Why do black women wear wigs? Their history and significance explained
Wigs in ancient Egypt
One of the earliest civilizations to use wigs was ancient Egypt, where black women wore them to show their rank and status in society. According to Dr. Afiya Mbilishaka, a hair historian and psychologist, wigs were a symbol of nobility and royalty in this culture. The upper class would shave their natural hair and wear elaborate wigs made of human or animal hair, decorated with gold, lace, and other adornments. Some of the wigs were curly, coily, braided, or in locs, reflecting the diversity of black hair textures. Some queens even wore beard wigs to assert their authority and power.
Wigs were also a way of protecting the natural hair from the harsh climate and insects. The wig wearers would use essential oils to groom and moisturize their hairpieces, and they would even be buried with them after death.
Wigs during colonialism and slavery
The history of wigs for black women took a dark turn during the colonial era, when European invaders imposed their standards of beauty and hair on the African people. Black women were forced to cover their natural hair with scarves, hats, or wigs that mimicked the straight and smooth hair of the white women. This was done to dehumanize, oppress, and erase their cultural identity and heritage. Wigs became a tool of survival and assimilation for black women who wanted to avoid discrimination and violence.
However, not all black women succumbed to the pressure of conforming to the European ideal. Some of them used wigs as a form of resistance and rebellion, by hiding weapons, messages, or money under their hairpieces. They also used wigs to express their creativity and individuality, by styling them in various ways and adding colorful accessories.
Wigs during the civil rights movement and beyond
The 1960s and 1970s were a time of social and political change for the black community, as they fought for their rights and dignity. The natural hair movement emerged as a way of reclaiming and celebrating the beauty and versatility of black hair. Many black women stopped wearing wigs and embraced their afros, cornrows, twists, and other natural styles. Wigs were seen as a sign of self-hatred and oppression.
However, not all black women abandoned wigs during this period. Some of them continued to wear them for various reasons, such as convenience, versatility, and fun. Wigs also became a part of the entertainment industry, as black singers, actresses, and performers used them to create different personas and characters. For example, Diana Ross, Tina Turner, and Donna Summer were known for their glamorous and iconic wigs.
In the 1980s and 1990s, wigs became more accessible and affordable, thanks to the emergence of synthetic fibers and mass production. Black women had more options and choices when it came to wigs, from curly to straight, from short to long, from natural to colorful. Wigs also became a way of coping with hair loss, damage, or illness, such as alopecia, cancer, or HIV/AIDS.
Wigs in the present day
Today, wigs are more popular than ever among black women, thanks to the influence of celebrities, social media, and online platforms. Wigs are no longer seen as a sign of shame or insecurity, but rather as a form of empowerment and expression. Black women wear wigs to experiment with different looks, to protect their natural hair from heat and chemicals, to save time and money, or simply to have fun. Wigs are also a way of honoring and connecting with their ancestors and culture, by wearing styles that reflect their heritage and history.
Wigs are not just a fashion accessory for black women. They are also a form of self-expression, protection, and empowerment. Wigs have a long and complex history in the black community, dating back to ancient times and spanning across continents and cultures. Wigs are a part of the black women’s identity and beauty, and they deserve to be celebrated and respected.
Why do black women wear wigs?
Wigs are not a new phenomenon in the world of fashion and beauty. They have been used for centuries by different cultures and people for various reasons. But for black women, wigs have a special significance and history that goes beyond aesthetics.
There is no one simple answer to this question, as black women have diverse and personal reasons for choosing to wear wigs. Some of the common reasons are:
- To protect their natural hair from damage, breakage, and environmental factors. Wigs can offer a low-maintenance alternative to styling and caring for natural hair, especially for busy or working women.
- To experiment with different looks, colors, textures, and lengths. Wigs can provide a fun and creative way to express one's personality and mood. They can also help boost one's confidence and self-esteem.
- To cope with hair loss, thinning, or baldness due to medical conditions, treatments, or genetics. Wigs can offer a solution for those who suffer from alopecia, cancer, or other issues that affect their hair growth and quality.
- To embrace their cultural and historical roots. Wigs have been a part of black women's heritage and identity for a long time. They have been used as a form of resistance, empowerment, and solidarity in the face of oppression, discrimination, and violence.
Wow, look at those wigs!
Black women have been rocking wigs for ages, and they have never looked better. From natural to glamorous, from curly to straight, from short to long, there is a wig for every occasion and style. Some of the most iconic and influential black women in history and today have worn wigs and made them their own. Here are some examples:
- Madame C.J. Walker, the first self-made female millionaire in America, who created a line of hair products and wigs for black women in the early 20th century.
- Josephine Baker, the legendary entertainer and activist, who dazzled audiences with her exotic and daring wigs in the 1920s and 1930s.
- Diana Ross, the queen of Motown and soul, who changed her wigs with every song and outfit in the 1960s and 1970s.
- Tina Turner, the rock and roll diva, who electrified the stage with her wild and voluminous wigs in the 1980s and 1990s.
- Oprah Winfrey, the media mogul and philanthropist, who has worn various wigs throughout her career and inspired millions of women around the world.
- Beyoncé, the pop and R&B superstar, who has experimented with countless wigs and hairstyles and set trends for generations of fans.
- Lupita Nyong'o, the Oscar-winning actress and activist, who has showcased her natural beauty and versatility with different wigs and headpieces.
- Nicki Minaj, the rap and hip-hop sensation, who has made a statement with her colorful and outrageous wigs and costumes.
- Viola Davis, the Emmy-winning actress and producer, who has embraced her natural hair and also worn stunning wigs on screen and on the red carpet.
- Michelle Obama, the former first lady and best-selling author, who has impressed the world with her elegance and grace and also rocked some fabulous wigs.
The list goes on and on, as black women continue to innovate and impress with their wigs and their achievements. Wigs are not just a fashion accessory, but a symbol of black women's strength, beauty, and diversity. Hair today, wig gone tomorrow? Not quite! Wigs are here to stay and slay!
Conclusion
The tradition of black women wearing wigs is deeply rooted in history, culture, and self-expression. Wigs serve as a means of preserving cultural heritage, protecting natural hair, and promoting confidence and empowerment. By understanding the history and significance behind this practice, we can appreciate the beauty and resilience of black women who choose to wear wigs. Let us celebrate diversity and the freedom of self-expression in the vibrant world of fashion and beauty.
