The Fascinating History of Wigs: Why Men Wore Them in the 1700s

In the 1700s, wigs were not just fashion statements; they were symbols of status, wealth, and sometimes even concealments of personal ailments. The powdered wig, known as a peruke, became a staple in the wardrobes of European men, particularly among the wealthy elite. This guide explores the various reasons behind the popularity of wigs, the social implications of their use, and the evolution of wig fashion during this period.

Type of Wig	Materials Used	Common Applications	Cultural Significance
Full-bottomed Periwig	Human, horse, goat hair	Everyday wear, formal occasions	Sign of wealth and social status
Bob Wigs	Horsehair, goat hair	Practical wear, less formal occasions	Increased accessibility for lower classes
Short Wigs	Human or animal hair	Military, professional settings	Practicality over extravagance
Powdered Wigs	Human, horsehair	Legal, ceremonial, and official settings	Symbol of authority and respect

The Origins of Wig Fashion

Wigs originated in ancient civilizations, but their modern resurgence can be traced back to the reign of King Louis XIV of France. As he began to lose his hair at a young age, he popularized the peruke as a fashionable solution to conceal baldness. This trend quickly spread throughout Europe, especially in royal courts, where style and appearance were paramount.

The Influence of Syphilis on Wig Popularity

A significant factor in the rise of wig-wearing was the outbreak of syphilis in Europe. This sexually transmitted disease often led to baldness, which was viewed as a mark of shame. Wealthy men began to wear wigs to hide their hair loss, as well as any visible sores caused by the disease. This necessity turned into a fashion trend, further solidifying wigs as a status symbol.

Social Status and Class Distinctions

Wigs were not merely decorative; they were essential indicators of social standing. The wealthier one was, the more extravagant their wig. Men in the upper classes wore elaborate wigs crafted from human hair, while those of lower status opted for less expensive materials. The term “bigwig” emerged from this period, referring to those of high societal rank.

Maintenance and Care of Wigs

Caring for wigs was a labor-intensive process. They required regular cleaning and powdering, often performed by professional wigmakers. The powder, typically made from finely ground starch, was scented to mask any odors. This added to the overall expense of wig ownership, further emphasizing the owner’s wealth and social standing.

Trends in Wig Styles Throughout the Century

The 1700s saw significant changes in wig styles. Early in the century, full-bottomed wigs were in vogue, characterized by their large, curly shapes. However, as the century progressed, a shift occurred towards shorter, more practical styles. By the late 1700s, natural hair lightly powdered began to replace wigs altogether, reflecting changing societal norms.

The Decline of Wig Fashion

By the dawn of the 19th century, wigs began to fall out of favor, influenced by the French Revolution and changing attitudes towards aristocracy. The imposition of a tax on hair powder in Britain further diminished wig usage. Natural hairstyles gained popularity, marking the end of an era where wigs dominated men’s fashion.

Technical Features of Wigs	Full-bottomed Periwig	Bob Wigs	Short Wigs	Powdered Wigs
Material Quality	High (human hair)	Medium (horse hair)	Variable	Variable
Maintenance Level	High	Medium	Low	High
Cost	Very high	Moderate	Low	High
Popularity Timeline	Early to mid-1700s	Mid to late 1700s	Late 1700s	Throughout 1700s

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Conclusion

The 1700s were a transformative period for wigs, reflecting societal changes, disease, and evolving fashion trends. Initially a necessity for covering baldness due to syphilis, wigs became a prominent symbol of status and wealth. As trends shifted towards natural hair, the elaborate wigs of the past faded into history, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to influence modern fashion.

FAQ

What was the primary reason men wore wigs in the 1700s?
Men primarily wore wigs to cover baldness, often caused by syphilis, which was rampant at the time. The wigs became a fashionable way to conceal this shame.

What materials were used to make wigs?
Wigs were made from various materials, including human hair, horsehair, goat hair, and yak hair, with human hair being the most expensive option.

How did wigs signify social status?
Wigs were a visible indicator of wealth; the more elaborate and high-quality the wig, the higher the social status of the wearer.

What role did King Louis XIV play in the popularity of wigs?
King Louis XIV popularized wigs in the 17th century as he began to lose his hair, setting trends that spread throughout Europe and into the American colonies.

Were wigs only worn by men?
While wigs were predominantly worn by men, women also adopted the fashion, often styling their natural hair with additional pieces or powdering it.

How were wigs maintained?
Wigs required regular cleaning and powdering, typically managed by professional wigmakers to ensure proper hygiene and upkeep.

What was the impact of syphilis on wig fashion?
The syphilis epidemic led to a surge in wig-making as men sought to hide baldness and other symptoms, making wigs a necessary accessory during that time.

When did wigs fall out of fashion?
Wigs began to decline in popularity by the late 18th century, influenced by the French Revolution and societal changes that favored natural hairstyles.

What was a common hairstyle for men by the end of the 1700s?
By the end of the 1700s, many men opted for shorter hairstyles, often lightly powdered, instead of full wigs.

What legacy did wigs leave on modern fashion?
The wig fashion of the 1700s laid the groundwork for modern hairpieces and the perception of wigs as both fashion statements and practical solutions for hair loss.