In the 18th century, men and women wore wigs as fashionable accessories. They were used as a supplement to the hair and also used to cover the hair. Asides from that, wigs were also used to signify social status or indicate a profession. As a fashion accessory, wigs were worn by men and women of all classes.
The style and quality of the wig depended on the financial prowess of the individual. In this article, we will discuss men and wigs in the 18th century extensively. Lordhair is expert in wigs and specializes in providing high-quality men’s toupees that stand out.
Why Men Wore Wigs in the 18th Century
Hygiene
In the 18th century, hygiene was not so easy to maintain and it was not easy maintaining hair hygiene so men used wigs to cover unwashed hair and also to prevent lice, wigs were simply used to protect the hair.
Fashion
Asides from the fact that wigs were worn as a protective item, men used wigs as a symbol of status and wealth. The belief was wearing an elaborate wig is a way to show off one’s position and wealthy status.
Medical reasons
Hair loss was rampant because of illnesses like smallpox and syphilis, most men used wigs to cover up balding and thinning hair, since losing one’s hair can be a blow to healthy self-esteem, men used wigs to improve their appearance.
Profession
Some professions require men to use wigs. Certain professionals like lawyers, judges, and military officers were mandated to use wigs.
Notable Men Wore Wigs in the 18th Century
The king of England
He was especially famous for his expensive and elaborate wigs, he wore different styles, and he would wear simple white wigs and save the adorned ones with ornaments for special occasions
Benjamin Franklin Wig
He wore a fur cap wig with a ponytail design attached to it. Men wore wigs proudly and in different styles.
Thomas Jefferson Wig
He wore a wig to represent his Republican values. As opposed to Benjamin’s wig, his wig was simple and looked natural.
Louis XIV of France Wig
He wore elaborate wigs that were adorned with jewels, ribbons, and feathers, it was reported that his wigs were uncomfortable and bulky that it frequently caused him headaches.
Criticism of Wigs in the 18th Century
Although wigs were popular in the 18th century, there was some criticism about them from medical practitioners and religious leaders. One of the prominent criticism was wigs were artificial and fake, critics believed that men used wigs to give a false impression of their appearance. They also argued that wigs are a vain show of status that was not necessary. However, religious leaders at the time criticized wigs, they argued that God gave men their hair for a reason, and using a wig to cover the hair is a form of deception. Medical practitioners only criticized wigs on hygiene grounds. They were concerned that bulky wigs could trap dirt and infections that can irritate the scalp. They warned that the infection can lead to hair loss. Despite the harsh criticisms, men continued to wear wigs and it stayed popular throughout the 18th century. Many men wore wigs in the 18th century for unique and different reasons.
The Decline of Wigs in the 18th Century
Social, cultural, and technological changes in the 18th century caused the decline of the wigs. The main reason for its decline was the rise in the desire for more natural styles, wigs in the 18th century were not designed like the wigs we have in modern times that mimic the natural hairline. People started rejecting extravagant and elaborate wigs and started embracing simpler and moderate hairstyles that reflected a natural look. Technology brought some advanced hair care products and new styling techniques that made men style their natural hair better. The new development made wigs less necessary and hence the decline.
Men and Wigs in Modern Times
In recent times, men still wear wigs which can also be called men’s toupees. After the decline of wigs, they were still worn by some professionals like lawyers and judges who saw wigs as a symbol of tradition and authority. In the 20th century, men’s toupees became popular, and many men have lost their hair to male pattern baldness that affects 80% of men as they age. As this form of hair loss became more common, men began to seek ways to restore their hairline and men’s toupees came to the rescue. Wigs are a convenient and safe solution to hair loss, it is the best alternative to hair transplant or medications.
Types of Wigs for Men in Modern Times
There are several wigs for men in recent times, there is a wig for every need, preference, and any event.
Synthetic wigs
Synthetic wigs are made from synthetic fibers that are affordable but not as durable as other types of wigs.
Human hair wigs
These wigs offer the most natural feel, just like natural hair, they can be styled and dyed.
Toupees
Toupees are small and partial wigs that are designed to cover a specific area of the head. They are often made from human hair which contributes to their durability. Lordhair provides men’s toupees that are of high quality and are durable.
Men’s toupees are used to often conceal bald spots and the top of the head. There are also custom toupees that are made for men with special requirements or in the case of any unique style.
Best Toupees from Lordhair
Champion Remy Toupee
The men’s toupee has a full French lace base and bleached knots, so it looks as real as a men’s lace hair system can.
Quantum Premier Toupee
The complex base and 100% natural premium human hair give you a lace frontal that looks natural. The top and front of this system’s base are made of French lace, and the sides are made of thin skin. Each strand of hair is tied to the base by hand, giving it a more realistic look while keeping its strength. It is one of the best Lordhair toupees!
Bottom Line
In the 18th century, men used wigs as fashionable accessories that served as a symbol of wealth, status, and power. However, in modern times, there are wigs that mimic the natural hairline and giv
e a perfect appearance. Get premium toupees from Lordhair.