Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story has been released on Netflix, following the story of the young Queen's journey to power and her evolving relationship with her new husband, King George III. As we all can’t get enough of the Bridgerton franchise, we thought it would be an appropriate time to unpick some of the hairstyles we see in the series, courtesy of hairstylist Nic Collins and her team. Are they true to history? April Bonifazi from ScissorTech Australia has all the tea...
During the Regency period in England, when Bridgerton is set (approximately 1795-1837), hairstyles reflected the elegance and simplicity that characterised the era. Ladies' hairstyles were often inspired by classical Greek and Roman aesthetics, as well as contemporary French styles. Here are some popular hairstyles and how they were commonly worn:
Apollo Knots: These were graceful updos inspired by the classical Grecian style. Hair was parted in the center and then swept up to the crown of the head, where it was twisted into a knot or chignon. Curls were often added to frame the face.
Short Curls: Ladies with shorter hair would wear tight curls around their faces. The hair at the back was either pinned up or left to hang loose, depending on the preference.
Simple Chignon: A chignon is a low bun or knot at the nape of the neck. Women would gather their hair at the back and twist it into a bun, securing it with pins or combs. This style could be adorned with ribbons or other accessories for a more elaborate look.
Braids: Braids were also a popular hairstyle during this period. Hair could be braided and wrapped around the head like a crown, or incorporated into a chignon or updo.
Turban or Headwraps: Influenced by the styles of the Ottoman Empire, turbans and headwraps were popular hair accessories during the Regency period. Women would wrap the fabric around their hair, creating a fashionable and practical way to keep their hair in place.
To achieve these hairstyles, ladies would use various tools and accessories, such as:
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Hairpins: Hairpins were essential for securing updos, chignons, and braids. They were made from various materials such as metal, wood, or bone.
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Combs: Decorative combs were used both to style hair and as a fashionable accessory. They were typically made from materials like tortoiseshell, ivory, or bone and were sometimes adorned with jewels or intricate carvings.
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Curling Irons: Ladies would use heated curling irons to create curls or waves in their hair. The irons were heated over a fire or stove before being applied to the hair.
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Pomades and Oils: To keep their hair smooth and in place, women used pomades made from animal fats or oils. These products helped to achieve a sleek, polished look.
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Hair Accessories: Ribbons, flowers, feathers, and jewels were often used to adorn hairstyles, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Although these styles and accessories are seen in the show, the stylists have clearly put their own mark on the characters. The colors and textures seen in the show are much more vibrant and exciting than the materials that would’ve been available or fashionable at the time.
According to the literature on the subject, the hairstyles would not have been as intricate and large as the one’s seen on Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story. However, this does give it a modern-day twist that the audience loves.
So if your clients are looking for a Bridgerton-inspired Regency hairstyle, remember to source plenty of ribbons and hair pins to keep those tresses in place.
Looking for more hair inspiration to take into your salon? Why not check out the HJ Gallery?
