Wigs have been around for millennia, though they soared to new heights in early modern Europe (16th-18th centuries), becoming a highly sought after fashion accessory amongst the upper and middling classes. Basically anyone who could afford a wig had one, with wealthier individuals owning dozens!

The trend started with France's Louis XIII (r. 1610-1643), who started losing his hair in his early twenties. Some historians think his premature balding arose from either syphilis or the medicinal use of mercury. The wig trend expanded under Louis' son- who was conveniently enough, also named Louis. Louis XIV (r. 1643-1715) became known as the "Sun King" for the brightness and extravagance of his court, and the big wigs that came into fashion during his reign perfectly reflect this "over the top" context.

Throughout the 18t century, wigs became bigger, brighter, and lighter. The lightness was accentuated by applying hair powder, usually made from scented flour, which helped absorb sweat and keep wigs smelling fresh.

This was also the age of European colonial expansion, and Western Europeans exported their taste for wigs to their colonies, as seen in the powdered wigs worn by many of the United States' "founding fathers." You can learn more about how wigs were made at the time in this video demonstration.

By the early 19th century, big wigs went out of fashion in favor of natural hairstyles. However, they can still be found in courtrooms across the UK, where they are worn during criminal trials as a symbol of adherence to tradition.

Want to experience the true extravagance of early modern wiggery? You can design and decorate your own virtual powdered wig at this link from London's Victoria and Albert Museum!

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