Bouffant

Lynch Albert A Young Beauty With Flowers In Her Hair

Princess Louise, Duchess of Fife, and daughters Princesses Maud and Alexandra

Mrs Kennedy in the Diplomatic Reception Room cropped

The Ronettes 1966

Patsy Cline at the Mint Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. Circa 1962

Bouffant is a style of hairdressing in which the hair is teased to give it an overall puffy appearance, extending beyond the confines of the head. This hairstyle, which became popular in the late 1950s and 1960s, is characterized by hair that is piled high on the head and slightly off the face. The bouffant has seen various phases of popularity and has been adapted into numerous styles over the decades, including integration with ponytails, beehives, and other elaborate hairstyles.

History

The term "bouffant" is derived from the French word bouffante, from the verb bouffer, meaning "to puff, puff out". The style was thought to have been invented by a Parisian hairstylist named Raymond Bessone, who drew inspiration from the hairstyles of Marie Antoinette. The bouffant became a symbol of high fashion and was popularized by first ladies, film stars, and music icons of the era.

Popularity

In the 1960s, the bouffant was widely adopted by women of all ages, from young girls to older women, as a fashionable and sophisticated hairstyle. It was often seen as a status symbol, representing elegance and refinement. The style required a significant amount of hair products and maintenance to keep its shape, including hairspray, hairnets, and backcombing, also known as teasing.

Cultural Impact

The bouffant had a significant cultural impact during its peak years. It was embraced by the entertainment industry, with notable figures such as Audrey Hepburn, Brigitte Bardot, and Jackie Kennedy showcasing the hairstyle. The bouffant's popularity also led to the creation of specialized beauty products and tools designed to achieve and maintain the look.

Decline and Revival

By the late 1960s and early 1970s, the bouffant began to decline in popularity, giving way to more natural and relaxed hairstyles. However, it has seen periodic revivals in fashion and pop culture, often inspired by nostalgia for the 1960s. The bouffant has been reinterpreted in various forms, demonstrating its enduring appeal and versatility as a hairstyle.

Modern Interpretations

Today, the bouffant is often seen in high fashion, editorial shoots, and on the runway, where it is used to add drama and height to modern hairstyles. It is also a popular choice for special occasions, such as weddings and proms, where a more elaborate and formal hairstyle is desired.

See Also

• Hairstyle
• Beehive (hairstyle)
• Ponytail
• Hairdressing