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In ancient Egypt wigs were worn by men and women on top of their natural hair. As hygiene became a consideration it was quite normal to shave the entire head and wear a wig! Many of these first styles were the immaculate wedge shapes recreated so well in the film, 'Cleopatra'. Later, vertical rows of separate curls also became popular.
Over the centuries the wearing of wigs has fluctuated in popularity. It was reported that Elizabeth I had more than 80 wigs. In the late sixteenth century the wig became a symbol of power and professionals - lawyers, doctors, judges and clergymen - wore them as a symbol of their status.
Wigs reached their most extravagant during the late seventeenth century with musical boxes, ornaments and even singing birds intertwined with the hair.
The French Revolution saw the decline of the wig and the change to more natural hair. By 1800 it was estimated that only one hundred and fifty thousand wig-wearers were left in Britain .
The Incorporated Guild of Hairdressers, Wigmakers and Perfumiers was founded in 1882 to meet and promote the improvement of the social position and general welfare of its members. This august body still exists today.
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