How to Achieve Authentic 14th Century Hairstyles: A Step-by-Step Guide
When it comes to historical hairdos, there’s something undeniably romantic about the elegant and intricate styles of the 14th century. From elaborate braids to meticulously arranged coils and curls, women during this time period spent hours perfecting their hairstyles.
But achieving an authentic 14th century hairstyle can seem like a daunting task, especially for those without hairstyling experience. However, with a bit of patience, some basic tools, and our step-by-step guide, you can rock a stunning medieval look that will have everyone in awe.
Step One: Prep Your Hair
Before you start styling your hair into intricate braids and twists, it’s important to prep your tresses properly. Start by washing your hair with shampoo and conditioner that won’t leave any residue or buildup. Then brush out all knots and tangles – this step is crucial for achieving smooth braids later on.
Next, section your hair off into manageable parts using sturdy elastics or scrunchies (avoid thin rubber bands as they can damage your hair). Leave the sections loose until you’re ready to work on them.
Step Two: Start Braiding
Braids are a staple of 14th century hairstyles, so let’s start with some basics. Take one section of hair at the top of your head and separate it into three strands. Cross the right strand over the middle one so that it becomes the new center strand; then cross the left strand over the middle one so that it takes its place as the new center piece. Keep repeating until you reach the ends of your hair.
For more intricate braids like fishtail or waterfall braids, there are countless tutorials on Youtube to help guide you through each step.
Step Three: Create Twists and Coils
In addition to braids, 14th century hairstyles often featured twisted or coiled sections of hair woven in between them. To create these twists, take a thin section of hair and twist it tightly until it starts to coil around itself. Then carefully wrap the coil around your finger or a small roller, securing the end with a bobby pin.
For more elaborate coiling, try using two fingers or a chopstick as a base and wrapping larger sections of hair around them before pinning them in place.
Step Four: Incorporate Accessories
To truly capture the essence of medieval hairstyles, accessories are key. Whether it’s ornate barrettes or delicate floral garlands, adding embellishments can take your look to the next level.
For an authentic 14th century touch, try incorporating braided ribbons into your hairstyle. Simply weave ribbon into your braids as you go along and secure the ends with small bows – this will add both decoration and stability to your braids.
Step Five: Finishing Touches
Once you’ve completed each section of hair and added any desired accessories, it’s time for some finishing touches. Use hairspray or styling cream to hold everything in place while also creating a healthy shine. And don’t forget to check that all pins are securely fastened – you don’t want any embarrassing mishaps!
With patience and practice (and some helpful tips from us), achieving an authentic 14th century hairstyle is definitely within reach! So grab some hairspray, put on some period appropriate music or shows in the background to help set the mood, and get ready for compliments galore on your fabulous historical ‘do!
Frequently Asked Questions About 14th Century Hairstyles, Answered!
The 14th century was an exciting period in the history of fashion and beauty, with intricate hairstyles that are still admired today. From braids to elaborate headpieces, these styles have stood the test of time and continue to inspire modern fashion trends.
Here are some frequently asked questions about 14th century hairstyles, answered:
Q: What were the most popular hairstyles during this era?
A: One of the most iconic hairstyles from this period was known as the โhennin,โ a high conical headdress worn by women. This style was popularized by French royals and can be seen in many paintings from the era. Other popular styles included braided crowns entwined with ribbons or jewels, long plaits that extended down the back, and elaborate twisted updos.
Q: How did women achieve these hairstyles?
A: Women relied on a variety of techniques to achieve their desired looks. Common methods included braiding, twisting, weaving, and pinning hair into place using combs or sticks. They also used various accessories such as ribbons, beads, pearls, and even gold thread to add embellishments to their hair.
Q: Did men also have elaborate hairstyles during this time period?
A: While men’s hair wasn’t usually as extravagant as women’s, there were still some notable styles for men during this era. Many men wore their hair long and curly with elaborate mustaches or goatees. Some even wore wigs made from real human hair!
Q: Were these hairstyles practical for everyday wear?
A: While some styles may not have been suitable for manual labor or rigorous physical activities like hunting or riding horses, many people wore these styles daily without issue. Wealthier individuals could afford to spend more time on their appearance and often had servants help them maintain their hair throughout the day.
