headdress was a true showstopper, adding a touch of drama and intrigue to her overall appearance. The feathers were arranged to perfection, creating a beautiful and ethereal effect that perfectly captured the essence of Hollywood glamour.
The headdress was complemented by Cher's beautiful makeup, which was expertly applied to accentuate her natural features. Her eyes were emphasized with bold liner and fluttery lashes, while her lips were painted a classic red, adding a touch of old Hollywood glamour to the overall look.
This iconic beauty look has continued to inspire and influence modern beauty trends, with many attempting to recreate Cher's bold and daring style. Her enduring influence on the beauty industry is a testament to her remarkable talent and enduring legacy, cementing her place as one of the greatest icons of her time.
Whoopi Goldberg’s Braided Half-Updo
Drew Barrymore's appearance at the 1996 Academy Awards was a perfect example of her unique style and playful personality. The delicate bob and playful bangs that she wore were beautifully accentuated with a stunning array of daisies, giving her an enchanting and ethereal look that perfectly captured her carefree spirit.
The vintage-inspired beauty look was completed with curled ends that added a touch of sophistication to the overall appearance. Her makeup featured a glittery eye that shimmered and sparkled in the light, adding a touch of glamour to the overall look. To complement her eye makeup, Barrymore opted for a dark lip, adding a touch of boldness and edge to the overall aesthetic.
The flower-bedazzled hairstyle that Barrymore wore to the Academy Awards that year inspired a new trend in the beauty industry, with many attempting to recreate the look and incorporate floral accents into their hairstyles. Her enduring influence on beauty trends and her fearless approach to expressing herself have made her an icon in the beauty industry, inspiring generations of beauty enthusiasts to embrace their unique style and express themselves fearlessly.
Drew Barrymore’s Daisy-Adorned ‘Do
Drew Barrymore's appearance at the 1996 Academy Awards was a perfect example of her unique style and playful personality. The delicate bob and playful bangs that she wore were beautifully accentuated with a stunning array of daisies, giving her an enchanting and ethereal look that perfectly captured her carefree spirit.
The vintage-inspired beauty look was completed with curled ends that added a touch of sophistication to the overall appearance. Her makeup featured a glittery eye that shimmered and sparkled in the light, adding a touch of glamour to the overall look. To complement her eye makeup, Barrymore opted for a dark lip, adding a touch of boldness and edge to the overall aesthetic.
The flower-bedazzled hairstyle that Barrymore wore to the Academy Awards that year inspired a new trend in the beauty industry, with many attempting to recreate the look and incorporate floral accents into their hairstyles. Her enduring influence on beauty trends and her fearless approach to expressing herself have made her an icon in the beauty industry, inspiring generations of beauty enthusiasts to embrace their unique style and express themselves fearlessly.
Kate Winslet’s Romantic Waves
At the 1998 Academy Awards, Kate Winslet embraced the romantic and dramatic aesthetic of her iconic role in Titanic with her stunning beauty look. Her hair was styled in cascading waves that perfectly complemented her elegant, off-the-shoulder gown. The soft, romantic waves added a touch of old Hollywood glamour to her overall appearance, making her look every bit the movie star that she is.
Winslet's beauty look was completed with subtle, yet impactful makeup that accentuated her natural features. Her eyes were emphasized with a smoky eye that perfectly matched the richness of her gown, while her cheeks were lightly flushed with a natural-looking blush. To complete the look, Winslet opted for a neutral-toned lip, allowing her natural beauty to shine through.
The beauty look that Kate Winslet wore to the 1998 Academy Awards has become an iconic moment in red carpet history. The elegant, cascading waves and subtle yet impactful makeup perfectly captured the glamour and sophistication of the era, making Winslet a true beauty icon. Her enduring influence on beauty trends and her fearless approach to red carpet fashion have inspired countless women to embrace their unique style and express themselves with confidence.
