If you’re a fan of Victorian hairstyles and want to sport one for the next costume party or as an everyday hairstyle, then here are some of the most popular 1800s hairstyles you can consider. So, read on.
Table Of Contents
What Is and Short History Victorian Hairstyles
Right from the times of Queen Victoria up to the late 1800s, there was vast progress in all spheres and this period was defined by popular fashion and hairstyle trends.
Fashion moved away from the stiff and snobbish styles adopted by the aristocrats (in wigs) in the 1700s and became more casual, taking inspiration from the classical period. People began dressing up in styles that allowed them to express themselves.
Men’s hairstyles were mostly shaped by the traditional societal views, which required them to be flawlessly groomed.
The 1800s saw short hairstyles for men, including neatly trimmed, side part haircuts, slicked-back hairstyles and long sideburns.
5 Most Popular Victorian Hairstyles
Sideburns
Although the sideburns were quite long, short hair at the sides and top was a common Victorian hairstyle. Men also sported mutton chops, which were quite popular.
Side Part With Small Quiff
Quiffs, which are extremely popular today, can be traced back to the 1800s. The hair was brushed up into a small tuft in this style, resembling a quiff and stood up against the short, trimmed sides.
Thick Side Part
The side part hairstyle was popular in the Victorian era as it is today. This style works for long hair with the longer sides curling outwards or front hair, creating a small fringe, which you can style using hair clay for men.
Side Swept
If you want a neat and well-groomed look, then the side-swept style is an old-style that is trending even today. The hair is cut very short and brushed to one side with short sides and the style is maintained using hair wax.
Slicked Back
A popular Victorian hairstyle, slicked-back hair was side-parted and combed away from the parting and fixed with hair cream.
Stages of Victorian Era Hairstyles
In the 1840s, men had ear-length hair parted on the side and combed back. Although some men sported fringe beards and downward-turned mustaches, they preferred being clean-shaven.
By the end of the 1850s, facial hair became fashionable and men started sporting full beards. In the 1950s, men had long hair, usually oiled and combed back.
The longer hair on the sides was brushed into a fringe around the forehead and face or brushed forward in wisps. The high wave on the forehead was also commonly seen.
During the Crimean War (1954-1956), the British soldiers began sporting beards, which became famous later in the decade.
The side-parted, combed back hairstyle became popular in the 1960s and so did sideburns, mustaches, beards, chin whiskers and mutton chops.
Beards became a very common feature in America during the Civil War. Men sported shorter, brushed-away-from-the-face hairstyles in the 1970s and beards were still popular. Men started wearing only a mustache without a beard in the 1880s.
Only older and more conservative men in Britain continued to wear a full beard, while younger men sported mustaches worn with/without smaller beards. Men started center-parting their hair.
In the 1890s, men had short, trimmed hair parted in the middle or the side and the clean-shaven look returned. Men also sported full, waxed and pointed handlebar mustaches. From the 1900s into the 20th century, the period saw a decline in facial hair.
Things to Consider About Victorian Hairstyles
Before sporting any Victorian hairstyle, there are a few things to consider.
● Why do you want a Victorian hairstyle? Is it for a re-enactment or roleplay or do you want an 1800s style?
● If you want an 1800s hairstyle for daily wear, then you must decide on the best style and check on the unprofessional hairstyles for men to avoid.
● Do you want a replica 1800s hairstyle or one with some modern tweaks?
● If you want an authentic 1800s hairstyle, then do your research to determine what look you want exactly.
How to Get Victorian Haircut
Step 1 – Pick a style
Research the type of 1800s hairstyle you want.
Step 2 – Consult your barber
Ask your barber for advice about which Victorian hairstyle will suit your face shape, hair length and texture. And, if you plan this as an everyday style, ask your hairstylist for a style that can be tweaked according to modern trends.
Step 3 – Maintenance
Use good styling products to maintain the style.
How to Style Victorian Hairstyles at Home
Step 1 – Brush the hair
Dampen your hair and brush the hair to break up the curls.
Step 2 – Use pre-setting spray
Use some pre-setting spray and brush the hair back to even it out.
Step 3 – Blow-dry your hair
Blow-dry your hair and shape it according to the style you want.
Step 4 – Set your style
Use strong hold hair wax or clay to set the style correctly.
Best Hair Products
Use a good shampoo and conditioner to wash and condition your hair. Use a hairdryer to blow-dry your hair in a low heat setting. Then use a medium or strong hold clay, pomade or hair cream to set your style.
If you have a beard, trim it and keep it well-groomed by trimming off the extra hairs using a clipper. Read some hair clippers’ performance reviews before you purchase a clipper. Use premium castor oil for the beard to make it look well-groomed.
FAQ
How did Victorian men wear their hair?
Victorian men mostly wore their hair relatively short but with long sideburns.
How would you describe Victorian men’s hairstyles?
Victorian men’s hairstyles can be described as conservative, well-groomed and neat.
Did men have long hair during the 1800s?
It was pretty rare to see men with long hair during the 1800s and most men wore their hair short and slicked.
How did men wear their hair in the 1890s?
Men mostly wore their hair with a center, or side parting combed to the side or slicked back.
Conclusion
That brings us to the end of how hairstyles evolved during the Victorian era. And, if you’re planning on getting an 1800s hairstyle for your next costume party or everyday wear, you’re sure to find a Victorian-style that works best for you.
Anthony Giannotti is a senior writer and editor for Beardoholic and a licensed barber for more than 13 years. He owns 3 barbershops and has his own hair care product line that is sold in barbershops worldwide. Known for his impeccable technique and skills, Anthony is an expert in hair and beard care and he knows the best products and tools to get rid of all beard problems and have an amazing beard.