Popularized by such public figures as Marie Antoinette, the pouf was the epitome of creative hair styles in the 177os. These elaborate hair-doos were created around a thin metal frame that was placed on the head to give the shape structure. The frame was covered with pomade and hair so that it was no longer visible, and the structure was then decorated with feathers, jewels, beads and other ornaments.
Reaching as much as 3 feet tall, these objects became a way for women of the time to express themselves and define their spaces in the most literal way. It is said the Antoinette was even seen sporting a bird cage in her hair at one point. In the late 18th century women were known to adorn their poufs in support of the revolution with ships and other patriotic icons.
Gross factor: Due to the time and money needed to upkeep these styles, some women would attempt to keep the same design for up to a month, in which case the structure was often infested with fleas, lice, mice and other nasty little things!!
More contemporary styles such as the beehive from the 1960's and modern bumps pay homage to the pouf.
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