During the early Medieval era (5th–11th century), women typically wore their hair long, often reaching their knees, styled in side braids or chignons. Throughout the Middle Ages, high foreheads were considered a beauty ideal, leading women to shave their hairlines. Hair was adorned with artificial flowers, headbands, or jewelry but never left to cover the forehead. Considered an erotic feature, women’s hair had to be concealed after marriage, as it was legally deemed the husband’s property. By the late Middle Ages, the Catholic Church mandated veils for all women. Popular hairstyles included braided chignons above the ears, secured with silk or gold threads, and fine nettings with ornaments. In public, women often covered their hair with high hats or bonnets, emphasizing modesty and decorum.
