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The History and Power of Hairdressing | Elizabeth Block
Feb 18, 2025
Elizabeth Block, an award-winning author and art historian, dives into the fascinating world of hairdressing. She reveals how hair has shaped women's identities and societal norms, especially in 19th century America. Block discusses the entrepreneurial impact of women of color in the hair industry and critiques how advertising has influenced women's storytelling. She also uncovers the gender dynamics in hairdressing throughout history and emphasizes the need for inclusivity in hair studies to celebrate diverse identities and cultural expressions.
30:08
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Quick takeaways
- Hairdressing has significantly influenced cultural identity and beauty standards, revealing complex interactions between race, class, and societal roles throughout history.
- The exploration of hairdressing spaces challenges traditional gender norms, showcasing fluidity in roles and interactions between men and women in salons and barbershops.
Deep dives
The Cultural Significance of Hairdressing
Hairdressing has played a significant role in shaping cultural identity and beauty standards throughout history. The exploration of women's hair from the late 19th century reveals how societal norms influenced hair practices and business opportunities for women in various socioeconomic classes. Notably, many Black and mixed-race women emerged as successful entrepreneurs in the hair industry, creating products tailored to their communities while also capturing the attention of white consumers. This dynamic illustrates a complex interaction between race, social class, and the evolution of beauty standards that continues to resonate today.
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Discover
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