Q: Do any of these hairstyles still influence modern fashion trends?
A: Absolutely! Many modern hairstyles are inspired by the looks of centuries past. Braids, twists, and updos continue to be popular today and often have modern updates added to them. Headbands or hairpins adorned with gems or flowers can also be traced back to this time period as hairstyle accessories.
In conclusion, 14th century hairstyles were just as complex and beautiful as they were centuries ago. The creativity and attention to detail that went into these hairstyles serve as a reminder of the importance placed on beauty and fashion during this era, inspiring current trends while providing insight into the interesting customs of the past.
The Top 5 Fascinating Facts about 14th Century Hairstyles
The 14th century is an era marked by flamboyant fashion and style, especially in the context of hairstyles. During this time, elaborate hairdos became en vogue, as men and women sought to make a statement with their coiffures. From towering headpieces to intricate braids and twists, 14th-century hairstyles were nothing short of exquisite.
Here are the top five fascinating facts about these stunning hairdos:
1. Hair Length Signified Social Status
In medieval times, hair length was a clear indicator of social status. Nobles and upper-class citizens often grew their hair long as a display of wealth and power. On the other hand, lower-class individuals kept their hair short for practical reasons such as hygiene and convenience.
2. Wigs Were Widely Used
Although growing out one’s hair was considered a sign of prestige, many people still opted to wear wigs or false hairpieces. These wigs were made from real human or animal hair and ranged from simple styles to more ornate designs with added accessories such as jewels or feathers.
3. Braiding Was Popular
Braiding techniques were commonly used during this era to create intricate patterns on the head. Women would braid their hair into unique designs such as crowns, coronets or even heart-shaped creations by interweaving ribbons or silk in their tresses.
4. Hats Were Essential Accessories
Hats completed every hairstyle during this period.These fashionable headpieces came in various shapes and sizes in both genders.Amongst women,the most popular hat styles included turban-like hats called bourrelets that helped keep their elongated hairstyles intact.Meanwhile,male staple-hats helped them keep warm outdoor while maintaining social distinction.Sometimes hats would complement feminine 14th-century hairstyles by drawing attention to the hairstyle’s artistic knotting,such as adding gemstone tiaras,dangling earrings,beneath round snoods.This attention to hairdressing was an obsession in the 14th century.
5. Hairstyles Were Symbolic
Certain hairstyles signified specific meanings during medieval times. For instance, the hennin hat, a tall cone-shaped headpiece worn by women at court, symbolized chastity and purity. The hairstyle featuring two long braids called “plaits” was reserved for unmarried girls while married ones primarily sported smaller versions of it or let their hair flow loose with a middle parting.Thus,expressing one’s marital status through hairstyling was ubiquitous in the 14th century.
In conclusion, 14th-century hairstyles were much more than just strands of hair piled on top of the head. They were conscious choices that people made to communicate their status, marital state,and fashion statement.The variety and complexity of these hairstyles continue to fascinate us.
A Brief History of the Iconic Hair Trends of the 14th Century
Throughout history, hairstyles have been a reflection of society’s values and beliefs. In the 14th century, hair was no exception. The iconic hair trends of this era provide a glimpse into the cultural attitudes and fashion trends that defined the medieval period.
The 14th century saw many changes in hair fashions because of historical events like war, plague, and religion. The Black Death had swept through Europe, killing millions in its wake, causing widespread fear amongst people. People cut their own hairs short to mitigate risk to spread disease from head lice.
The bob haircut is an iconic style that originated in the 14th century. It involved cutting the hair at shoulder length with straight bangs across the forehead. This hairstyle represented boldness and independence during this time. However, only women who were unmarried or childless could wear it as it was seen as sexually provocative.
Another popular trend among both men and women was wearing headdresses adorned with pearls and jewels that also concealed head lice contracted from interacting with animals including horses nearby rural settlements. These headdresses would commonly be worn over long braids or plaits which symbolized one’s riches.
The knights of this era also sported specific hairstyles that became famous in the medieval ages. They wore crew cuts or shaved hair on both sides of their heads while maintaining a ponytail on top called a “tonsure.” The reason being practicality as it gave them more room underneath their helmets for ventilation but also represented their chivalrous codes and military achievements by having longer strands in tonngure region compared to other regions.