Halle Berry’s Iconic Pixie
At the 2002 Academy Awards, Halle Berry made history as the first Black woman to win the Best Actress award, and her beauty look that night was equally groundbreaking. Berry sported a chic, short pixie cut that quickly became a defining look of the 2000s. Her pixie cut was styled with a slightly messy, tousled texture that perfectly complemented her daring, strapless gown.
Berry's iconic hairstyle immediately sparked a trend, inspiring women everywhere to embrace the pixie cut and experiment with different variations of the style. Her fearless approach to hair and beauty helped to redefine beauty standards and pave the way for greater inclusivity in the industry.
In addition to her pixie cut, Berry's makeup was equally stunning, featuring a bold, matte lip and smoky eyes that accentuated her natural beauty. Her overall beauty look was a true reflection of her confidence, strength, and individuality, inspiring women everywhere to embrace their unique style and express themselves with confidence.
Rooney Mara’s Blunt Bangs
At the 84th Annual Academy Awards in 2012, Rooney Mara stunned audiences with her striking beauty look. The actress sported a severe yet elegant updo that perfectly complemented her edgy style. Mara's hair was slicked back into a tight bun, emphasizing the sharp, defined lines of her bone structure. The dramatic blunt bangs framing her face were a bold choice, adding a touch of edge to her overall look.
Mara's beauty look was a testament to her fearless approach to fashion and beauty. Her sharp, angular features were perfectly accentuated by the severe hairstyle, creating a look that was both elegant and powerful. Her bold choice of bangs added an unexpected element of interest to her beauty look, demonstrating her willingness to take risks and push boundaries.
Mara's makeup was equally striking, with a minimalist approach that highlighted her natural beauty. She opted for a nude lip and soft, smoky eyes that perfectly complemented her edgy, avant-garde style. Her overall beauty look was a true reflection of her individuality and creativity, inspiring women everywhere to embrace their unique style and express themselves with confidence.
Lupita Nyong'o’s Gilded Strands
At the 90th Annual Academy Awards, Lupita Nyong'o stole the show with her stunning metallic gold hair accessory and matching dress. Her intricate updo was an exquisite work of art, adorned with gold thread and woven into a textured bun. The actress complemented her hairstyle with bold, metallic eye makeup and a shimmering lip gloss that perfectly matched her overall look. By pairing her gold hair accessory with her dress, makeup, and even the golden Oscar statuette, Nyong'o showcased her eye for detail and her ability to create a cohesive and glamorous appearance. Her look not only turned heads on the red carpet but also set a new standard for award show beauty.
Lady Gaga’s Twisted Bouffant
At the 91st Annual Academy Awards, Lady Gaga graced the red carpet with a stunning twisted bouffant hairstyle that perfectly blended classic Hollywood glamour with modern sophistication. Her hair was styled in a voluminous, teased bouffant at the crown of her head, while the rest was twisted into a sleek chignon at the nape of her neck. This unique combination of styles created a visually striking and elegant look that perfectly complemented her timeless black gown. The hairstyle was accessorized with a chic black headband, adding a touch of glamour and vintage flair. Overall, Lady Gaga's hairstyle at the 91st Academy Awards showcased her ability to seamlessly blend classic and modern elements to create a breathtaking look that perfectly captures her unique style and individuality.
Amandla Stenberg’s Finger Wave Braids
At the 91st Annual Academy Awards, Amandla Stenberg made a statement with her innovative hairstyle, which blended two distinct hair trends from different eras. Her hair was styled in vintage-inspired finger waves on one side, while the other half featured small, tight braids that were gathered and twisted into a low bun. This unique and bold hairstyle was not only visually striking, but it also served a practical purpose as it provided protection to her hair while keeping it stylish. Stenberg's fearless fashion choices, both on and off the red carpet, have made her a style icon for a new generation.
