Allonge Wig: An Old Stylish Hairstyle

Allonge wigs were popular women's hairstyles in the 18th century. These wigs were long and flowing, often reaching down to the waist, and were typically made of human hair or horsehair. Allonge wigs were worn by women of all social classes and were a symbol of fashion and status during this time period.

The History of Allonge Wigs

Allonge wigs originated in France during the late 17th century and became popular in the 18th century. The wigs were originally designed for men and were called "periwigues" or "perukes." However, by the early 18th century, women began to wear allonge wigs as well. Allonge wigs were made from human hair or horsehair and were typically styled with waves or curls that added volume and movement to the hair. They were often powdered with a mixture of flour and scented oils, which helped to lighten the colour and soften the texture of the hair.

Allonge wigs became increasingly elaborate and decorative throughout the 18th century, with women using ribbons, flowers, jewels, and other ornaments to add an additional touch of glamour. They were worn by women of all social classes and were a symbol of fashion and status. The popularity of allonge wigs declined in the late 18th century, as the French Revolution marked a rejection of the extravagant fashion of the aristocracy. Wearing wigs fell out of fashion, and more natural hairstyles became popular. Despite their decline in popularity, allonge wigs have remained an important part of the history of fashion and continue to be celebrated for their unique style and elaborate decoration.

Types of Allonge Wigs

There were several types of allonge wigs that were popular in the 18th century, each with its own unique style and characteristics. Some of the most common types of allonge wigs include −

• The Pouf Allonge − This style was characterised by a high, rounded shape at the top of the wig and long, flowing curls that cascaded down the back.

• The Fontange allonge − This style featured a high, curled or braided front section that was topped with a decorative headdress made of lace and ribbons.

• The chapeau allonge − This style was characterised by a small hat or cap perched on top of the wig, often decorated with feathers, ribbons, or other ornaments.

• The Tete de Mouton allonge − This style was made from wool or animal hair and imitated the texture and appearance of a sheep's wool.

• The queue allonge wig − It is similar to the allonge wig, but it is shorter and less voluminous, and it is typically worn by men.

Allonge wigs also varied in their length and curl pattern, with some featuring tight, corkscrew curls while others had looser, flowing waves. They were often powdered with a mixture of flour and scented oils, which helped to lighten the colour and soften the texture of the hair, and they were decorated with ribbons, flowers, jewels, or other ornaments to add an additional touch of glamour.

Significance of Allonge Wigs ‎

Allonge wigs were significant in the 18^th century as they were a symbol of fashion and status for women. They were worn by women of all social classes and were a way to showcase wealth and social standing. The wigs were also an important accessory for formal occasions and were often elaborately decorated with jewels and other adornments. Additionally, the popularity of allonge wigs helped to support the wig-making industry, which was a significant part of the economy during this time period.

The popularity of allonge wigs can also be linked to the cultural and political climate of the 18^th century. The Enlightenment was a period of intellectual and social change, and fashion played a significant role in the expression of new ideas and values. Allonge wigs represented a departure from the more structured and formal hairstyles of the previous century and were seen as a way to express individuality and creativity. Additionally, the French Revolution of 1789 marked the end of the era of allonge wigs, as the new republican government rejected the extravagant fashion of the aristocracy, including the wearing of wigs. Overall, allonge wigs were a significant part of the cultural and social landscape of the 18^th century and serve as a reminder of the importance of fashion in shaping history and society.

Characteristics of Allonge Wigs

Allonge wigs were long, flowing wigs that were typically made of human hair or horsehair. They had several distinctive features and characteristics, including −

• Length − Allonge wigs were known for their length, which could range from just below the shoulders to waist-length or longer.

• Waves and curls − Allonge wigs were typically styled with waves or curls, which added volume and movement to the hair.

• Decoration − Allonge wigs were often decorated with ribbons, flowers, jewels, or other ornaments to add an additional touch of glamour.

• Powdered − Allonge wigs were often powdered with a mixture of flour and scented oils, which helped to lighten the colour and soften the texture of the hair.

• Versatility − Allonge wigs were versatile and could be styled in a variety of ways to suit different occasions, from elaborate updos for formal events to loose, flowing styles for everyday wear.

• Gender − While allonge wigs were primarily worn by women, men also wore similar styles known as "queue wigs," which were typically shorter and less voluminous.

Overall, long wigs were known for their length, waves, and decoration, as well as their versatility and practicality for formal occasions.

Why They Were Popular During The 18th Century?

Allonge wigs were popular during the 18th century for a variety of reasons.

Firstly, they were a fashionable accessory that allowed women to express their style and creativity. The wigs were also a symbol of status and wealth, as they were often made of expensive materials like human hair or horsehair and could be elaborately decorated with jewels and other adornments.

Additionally, allonge wigs were practical for formal occasions, as they could be styled in a variety of ways and helped to create an elegant, polished look. The popularity of allonge wigs also coincided with the rise of the wig-making industry, which employed many people and contributed to the economy. Overall, allonge wigs were popular in the 18th century due to their fashionability, practicality, and social significance.

Why Did Allonge Wigs Decline?

The popularity of allonge wigs declined in the late 18^th century for several reasons. One major factor was the French Revolution, which marked a rejection of the extravagant fashion of the aristocracy. Wearing wigs and other elaborate accessories fell out of fashion as more natural styles became popular. Additionally, the rise of neoclassicism and the Romantic movement led to a shift towards simpler, more natural fashion and beauty ideals.

Another reason for the decline of allonge wigs was the development of new hairdressing techniques and tools, such as curling irons and hairpins, which made it easier to create complex hairstyles without the need for wigs. Advances in hair care and hygiene also played a role, as people began to pay more attention to the health and cleanliness of their natural hair rather than relying on wigs and powders to mask any issues.

Overall, the decline of allonge wigs was part of a broader cultural shift towards simpler, more natural fashion and beauty, as well as the development of new hairdressing techniques and tools. Despite their decline in popularity, allonge wigs remain an important part of the history of fashion and continue to be celebrated for their unique style and elaborate decoration.

Conclusion

In conclusion, allonge wigs were a popular fashion accessory in the 18th century, particularly in France. These wigs were characterised by their long, flowing curls, voluminous shape, and elaborate decorations and were worn by both men and women of all social classes. However, the popularity of allonge wigs declined in the late 18th century due to cultural and technological changes, such as the French Revolution and the development of new hairdressing techniques and tools. Despite their decline in popularity, allonge wigs remain an important part of the history of fashion, and their unique style and decoration continue to be admired and celebrated.