The Fascinating World of 18th Century Wigs

Wigs were more than just a fashion statement in the 18th century; they were a symbol of status, a means to conceal personal ailments, and a reflection of societal norms. While popular culture often depicts gentlemen of this era sporting elaborate curly white wigs, the reality is more complex. This guide delves into the evolution of wigs during the 18th century, their cultural significance, and their transition from a symbol of prestige to a relic of the past.

Types and Applications of 18th Century Wigs

Type of Wig	Description	Common Uses	Materials Used
Periwig	Long, flowing wig often curled and powdered	Daily wear, court appearances	Human hair, horsehair
Bob Wig	Shorter wig that became fashionable later in the century	Informal occasions, everyday use	Human hair, animal fur
Tied Wig	Wigs with a tied-back style, often worn by men	Formal events, military settings	Human hair
Nightcap Wig	Simple, less elaborate wig worn at home	Casual, domestic settings	Wool, cotton
Child’s Wig	Smaller wigs designed for children	Dress-up, formal occasions	Human hair, synthetic

Historical Context of Wigs

The use of wigs can be traced back to the 17th century, gaining momentum among the elite. However, it was in the 18th century that wigs became a cornerstone of male fashion. As highlighted by the American Battlefield Trust, wigs served as a disguise for hair loss, often associated with syphilis, and became emblematic of wealth. The term ‘bigwig’ originated from this era, highlighting the extravagant spending on wigs among the nobility.

The Cultural Significance of Wigs

Wigs during the 18th century held immense cultural weight. They were not merely accessories but represented social status and affluence. The Georgian era saw the emergence of elaborate styles that communicated the wearer’s wealth and position. As noted in the Georgian Era blog, wigs were often described in newspaper articles, marking their importance in public perception.

Wigs and Status

The connection between wigs and status is evident through their cost and the materials used. While an everyday wig could cost 25 shillings, the more elaborate styles could set individuals back upwards of 800 shillings. This disparity in pricing emphasized the divide between different social classes, as only the affluent could afford the most extravagant styles.

The Transition in Fashion

By the end of the 18th century, the societal shift towards natural hair began to take hold. As noted on platforms like Wrap and other historical resources, political changes and the introduction of a hair powder tax contributed to the decline in wig popularity. The rise of shorter, natural hairstyles signified a shift towards practicality and cleanliness, mirroring broader societal changes.

The Craftsmanship of Wig Making

Crafting wigs was an intricate process that required skilled craftsmanship. Wig makers, such as Edward Charlton, played a crucial role in creating these fashionable items. The materials often included human hair, horsehair, and other natural fibers, which were meticulously styled and treated. This craftsmanship, however, came with challenges, such as the risk of lice infestations, which paradoxically led to wearing wigs to avoid scalp conditions.

The Decline of Wigs

Several factors contributed to the decline of wigs by the early 19th century. The introduction of the hair powder tax was a significant turning point, as it made maintaining elaborate wigs a financial burden for many. As society shifted towards a more natural aesthetic, the once-coveted wigs became less desirable. The shift towards shorter hairstyles signified not only a change in fashion but also in societal values.

Technical Features of 18th Century Wigs

Feature	Description
Length	Varied from short bob styles to long, flowing periwigs
Weight	Heavier wigs were often adorned with more embellishments
Maintenance	Required regular cleaning and powdering to maintain appearance
Styling Techniques	Included curling, tying, and powdering to achieve desired looks
Materials	Primarily made from human hair, with some using animal hairs

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Conclusion

The 18th century was a transformative period for wig fashion, marked by elaborate styles and significant cultural implications. Wigs served as symbols of status and affluence, but their popularity waned with changing societal norms and economic factors. Understanding the history of wigs reveals much about the societal values of the time and the intersection of fashion and identity.

FAQ

What were the primary materials used in 18th-century wigs?
Wigs were primarily made from human hair, but animal hairs such as horsehair were also common. Additionally, synthetic materials began to emerge towards the end of the century.

Why did wigs become a fashion statement in the 18th century?
Wigs became fashionable due to their association with the nobility, serving as a status symbol. They also provided a solution for those experiencing hair loss, particularly due to ailments like syphilis.

What is the difference between a periwig and a bob wig?
A periwig is characterized by its long, flowing style, often heavily curled and powdered, while a bob wig is shorter and became fashionable later in the century for more casual wear.

How did the hair powder tax affect wig popularity?
The hair powder tax imposed financial burdens on those maintaining elaborate wigs, leading to a decline in their popularity as society shifted to more natural hairstyles.

Did women wear wigs in the 18th century?
Yes, women also wore wigs, often styled differently than men’s wigs, with an emphasis on volume and decorative elements.

How were wigs maintained in the 18th century?
Wigs required regular cleaning, powdering, and sometimes styling by professional wig makers to keep them looking pristine.

What societal changes contributed to the decline of wigs?
The rise of Enlightenment ideals, which favored naturalism and practicality, along with economic factors like the hair powder tax, contributed to the decline in wig usage.

Can you still find 18th-century wig styles today?
While modern wigs may draw inspiration from 18th-century styles, they are typically adapted for contemporary fashion and practicality.

Why were wigs considered a sign of wealth?
Wigs were expensive to make and maintain, thus only the wealthy could afford the most elaborate styles, making them a clear indicator of social status.

What role did wig makers play in society?
Wig makers were highly skilled artisans who not only crafted wigs but also contributed to the fashion trends of their time, reflecting the tastes and values of society.