Title: Why Did Colonial Men Wear Wigs? | The Classroom
Headings: Why Did Colonial Men Wear Wigs?
Why Did Colonial Men Wear Wigs?
To Appear Older
Distinguish Classes
For All Occasions
Imitate Europeans
To Appear Conservative
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Content: White wigs were also worn for formal occasions, but many men simply powdered a colored wig white because they did not own a white wig. For All Occasions
It wasn't uncommon for men to own an assortment of wigs, as wigmaker Terry Lyons explains. There were wigs for evening wear, for everyday wear, for business, for riding. Wigs were made to match certain outfits; different styles and types of hair were also used for a variety of purposes and occasions. Imitate Europeans
Wig fashion reached its height in America in the 18th century, but the trend began during the last half of the previous century. Louis XIV of France first wore the full-bottomed periwig, igniting a trend, according to theater professor Scott R. Robinson. Americans picked up the fashion because it was believed to dignify a person's appearance. To Appear Conservative
The wearing of wigs became less common among the young and fashionable toward the end of the 18th century. Some conservatives continued to wear the wigs because of their polished and dignified look and to keep with the tradition of their forefathers.