Popular Men's Hair Styles in Medieval Europe: An Overview
Medieval Europe spans over a millennium, encompassing numerous cultural, political, and social changes that affected hairstyles profoundly. While a generalized approach may not capture the full diversity, we can explore the popular hairstyles in different regions and eras.
Introduction to the Medieval Period
The term 'medieval' spans from the fall of the Roman Empire in 476 AD to the beginning of the Renaissance in the 15th century. This period is divided into three major eras: Early Middle Ages, High Middle Ages, and Late Middle Ages. During this time, the cultural and social landscape of Europe was vastly different, affecting fashion and hairstyles in profound ways.
Western Europe: A Gallery of Hairstyles
In Western Europe, hairstyles ranged from short styles to elaborate long ones, with curling and straightening methods, bleaching, and even wigs being common. Records and illustrations from this era provide insight into the diverse hairstyles across different classes and regions.
Short Hairstyles
Short hair styles were popular among various social classes. Clarkes and scrollers were common among both men and women, often achieved by using natural hair or wigs. The most well-known short hairstyle for men was the topping, characterized by its high forehead and shaved sides. This style was frequently worn by knights and nobility in the 13th and 14th centuries.
Long Hairstyles
Long, flowing styles were popular among the upper classes, representing wealth and status. Men's hair was often worn in a ponytail, braid, or neatly tied back with ribbons or jeweled pins. Some hairstyles involved intricate braiding with added decorations such as ribbons, jewels, or even feathers. Feathers were common in the early 14th century and became a symbol of luxury.
Curling and Straightening Techniques
Curling techniques involved using hot combs, which were heated to curl and style hair. Straightening was also achieved using heated combs or curling irons. These methods allowed for a wide range of hairstyles, from loose curls to tight ringlets or smooth, polished strands.
Bleaching and Dyeing
Bleaching hair was accomplished through natural means using plant-based components, such as fermented clover or henna. These techniques could lighten hair, but achieving a perfect blonde or dark color was more challenging. Dyeing, on the other hand, was achieved using natural dyes extracted from plants, such as saffron for a golden hue or walnut for a dark brown color. These practices were not exclusive to the upper classes and were used by various social groups.
Wigs and False Hair
Wigs and false hair were commonly worn by the upper and middle classes. Cotton wigs were popular among the wealthy, while bran or hemp could be used for more budget-friendly options. Wigs were not only for covering baldness or thinning hair but also for fashion statements. They could be styled in intricate designs, and even ornate wigs with jewels, beads, or gilded beads were popular in royal courts.
Eastern Europe: Chupryna and Cossacks
Eastern Europe had its own unique hairstyle traditions. Chupryna was a partially shaved hairstyle worn by Cossacks and some other regional groups. This style involved shaving the sides and leaving a topknot or tuft of hair on top of the head. The topknot was often adorned with feathers, beads, or other decorations, symbolizing the wearer's status or profession.
Conclusion
Medieval Europe offered a diverse range of men's hairstyles across different regions and classes. From short styles like the topping to long, flowing hairstyles, the era saw a variety of hair care techniques, including curling, straightening, bleaching, and dyeing. The popularity of wigs and false hair was also noteworthy, further showcasing the richness and complexity of medieval fashion. Eastern Europe, particularly among Cossacks, had unique styles such as chupryna, which set them apart from their Western counterparts.