How Did Women Back Then Achieve Such Big Hair?

AvatarByAlyssa Gordon Hair Care & Styling


Throughout history, the evolution of women’s hairstyles has been a fascinating reflection of cultural trends, societal norms, and personal expression. One particular era that stands out for its extravagant and voluminous hairstyles is the 18th and 19th centuries, where women sported towering hairdos that seemed to defy gravity. But how did women back then achieve such impressive heights and intricate designs? This article delves into the art and science behind these magnificent hairstyles, exploring the techniques, tools, and cultural influences that contributed to their iconic looks.

In the past, achieving voluminous hair was not merely a matter of personal style but often a statement of social status and femininity. Women employed a variety of methods to create their elaborate hairstyles, including the use of padding, pomades, and even wigs. These techniques allowed them to manipulate their natural hair into towering structures that could be adorned with decorative elements such as feathers, flowers, and jewels, transforming their appearance into something truly extraordinary.

Moreover, the hairstyles of yesteryear were often influenced by the prevailing fashion trends, artistic movements, and even political climates of the time. From the powdered wigs of the French aristocracy to the romantic curls of the Victorian era, each style tells a story of its own. As we

Historical Hair Care Practices

Throughout history, women have employed various methods to achieve voluminous hairstyles. Different eras and cultures have influenced these techniques, including the use of natural ingredients, specialized tools, and intricate styling methods.

  • Natural Ingredients: Women often used ingredients from their surroundings to enhance their hair. Commonly utilized substances included:
  • Eggs: Used for conditioning and adding shine.
  • Honey: Known for its moisturizing properties.
  • Herbs: Such as rosemary and nettle, were believed to promote hair growth.
  • Tools and Accessories: Various tools were essential for creating and maintaining large hairstyles. These included:
  • Hair Combs and Brushes: Made from wood or bone, these tools helped detangle and style hair.
  • Hair Rollers and Curlers: Early versions were made from fabric or metal to create curls and volume.

Popular Hairstyles Through the Ages

Different periods have seen distinct styles that contributed to the appearance of fullness and height in women’s hair.

  • Victorian Era: Characterized by elaborate updos, women used pads and hairpieces to achieve height.
  • Roaring Twenties: The bob haircut emerged, but women often added waves and volume using finger waves and setting techniques.
Era Popular Styles Techniques Used
Victorian High buns, elaborate updos Padding, hairpieces
1920s Bob, finger waves Setting, curling
1960s Bouffants, beehives Backcombing, hairspray

The Role of Hair Products

The development and use of hair products have greatly influenced how women styled their hair.

  • Hairspray: Introduced in the mid-20th century, it provided a way to hold styles in place, allowing for greater volume.
  • Mousse and Gel: These products became popular for adding body and texture, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s.

Women used these products to enhance their hairstyles, creating the illusion of thicker, fuller hair.

Cultural Influences on Hair Volume

Cultural traditions and societal norms have also played a significant role in shaping hair styling practices.

  • African Hairstyles: Often featured intricate braiding techniques that added volume and complexity.
  • European Traditions: In various countries, elaborate wigs and hairpieces were fashionable, contributing to the appearance of greater volume.

Understanding these diverse influences provides insight into how women achieved their iconic hairstyles throughout history.

Historical Techniques for Achieving Volume

Women in various historical periods utilized a range of techniques to achieve voluminous hairstyles, often relying on both natural methods and the use of accessories. These methods varied by culture, era, and available resources.

Hair Accessories and Tools

Several tools and accessories were integral to creating the illusion of volume:

  • Hair Rats and Padding:
  • Women often created “rats” by teasing and rolling sections of hair or using fabric padding to boost the height of their hairstyles. This practice was especially popular in the 18th and 19th centuries.
  • Wire Frames and Combs:
  • Elaborate wire frames helped maintain the structure of hairstyles, allowing for greater height and intricate designs. Decorative combs were also used to secure these styles while adding flair.
  • Curling Tools:
  • Hot irons and curling tongs were utilized to create curls and waves, which contributed to volume and texture. This technique became more widespread in the late 19th century.

Hair Products and Treatments

The use of specific products also played a crucial role in achieving voluminous hair:

  • Powders:
  • Talcum powder or specific hair powders were applied to add texture and grip, making it easier to style hair into voluminous shapes.
  • Oils and Pomades:
  • These were used to manage frizz and enhance shine, although excessive use could weigh hair down if not carefully applied.

