How Did Women Back Then Get Their Hair So Big?
Throughout history, hairstyles have been a powerful form of self-expression, reflecting cultural trends, social status, and personal creativity. One of the most striking and memorable looks from past decades is the voluminous, towering hairdos that women famously sported. These larger-than-life styles not only turned heads but also became iconic symbols of their eras. But how did women back then achieve such impressive volume and height in their hair?
The secret behind those big hairstyles lies in a combination of clever techniques, specialized tools, and innovative products that transformed ordinary hair into extraordinary works of art. From the careful teasing and backcombing methods to the use of hairsprays and padding, women mastered the art of creating volume that seemed to defy gravity. These styles required patience and skill, often becoming a ritual that set the tone for the day or a special event.
As we explore the fascinating history and methods behind these bold hairdos, we’ll uncover the cultural significance and the practical steps that made it all possible. Whether inspired by the glamorous icons of the past or simply curious about vintage beauty secrets, readers will gain a fresh appreciation for the artistry involved in getting hair so big back then.
Techniques and Tools Used to Achieve Big Hair
One of the fundamental methods to achieve voluminous hair historically involved physical manipulation combined with styling products. Women used a variety of techniques to create the illusion of greater volume and height.
A primary technique was backcombing or teasing, where a fine-toothed comb was used to repeatedly push hair towards the scalp, creating a tangled base that lifted the strands away from the head. This method provided a strong foundation for styles like beehives or bouffants.
In addition to teasing, rollers and curlers were staples in hair volume creation. Heated rollers, often made of metal or plastic, would set curls that naturally expanded the hair’s silhouette. The size of the roller directly impacted the type of volume and curl achieved:
- Large rollers created soft waves and gentle volume.
- Smaller rollers produced tighter curls and more texture.
- Velcro rollers were popular for quick volume without heat.
Hairpins and clips were essential to secure the teased or rolled hair in place, maintaining the desired shape throughout the day.
Hair Products That Enhanced Volume
Styling products played a crucial role in holding volume and texture. Many of these formulations were designed specifically to provide stiffness, hold, and longevity to elaborate hairstyles.
Some of the commonly used products included:
- Hair sprays: Strong-hold sprays were applied liberally to lock in the style, often containing ingredients to add stiffness and prevent collapse.
- Mousse: A foam product applied to damp hair before styling, mousse added body and helped hair maintain lift.
- Setting lotions: These were used to prepare hair for curling and to help set curls firmly.
- Pomades and waxes: Occasionally used to smooth flyaways or add shine to styled hair.
The combination of these products and styling tools allowed women to build hair that could maintain impressive volume for extended periods.
Use of Hairpieces and Padding
To further amplify hair volume, many women incorporated hairpieces, padding, or “rats”—small cushions made of human hair or synthetic fibers placed under natural hair to add bulk.
These inserts were discreetly positioned to create height or fullness without requiring excessive teasing that could damage the hair. Padding materials were often shaped as rolls or pads and secured with pins. This method offered several advantages:
- Reduced strain on natural hair caused by intense teasing.
- More controlled and uniform volume.
- Easier maintenance of complex hairstyles.
Comparison of Volume Techniques
| Technique | Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Backcombing/Teasing | Combing hair towards scalp to create tangles and lift | Creates strong foundation; easily adjustable volume | Can cause hair damage and breakage over time |
| Rollers and Curlers | Setting curls with heated or non-heated rollers | Adds natural wave and bounce; versatile styles | Time-consuming; requires heat or setting time |
| Hairpieces/Padding | Inserting additional hair or cushions beneath natural hair | Immediate volume boost; less hair damage | Needs proper securing; can be uncomfortable |
| Styling Products | Applying sprays, mousses, lotions for hold and texture | Enhances hold and texture; easy to apply | May cause buildup; chemical exposure |
Techniques Women Used to Achieve Big Hair Historically
Throughout history, women have employed a variety of techniques to create voluminous hairstyles, often reflecting cultural trends, social status, and available technology. The quest for big hair involved intricate methods that combined natural materials, styling tools, and haircare practices.
