What if the real history of women was written in their hair? Elizabeth L. Block, art historian and Senior Editor in the Publications and Editorial Department at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, is uncovering how hairstyles have shaped lives, defined eras, and empowered women throughout history.
Block recently joined the Volume Up pod and shared fascinating insights into the untold stories behind women’s hairstyles. She explored how hair has symbolized power, rebellions, and even sparked societal shifts.
With a PhD in art history, Block’s fascination with women in art led her to dive deep into the cultural significance of hair. She noticed how hair wasn’t just about beauty—it was a reflection of identity and power, shaping how women were seen and how they saw themselves.
As a lover of the library, claiming that she is “never happier than when in a library,” she has dedicated countless hours to her research.
Her work reveals how much time women have historically invested in their hair, from creating businesses around it to making bold fashion statements with it. Block explains that hair isn’t just about vanity; it’s deeply connected to culture, identity, and even gender and racial dynamics.
In her book, Beyond Vanity: The Power and Politics of Women’s Hair, Block digs into how hairstyles have influenced fashion, identity, and society. She shows us that the history of hair is a powerful reflection of women’s struggles and triumphs, giving voice to the stories that have often been overlooked or ignored.
Block emphasizes the importance of documenting our own journeys, highlighting that capturing every moment is essential.
“Please document your own history in the field if you can, it’s so important… take those pictures in your salon, take those pictures of your client with the wet hair in the chair. They are going to be so important to writing the rest of this history one day.”
Curious about how hairdressing has shaped lives and history? Listen to the full episode here or wherever you stream and head over to our Instagrams, @readthetease and @volumeupbythetease, for more exclusive content.
