Table of Contents
6 Historical Hairstyles and Their Modern Revivals
Throughout human history, hairstyles have been a significant part of fashion, identity, and social status. From Japanese hairstyles to the iconic bobs of the swinging sixties, the evolution of hair trends reflects the cultural and historical shifts of each era.
This article delves into the history of popular hairstyles and preferences and explores their modern revivals.
Women’s Hair: What Hairstyles Women Wore Through History
1. The Middle Ages: Symbolism and Status of Long Hair
In the Middle Ages, women’s hairstyles were often elaborate, symbolizing marital status and social rank. Most women had their hair long and flowing, with the upper classes displaying intricate braids and headpieces.
For example, married women often cover their hair with veils or wimples, while unmarried women flaunt their loose hair as a sign of their availability.
2. The Late Victorian Era Hairstyle: Elegance and Restraint
The Victorian era saw women adopting more restrained and elegant styled hair. Hair long and styled into buns, chignons, and intricate updos were popular among upper-class women. The trend reflected the period’s emphasis on modesty and sophistication.
Elegant women often used wigs and hairpieces to achieve these elaborate looks, enhancing their natural style with curls.
3. The Roaring Twenties: Short and Chic
The 1920s brought a dramatic shift in women’s hairstyles with the rise of shorter hairstyles. The iconic short hair became a symbol of the flapper movement, representing women’s newfound independence and modernity.
This era’s style marked the first significant departure from long-flowing hair, as women embraced shorter, more practical fashion.
4. The Swinging Sixties Hairstyle: Bold and Revolutionary
The swinging sixties were characterized by bold experimentation and revolutionary styles. Women’s hairstyles during this decade varied widely, from short pixie cuts to long hairstyles.
The afro became a powerful symbol of black identity and pride, while the mod look popularized geometric cuts and bobs.
5. Traditional Japanese Hairstyles: Timeless Elegance
Japanese hairstyles have a rich history, like the shimada and nihongami reflecting cultural and social significance. These elaborate updos, often adorned with hairpins and combs, were worn by women during special occasions and symbolized elegance.
Today, the style is often revived for cultural festivals and ceremonies, showcasing their timeless appeal.
6. West African Hairstyles: Cultural Identity
In Africa, hairstyles have always played a significant role in cultural identity and social status. Braids, twists, and intricate patterns have been used to signify various aspects of life, such as age, marital status, and tribal affiliation. Women styled their dark hair in ways that not only reflected their beauty but also conveyed their social standing and personal history.
Throughout this age, black people wore their hair in a natural look, emphasizing the curls and the significance of braids. These styles were worn with pride on their head, representing a deep connection to African heritage and identity.
Historical trends show that headwear and hairstyles were often styled to create unique and meaningful looks, contributing to the rich tapestry of West African hair. For them, it’s a form of art, including how a haircut is done.
In the modern era, these traditional styles have seen a resurgence. Contemporary trends embrace the natural curly hair and intricate ponytail, with many people wearing these styles as a form of cultural expression and pride. This revival highlights the timeless appeal of West African woman’s hairstyles and their importance in the history of fashion.
Women’s Hairstyles Blending Past and Present
Today’s hair trends often draw inspiration from historical styles, blending the past with contemporary fashion. Long flowing hair remains a classic choice, while the revival of bobs and pixie cuts continues to dominate the fashion scene.
Natural styles, such as loose curls, emphasize the beauty of natural texture. The popularity of traditional hairstyles, like head gears and afros, highlights a growing appreciation for cultural heritage and diversity.
Embracing Collection of Heritage and Innovation
Hairstyles have always been more than just a fashion statement—they are an art and cultural expression. The modern revival of hairstyles reflects a deep appreciation for the past while embracing the innovation and creativity of the present. Whether it’s the elegant updos of the Victorian era or the bold afros of the sixties, these continue to inspire and influence hair fashion today.
For example, the bob haircut, once a rebellious statement in the 1920s decade, remains a fashionable choice today. Modern collections often include wigs and headbands to recreate vintage styles, allowing individuals to wear historical looks with a contemporary twist.
Decades of hair fashion serve as a symbol of cultural evolution, from the elaborate braids of West Africa to the sleek, shaved looks popularized in recent years. A hairstyle not only reflects the clothing and dress of their time but also captures the essence of each decade’s unique identity and trends.
By celebrating these diverse and rich histories, we honor the artistry and cultural significance that hairstyles represent across eras and regions.