Some of the most common historical techniques for achieving big hair include:
- Teasing and Backcombing: This technique involves combing the hair backward toward the scalp to create volume and texture. It was widely used in different eras, especially in the 18th century and the 1960s.
- Use of Hair Padding and Ratting: Women used pads made of horsehair, wool, or fabric to lift the hair and create exaggerated shapes. Ratting refers to the process of matting sections of hair to form a base for volume.
- Pomades and Waxes: These substances helped hold hair in place and add texture. Early pomades were made from animal fats and oils to provide shine and maintain the style.
- Heat Styling: Early hot irons or heated combs were used to mold and shape hair. Although less common in very early periods, this became more widespread with advancing technology.
- Use of Hairpieces and Wigs: To achieve extreme volume, many women incorporated wigs or hair extensions, which could be styled and shaped independently of natural hair.
Materials and Tools Employed for Volume
The materials and tools used historically to create big hair were often specially designed to support elaborate hairstyles while maintaining durability throughout the day or event.
| Material/Tool | Description | Purpose | Common Periods of Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horsehair Pads | Dense pads made from woven horsehair fabric. | Inserted under natural hair to create height and volume. | 17th to 19th centuries |
| Wool or Cotton Padding | Soft, pliable material used to bulk up hairstyles. | Formed the base for large poufs and bouffants. | 18th and 19th centuries |
| Rats (Hair Rats) | Matted hair pieces made from one’s own hair or purchased hair. | Used to add volume discreetly under the natural hair. | 18th century to early 20th century |
| Pomades and Waxes | Fatty or waxy substances, often scented. | Held hair in place and added shine. | 17th century onward |
| Hot Irons and Curling Tongs | Metal tools heated over fire or stove. | Styled hair into curls or waves that enhanced volume. | 19th century onward |
| Hairpieces and Wigs | Additional hair sewn or clipped in. | Created exaggerated shapes and increased fullness. | Ancient times through modern era |
Styling Practices to Maintain Big Hair
Maintaining large hairstyles required both careful preparation and ongoing attention throughout the day. Women often followed strict routines and used specific products and accessories to preserve their styles.
- Layered Styling: Hair was styled in layers, with base padding or rats covered by the natural hair to hide structural elements and add seamless volume.
- Use of Hair Nets and Veils: Fine hair nets or silk scarves were sometimes worn to protect elaborate styles from wind or movement.
- Frequent Application of Setting Products: Pomades, oils, and later hairsprays were applied regularly to keep the hair rigid and reduce flyaways.
- Sleeping Arrangements: Women often slept sitting up or with special pillows to avoid crushing their hairstyles.
- Regular Touch-ups: Throughout the day, especially before events, hairdressers or the women themselves would restyle or reinforce volume through backcombing or reapplying products.
Examples of Iconic Big Hair Eras and Their Techniques
Several historical periods are particularly noted for their distinctive big hair styles, which illustrate how women achieved volume using the techniques and materials available at the time.
| Era | Typical Style | Techniques and Materials Used |
|---|---|---|
| 18th Century Rococo | Tall poufs and towering wigs adorned with decorations. | Hair padding, rats, pomades, powdered wigs, and elaborate adornments like feathers and ribbons. |
| Victorian Era | Full, voluminous updos and ringlets
Expert Perspectives on Vintage Hair Volume Techniques
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)How did women achieve big hair styles in the past? What tools were commonly used to create big hair? Did women use any special products to keep their hair big? Were there specific hairstyles known for their big volume? How long did it take to style big hair traditionally? Did cultural trends influence the popularity of big hair? The cultural and fashion trends of different time periods heavily influenced the popularity of large hairstyles. For example, the bouffant and beehive styles of the 1950s and 1960s required meticulous preparation and careful maintenance, reflecting both social status and personal expression. Women often invested significant time and effort into their hair routines, sometimes visiting professional hairstylists who specialized in these intricate looks. Overall, achieving big hair in historical contexts was a deliberate and skillful process that combined artistry and practical techniques. Understanding these methods offers valuable insight into the evolving standards of beauty and the resourcefulness of women who sought to express their individuality through their hairstyles. Author Profile
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