Historian Dr. Elizabeth L. Block, author of "Beyond Vanity: The History and Power of Hairdressing," returns to the show for an insightful and fascinating look at hair and hairdressing in the Gilded Age.

Hairstyles and the methods of hairdressing evolved dramatically over the 19th century from an "at home" activity shared by sisters and female relatives to salons opening often with female entrepreneurs which gave women significant agency and power.

In addition to making a social statement through one's designer gowns from the great Paris couture houses, Gilded Age hostesses made sure that in addition to the dresses and jewels, they wore the most fashionable hairstyles of the day.

This show was produced by Kieran Gannon

Related Gilded Gentleman podcasts:
Gilded Age French Fashion: The House of Worth and Beyond
Gilded Age Undergarmetns: What Did Mrs. Astor Wear Under There?

The Gilded Age Art of Hairdressing