Friday, March 10, 2006

Hair Brush Fashions

In the 17th century it was thought that brushing hair would rid an individual of the vapours (fainting pells) and women were advised not to groom their hair in the evening, as it could lead to headaches the next day. Hair brushes made from hog bristtle or hadgehog spines were first introduced in the late Middle Age. With the invention of nylon in the 1930s designs changed, and now we can choose from an extensive range, each suitable from specific tasks.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

i'm curious about a certain superstition believed in by my female italian ancestors on my mother's side of the family. my grandmother, god mother, and my mother all used to keep the hair they cleaned out of their hairbrushes. i remember finding a dresser drawer FULL of my godmother's hair! is anyone else familiar with this superstitious practice?