How to Style Renaissance Hairstyles

The Renaissance saw an emerging interest in Classical mythology, philosophy and science.

Renaissance hairstyles reflect the era's interest in Greek and Roman revivalism, according to Eras of Elegance. In an age that became increasingly interested in the classical beauty of man, Renaissance hair accented classical rather than ostentatious beauty (like in the later Elizabethan style), according to Stanford University. When adorning your hair, remember to use influences from Classical art, including pearls (from Boticelli's Venus), gold wreaths or even strands of flowers.

Things You'll Need

• Brush
• 2 rubber bands
• Hair adornment
• Hairpin

Instructions

1. Pull your dry hair into a ponytail, using a rubber band at the base of the ponytail to hold the hair together. For more youthful hairstyles, do not include the hair at and below the occipital bone, so that the ponytail rests on a bed of hair.

2. Braid the ponytail into a tight, thick braid, ensuring that the braid stays smooth and without any lumps. To keep the braid tight, pull the third that you are braiding as high into the existing braid as possible. Tie the bottom of the braid with a rubber band.

3. Pin your hair ornament (gold cord or pearl chain) into your hair. You can do this one of two ways: either attach the necklace at the middle of your hairline or attach at the base of the ponytail so that the necklace comes down on the forehead slightly. Your pin should reflect the Greek elements in Renaissance hairstyles, such as the gold wreath or pearls.

4. Thread the hair ornament through your hair, even into your ponytail. Remember to stay simple. Renaissance style reflected the increasing focus on accenting the beauty of the human body and face rather than over-adorning human beauty.

Tips & Warnings

• For a more authentic Renaissance hairstyle, dye your hair blond or gold, according to Eras of Elegance.

References

• Eras of Elegance: Hairstyles
• Stanford University: Perceptions of beauty in Renaissance art