Thrifty Options for Female Living Historians With Short Hair

Thrifty Options for Female Living Historians With Short Hair

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001EM0MOM/ref=oh_details_o01_s00_i00

While I love the time I spend in the mid 19^th Century, with regard to my hair I’m a 21^st Century woman through and through. My locks are short and chemically enhanced. It suits me. I refuse to grow my hair out so that I look unfortunate in my daily life so that I can create an appropriate impression in the mid 19^th Century.

For the last several years I’ve donned a longhaired wig in various colors  (because I want to give Todd a variety of women to enjoy in one package- gotta love role playing!); however, the darn thing is HOT -and not in the positive way. There is no way to feel comfortable wearing a full head of synthetic hair on a mid July day.

So, I’ve tried 19^th Century cross-dressing. My young man impression is quite good.  My mechanic’s hat is fabulous; I’ve some spot on hand-sewn shirts with a dynamic cravat and vest courtesy of Kara Bartles. Todd helped me craft my braces. Past Patterns men’s summer trousers were easy to sew and fit beautifully. My footwear – not appropriate.

Frankly, despite the corset and underpinnings, I am far more comfortable as a woman. In order to facilitate my newer role as a photographer, I can wear my black wool or silk dress, which should not reveal unfortunate contact with silver nitrate. My only nemesis – the hair.

At Perryville a couple of friends suggested that I just use a braid to hide my modern crowning glory. But I search several sites and just didn’t want to pay $65 plus for a 36-inch braid.

Naturally, the cheapskate in me caused me to conduct some research. If all else failed, I would succumb and purchase a braid from one of the purveyors of re-enactor hair. (several of which I consider good friends). There are some items I will not make myself – such as a corset.  But hair – surely there was a more cost effective option.

Ultimate, I found the solution on Amazon.com  - my go to site for all things. I found  Silky Straight Kanekalon Braiding Extension Hair for $3.95 each piece. The pieces are 48 inches long and can be purchased in a variety of colors – both natural and unnatural. I found a color that worked well with my chemically enhanced modern hair. 3 pieces work well for a long braid that can be wrapped around your head. I bought a 4^th to make a braided bun to attached to the back. The results is fabulous and the cost with shipping and handling-less than $20! Just a few hairpins and slicking back your bangs and you are good to go!