All hail hair! Ever wondered how hair extensions and wigs became so incredibly popular? The use of hair pieces is now a world wide practice!
According to “The History of Hair Extensions” hair extensions first began with, “Egyptians in 3400 BC. They wore wigs, sewn-on hair pieces and braids that were made of human hair…” the article goes on to explain, “they used resin and beeswax to attach the extensions. Bright blue, red, gold were popular, in addition to the conventional black” proving hair has always been in style (curioushistory.com)
There is an enormous amount of ways to add hair to a person’s natural head, from weave in styles, to tape, glue, beads, wigs, half wigs, frontals, closures, toppers, and that does not even begin to cover it! Depending on hair type every style differs as working best therefore one way is not necessarily better than another. Author Imaan Imran of “What is the History of Hair Weaves?” informs, “…much of modern hair weaving is in influence of African American culture. Since the 16fh century, women brought as slaves had elaborate and intricate hairdos complete with twists and braids” giving a hint of insight on how the creative braid work has been adopted (Imran).
Some believed wigs and hair extensions originated from America’s first President George Washington notorious for a voluminous, fluffy, full head of hair. Many portraits have surfaced of President Washington with long, luscious, locks, and it has actually been proven the hair was all his! Kudos Mr. President! So how did said myth arise? It is argued Washington’s hair was adored and future wigs/hair pieces were then created to resemble the President’s hair with the assumption the wig would offer a professional look, complimenting President Washington.
The funny aspect is the same concept happens all the time today. Many fashionistas like us here see a beautiful hair style and set out to have it replicated with a wig or hair piece. One of the best inventions ever right?! How soothing yet exciting is it to know there is always the option of having a short, edgy, bob cut for a day and the security of being able to return to a long, sexy, style the next.