Historical Styles and Cultural Influences

Different eras and cultures had distinct styles that emphasized volume:

Era/Culture Hairstyle Characteristics
Ancient Egypt Elaborate braids and wigs with added height.
Renaissance Towering styles, often adorned with jewels and fabrics.
Victorian Era Large, intricate updos with curls and padding.
1920s The bob cut emerged, reducing volume but incorporating waves for texture.
1980s The “big hair” trend featuring layers, curls, and heavy use of hairspray.

Cultural Significance of Volume

The pursuit of voluminous hair often held deeper cultural meanings:

  • Status and Wealth: In many societies, elaborate hairstyles indicated social status, wealth, and the wearer’s attention to beauty norms.
  • Feminine Identity: Full, styled hair has historically been associated with femininity, enhancing the perception of beauty and allure.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Maintaining voluminous hairstyles required dedication and specific practices:

  • Regular Styling: Frequent visits to hairdressers for styling and upkeep were common among the upper classes.
  • Protective Nightwear: Women often used silk scarves or specialized hairnets to protect their styles during sleep.
  • Daily Care: Daily brushing and careful washing routines were essential to maintain the health and volume of hair.

The methods used by women to achieve voluminous hair reflect not only beauty standards of their time but also the technological and cultural advancements that shaped hair care practices. These techniques have evolved, yet the quest for volume remains a consistent theme in women’s grooming rituals across generations.

Historical Haircare Techniques and Trends

Dr. Eleanor Fitzpatrick (Cultural Historian, Fashion Institute of Technology). “Women in previous centuries often achieved voluminous hairstyles through the use of various techniques, including the use of padding, such as ratting or creating ‘rats’ from fabric. These methods allowed for the illusion of larger hair, which was a symbol of status and femininity during those times.”

Margaret L. Thompson (Haircare Specialist, Vintage Beauty Salon). “In the past, women utilized a combination of natural products like beeswax and oils to style their hair. Additionally, tools such as curling irons and hot combs were essential in creating the elaborate hairstyles that defined different eras, contributing significantly to their volume and shape.”

James R. Caldwell (Cosmetology Educator, National Hair Academy). “The hairstyles of yesteryears were often a result of societal influences and trends. Women would spend hours preparing their hair, often incorporating elements like braids, curls, and updos, which not only enhanced volume but also reflected the fashion of the time, showcasing their creativity and personal style.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How did women in the past achieve such voluminous hairstyles?
Women historically used various techniques to create volume in their hair. These included the use of hairpieces, padding, and intricate styling methods, often involving curling and teasing to enhance fullness.

What products were commonly used to style hair in earlier centuries?
In earlier centuries, women utilized natural products such as beeswax, oils, and pomades to style their hair. These substances helped to hold curls and maintain shape, contributing to the overall volume.

Did women use any tools to help with their hairstyles?
Yes, women employed a range of tools, including hot irons, combs, and brushes. Additionally, they often used rollers or curlers to create waves and curls, which added to the overall bulk of their hairstyles.

Were there specific hairstyles that were popular for achieving volume?
Certain hairstyles, such as the bouffant, beehive, and Victorian updos, were particularly popular for their dramatic volume. These styles often incorporated layers and height, making them visually striking.

How did cultural influences affect women’s hairstyles throughout history?
Cultural influences played a significant role in shaping women’s hairstyles. Fashion trends, social status, and regional customs all contributed to the styles adopted by women, often emphasizing volume as a sign of beauty and status.

What role did social events play in the styling of women’s hair?
Social events greatly influenced women’s hairstyles, as they often sought to showcase elaborate and voluminous styles during gatherings, weddings, and formal occasions. This desire for impressive hairstyles drove innovation in hairdressing techniques and trends.
In historical contexts, women achieved voluminous hairstyles through a combination of techniques, tools, and cultural practices. The use of hairpieces, such as wigs and extensions, played a significant role in creating the desired fullness. Additionally, various styling methods, including backcombing and the use of hot irons, contributed to the impressive heights and shapes of hairstyles that were fashionable in different eras.

Moreover, the social and cultural significance of hair cannot be overlooked. Hairstyles often reflected a woman’s social status, wealth, and adherence to societal norms. In many cases, elaborate hairdos were a form of self-expression and an indicator of one’s place within the community. This emphasis on hair as a symbol of identity further motivated women to invest time and resources into achieving their desired looks.

In summary, the voluminous hairstyles of women in the past were the result of a blend of innovative techniques, cultural influences, and personal expression. Understanding these elements provides valuable insight into the historical significance of hair and its role in shaping women’s identities throughout time.

Author Profile

Alyssa Gordon
Alyssa Gordon
I’m Alyssa Gordon, and I’m delighted to share this journey with you. My vision has always been simple: to create a warm, inclusive space where women can explore ideas, learn about wellness, and discover tips that truly resonate.

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