wigs are one of the most versatile beauty tools. While they’re popular today in the form of sew-ins, closures, U-parts, lace fronts—and more—wigs go way back and have a rich history dating back to Ancient Egypt. In the newest episode of Crowned,  Star Donaldson, Byrdie’s senior social media editor, explores the history behind wigs and why it’s important to know.
The History
Egyptians were some of the first people recorded wearing wigs in 2700 BCE1. Wigs served many purposes in Ancient Egyptian times, including protecting bare scalps from sunburn. At the time, wigs were made mostly of palm leaf fibres, wool, and human hair in some cases.
Egyptians brought wigs to Europe, where pieces made completely from false hair became popular. Until the 1950s, wigs were primarily handmade, until machines developed in Hong Kong and made mass-produced hairpieces more accessible.
Stateside, the history of wigs is more complex. In the United States, wigs have a stigmatized history because of their connection to aging and medical conditions. However, wigs play an important role in the lives of those who may struggle with hair shedding or loss due to medical treatment or conditions. Black people and the queer community have also popularized wigs, making them a cultural and gender expression tool, hair protection method, and—overall–a fun accessory. In the early 1950s and 60s, performers used wigs for creative expression as part of their stage looks. Black queer people also wore wigs and dresses at drag balls and other gatherings as a form of expression.
The Installation
There are many ways to install a wig, and techniques have evolved. You can slip a wig over your head (usually covered with a wig cap). Many units come with comb clips to secure the piece to your head if you have braids or a bun underneath your wig. Alternatively, sewing on a wig is also used for a longer-lasting style. Lace front wigs are also popular thanks to their natural-looking appearance, and they’re usually glued along the hairline for a seamlessly blended look. Headband wigs have been making their rounds on social media and are an excellent option when you’re in a pinch for time.
The Significance
Today, wigs can serve many purposes. You can tuck your natural hair away and wear a wig on top to avoid manipulating your strands. Partial wigs can add length and volume to sections of your hair. Of course, wigs are also a great way to test different looks without commitment: You can have a pink bob today and a blue pixie cut tomorrow. The possibilities are endless.
While wigs are considered a protective style, it’s essential to note wigs are not classified as a natural hairstyle as many of them don’t reflect afro hair textures. Historically, Black people have had to manipulate their natural hair textures to conform and survive in a racist, anti-black society. Some may argue that wigs can be considered a response to anti-Blackness, as a way to conceal or avoid afro hair.
Still, there’s been a massive shift in the world of wigs and it’s currently a billion-dollar market. According to research, the global wig and hair extension market is expected to reach 13.3 billion dollars by 2026.
Like most historically Black hairstyles, the lineage of wigs paints a picture of a style that was made for survival and preservation, which remains true for some people. Still, they illustrate the nuance of Black hair as it continues to evolve over time. Now, wigs represent whatever you want: Whether you’re testing out a new look, standing firm in your identity, taking a break from styling, or just figuring things out, the choice and reason for wearing a wig is totally yours.
Hair extensions offer the ability to transform your look, into something that is much more you or is entirely different from your usual style. This versatility can help to boost your confidence in more ways than you may be aware of.
RESTORING VOLUME TO YOUR HAIR
If you’ve lost a lot of volume in your hair, whether as the result of breakage or an illness, you’ll likely find it much more challenging to style your hair the way that you used to love. Even post-pregnancy hair loss can make it more difficult for you to get those favorite hairstyles and looks. While your volume is sure to return in time, for now you can use extensions to add that volume you’ve been missing.
According to human hair extensions specialists, Jadore Hair Supplies, strategically placed extensions will give you the restored volume that you’ve been looking for. In almost no time at all you’ll have those lush locks returned, and the freedom to style them as you like.
ADDING LENGTH, AFTER A BAD HAIRCUT
We’ve all suffered a bad haircut, at one time or another. Whether the stylist simply didn’t listen to the instructions given, or they lacked the skills needed to get the cut you were hoping for, a bad haircut can feel devastating. It can absolutely take a toll on your confidence levels and leave you reaching for the hats or scarves to try and hide it until it grows out.
Adding hair extensions is a quick way to restore the length lost. You’ll be able to get extensions that perfectly match the color of your hair and also restore the length. You can, of course, have another stylist work the extensions into a brand-new hairstyle that’ll turn heads for all of the right reasons.
GETTING READY FOR A BIG EVENT
Quite often we neglect to think about what we’re doing with our hair when we have a big event coming up. As brides we focus primarily on our wedding gown and flowers, and every other detail for our big day. Our hair can sometimes take a backseat to all of the other decisions that we are making. This can prove to be disastrous for some, especially if our hair hasn’t grown out like we’d hoped, or if we’ve had that bad haircut. Perhaps you’re looking for a cascade of soft curls, and your natural hair is straight and thin?
Hair extensions can save the day and leave you looking your radiant best. Whether you’re the bride, the bridesmaid or you’re attending another type of formal event, you’ll love the instant glam options that hair extensions can give you.
When your hair looks great, you simply feel great. Extensions offer added styling versatility, when you need it the most. Whether you’re simply heading into the office or you’re preparing for a grand event, your extensions will ensure you’re ready with that confident step you deserve to have.
