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The history of hair extensions: from cleopatra to today

3 min read

Hair extensions have a rich and fascinating history that spans cultures, continents, and centuries. From royalty to modern-day celebrities, the desire for longer, fuller hair has always been a symbol of beauty and status. Let’s take a fun journey through time to see how hair extensions evolved, from ancient Egypt to the red carpets of Hollywood.

Ancient Egypt: The Origin of Hair Extensions

Hair extensions can be traced all the way back to ancient Egypt, where both men and women used wigs and hairpieces to enhance their look. Cleopatra, one of the most famous historical figures, was known for wearing elaborate braided wigs made from human hair, wool, or palm fibers. Egyptians also dyed their extensions black or blue using plant-based dyes to match their natural hair or make a bold statement. Extensions were more than just a fashion accessory—they also symbolized power, status, and even divine protection.

Photo: Universal Images Group Editoria/Getty Images

The Roman Empire: Hair as a Status Symbol

During the Roman Empire, wealthy women adorned their hair with intricate styles using extensions made from human hair or animal fur. Blonde hair extensions were especially popular, as blondes were often viewed as exotic. Roman women would often import blonde hair from the Germanic tribes and wear them to achieve this coveted look. The use of hair extensions among the elite signified wealth and social standing.

Photo: Pinterest

17th-18th Century Europe: Wigs Galore

Hair extensions in the form of wigs became a significant part of European fashion during the 17th and 18th centuries. Royals like King Louis XIV of France and Queen Elizabeth I were known for wearing large, elaborate wigs, which later became popular among aristocrats. These wigs were often powdered and styled to convey authority, fashion, and status. By the late 18th century, wigs had become smaller and more refined, but their role in enhancing appearances persisted.

Photo: Portrait of King Louis XIV/britannica.com

Victorian Era: Hair as Keepsakes

In the 19th century, during the Victorian era, hair extensions continued to gain popularity. Human hair was often used to create intricate hairstyles, but there was also a more sentimental use of hair during this time. People would weave the hair of deceased loved ones into mourning jewelry or keepsakes. This practice highlighted the belief in the beauty and symbolic power of hair.

Photo: Pinterest

20th Century Hollywood: Hair Extensions on the Big Screen

With the advent of Hollywood glamour in the 20th century, hair extensions found a new stage—literally. Stars like Marilyn Monroe and Rita Hayworth popularized voluminous and glamorous hairstyles that often relied on hairpieces and extensions. During this period, hair extensions were predominantly reserved for celebrities, as they were expensive and difficult to access for the average person.

Photo: fanpop.com

The 1980s: Hair Extensions Go Mainstream

The 1980s marked a turning point for hair extensions, as they became more accessible to the general public. The development of clip-in and tape-in extensions made it easier for people to achieve longer, fuller hair without the need for permanent bonding or intricate sewing. Pop icons like Madonna and Cher helped popularize the trend, with big, bold hair becoming a defining feature of the decade.

Photo: Pinterest

Modern Day: Customizable Hair Extensions for All

Nowadays, hair extensions have grown into a massive global industry worth billions, catering to diverse beauty needs and styles. Whether you’re looking for a quick change with clip-ins or a long-term transformation with sew-ins, there are countless options to choose from. Modern technology has also improved the quality of hair extensions, with ethically sourced human hair becoming the gold standard. From balayage blends to custom color matching, hair extensions have become a go-to beauty tool for everyone, from celebrities to everyday people.

Photos: unsplash.com

In recent years, influencers and beauty bloggers have further popularized extensions, demonstrating how easy it is to switch up hairstyles while maintaining a natural look. Whether you want to add volume, length, or experiment with color, hair extensions have come a long way since Cleopatra's braided wigs!

Hair extensions have stood the test of time, adapting to various fashion trends and technological advances. From ancient Egypt to modern-day salons, they remain a symbol of beauty and empowerment.

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The history of hair extensions: from cleopatra to today

Ancient Egypt: The Origin of Hair Extensions

The Roman Empire: Hair as a Status Symbol

17th-18th Century Europe: Wigs Galore

Victorian Era: Hair as Keepsakes

20th Century Hollywood: Hair Extensions on the Big Screen

The 1980s: Hair Extensions Go Mainstream

Modern Day: Customizable Hair Extensions for All

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