The Hairy Chronicles: A Brief History of Hairdressing

Welcome to the fascinating and sometimes hair-raising journey through time to explore the evolution of hairdressing. At Hilario in Old Street London, we appreciate the rich history of hair care and styling. Join us as we take a light-hearted, whirlwind tour through the ages, from the early days to modern hairdressing.

Yesterday

Our journey began in ancient times when hairdressing involved more than just a snip and a style. In ancient Egypt, hair was an integral part of daily life, and elaborate wigs were the height of fashion. They even had hairstylists known as "scissors of the soul" who tended to the living and the deceased alike. Fast forward to the Renaissance, a period of extravagant beauty and intricate hairstyles where elaborate wigs adorned with gems and flowers became the norm among the European nobility, leaving us to wonder if you didn't have a wig tower on your head, were you even fashionable?

Victorian times saw a peculiar fascination with hair as people crafted intricate, sentimental jewellery and art pieces using human hair – talk about a hair-raising hobby! Moving forward to the 1920s, we find the iconic bob haircut taking centre stage, symbolizing the spirit of independence and rebellion during the era of the flapper. It's hard to believe it was once considered scandalous!

The 1960s marked the birth of the modern salon industry, with luminaries like Vidal Sassoon revolutionizing hairdressing. Shorter, more geometric cuts became all the rage, setting the stage for the modern era of hairstyling.

Today

Hair as Art and Expression In the present day, hairdressing is an art form that transcends cultural boundaries. From traditional styles to bold, contemporary expressions, hairstylists continue to shape the way we look and feel. Hair has become a canvas for self-expression and creativity.

The Hairy Chronicles reminds us that hairdressing has been an integral part of human history and culture. It's not just about cutting and styling; it's about crafting an identity, making a statement, and exploring the depths of human expression. At Hilario, we embrace this rich history while staying at the cutting edge of contemporary hair fashion. Come on over, and let us be a part of your hair story!