Why Did Men Wear Powdered Wigs?
Wigs have a history dating back to the ancient Egyptians. They have been and still are worn for a variety of reasons including fashion, hygiene and convenience.
Other People Are Reading
-
History
-
Royalty and the upper class were trendsetters in the 18th century. Louis XIII of France started wearing wigs to hide his premature baldness, and people emulated him because they viewed wigs as a sign of status.
Color
-
Around 1715, lighter colored wigs became fashionable, so after unsuccessful attempts at stabilizing the color of bleached wigs, powder was used to give wigs their grayish-white tint.
-
Function
-
When showers were scarce, men shaved their heads to banish lice. Wigs were easy to clean, could be taken off before bed, kept the sun from burning your scalp, facilitated hairdressing and may have even repelled ticks, mites and other vermin.
Time Frame
-
Powdered wigs died out during the 19th century after the English government levied a tax on hair powder in 1795.
Modern Use
-
Wigs have enjoyed one of the longest runs of any fashion accessory. Current usage is more diverse than ever and includes fashion and beauty, costuming and medical-related reasons.
-
