Renaissance hairstyles have changed dramatically compared to previous years. Cheerfulness, freedom, flight of fancy - this is what was embodied not only in the ideas of that time, but also in the design of hair styling. Ladies were free to use all sorts of images, since in the XV - XVI centuries women's hairstyles became the subject of chanting. Men were limited to long hair with curls.
15th-16th century renaissance hairstyle trends
This era brings completely different values into the world. Strict adherence to religious dogma fades into the background. Life becomes freer and happier. Girls and women want to be different from the rest, to stand out from the usual crowd, so the history of hairstyles takes a different direction. Bright images, all kinds of accessories, as well as light makeup are becoming the norm of this century.
There is a complete revolution in the worldview, a person strives to meet the standards of beauty of ancient times. The trend for blond hair is in fashion, it is considered a luxury and a sign of "blue blood". Many have usedchemical blends for lightening, or simply spent hours under the sun, waiting for the result.
Hairstyles were different, but always highlighted a high forehead. Many have shaved part of their hair for this purpose to increase its size.
It was believed that the higher and more intricate hairstyle, the higher the status of a woman. The images are emphasized by expensive hairpins and tiaras made of precious stones and gold.
Italian hairstyles
In Italy, Renaissance women's hairstyles were created on the basis of various curls, as well as braids, which were secured with hairpins and jewelry. Girls in different regions of Italy created their styling in different ways, but the common thing was the desire for antiquity. That is why braids twisted into a small knot were used. The "Florentine braid" is a hairstyle that has become the most common among women and men.
Men's images were about the same. All of them were created on long hair, which curled magnificently. One could often see ball-shaped hairstyles that were revered during that period. The elliptical haircut "Kolba" has also become widespread among the male population.
When high collars come into fashion, Renaissance hairstyles are noticeably shortened, but do not change their shape.
French looks
France was greatly influenced by Italian ideals of beauty. In priority, men had short hairstyles, shoulder-length with smallcurls or large curls. The short curled haircut became iconic in 16th-century France due to the coming to power of King Henry IV, who was very fond of this type of hairstyle.
In the clergy, hairstyles with a cropped crown - tonsure, which were complemented by gray beards - spread. It was the presence of gray hair that was considered the highest manifestation of style.
Among the French ladies, the trend of Italy was also noticeable, many of them aspired to massive, multi-level hairstyles with diverse curls. Wigs of different colors are also used, and they are actively used by both women and men.
New Fashion
Renaissance hairstyles are not the only fashion trend. The human body was extolled, the cult of sexuality was clearly reflected in the field of art. They tried to portray women's bodies wherever possible. It was plump, chubby young ladies with pronounced hips and a narrow waist that were praised.
The main motive of creativity is the female breast, which was depicted in almost all the paintings. The trends did not affect Italy, since medieval asceticism still wandered through the cities. The female body was not extolled, but simply considered beautiful.
What hairstyles were in fashion before the Renaissance?
In the Middle Ages, many men followed the Byzantine fashion, which allowed only short haircuts and forbade having excessive facial hair. Only a few decades later, an image with a hairstyle that covered the neck becomes popular.
It was fashionable among girls to do styling in the manner of Roman ladies. small andfrequent curls were collected in a compact hairstyle, representing a miniature "shell" that completely bordered the face.
Among hair accessories, ribbons, flower garlands, and caps were popular.
In Russia, the Slavs used slightly different hair styling methods. Men preferred medium length, as short hair was considered acceptable only for slaves. Women, too, were not particularly zealous in this matter, married women wore ordinary bunches, and put on a headscarf on top. The girls were characterized by braids with ribbons or simply loose hair.
What becomes popular after?
After Renaissance hairstyles, baroque styling becomes fashionable. They were massive and heavy hairstyles with curled curls that were almost not collected.
Later, the images become less pretentious, closer to naturalness. Refinement was given by the released curls on the sides, which were accompanied by a simple styling in the form of two semicircles, separated by a parting.
Hairdressing is growing and developing, so the Rococo era brings new spiritual images for girls. Simple hairstyles in the form of curled curls were gathered at the back with a simple ribbon or put away in a small velvet bag.
The history of hairstyles is very rich in diverse images that replace each other. Images become more and more natural with every century, abundant decorations are no longer used.