Janelle Monáe’s Crystal Hood & Side Part
Janelle Monae made a striking entrance at the 92nd Annual Academy Awards, wearing a custom Ralph Lauren crystal gown that featured a dramatic hood with silver embellishments. Her unique style choice was a true reflection of her avant-garde approach to fashion, as she is known for pushing boundaries and taking risks with her red carpet looks. To complement her daring outfit, Monae opted for a classic and elegant beauty look, featuring a deep side part and a bold red lip. The juxtaposition of her edgy gown and sophisticated hairstyle created a perfect balance, making her a standout on the red carpet. Overall, Monae's fashion and beauty choices showcased her creativity and fearlessness, solidifying her status as a style icon.
Which is the Most Iconic Oscar Hairstyle of All Time?
Audrey Hepburn's iconic beauty look at the 1954 Academy Awards, where she won Best Actress for her role in Roman Holiday, is a timeless example of elegance and sophistication. Her short, chic hairstyle, featuring delicate micro bangs that were artfully pieced out, perfectly complemented her bold and expressive eyebrows. This classic beauty combination has continued to inspire trends in the beauty industry to this day, and Hepburn's influence remains a significant force in shaping modern beauty standards. In summary, her iconic appearance at the Oscars has cemented her place as a beauty icon, and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of beauty enthusiasts.
What are some unforgettable Hair moments at the Academy Awards?
The Academy Awards have been a showcase of Hollywood glamour for over 90 years, and hairstyles have always played a significant role in the red carpet looks that define the evening. Over the years, there have been countless memorable hairstyles, from Audrey Hepburn's chic updo at the 1954 Oscars to Lady Gaga's twisted bouffant at the 2019 ceremony.
These hairstyles have not only inspired beauty trends but have also become iconic in their own right, serving as a testament to the power of fashion and beauty in the entertainment industry. Some of the most unforgettable moments include Elizabeth Taylor's crystal-embellished tiara at the 1957 Oscars, Barbra Streisand's playful bangs at the 1969 ceremony, and Halle Berry's iconic pixie cut at the 2002 event. These Oscar hairstyles have transcended time and have become embedded in popular culture, influencing fashion and beauty trends for years to come. They have become a testament to the glamour and allure of the Academy Awards, showcasing the pinnacle of Hollywood fashion and style.
What are some iconic Oscar looks?
The Academy Awards have been a staple of Hollywood glamour for almost a century, and the event has been the birthplace of many iconic beauty looks, particularly when it comes to hairstyles. From Audrey Hepburn's chic micro bangs and short hairdo in 1954 to Janelle Monae's statement-making crystal-embellished hood in 2020, Oscar hairstyles have set the tone for beauty trends for decades. The hairstyles worn by Hollywood's biggest stars at the Oscars have reflected the times they lived in and the attitudes they embodied, from the romantic and feminine waves of the 1990s to the bold and edgy pixie cuts of the 2000s. These iconic hairstyles have inspired generations of women and continue to influence modern beauty standards. The Academy Awards will always be a showcase of Hollywood's finest, and the unforgettable hairstyles that have graced the red carpet will continue to make history for years to come.
15 most iconic Oscar hairstyles of all time - FAQs
An iconic hairstyle at the Academy Awards is usually one that is unique, memorable, and stands out among other hairstyles. It could also be a hairstyle that defines a particular era or is an unexpected departure from the norm.
Yes, some men’s hairstyles have also made a significant impact at the Oscars, such as Jared Leto’s man bun in 2014 and Brad Pitt’s slicked-back hair in 2020.
Celebrities often work with their hairstylists and fashion designers to create a cohesive look that complements their outfit and overall aesthetic. They may also draw inspiration from past Oscar looks or come up with a unique concept that fits the occasion.
Yes, with the right tools and techniques, many of these iconic Oscar hairstyles can be recreated at home. However, it’s important to consider the length and texture of your hair and to practice the style beforehand to ensure the best results.
Yes, many Oscar hairstyles have had a significant influence on hair trends outside of Hollywood. For example, Halle Berry’s pixie cut and Audrey Hepburn’s micro bangs and short hairstyle have inspired haircuts and styles for years after their respective Oscar appearances.