Hairstyles Of The Middle Ages

Hairstyles of the Middle Ages: A Journey Through Time and Trend

The Middle Ages, spanning from the 5th to the 15th century, were a period of significant social, political, and technological change across Europe. This era also witnessed a fascinating evolution in hairstyles, reflecting the changing social norms, religious influences, and available technologies. This comprehensive guide delves into the diverse hairstyles of the Middle Ages, exploring their variations across different classes, genders, and regions, and revealing the intriguing stories they tell about the people who wore them. Understanding medieval hairstyles provides a valuable window into the cultural landscape of this captivating period.

Introduction: A Time of Transformation

Medieval hairstyles weren't simply about aesthetics; they were powerful indicators of social status, religious affiliation, and even marital status. From the simple braids and buns of peasant women to the elaborate coiffures of noble ladies, hair played a crucial role in defining identity. This period saw a shift from the elaborate styles of the Roman Empire to more practical and often religiously influenced looks. The influence of the Church, the rise of courtly love, and evolving fashion trends all contributed to the variety and complexity of medieval hairstyles.

Hairstyles of Medieval Women: A Spectrum of Styles

Women's hairstyles in the Middle Ages varied drastically depending on factors like social class, geographical location, and the prevailing fashion trends of the time.

Peasant Women: Practicality and Simplicity

For peasant women, practicality reigned supreme. Their hairstyles needed to be functional, easy to maintain, and not interfere with their daily tasks. Common styles included:

• Braids: Long braids were a staple, often several braided together and wrapped around the head. This kept the hair tidy and out of the way.
• Simple Buns: Buns, secured with pins or ribbons, were another popular choice, offering a similar level of practicality. These were often low-slung at the nape of the neck.
• Headcoverings: Essential for protection from the elements and considered modest attire, head coverings like wimples (a type of veil) and coifs (close-fitting caps) were frequently worn over simple braids or buns.

Noblewomen: Elaboration and Ornamentation

Noblewomen, in contrast, enjoyed greater freedom to experiment with more elaborate and stylish hairstyles. Wealth allowed for access to skilled hairdressers and a wider range of decorative elements. Popular styles included:

• Elaborate Braids and Plaits: These were often intricately woven, incorporating ribbons, jewels, and other decorative elements. Sometimes, multiple braids would be combined to create complex patterns.
• High Buns and Knots: High buns, positioned atop the head, were often considered elegant and sophisticated. They were frequently adorned with jeweled pins, combs, and veils. The hennin, a tall conical headdress worn over a bun, became particularly fashionable during the late Middle Ages.
• French Rolls: Similar to modern French rolls, these hairstyles involved skillfully rolling sections of hair to create elegant, voluminous shapes.
• The use of extensions: False hair and extensions were utilized to achieve greater length and volume, adding to the overall extravagance of the style.

The Significance of Hair Color and Accessories

Hair color also held significance. Blond hair was often considered desirable, and women might use herbal treatments to lighten their hair. Accessories played a crucial role in enhancing the appearance of these hairstyles, with precious metals, jewels, and ribbons frequently employed for decoration. The type and abundance of these accessories served as further indicators of wealth and status.

Hairstyles of Medieval Men: From Short Crops to Long Locks

Medieval men's hairstyles were equally diverse, influenced by factors such as social standing, occupation, and religious beliefs.

Peasant Men: Practical and Functional Styles

Peasant men typically opted for simple and practical hairstyles, often mirroring the functional needs of their labor. Common styles included:

• Short Crops: Short, closely cropped hair was practical for working in the fields and prevented hair from interfering with manual labor.
• Braids (occasionally): While less common than for women, some peasant men might wear their hair in braids, especially if it was long.

Noblemen and Clergy: A Variety of Styles Reflecting Status

Noblemen and members of the clergy had more latitude in choosing their hairstyles, which often reflected their social status and occupation.

• Long Hair: Long hair was frequently associated with nobility and was often worn loose, styled in waves, or gathered into braids or knots. This was a sign of wealth and leisure.
• Shoulder-Length Hair: Shoulder-length hair was also popular among noblemen, sometimes styled with curls or waves.
• Tonsures: Clerical men were recognizable by their tonsures, a shaved patch of hair on the head, representing their religious devotion. The shape and placement of the tonsure varied depending on the religious order. It was a highly symbolic and visible marker of religious affiliation.
• The influence of fashion: Similar to women’s styles, men’s hair also followed fashion trends. Curls, waves, and the parting of the hair were all elements that changed over the centuries and across regions.

Regional Variations and the Influence of Culture

Hairstyles also differed across different regions of Europe. Regional variations were influenced by the local climate, traditions, and prevalent artistic styles. For example, certain styles might be more common in warmer climates, while others were more prevalent in colder regions. The artistic and cultural currents of each area also influenced how hair was styled and ornamented.

The Evolution of Hairstyles Throughout the Middle Ages

Hairstyles in the Middle Ages weren't static; they evolved across the centuries, influenced by changing social, economic, and cultural factors. Early Medieval styles were often simpler and more functional, reflecting the challenges of daily life. As society became more prosperous and stable, hairstyles became more elaborate and stylish, especially among the upper classes. The late Middle Ages saw a dramatic increase in the complexity of women’s hairstyles, with tall headdresses and intricate braids becoming highly fashionable.

The Role of Religious Beliefs

The Church held considerable influence over medieval society, and this impact extended to hairstyles. Excessive ornamentation or elaborate styles were sometimes viewed with suspicion, particularly among the more conservative religious orders. Modesty in dress and appearance was emphasized, leading to the widespread use of head coverings and veils.

Conclusion: A Mirror to Society

The hairstyles of the Middle Ages are much more than just aesthetic choices. They are a rich tapestry of social, cultural, and religious significance. By studying these styles, we can gain a deeper understanding of the lives and identities of the people who wore them, revealing the intricate relationship between hair, identity, and society throughout this remarkable historical period. The meticulous detail and care taken in creating these looks, even within the constraints of the resources available, provide invaluable insights into the values, beliefs, and aspirations of medieval people. This period serves as a fascinating example of how hair can transcend its purely aesthetic role and become a powerful symbol of identity and social status. Further research into specific regions, time periods, and social classes will undoubtedly unveil even more intriguing details about the diversity and evolution of medieval hairstyles.