The Origin Of The Term “Big Wig”

Have you ever wondered where the term “big wig” comes from? We often use it to describe someone important, but its history is quite interesting. In the 17th century, having a full head of hair was a sign of status and wealth.

However, syphilis, which caused hair loss, became widespread. This made wigs essential for those wanting to maintain a dignified look. As a result, wigs became popular among the wealthy and powerful, leading to the term “big wig” for high-status people. This is the fascinating story behind this common phrase.

Fashion And Shame: The Rise of Wigs

In the 17th century, hairlines were crucial to social status, but the onset of syphilis led to widespread hair loss, causing shame and embarrassment. Wigs, initially used to cover hair loss, gained popularity when King Louis XIV and King Charles II started wearing them to conceal their hair loss. Wigs became a symbol of wealth and status, with some costing over a week’s wages for commoners.

The Wig’s Royal Connection

King Louis XIV’s early hair loss at 17 prompted him to employ 48 wigmakers, and his cousin King Charles II followed suit when his hair grayed prematurely, both due to syphilitic symptoms. This royal trend sparked widespread wig usage as courtiers, and eventually, the merchant class adopted the fashion. The term “big wig” originates from this era, symbolizing the extravagant spending on wigs by the nobility.

Who Wore Wigs And Who Didn’t?

British colonial governors likely wore wigs, and many depictions of early American political figures feature white hair, often assumed to be wigs. Contrary to popular belief, George Washington didn’t wear a wig; instead, he powdered his natural red hair white, a fashionable choice at the time. Women also wore wigs, though not as extensively as in France, where figures like Marie Antoinette popularized them.

Wigs In The Military

Military officers, particularly in the British Army, had a complex relationship with wigs. While some officers wore military plait wigs, known as queues, traditional wigs were impractical for military use due to their weight and hygiene issues. Enlisted soldiers, however, didn’t wear wigs; instead, they plaited their hair or wore fake plaits, reflecting class distinctions in wig-wearing.

The Decline Of Wigs

The Age of Enlightenment ushered in a new mentality that questioned extravagant spending on fashion, including wigs, which were seen as symbols of aristocracy and deception. As the bourgeoisie class emerged, they rejected the association with nobility and the lavishness of wig-wearing. Legislation like the Hair Powder Act of 1795 further accelerated the decline of wigs, making them inaccessible to the general populace.

The Legacy Of Wigs In Popular Culture

Despite their decline, wigs remain iconic symbols of the late 17th century, perpetuated by Hollywood’s fascination with historical misrepresentations. While some museums house remnants of this era, preserving wigs has proved challenging due to their materials.

Wigs In Hollywood: A Persistent Misrepresentation

Hollywood has a penchant for misrepresenting historical accuracy, particularly regarding the prevalence of wigs in the late 17th century. TV shows like “Turn” and films like “Pirates of the Caribbean” often exaggerate the ubiquity of powdered wigs among certain groups. Despite these inaccuracies, wigs persist as enduring symbols of the era in popular culture.

Preserving The Legacy

Some museums, such as London’s Victoria & Albert Museum, preserve wigs as artifacts of historical significance. However, relatively few wigs have survived intact over the centuries due to their delicate nature. Despite challenges in preservation, wigs’ legacy endures in historical memory and academic study.

Ceremonial Continuation

In ceremonial contexts, such as courtrooms, the tradition of wearing wigs endured well into the 21st century, albeit with diminished practical significance. British judges and barristers maintained the practice, albeit more as a nod to tradition than a functional necessity. This ceremonial continuation underscores the lasting impact of wigs on legal and cultural institutions.

A Cyclical Fashion Statement?

Fashion trends are known for their cyclical nature, leading some to speculate about the potential resurgence of wigs as a statement accessory. While not as prevalent as in the 18th century, wigs continue to influence fashion and cultural discourse. Whether the “big wig” will return to prominence remains to be seen, but its historical significance ensures its enduring presence in the collective imagination.

Iconic Fashion Statement

Wigs were once synonymous with wealth, status, and fashion in the 18th century, reflecting the societal norms and values of the time. Despite their eventual decline, wigs have left their mark on history, serving as both a symbol of extravagance and a reflection of social and cultural shifts. Their legacy lives on in popular culture, museums, and ceremonial traditions.

The Evolution Of Hairstyles

The rise and fall of wigs in the 18th century marked a significant chapter in the history of hairstyles and fashion. From their origins as a solution to hair loss to their eventual decline due to changing societal attitudes, wigs encapsulate the complexities of identity, status, and self-presentation.

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