Why did men powder their wigs?
During the 18th century, powdered wigs were fashionable among the upper class and symbolized wealth and power. Men powdered their wigs for various reasons, including hiding illnesses like syphilis, which caused hair loss, and other symptoms like rashes and sores.
They’re Back
Powdered wigs have recently regained popularity in historical dramas like Netflix’s Bridgerton and Broadway musical Hamilton. In the 1700s, men wore wigs to signify wealth and status. Wigs were commonly used to hide symptoms of diseases like syphilis, which caused baldness. This resurgence of powdered wigs has brought attention to their historical significance.
They’re Hot
In the 18th century, powdered wigs were a trendy fashion choice for men and women of all social classes. Wigs were made from human or goat hair, deloused, and coated with scented flour before being placed atop pomatum powder. This messy process led to the development of dedicated powder rooms. However, powdered wigs eventually fell out of style by the early 19th century as shorter natural hairstyles became popular.
They’re Versatile
Powdered wigs, also known as “periwigs,” are commonly used in historical dramas and pirate movies for costume purposes. These wigs can have added scents for authenticity and are worn by both men and women. Wigs were initially worn in the 17th century to hide baldness caused by syphilis outbreaks, and they quickly became fashionable among nobility and soldiers in British colonies.
They’re Historical
During the 17th and 18th centuries, powdered wigs were worn as status symbols to indicate wealth, power, and authority. The types of hair used to make wigs varied in cost, with goat and yak hair being cheaper options and horse and human hair being more expensive. Wearing powdered wigs was common across different classes, from royalty to inventors and everyday Americans. However, wigs started to decline in popularity during the 19th century as people embraced more natural hairstyles.