Some religious orders such as monks would shave their heads completely as a symbol of humility and devotion towards god to purify themselves against any earthly attachments including personal appearance or vanity.
In conclusion, every historical epoch possesses elements that define who we are today; we can see this reflected in our current fashion trends derived from this past culture. Hair remains an integral part of our personal style and self-expression. The iconic hair trends of the 14th century are an example of how fashion was influenced by events, beliefs, and values during that era. Despite the drastic changes in attitudes towards hairstyles over time, we can take inspiration from these styles that have stood the test of time as a display of our individuality and expression.
The Intricate Art of Creating Ornate Braids in the 14th Century
The art of creating ornate braids has been a tradition for centuries. In the 14th century, it was not only a fashionable trend but also a means of showing off one’s social status and wealth.
Creating intricate braids was an art form that required patience, nimble fingers, and a keen eye for detail. It was often done by highly skilled individuals who were sought after by nobles and royalty.
The process involved separating hair into small sections and hand-weaving them together in elaborate patterns. The use of beads, ribbons, and other decorative elements were also incorporated into the designs to add a touch of elegance and luxury.
One popular style during this time was the coronet braid which featured small loops intertwined with braided strands along the entire length of the hair. This style was often seen on noblewomen and royal courtiers who wanted to display their high status.
Another popular braid style was the herringbone braid which involved weaving two strands together in an overlapping pattern to create a unique texture. This particular style added volume to the hair while still maintaining its elegant appearance.
The French braid also made its debut during this period. Known for its chic simplicity, it involved weaving three strands of hair in an interlocking pattern from top to bottom. It quickly became a popular choice among women across all social classes.
While creating intricate braids might seem like an outdated practice today, it is still considered an essential part of many cultures around the world. Whether worn as part of traditional dress or as a trendy fashion statement, braiding serves as both an art form and means of expression.
No matter what your personal preference may be, we can all appreciate the beauty and complexity behind this centuries-old tradition that continues to inspire us today. So next time you admire someoneโs braided hairdo, remember that these styles have deep roots in history โ from simple everyday wear to opulent showpieces fit for a queen.
Reviving Classic Beauty with Modern Takes on 14th Century Hairstyles.
Fashion and beauty have always been highly influential elements of human culture. They have evolved over time, taking inspiration from different eras and cultures. One such era that has inspired fashion enthusiasts down the ages is the 14th century. The fashion trends of this era were marked by grandeur, elegance, and a distinctive sense of style.
One trend that has caught the attention of hair experts in recent times is the hairstyle of the 14th century. These hairstyles were characterized by intricate braids, elaborate knots, and voluminous curls, which were embellished with ribbons, combs or jeweled pins.
While these classic hairstyles are timeless in their elegance, they can sometimes appear too dated for present-day use. However, beauty mavens have found ways to revive these classic beauties with modern takes on 14th-century hairstyles.
Hereโs how:
1. Braided Crowns
Braided crowns are one of the most popular adaptations of 14th-century hairstyles in modern times. This hairstyle involves intricately braiding sections of hair around the head to form a crown-like structure. This look can be accented with flowers or jeweled clips for a more regal appearance.
2. Messy Buns
Another modern take on traditional 14th-century hairstyles is messy buns. While this look may seem more effortless than traditional styles, it still requires skillful techniques to achieve an organized messiness that elevates any casual outfit into something stylish.
3. Hair Jewels
Intricately decorated jewel hairpins were incredibly fashionable during medieval times and remain so even today through contemporary brands like Gucci . These pins come adorned with pearls or gemstones set in gold or silver which gives an added allure to your overall look.
4. Exaggerated Volume
Full-bodied curly or wavy hair creates an exaggerated volume look similar to that seen in paintings or sketches from medieval times where women’s hair was portrayed with over-the-top volume. You can achieve this look by adding extensions or experimenting with volumizing products, resulting in a modernized take on the classic hairstyle.
In conclusion, taking inspiration from the 14th century is an excellent way of reviving ‘classic beauties’, like hairstyles, with a modern touch. From braided crowns to voluminous curls to messy buns embellished with hair accessories like jewel-pins, there are endless possibilities for making these classic looks chic once again. All you need is creativity and some adventurous spirit!