Powered Wigs: A History of Extravagance and Innovation

Dating back to the 17th century, powered wigs have played a significant role in shaping societal norms and fashion history. Adorned by both men and women, these elaborate headpieces represented wealth, status, and personal expression.

The Origins of Powered Wigs

The origins of powered wigs can be traced to France during the reign of Louis XIV. In the 1660s, the king, seeking to cover his receding hairline, introduced a fashion for wearing periwigs. These wigs were initially made from human hair and were styled into long, flowing curls.

The Popularity of Powered Wigs

Over the following decades, powdered wigs became increasingly popular throughout Europe. By the early 18th century, they were a common sight in courtly and aristocratic circles. The fashion spread to the Americas as well, where it was embraced by wealthy elites.

The Cost and Maintenance of Powered Wigs

Powered wigs were not inexpensive. According to the BBC, a custom-made wig from the 18th century could cost as much as 100 guineas (roughly £15,000 in today's currency). In addition, powdered wigs required considerable maintenance. They had to be washed and powdered regularly, which was a time-consuming and labor-intensive process.

Types of Powdered Wigs

There were numerous styles of powdered wigs, each with its own distinct characteristics:

• Full-bottom wigs: These were the largest and most elaborate wigs, featuring long, flowing curls that cascaded down the back and shoulders.
• Ramillie wigs: Named after the Battle of Ramillies in 1706, these wigs were characterized by a large, upright queue (a braid of hair at the back).
• Bob wigs: These wigs were shorter and less elaborate than full-bottom wigs. They featured a curly fringe at the front and a queue at the back.

The Role of Powered Wigs in Society

Powered wigs were more than just fashion accessories. They played a significant role in social hierarchy and etiquette.

• Status symbol: The size and elaborateness of a wig indicated the wearer's social status. Larger wigs were worn by those of higher rank.
• Professional identity: Wigs were also used to signify professional affiliation. For example, judges and lawyers wore full-bottom wigs as part of their official attire.
• Covering imperfections: Powdered wigs could also be used to cover up physical imperfections, such as baldness or disfigurement.

The Decline of Powered Wigs

The popularity of powdered wigs began to decline in the late 18th century. The French Revolution of 1789 ushered in a new era of egalitarianism and simplicity, and powdered wigs came to be seen as symbols of the old aristocratic order.

In the 19th century, powdered wigs became increasingly rare. They were primarily worn by judges, lawyers, and other professionals who needed to maintain a formal appearance. By the end of the 19th century, powdered wigs had largely disappeared from everyday life.

The Legacy of Powered Wigs

Despite their decline in popularity, powered wigs continue to be a symbol of elegance and extravagance. They are still worn by members of the British royal family for ceremonial occasions, and they are often seen in historical dramas and period films. Powered wigs also inspired the development of modern wigs, which are used for a variety of purposes, from fashion to medical treatment.

Conclusion

Powered wigs were a remarkable phenomenon in fashion history. They played a significant role in shaping social norms, professional identity, and personal expression. While their popularity has waned over time, the legacy of powered wigs continues to inspire and fascinate.

Additional Information

Pain Points:

• The cost of powdered wigs was exorbitant.
• Wigs required frequent maintenance, which was time-consuming and laborious.
• Wigs could be uncomfortable and heavy to wear.

Motivations:

• The desire to display wealth and status.
• The need to cover up physical imperfections.
• The desire to conform to social norms.

Tips and Tricks:

• To avoid damaging the wig, it was important to have it properly washed and powdered.
• To create volume and height, the wig could be teased and backcombed.
• To protect the wig from insects and dust, it could be stored in a wig box.

How-to Steps:

How to Powder a Wig:

1. Place the wig on a wig stand.
2. Sprinkle a small amount of powder onto the wig, using a flour dredger or a powder puff.
3. Use a wig brush to gently distribute the powder throughout the wig.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the desired level of whiteness is achieved.
5. Allow the powdered wig to dry thoroughly before wearing.

Table 1: Cost of Powdered Wigs in the 18th Century

Table 2: Types of Powdered Wigs

Table 3: Maintenance of Powdered Wigs

Table 4: Motivations for Wearing Powdered Wigs