The Story of Fashion, Tradition, and Identity: The Beauty of Victorian Women’s Hairstyles

In the Victorian era, women’s hairstyles were not merely a matter of fashion — they were a silent social expression reflecting status and personality.

Victorian Women Hair Style History

The Victorian era (1837–1901), associated with the reign of Queen Victoria of England, was a time of change in many aspects of fashion and lifestyle. A significant aspect of female beauty during this period was their hair. Hair was not only considered a symbol of feminine beauty but also a marker of social status, marital status, and personal character.

Victorian hairstyles were more than just fashion trends; they embodied social signals, cultural expectations, and elements of personal self-expression. Let’s explore in detail the secrets, types, and social significance of Victorian hairstyles.

The Concept of Beauty in the Victorian Era

In earlier societies, women’s beauty was not confined to their faces or attire but was also reflected in their demeanor, simplicity, and modesty. Especially in the socio-cultural context of the 19th and early 20th centuries, a woman’s gentle nature, humility, and femininity were considered the basis of her identity and respect. Hair played a vital role in this notion.

Long, thick, and well-maintained hair was seen not only as a symbol of feminine beauty but also as a representation of purity, family values, and morals. Hairstyle choices were aligned with these traditional standards. Braids, buns, or covering the head with a veil symbolized modesty, dignity, and social decorum. Through these traditional styles, women not only enhanced their beauty but also upheld societal expectations and family ideals.

Hair Length and Texture

In the Victorian era, long, natural, and thick hair was considered a symbol of beauty, femininity, and modesty. Keeping short hair or cutting one’s hair was not only unacceptable but was viewed as antisocial and unethical behavior. As a result, most women rarely, if ever, cut their hair. Historical images and records show that women of that era typically had very long hair, which they styled in large buns, traditional braids, or elegant arrangements.

To care for their hair, women relied on home remedies and natural treatments. In India and other colonies, coconut oil, castor oil, and rose water were commonly used. In England, women also used natural oils and herbal recipes to keep their hair soft, healthy, and shiny.

Main Hairstyles

Center Parting with Low Bun

A center part with hair gathered into a low bun at the nape of the neck was a highly popular and traditional style for Victorian women. This style was part of beauty traditions and symbolized gentleness, modesty, and discipline. It reflected the restrained and composed personality expected of women in that era. Simple yet dignified, this style lent Victorian women a distinctive grace.

Chignon

The chignon — a French term meaning a bun at the nape — was particularly popular among upper-class women. Hair was elegantly tied near the neck, often adorned with ribbons, flowers, or other decorations. The classic low chignon was most common, with hair neatly bound at the lower neck. In contrast, the high chignon featured hair arranged intricately at the top of the head, lending height and grandeur. The chignon was not just a fashionable hairstyle but also symbolized a woman’s social standing, refined taste, and artistic expression. It represented both traditional decorum and feminine creativity.

Ringlets and Curls

Ringlets — small curls framing the face — held a special, charming place in Victorian fashion. This style was especially popular among young women and symbolized innocence, softness, and femininity. Ringlets were not merely aesthetic; they reflected societal ideals of presenting young women as pure, gentle, and cultured. Often combined with more decorative hairdos, ringlets added dramatic and eye-catching flair.

Braided Styles

Braiding long hair artistically was a common tradition. Women often fashioned braided crowns or intricate braided buns — styles that were both majestic and symbols of creativity and aesthetic sense. During family functions, social gatherings, or festivals, women presented their hair in layered braids, coiled buns, or ornate braided designs. These hairstyles were so artistic they resembled works of art, showcasing social dignity and personal elegance.

False Hair and Hairpieces

To achieve thick, voluminous, and attractive hair, women did not rely solely on their natural hair. They used false hair, hairpieces, and accessories like “rats” — small roll-like structures made from fallen hair, hidden under buns or styles to add volume and shape. These techniques allowed women to give their hairstyles a regal and stylish look. This demonstrates that fashion at the time was based not only on natural beauty but also on creativity and the use of supportive accessories.

Marriage and Hairstyles

Victorian hairstyles were a significant indicator of social and marital status. Unmarried young women typically left their hair loose or tied lightly, symbolizing innocence, gentleness, and youth. In contrast, married women adopted more elaborate buns or braided styles reflecting their experience, responsibilities, and family life.

On weddings, bridal hair was specially adorned with floral garlands, white ribbons, and pearls. Flowers like orange blossoms, symbols of purity and auspiciousness, were an essential part of Victorian bridal hairstyles.

Changes Toward the End of the Victorian Era

By the 1880s and 1890s, industrialization brought rapid changes to women’s lives. As women became more active in education, social activities, and the workforce, practicality began to influence their lifestyle. Hairstyles evolved slightly, though long hair and neat buns or chignons remained popular due to Victorian ideals.

Hairstyles during this time featured higher buns, soft curls or waves near the front, and the use of pins, flowers, and ribbons. While complexity gave way to some simplicity, short hair or very plain braids were not yet common — these changes came later in the 1920s.

The Cultural Significance of Victorian Hairstyles

Victorian hairstyles were not merely part of fashion; they symbolized social, cultural, and emotional values. Long, thick, and healthy hair was associated with femininity, dignity, and family values. Hair was not just a mark of beauty but also of reputation and social standing.

Buns or updos were especially popular among married and responsible women, representing modesty, discipline, and decorum. Unmarried young women often chose loose or lightly tied hair, seen as symbols of innocence, freedom, and youth.

The decoration of hair also reflected social distinctions. By adorning their hair with pearls, flowers, ribbons, and hairpieces, women enhanced their beauty and subtly communicated their social class and the significance of the occasion. Hairstyles of upper-class women were more grand and ornate, reflecting their status and splendor.