Early Colonial Era (1600s-1700s):
* Simplicity and Practicality: Early colonial women focused on practicality. Hair was usually worn long and loose, often tied back with a ribbon or a simple braid.
* Caps and Headscarves: Caps were common, especially for married women. They were made of linen, cotton, or silk and helped keep the hair tidy and protect it from the elements. Headscarves were also worn, often tied under the chin.
* "The Puritan Bun": This style was worn by some women, especially in the Puritan colonies. It involved pulling the hair back into a simple bun at the nape of the neck.
Mid to Late Colonial Era (1700s):
* Influences from Europe: As colonial society became more established, European fashions started to influence hairstyles.
* Powdered Wigs and Hairpieces: Wealthier women, particularly in the Southern colonies, adopted the use of powdered wigs and hairpieces to create elaborate styles.
* Curls and Braids: Curls and braids became more prevalent, often combined with ribbons, flowers, and other decorative elements.
* The "Fontange": This popular style involved a high, elaborate hairpiece made of lace, ribbons, and feathers.
* "The Pompadour": This style featured a high, teased, and powdered section of hair over the forehead, popularized by Madame de Pompadour, mistress of King Louis XV of France.
General Practices:
* Hair Care: Women used homemade hair care products, often made with ingredients like vinegar, herbs, and egg yolks.
* Hair Colors: While natural hair colors were the norm, some women used dyes and powders to enhance or change their hair color.
* Social Significance: Hairstyles were a way for colonial women to express their social status, marital status, and personal style.
It's important to remember that colonial hairstyles were not static and evolved over time. They also varied greatly based on individual preferences and regional trends.
For a deeper understanding of specific styles, you can look for information on historical fashion plates, diaries, and other primary sources from the colonial period.