Dating back to 5000 BC in the Fertile Crescent
Female terracotta figures show massive hairstyles and a wide variety of headdresses that may have required the hands of a skilled hairdresser. The stylized flowers arranged over the forehead probably represent both actual flowers and flower inspired ornaments.
Ancient Egypt around 3000 BC
The Egyptians were famous for their wigs, usually made from human hair and braided and styled in countless different ways. There are surviving texts which demonstrate their concern and care for hair, including remedies for graying and baldness. To add to their sensuality, women wore their hair long and tied and decorated it with flowers and linen ribbons. A stylized lotus blossom was the preferred adornment for the head.
About 500 BC in Ancient Greece
Women’s hair was worn long and pulled back into a chignon. Many dyed their hair red with henna and sprinkled it with gold powder, often adorning it with fresh flowers.
The etiquette for the use of floral wreaths in Greek society was so important that rules were written for officially designated designers.
