Ancient Greek Hairstyles

The Ancient Greeks were not alien to the concept of dressing up or adornment. They had various hairstyles. The wearers hairstyles signified a lot about his/her age, taste and origin but not their social position (except in the case of slaves who had short hair). Long curly hair, preferably blonde, was considered most attractive. Whether the curls were natural or made to look so with devices such as tongs is unclear.

Womens Hairstyles in Ancient Greece:

Women wore their hair long and in curls, sometimes plaited, sometimes with tresses draped over the shoulders. After the defeat of Persia in 449 BC, oriental styles grew less popular, and women began pinning their hair in a knot or bun at the nape of the neck, sometimes with a band or a net wound around the head. Scarves and diadems were also available. During mourning, women cut their hair short.

Mens Hairstyles in Ancient Greece:

Men grew their hair long. A boy cut his hair short (about chin or jaw-length) when he reached adolescence, and remained with a short haircut until he became older and more distinguished. The beard was a mark of distinction and virility. It was only when Alexander the Great ordered his soldiers to cut off their beards, and thus give the enemy one less thing to grab, that the beard lost some of its grandeur; still, it was the mark of a philosopher or a sage.

There were 4 main hairstyles in vogue.

1. Krobylon was an up do with hair gathered, tied and pinned over the forehead

2. Kepos, a bowl-cut used for youths and slaves

3. Theseid was a sort of proto-mullet which was short in front and long in the back

4. Hectorean was combed back into curls

Ancient Greek Life History / Ancient Greece Facts for Kids

We owe a lot to Ancient Greek Civilization. History of ancient Greece is a fascinating. On this site, we have given information on various ancient Greek life aspects - Arts, Boys and Girls, Architecture, Dancing, Gods, Myths, Medicine, Inventions, Houses, Government, Religions, Wars, Politics, Weapons and ancient Greece Cities.