From sprawling manor houses to intricate hair styling, the 19th century Victorian Era was full of beautiful imagery and exquisite attention to detail. But just how did the Victorians maintain such striking appearances? In this article, we take a closer look at the etiquette and grooming techniques of the era, and how these beauty practices influenced the opulent aesthetics of the Victorian Era.
1. Unveiling Elegance: Exploring Victorian Beauty Standards
The Victorian era had some of the most complex beauty standards in history. Women spent countless hours of time and effort to fully embody the ideals of femininity prescribed by their society. From elaborate hairstyles, corsets and hoop skirts, to perfumes and pastels, Victorian women went to countless extremes to meet the ideals of beauty as described in the literature, art and fashion of the time.
Hairstyles:
- The fashionable Victorian women wore their hair long, styled in elaborate and frequently changing fashions.
- Popular styles included waterfall braids, coiled buns, and intricate curls.
- Accessorizing with floral embellishments, confectionary and artificial hair pieces remained popular.
Undergarments:
- To achieve the desired hourglass shape, women tightly laced themselves in corsets.
- Heavy petticoats supported hoop skirts, which were necessary to keep the full and lengthy dresses out of the mud and dust in the streets.
- Long gloves covered the arms, while elaborate collars and cuffs of lace were fashionable elements.
Cosmetics:
- Cheeks and lips were typically heavily rouged and powdered.
- Arches of thinned black kohl-like eyelashes not uncommon.
- Hairline was traced with powder to make a widow’s peak, a fashionable style for the era.
Victorians found beauty in everything around them; from the clothing they wore and the cosmetics they used, to the books they read and the art they admired. Refined and elegant, Victorian beauty standards continue to inspire the fashion and beauty world even today.
2. The Height of Poise: 19th Century Etiquette Rules
Etiquette in the 19th century was a complex art form for both the upper and lower classes. Understanding how to communicate with others properly was integral for success in social gatherings. To ensure decorum was maintained, intricate rules were developed and shouldered by all.
Rules of Speech: Refined speaking was expected, and the 19th century was no exception. Introductions were formal and polite with an emphasis on social hierarchy. Pronunciation of words were carefully observed depending on who was being addressed. Informal language was deeply frowned upon.
Communal Behavior: Table manners were essential for polite dining. Food was served according to rank and dictated who was served first. Speaking during a meal was also a no-no. Conversation in general should be kept to a minimum and polite topics were discussed, such as the weather.
Other Rules: Observance of social events dictated the formality of dress. When in attendance, proper attire was expected. Social visits also expected a time limit and gifts were a sign of affection. Etiquette rules were followed to the letter.
- Speak with proper grammar and pronunciation.
- Eating in a mannerly fashion.
- Dress for the occasion.
- Limit conversation and keep topic polite.
- Adhere to the rules for social visits.
Overall, 19th century etiquette was demanding. The rules for behavior were complex and unwavering. From topics of conversation to the way in which you spoke, proper decorum was expected. Through poise and precision, men and women alike were expected to follow these etiquette rules.
3. Transforming from Ordinary to Extraordinary: Grooming Habits of the Victorian Elite
The Victorian age was undoubtedly one of the most opulent, romanticized eras of European history. The power elite of this time, such as lords, ladies, and the royalty, groomed in opulent style, setting a fashionable standard for the bourgeois. Here are some of the key grooming habits of the Victorian elite.
Beard Styling: Beards were all the rage among dashing Victorian gents, and those of the upper echelon took this trend to greater heights with well-groomed facial hair. From the long, curled beards of the Victorians to the classic French Pointed beard, there was no shortage of selective and stylish facial hair.
Luxurious Accessorizing: Upper-class Victorians were nothing if not stylish, and this was reflected in their accessories. Both gentlemen and ladies were seen wearing large, luxurious diamonds, emeralds, and tie pins. Ladies weren’t the only ones sporting impressive jewelry. Gentlemen often donned a turquoise tie pin or a silver watch chain. A top hat was another must-have when traipsing around town.
Heels and Hats: Ladies of the upper class made sure to never leave the house without properly grooming their feet. High heels were the epitome of the Victorian wardrobe as it was a sign of sophistication. On the other hand, a feathered hat was a staple in the wardrobe of a Victorian lady. It added a touch of elegance while completing the look.
Hairstyles: Victorian hairstyles were lavish and elaborate. Girls from a wealthy background would often wear their hair in tumbling curls and abundant ringlets, while men adopted classic center-parted styles. This was the perfect way for upper-class Victorians to indicate that they belonged to a high social stratum.
4. Showcasing Refinement: Victorian Makeup and Hairstyling Techniques
The Victorian age was a time of grand elegance when it came to makeup and hairstyling. Beauty standards of the time were greatly influenced by the societal elite, with the top trends being gentility and refinement. If you’re looking to channel that old-world glamour, these techniques can help you replicate the look.
- Makeup: Using face powder to reduce the appearance of redness and even skin tone was a staple in Victorian cosmetics. Lips, cheeks, and eyelids were often brightened using red or pink rouge. Women’s brows were filled in with pencil and the eyes were lined with kohl for a more sultry vibe.
- Hairstyling: When it came to hairstyling, Victorian women prioritized neatness and order. This meant their tresses were slicked back with heavy pomades, and were often set with pins and accessories. Popular Victorian hairstyles included tight buns, intricate chignons, and cascading curls.
In addition to makeup and hairstyling, fashion was a huge part of achieving the perfect Victorian look. Layering and cinching dresses and gowns with corsets was a go-to technique, and often the fabrics were highly embellished and ornate – especially for the upper classes!
Bringing a modern twist to the Victorian aesthetic can be a fun way to stand out from the crowd. With a few simple strategies, you can bring the refinement of the Victorian age into your own unique style!
5. Unveiling the Splendour of Victorian Beauty: An Unforgettable Era of Grace and Grandeur
The nineteenth century has been acclaimed for introducing us to the majestic splendour of the Victorian Age. The era that was defined by elegance and beauty remains etched in our minds.
- Fashion: The Victorian era was characterized by an aesthetic sense of fashion that was unparalleled and mesmerizing. Women adorned corsets and large skirts, whereas the men opted for elegant frock and tail coats. Top hats, gloved hands, and canes completed the look.
- Wealth and Luxury: Social status and wealth were paramount to the Victorians and reflected in their exquisite taste in furniture, decor and grandeur. Ornate clocks, velvet upholstery, and antique figurines added to opulence and luxury of the era.
The captivating Victorian world was also celebrated for its literary works and art. Artists, authors and poets flourished during the epoch and produced some of the most beautiful creations. Women, too, played a great role in the art and literature of the era.
The Victorian era may be long gone, but its beauty and grandeur will never be forgotten. Experiencing the magnificence of that time can only be realized through glimpses into its relics. Museums and libraries might hold many of the crumbling pieces from the glorious past life.
The Victorian era undoubtedly had fascinating beauty routines and standards, as well as impeccable etiquette and grooming habits. As we step into the 21st century, let us take a moment to remember the beauty traditions of our ancestors and to admire their commitment to poise and grace. Until next time, farewell!
