1800s Men’s Hairstyle: A Guide to 19th Century Hair

Introduction

The 1800s were a time of drastic change. With industrialization, major advances in technology and the shaping of modern culture, the 19th century saw a major transformation in the way men wore their hair. From the wild locks of the Romantic poets to the slicked back styles of the Victorian era, men’s hairstyles in the 1800s have a rich and varied history.

Romanticism

The Romantic era of the early 1800s was a time of rebellion and individual expression. Men’s hairstyles of the time were often long, curly, and wild. Poets such as Lord Byron, Percy Shelley, and William Wordsworth embraced their unruly locks and used them as a way to express their unique personalities. The long hair of the Romantic era was often paired with a beard and mustache, adding to the wild and untamed look.

Regency

The Regency era of the late 1810s and early 1820s saw a shift away from the wild hair of the Romantic era. Men’s hairstyles of the time were shorter and more disciplined, with the sides of the head usually shaved or heavily trimmed. Mustaches and beards were still popular amongst men of the time, but they were often well-groomed and often waxed to create a neat and tidy look.

Victorian

The Victorian era of the mid to late 1800s saw a return to longer hair, but with a more disciplined and slicked back look. Men’s hairstyles of the time often featured a neat, parted look with the sides of the head slicked back and the top slightly mussed. Mustaches and beards were still popular, but were often trimmed and groomed for a more refined look.

Conclusion

The 1800s were a time of major transformation for men’s hairstyle. From the wild Romantic hairstyles of the early nineteenth century to the slicked back styles of the Victorian era, the 19th century saw a major shift in the way men wore their hair. Whether you’re looking to recreate the look of a Romantic poet or a Victorian gentleman, the 1800s provide a wealth of inspiration for men’s hairstyles.