Hairdo

A hairdo, or hairstyle, is the arrangement or styling of hair on the head. It describes the way hair is cut, shaped, colored, and secured using tools and accessories. Hairdos range from simple everyday looks to elaborate styles designed for special occasions.

Historically, hairdos have carried cultural meanings and indicated social status or identity. Ancient civilizations used braids, buns, and wigs. In Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries, elaborate wigs and powdered styles were common. In the 20th century, fashion cycles produced iconic looks such as the bob, beehive, mullet, and pixie cut, followed by diverse natural textures and extensive styling in contemporary grooming.

Techniques and tools include trimming and shaping by cutting, washing and conditioning, and styling with heat tools like blow dryers, curling irons, and straighteners, plus products such as mousse, gel, hairspray, and serums. Hairdos may be created by pinning, curling, braiding, twists, buns, ponytails, or weaving with extensions. Maintenance involves regular washing, conditioning, trimming split ends, and protecting hair from heat damage.

Types and examples include updos (bun, chignon, French twist), braids (plait, French braid), ponytails, buns, half-up styles, short cuts (bob, pixie), curls and waves, and straightened styles. Wigs and extensions are commonly used to alter length or volume without permanent changes.

In modern usage, hairdos can reflect personal style, professional requirements, or cultural traditions, and may be chosen to suit events such as weddings or performances. Trends evolve with fashion, but practical considerations like hair health and maintenance remain central.