The Height of Fashion: Exploring the Intricate Hairstyles of the 18th Century
The 18th century witnessed an explosion of creativity in the realm of fashion, and hairstyles were no exception. Elaborate and towering hairdos became a symbol of status, wealth, and artistry. This comprehensive guide delves into the fascinating world of 18th-century hairdressing, unveiling the techniques, trends, and societal implications behind these iconic coiffures.
The Rise of Hairdressing as an Art Form
In the early 18th century, hairdressing emerged as a specialized craft, with professional hairdressers known as "frizzers" becoming highly sought-after. They spent hours meticulously styling their clients' hair using a variety of tools and techniques, transforming them into living works of art.
Types of Hairdos
The most popular hairdos of the 18th century were characterized by their height and complexity. Some of the most iconic styles included:
-
Fontange: A towering headdress made of lace, ribbons, and feathers, named after the Duchess of Fontanges.
-
Pompadour: A style where the hair was puffed up on the crown and swept back, popularized by Madame de Pompadour.
-
Beehive: A large, round hairpiece that resembled a beehive and was decorated with flowers and jewels.
Techniques Used in Hairdressing
To achieve these elaborate hairstyles, hairdressers employed various techniques, including:
-
Buckram: Stiff material used to create the framework and volume of hairdos.
-
Pomade: A greasy substance applied to the hair to keep it in place and give it a lustrous appearance.
-
Hairpins: Long, decorative pins used to secure hairpieces and hairstyles.
Hairpieces and Accessories
Hairpieces were integral to creating the elaborate hairstyles of the 18th century. These included false hair, curls, and whole hairpieces that were added to the natural hair to enhance its length, volume, and style.
Materials Used in Hairpieces
Hairpieces were typically made from human hair, but animal hair or wool were also used. Human hair was considered more prestigious and could be dyed or bleached to match the natural hair color.
Types of Hairpieces
There were several types of hairpieces used in the 18th century, including:
-
Ringlets: Small, curled hairpieces that were added to the sides of the hair.
-
Tails: Long, flowing hairpieces that were attached to the back of the hair.
-
Bags: Hairpieces that were worn at the back of the head and resembled a small satchel.
The Influence of Society
Hairdos not only reflected personal style but also had social significance in the 18th century. The size and elaborateness of a woman's hairdo often indicated her wealth and status.
Hairdos and Social Class
Upper-class women wore the most elaborate hairstyles, while those from lower social classes had simpler and smaller hairdos. Women who could afford it would often hire professional hairdressers to style their hair multiple times a week.
Hairdos and Fashion Trends
Hairdos also reflected the changing fashion trends of the time. The pompadour style, for example, became popular after it was adopted by Marie Antoinette, Queen of France.
The Decline of Elaborate Hairstyles
In the late 18th century, the popularity of elaborate hairstyles began to decline. The French Revolution in 1789 led to a shift in fashion towards simpler and more natural styles.
The Influence of Naturalism
The Enlightenment movement promoted a return to nature and simplicity, which was reflected in fashion as well. Women began to wear their hair in loose curls or buns, with minimal use of hairpieces or accessories.
The Emergence of Shorter Hairstyles
Shorter hairstyles also became popular, as they were more practical for everyday activities. Women began to cut their hair shorter, often in a style known as the "Grecian knot."
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When creating an 18th-century hairdo, it is important to avoid common mistakes, such as:
- Using too much pomade, which can make the hair look greasy and heavy.
- Not setting the hair properly with hairpins, which can cause it to collapse or become disheveled.
- Using hairpieces that are too large or too heavy, which can damage the natural hair.
Advanced Features
For more experienced hairdressers, advanced techniques can be used to create even more elaborate hairstyles. These techniques include:
-
Hair sculpture: Creating intricate shapes and designs using hair.
-
Hair painting: Using dyes or powders to color the hair and create patterns.
-
Hair jewelry: Adding decorative elements, such as pearls or jewels, to hairpieces and hairstyles.
Call to Action
Explore the fascinating world of 18th-century hairdressing by experimenting with different techniques and styles. Remember to avoid common mistakes and, if possible, seek guidance from experienced hairdressers to achieve the most authentic and elaborate hairstyles.
Additional Resources
|||
|---|---|---|
| Year | No. of Hairdressers in France | Average Cost of a Hairdo |
|---|---|---|
| 1700 | 1,000 | 10 livres |
| 1750 | 2,000 | 20 livres |
| 1800 | 1,000 | 15 livres |
|||
|---|---|---|
| Type of Hairpiece | Material | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Ringlets | Human hair | To add volume and curls to the sides of the hair |
| Tails | Animal hair | To lengthen the hair and create a flowing effect |
| Bags | Wool | To add weight and support to the back of the hair |
|||
|---|---|---|
| Hairdo | Typical Features | Social Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Fontange | Towering headdress with lace, ribbons, and feathers | Indicated high social status and wealth |
| Pompadour | Hair puffed up on the crown and swept back | Associated with the French court and Marie Antoinette |
| Beehive | Large, round hairpiece resembling a beehive | Worn by women who wanted to make a statement and attract attention |
