The Floral Factor

1450

The fashion of hairdressing was also important in Europe during the Middle Ages. An appropriate coiffure became as important as the proper costume.

1700

In the eighteenth century women’s hairstyles were soft with curls falling to their shoulders. Live flowers were used as accessories. Women would sew small pockets inside their garments so that water could be carried to keep the flowers fresh.

1750

During this period, the most splendid court in all Europe was in Russia. The elegant Elizabeth wore flowers in her hair, and soon started a widespread trend. However, nobody was allowed to have the same hairstyle as the Empress.

1800

In the nineteenth century, accessories played a major part in a woman’s attire. The trend was that a woman was not considered completely dressed unless she was accessorized with fresh flowers. Many women neglected their hygiene to keep alive the flowers that adorned their dresses.

1850

During the Victorian era, having one’s hair styled by a hairdresser became popular. French hairstyles that were parted in the middle became trendy, while adorning one’s head with flowers continued to gain popularity.

Today we have replaced the wearing of fresh flowers with stylized floral pins of metal or fabric as well as life-like faux fleurs for the hair.