Period Hair styles for the Victorian / Edwardian Era

Victorian Edwardian hair styles are known for their elegance, structure and timeless beauty.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular Victorian Edwardian hair styles, including braids, twists and classic period updos.
Whether you’re a vintage bride, reenactor or history lover, these Victorian Edwardian hair styles offer stunning ideas for modern adaptation.

Victorian Edwardian hair styles were heavily influenced by social class, fashion trends and even literature of the time.
Women often used hairpieces, padding and braiding techniques to achieve the softer, voluminous silhouettes the era is known for.
These shapes work beautifully today for themed weddings, period theatre, photography and editorial styling

Victorian Edwardian hair styles feel romantic, soft and elegant. Many brides still love these looks today because they combine beautiful structure with gentle texture. You’ll often see curls pinned into shape, braids woven through the back and volume added at the crown. Some looks appear neat and polished, while others embrace loose tendrils for a natural feel. These designs inspire modern bridal hair, editorial shoots and vintage-themed weddings even now.

“I find immense joy in crafting hairstyles inspired by the Victorian and Edwardian periods. Exploring historical hair practices is my favorite aspect of studying hairstyling. Delving into the women’s experiences during those times, understanding the intricate styles, wigs, and methods used to maintain these hairstyles, all while considering their correlation with the era’s fashion like voluminous skirts and corsets, fascinates me.

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The Edwardian Era, referred to as ‘La Belle Epoque’ and ‘the Gilded Age’ from the late 1890s to 1914, drew inspiration from the iconic Gibson girl for its fashion and hairstyles. Hair during this period mostly featured voluminous updos, alongside variations like buns and braids.

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The distinct appearance of Gilded Age America can be characterized as opulent and romantic, characterized by prosperity, inventiveness, and vibrant hues.

Regarding hairstyles, they possess a structured form while retaining a softness that contributes to the period’s romantic allure.

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In the 1830s, societal norms expected young girls to style their hair up upon reaching 15 or 16. A neat middle part with slicked-back sides into a bun, braid, or twist was considered socially acceptable, while bangs weren’t in vogue. By the 1840s, ringlet curls became a fashionable choice.

During the Victorian era, women commonly used hairpieces, including curls or combs with added hair. Mail-order services even provided options like full wigs. Hair dye, accessible to both men and women, was widespread in the 1800s.

Women created hairstyles using pads, twists and structured curls.

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Victorian fashion emphasized a simpler lifestyle compared to the preceding era. Hairstyles gradually became more natural and modest, featuring middle parts, buns, or coils, while allowing curls to cascade loosely at the sides of the head.”

If you love period styling, you may also enjoy my blog on Wedding Hair Ideas 2025.Bridal Hair & Wedding Hair Services in Surrey

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Victorian Era Hair Styling

Edwardian Era Hair Trends and Textures

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Accessories, Tools & Voluminous Shapes

How These Historical Styles Inspire Modern Bridal Hair

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For more historical reference images, you can browse the Victorian Hair archive at the V&A Museum.https://www.vam.ac.uk/

Winner Awards 2023

Today, I discovered that I’ve been bestowed with the prestigious Best Bridal Hairstylist award in the 2023 International Global Rounds. The elation and joy from this accomplishment are truly overwhelming. Not too long ago, I secured an award in The Local Rounds in my area. However, competing against such phenomenal bridal suppliers worldwide in the same category has completely astounded me. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all my wonderful clients and brides who shared their incredible testimonials about their special day, contributing to this remarkable achievement. I’m so delighted that I might just indulge in the celebratory bottle of bubbly. Thank you once again, International Wedding Awards!

Global Rounds Winner 2023!!!

Local Rounds Winner 2023 !!!

“Enhancing long hair for your wedding day:

“Enhancing long hair for your wedding day: The advantages of a professional hairstylist, selecting the perfect long hair style, including options like curls, half-up or all-down styles, and elegant up-dos. Embellishments such as hair jewellery, flowers, veils, and sparkling diamanté jewels can be incorporated to complement your wedding dress and overall theme. Additionally, you can experiment with colors and styles to create a personalized look. To effectively communicate your desired style to your hairstylist, consider providing them with examples that suit your face shape and reflect your personal style.”

Selecting the ideal hair pins or diamanté hair clips for your wedding day

Selecting the ideal hair pins or diamanté hair clips for your wedding day involves choosing the desired style and adopting a “less is more” approach. You can decide whether to incorporate them into your hairstyle or entrust your stylist to place them appropriately. If you plan to wear a veil and position it over your face while walking down the aisle, your stylist will skillfully position it to complement your hairstyle. Consider whether you prefer a long or short veil. Additionally, think about whether you prefer to adorn your hair solely with flowers and specify the type: delicate, small flowers or a vibrant, large flower that matches your bouquet. Lastly, contemplate whether you want your bridesmaids to have similar hair styles.

Home Bridal Studio

Are you a beautiful bride-to-be preparing for your big day? Look no further because I have some exciting news to share! My brand new bridal hair studio is now open, and I cannot wait to welcome you all!

I know how important it is for you to look and feel your best on your special day. Whether you’re after a classic up-do, romantic curls, or something a bit more unconventional, with my experience and talent I can create the perfect look for you.

I offer personalised consultations to ensure that I understand your vision and can bring it to life. I would love to be a part of your wedding day preparations and make your day as special as possible.

My bridal studio is fully equipped with high-quality products and tools, ensuring that your hair looks flawless throughout the day and night. I am committed to making sure that you are completely satisfied with your look.

Be sure to follow me on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes looks at some of our recent work. I can’t wait to hear from you and help make your wedding day unforgettable!




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Christmas Weddings 2021

With the holiday season rapidly approaching, it’s the perfect time to start planning your special occasion looks. Whether you’re walking down the aisle or attending a festive party, I understand how important it is to look your best on such occasions. That’s why I am thrilled to announce that my bookings for wedding hair and other special events are now open!

And with only 9 weeks left until Christmas, now is the perfect time to book in to ensure you secure your date with me. I will work with you to create a beautiful and unique look that perfectly reflects your personal style.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to feel confident and gorgeous on your special day. Follow the link in my bio to book your appointment now!

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My TOP 10 Bridal Hair Designs for 2021/22

Here are my TOP 10 favourite hairstyles I’ve seen for 2021/22 up and coming weddings. This years and next style is a very relaxed style with soft curls which are gently placed throughout the hair and not so “FIXED” in place, think tumbling curls falling down, even add in some silk flowers to your hair.

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I’ve seen a lot of low bun styles with twists and braids entwined into the style so it still gives the relaxed feel to the hairstyle. I love adding hair jewellery into the hair rather than fixed tiaras, it is really about dressing the hair up as much a possible so it is a piece of hair art to show off.

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The summer style dresses coming up are featuring a V-Neck and a V-back gown style with lots of French or Italian tulle and plenty of silk organza flowers, even off the shoulder style dresses are in this season with amazing fitting corsets so keep a look out for some beautiful designs. Vera Wang latest designs are simply stunning.

I cannot wait for the wedding season to start up again and to get creating some amazing styles for all my lovely brides who are waiting patiently to walk down the aisle. It will happen soon …..🙏🤞

Melissa Melody