In 1624, a young King Louis XIII of France faced a personal crisis—he was balding. At a time when a monarch’s hair symbolized power and nobility, Louis was determined to maintain his regal image. His solution was to don a particularly full wig, sparking a fashion trend that would last for 150 years.
Wigs have a long history, with their use dating back to ancient Egypt. They were crafted into intricate styles by skilled hairdressers and served various purposes, including hygiene, theater, and anti-aging. In ancient Rome, women’s wigs became especially elaborate, prompting poets to mock their numerous tiers. However, during the Middle Ages, the Catholic Church discouraged wig-wearing, emphasizing humility and austerity. As a result, those who wore wigs in medieval Western Europe opted for more natural-looking styles.
As societal norms relaxed in the 1500s, wigs became more acceptable. Queen Elizabeth I of England owned over 80 red wigs, which she used to enhance her appearance as her natural hair thinned and grayed. One of these wigs even adorned her funeral effigy. However, it was King Louis XIII’s magnificent mane that truly ignited the wig craze. Members of his court, eager to gain favor, followed suit, and soon aristocrats across Europe embraced the trend.
The popularity of wigs surged under Louis XIII’s son, Louis XIV. At the time, Europe looked to Madrid for fashion inspiration, but Louis XIV’s government shifted the focus to France by investing heavily in the luxury industry. They established specialized guilds, formalized seasonal releases, enforced a court dress code, and banned imports that could be produced in France or its colonies. This strategic move, coupled with France’s growing colonial empire, positioned Parisian-style wigs as a symbol of wealth and influence across Europe.
Creating these elaborate wigs required significant resources. Full-bottom men’s hairpieces demanded such thick, long locks that up to ten heads of hair could be used for just one wig. The number of wigmakers in Paris quadrupled within a century, and even small villages often had at least one wigmaker. These artisans typically used human hair, sourced from poor women, or cheaper materials like wool or horsehair. To maintain their wigs, people used perfumed powders made from flour, chalk, and aromatics like violet, rose, clove, and lemon. This messy process even gave rise to the term “powder room.”
By the mid-1700s, men’s wigs remained popular but became simpler, often styled with curls around the face and a ponytail in the back. In contrast, women’s wigs reached new heights, literally towering up to a meter. Wigmakers constructed these using rods, ribbons, and wool stuffing, and adorned them with various accessories. Lighter-colored wigs became fashionable, enhanced with powders tinted in shades of purple, pink, or blue.
Not everyone embraced the trend. Caricaturists mocked wig-wearers as frivolously flamboyant, and in some of Europe’s colonies, the hot climate made heavy powdered wigs impractical. By the late 1700s, a backlash against aristocratic decadence gained momentum. As France faced a bread shortage, flour-powdered wigs were seen as particularly problematic. The French Revolution in 1789 marked a turning point, and in 1795, England’s parliament passed a “powder tax,” leading many to abandon their wigs. Thus, the once-popular fashion fell out of favor, leaving behind a legacy of a bygone era.
Using craft materials like paper, yarn, and ribbons, design and create your own historical wig inspired by the styles discussed in the article. Think about the different periods and styles, such as the elaborate wigs of Louis XIV’s court or the towering women’s wigs of the mid-1700s. Present your wig to the class and explain which historical period it represents and why you chose that style.
Create a timeline that traces the history of wigs from ancient Egypt to the decline of the wig craze in the late 1700s. Include key events and figures mentioned in the article, such as King Louis XIII and Queen Elizabeth I. Use drawings, images, or digital tools to make your timeline visually engaging. Share your timeline with the class and discuss how wig fashion evolved over time.
Divide into two groups and hold a debate on the pros and cons of wig-wearing during the 17th and 18th centuries. One group will argue in favor of wigs, highlighting their role in fashion, status, and personal expression. The other group will argue against wigs, focusing on the criticisms and practical issues mentioned in the article, such as the backlash against aristocratic decadence and the impracticality in hot climates. Present your arguments and listen to the opposing side to understand different perspectives.
Research the craft of wigmaking during the height of the wig craze. Find out more about the materials used, the process of creating wigs, and the lives of wigmakers. Write a report summarizing your findings and include illustrations or photos of historical wigs. Share your report with the class and discuss how the wigmaking industry impacted society and economy during that period.
Organize a wig fashion show where you and your classmates can showcase different wig styles from various historical periods. Each student will choose a specific style, create a wig using craft materials, and wear it during the fashion show. Provide a brief description of the wig style you are presenting, including its historical context and significance. This activity will help you understand the diversity and evolution of wig fashion in a fun and interactive way.
wigs – Wigs are artificial hairpieces worn on the head, often used for fashion or to signify social status. – In the 18th century, many aristocrats wore elaborate wigs to show their wealth and style.
fashion – Fashion refers to the popular styles of clothing, accessories, and behavior at a particular time. – The fashion of the Renaissance period included colorful garments and intricate designs that reflected the art of the time.
monarchy – A monarchy is a form of government where a single ruler, usually a king or queen, holds power, often passed down through family lines. – The monarchy in England has a long history, with many famous kings and queens influencing the country’s development.
renaissance – The Renaissance was a cultural movement in Europe from the 14th to the 17th century that emphasized art, science, and the rediscovery of classical knowledge. – During the Renaissance, artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo created masterpieces that are still celebrated today.
aristocrats – Aristocrats are members of the highest social class, often owning large estates and having significant political influence. – The aristocrats of France played a crucial role in the events leading up to the French Revolution.
revolution – A revolution is a significant change in political power or organizational structures, often occurring through conflict or uprising. – The American Revolution was a pivotal event that led to the United States gaining independence from British rule.
europe – Europe is a continent that is home to many countries, each with its own unique history and culture. – The history of Europe is marked by various empires, wars, and cultural movements that have shaped the world.
history – History is the study of past events, particularly in human affairs, and helps us understand how societies have developed. – Learning about history allows us to understand the mistakes and successes of previous generations.
craftsmanship – Craftsmanship refers to the skill and quality involved in making things by hand, often seen in art, furniture, and tools. – The craftsmanship of ancient artisans can still be admired in the intricate pottery and sculptures they created.
decline – Decline refers to a gradual decrease in quality, strength, or importance over time. – The decline of the Roman Empire was marked by economic troubles and invasions, leading to significant changes in Europe.
