In the realm of fashion history, few eras hold as much intrigue and enchantment as the Victorian era.
Known for its opulence and strict adherence to propriety, this period also witnessed a remarkable evolution in hairstyles.
Victorian hairstyles were grand, elaborate, and meticulously crafted, reflecting the society’s obsession with beauty and refinement.
Join me on a journey back in time as I explore the captivating world of Victorian hair styles and discover how you can bring a touch of their timeless elegance to your own modern-day look.
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Table of Contents
The Romanticism of Victorian Era Hairstyles/Victorian Period Hairstyles
The Victorian era, spanning from the 1830s to the early 1900s, was marked by a fascination with romance, femininity, and sentimentalism.
These ideals were prominently reflected in the era’s hairstyles, which often featured intricate updos, cascading curls, and ornate accessories.
Women adorned their hair with flowers, ribbons, and even jewelry, transforming their tresses into works of art.
During this era, hairstyles were meticulously styled and required time and effort to achieve the desired look.
Women with shorter hair often used hairpieces, extensions, and padding to create the illusion of longer and fuller locks.
Elaborate updos were crafted with the help of hairstyling tools like curling tongs, hot irons, and combs.
Victorian Hairstyles #1: The Iconic Gibson Girl Hair Look
One of the most iconic Victorian hairstyles was the Gibson Girl look.
Popularized by artist Charles Dana Gibson’s illustrations, this style embodied the independent and athletic spirit of the “New Woman” of the late 19th century.
The Gibson Girl hairstyle was characterized by a pompadour or bouffant front with loose, voluminous curls cascading down the back.
To achieve the Gibson Girl look, start by applying a volumizing mousse or texturizing spray to add body and hold to your hair.
Divide your hair into sections and use hot rollers or a curling iron to create soft, bouncy curls.
Once the curls have set, gently brush them out to achieve the desired voluminous effect.
Finish off with a light mist of hairspray to ensure your curls stay intact throughout the day.
Victorian Hair Styles: The Regal Elegance of Victorian Updos
For formal occasions, Victorian women often opted for elaborate updos that showcased their regal elegance.
These updos were characterized by intricate braids, twists, and loops, adorned with delicate accessories such as combs, tiaras, and ornate hairpins.
To recreate a Victorian updo, start by sectioning your hair and securing it in a loose bun at the nape of your neck. Then, carefully weave and pin small sections of hair to create an intricate pattern.
You can experiment with different braiding techniques, such as fishtail braids or French braids, to add a touch of sophistication.
Complete the style with a few well-placed decorative hairpins, adding a touch of Victorian flair to your modern updo.
Easy Victorian Hairstyles
Towards the end of the Victorian era, there was a shift towards more natural and simpler hairstyles.
This transition was influenced by the emerging Arts and Crafts movement and the aesthetic ideals of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood.
Women began to embrace their natural hair textures, opting for loose waves and gentle curls, adorned with minimal accessories.
To achieve this softer Victorian look, start by washing and conditioning your hair with products suitable for your hair type.
Apply a heat protectant and use a curling wand or hot rollers to create loose, romantic waves. Allow the curls to cool and then gently brush them out for a softer, more natural look.
Photo credits: Louise Ebel Pandora
