Tie wigs

Definition

Tie wigs are elaborate wigs commonly worn during the Baroque and Rococo periods, characterized by their intricate styling and the use of ribbons or ties to secure them in place. These wigs were a significant fashion statement, representing social status and opulence, and were often adorned with decorative elements such as feathers, jewels, and even powdered powder to enhance their appearance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tie wigs were primarily popular among the European aristocracy during the late 17th and 18th centuries, showcasing their wealth and status.
2. These wigs could be quite large and extravagant, sometimes reaching heights that required additional support structures to keep them upright.
3. Ribbons or ties used in these wigs not only served a functional purpose but also added to the overall aesthetic, often featuring intricate bows and loops.
4. The maintenance of tie wigs was labor-intensive, requiring regular cleaning, styling, and sometimes re-powdering to maintain their look.
5. Tie wigs fell out of fashion towards the end of the 18th century as societal norms shifted and simpler styles became more acceptable.

Review Questions

• How did tie wigs reflect social status during the Baroque and Rococo periods?
  • Tie wigs served as a visible symbol of wealth and prestige among the aristocracy during the Baroque and Rococo periods. The size, complexity, and embellishments of these wigs indicated a person's social standing; larger and more ornate styles were favored by those with greater resources. The time-consuming maintenance required for these wigs further emphasized the luxury of leisure time available to the upper classes.
• Discuss the role of materials used in creating tie wigs and how they influenced fashion trends in the Baroque period.
  • The materials used in tie wigs included human hair, horsehair, and even textiles for adornments, which significantly influenced fashion trends. The use of powdered substances created a distinct aesthetic that was widely imitated among fashionable circles. Additionally, embellishments such as feathers and ribbons added layers of creativity, inspiring other fashion elements in clothing design during the Baroque period.
• Evaluate the reasons for the decline in popularity of tie wigs towards the end of the 18th century, considering cultural shifts.
  • The decline in popularity of tie wigs at the end of the 18th century can be attributed to several cultural shifts including changing attitudes towards simplicity and naturalism in fashion. The Enlightenment ideals promoting rationalism began to influence society, favoring more modest appearances over extravagant displays of wealth. Additionally, political changes such as the French Revolution challenged aristocratic values, making opulent fashion like tie wigs seem outdated or inappropriate in an increasingly egalitarian society.

Related terms

Powdered Wigs: Wigs that were treated with powder, typically made from starch or talc, to give a fashionable white or grey appearance, popular among the aristocracy during the 17th and 18th centuries.

Fontange: A type of headdress that features a tall, structured design often associated with the Baroque style, which was frequently worn in combination with tie wigs.

Baroque Fashion: A style of fashion that emerged in Europe during the late 16th century to the early 18th century, characterized by grandeur, bold colors, and elaborate designs in clothing and accessories.