Elizabeth Taylor, the legendary icon of Hollywood's golden age, was not only renowned for her exceptional acting skills but also for her striking beauty and iconic hairstyles. Throughout her illustrious career, Taylor's hairstyles evolved along with fashion trends, creating timeless looks that continue to inspire modern-day styling. Let's delve into the mesmerizing world of Elizabeth Taylor's hairstyles, exploring some of her most memorable looks.
Taylor's hair journey started in the 1940s, a decade marked by cascading curls and soft waves. As a child star, she often sported these voluminous, waist-length curls. However, as she transitioned into adulthood, her hairstyles took on more sophisticated and polished forms.
Iconic Hairstyles in the 1950s and 1960s
The 1950s and 1960s were marked by Taylor's bombshell era, where her hairstyles reflected the pin-up girl aesthetic of the times. Her most iconic look from this period, the plunging cleavage and wavy blonde locks, epitomized Hollywood glamour.
The Bouffant
The Bouffant hairstyle, popularized by stars like Marilyn Monroe, was a favorite of Taylor's. She often wore her hair teased at the crown, creating height and volume, and left the rest of her hair soft and wavy. This style, combined with her striking features, made her a symbol of femininity and allure.
Bouffant hairstyle was often paired with dramatic eyeliner and bold lipstick, further emphasizing her striking visage. It was sported across various red carpet events and films like "Cleopatra" and "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof".
The Beehive
Taylor also experimented with the gravity-defying beehive during the late 1960s. This daring style involved teasing hair at the crown, shaping it into a masquerade mask-like shape, and securing it with tons of hairspray. Despite its challenge in maintenance, Taylor pulled off the look with her signature elegance.
While the beehive wasn't as popular on-screen, it made several appearances at Taylor's private parties and events. This towering style accentuated her tall, willowy frame and emphasized her captivating eyes.
Changing with the Times: 1970s to 1990s
In the 1970s, Taylor embraced a more relaxed approach to her hairstyles, mirroring the bohemian fashion trends of the era. Her hair lengthened, and she often wore it straight, sometimes parted in the middle, giving her a more natural, youthful look.
Throughout the next decades, Taylor's hair continued to evolve, reflecting her tendency to stay current. In the 1980s and 1990s, she experimented with short bob cuts, layers, and even a pixie cut. Despite these changes, her hair always maintained a healthy shine and luxurious texture.
Wig-Wearing Years
Due to her infamous trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder), Taylor often used wigs to maintain her signature look. Her wig collection amassed over 40 pieces, each meticulously groomed to match her natural hair. Wig wearing allowed Taylor to play around with various looks and colors, while also protecting her natural hair from further damage.
Some of her signature wig looks include a fiery red crop from the late 80s and a sleek, dark bob during the 90s. Despite her hair loss struggles, Taylor's bold experimentation with wigs provided her with a unique opportunity to reinvent her style frequently.
Later Years and Legacy
As Taylor aged, she embraced her natural grays and shorter hairstyles. She often wore her hair in a casual, chin-length bob, accentuating her striking cheekbones and expressive eyes. Despite her hair losing its youthful volume and thickness, her hairstyles continued to radiate grace and elegance.
Taylor's hairstyles, like her unforgettable performances, will forever be etched in Hollywood history. Her iconic looks served as a benchmark for generations of actresses, demonstrating that true style endures beyond trends. If you're eager to incorporate some of Taylor's timeless hairstyles into your look, consult with a professional stylist who can advise on the best adaptations for your hair type and face shape.