The word hairstyle refers to the way in which an individual’s hair is cut or arranged. This personal choice of grooming may be influenced by fashion trends, culture, or social status. The shape of a person’s head and face may also influence his or her hairstyle. A person’s hair may be cut and arranged into a variety of shapes and styles, including short, long, curly, or straight. It can be dyed, brushed or combed, and sprayed with hairspray to help hold the style.
In the early 16th century European men wore their hair cropped no longer than shoulder-length. The male wig was introduced by King Louis XIII of France (1601-1643) to cover premature balding. By the late 17th century, men’s hair was usually long and often worn in a wig or a fringe. Many sported moustaches and sideburns as well.
The hairstyles of women were more varied. A woman’s hair might be bobbed or pulled back into a loose ponytail, or it could be worn in curls or a bun. In the 18th and 19th centuries, short hair became very popular, especially with working women and young girls. In the 1920s, women’s hair was usually bobbed or swept off the shoulders and into soft waves.
In film, the hairstyle of a character is often determined by the director and actors. However, a film’s producer must also consider the budget and the film’s target audience. For example, a comedy film may have a less expensive, more informal look than a drama.
A person’s hairstyle is a reflection of his or her personality. Those who have a blunt cut tend to be practical and logical people. They are goal-oriented and often stifle their emotions in favor of getting things done. They prefer easy-to-maintain hairstyles like a simple wash and go.
Those who have layered hair are probably perfectionists. They need to have their hair just right in order to feel good about themselves. They may also be impulsive and impatient, so they are often on the go.
Hairstyle can also be a sign of one’s racial identity. It’s not surprising that some employers may have strict dress codes regarding employee appearance. For instance, a bank manager may not want an employee to wear dreadlocks to work. And a high-fashion boutique may want its employees to look as chic as the designer clothing it sells.
Some racial groups may feel that their hairstyles are important parts of their culture and heritage. For example, a Native American may not want to lose her traditional dreadlocks when she moves into the city. This kind of hairstyle discrimination should be addressed with careful consideration. Treating it as a civil rights issue may oversimplify the problem and cause more harm than good. Fortunately, New York City has laws to protect the rights of its workers to maintain their natural hairstyles. For these people, thoughtless demands to change their hairstyles can be humiliating and stigmatizing. The most effective solutions require a balance of the needs of the employer, the employee, and society as a whole.