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Elaborate medieval hairstyle. Source: QuietWord / Adobe Stock.

US 'Hair Archaeologist' Recreates Elaborate Ancient Hairstyles (Video)

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Janet Stephens, a modern-day hairstylist, has embarked on an extraordinary journey to recreate ancient coifs from Greek and Roman civilizations. These intricate hairstyles were so elaborate that scholars once believed they could only be wigs. Determined to prove otherwise, Janet delved into the challenge, seeking to understand the technical construction of these ancient hairstyles. Initially, she used standard hairpins, but they proved insufficient to hold the looks together. Undeterred, she persisted with years of research and practice until she had a breakthrough. Janet realized that sewing the hair together with a needle and thread was the key to success. This revelation allowed her to replicate various ancient coifs with astounding accuracy.

Her expertise now spans ancient hairstyles, including those worn by historical figures like Faustina the Younger, a 2nd-century Roman Empress. Janet's findings have been published in an academic journal, earning her the nickname of 'hair archaeologist.' Her passion for these ancient styles is driven by the curiosity and wonder they instill in people who see statues with such intricate hairdos and ask the timeless question: "how did they do that?" By blending her hairstyling artistry with the spirit of an archaeologist, she breathes life into the past and preserves the secrets of our historical beauty traditions.

Top image: Elaborate medieval hairstyle. Source: QuietWord / Adobe Stock.

By Robbie Mitchell

 
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Robbie

I’m a graduate of History and Literature from The University of Manchester in England and a total history geek. Since a young age, I’ve been obsessed with history. The weirder the better. I spend my days working as a freelance... Read More

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