Wigs Through the Ages: From Royalty to Runways to Everyday Radiance
Wigs are powerful. We are celebrating them as "Crowns"—and it’s not the first time.
Once symbols of power, wealth, and status, wigs have transformed across centuries, evolving from powdered perches on the heads of kings to confidence-boosting fashion statements for anyone who wants to switch things up. Whether you're drawn to wigs for necessity, identity, creativity, or just plain fun, there's no denying their rich legacy and modern versatility.
A Brief History of Wigs: Hair Today, Crown Tomorrow
Wigs date back to ancient Egypt, where both men and women wore elaborate hairpieces to protect their shaven scalps from the sun. These weren’t your average Halloween-store wigs—they were made from human hair and palm fibers, scented with incense, and often decorated with gold and jewelry.
Think of Queen Elizabeth who had 83 wigs in the 16th century. Or think of 17th-century Europe, where wigs became symbols of aristocracy. King Louis XIV of France famously started wearing elaborate wigs to cover his baldness—and when you're a king, your fashion choices tend to catch on. Soon, European courts were brimming with towering white wigs powdered to perfection. They were so important that professions even sprouted up around them—like the "perruquier," or wig maker.
The Wig Renaissance: From Necessity to Expression
By the 20th century, wigs had shifted from aristocratic emblems to practical tools—used by actors, performers, and anyone dealing with hair loss due to health or age. But something magical started to happen in the '60s and '70s: wigs became cool. Motown stars like Diana Ross, disco icons, and drag performers turned wigs into extensions (pun intended) of their stage personas. In the 80s, their popularity took a dip and soon they become mostly associated with old age and sudden or progressive hair loss.
Today, wigs are slowly returning to mainstream, inclusive, and trendsetting. Lace-fronts, synthetic blends, custom colors, and realistic textures have redefined what’s possible. You can be a redhead on Monday, have blue mermaid waves on Friday, and return to your natural curls for Sunday brunch.
More Than Just Hair: Wigs and Identity
For many, wigs are more than just style—they’re about survival, affirmation, and liberation. Cancer patients, alopecia warriors, members of the trans and nonbinary community and more and more fashionistas often use wigs as tools of self-expression and healing. In this light, a wig can be transformative—not just externally, but emotionally.
Social media has also birthed a new generation of wig influencers and artists who hand-craft and style wigs into works of art. With tutorials, reviews, and behind-the-scenes looks into the wig-making world, there's a growing appreciation for the craft and creativity behind every unit.
Tips for Wig Beginners
Get a consultation before you buy your first crown from Arwendayle. Yes, we call them crowns because we are raising a new awareness around this famed beauty product. Every woman is a queen and has the right to beautiful, healthy looking hair.
Wear the Hair You Want
Wigs aren’t about hiding who you are—they’re about revealing more of it. Whether you’re channeling Old Hollywood glam, modern streetwear flair, or simply want a break from the flat iron, there’s a crown (or many more) out there, waiting for you.
So go ahead—crown yourself.