List of Entries Guide to Related Entries Preface Introduction Alphabetically Arranged Entries Bibliography Index
Examines the social and cultural significance of hair thoughout history.
Victoria Sherrowis the author of For Appearance's Sake: The Historical Encyclopedia of Good Looks, Beauty, and Grooming (2001), Encyclopedia of Youth and War: Young People as Participants and Victims (1999), and Women and the Military: An Encyclopedia (1996), a 1996 RUSA Outstanding Reference Source award winner.
This work by Sherrow wins the browsability award, for both its
topic and its eye-catching cover. As the only current reference
book on hair, it will certainly find a place on many library
shelves. Global in scope, its coverage includes biographical
information (Max Factor, Elizabeth I), ethnicities and countries
(African Americans, China), hairstyles (the bob, dreadlocks), and
other hair-related entries (dandruff, hairpins)….[i]t provides a
good first stop and a lengthy bibliography on the topic of hair.
Recommended. Academic and beauty-related collections serving
lower-level undergraduates, two-year technical program students,
practitioners, and general readers.
*Choice*
To many, hair is a reflection of personal style. It is also a
signifier of class, gender, ethnicity, and even power. In this
resourceful A-to-Z, Sherrow explores the impact of hair styles and
their implications in various cultures throughout history. The
essay-length entries, accompanied by black-and-white photos as well
as a full-color photo insert, cover everything from celebrity hair
(e.g., the Rachel) and the hair care business (e.g., Vidal Sassoon)
to disorders (e.g., dandruff) and organizations (e.g., Locks of
Love).
*Library Journal*
Hairstyles reflect cultural, religious, and political beliefs;
social status; occupation; health; and other key aspects of life.
In her introduction to the universal preoccupation with hair
grooming, Sherrow overviews scientific facts about hair, its social
meaning, and the hair products industry. Cross-referenced entries
from adornment, ornamental to Zotos, International include
historical-cultural context, trends, trendsetters, B&W and some
color illustrations, and further reading. This unique reference
includes an extensive bibliography.
*Art Book News Annual*
Anyone interested in hair fashion and treatment, either as it
immediately affects them or from the perspective of a historical
period or a different ethnic group will learn from this book.
*Reference Reviews*
[T]he Encyclopedia of Hair is a useful starting point for research
on this multidisciplinary topic….[t]he Encyclopedia of Hair covers
a bald spot in reference collections in academic, public, and
vocational school libraries.
*Reference & User Services Quarterly*
[T]here is fascinating stuff here for anybody prepared to comb
through it.
*Times Literary Supplement*
Hair has displayed more than changing styles: it's served as an
indicator of class, gender, conformity and power throughout history
- and Encyclopedia of Hair: A Cultural History follows the changing
issues surrounding hair and styles. World history and all cultures
are taken into account throughout, with chapters opening with an
essay on the overall topic, followed by alphabetically arranged
entries along with black and white photos and bibliographic
references. Any college-level holding strong in not only history
and culture but fashion will find this appealing to many different
genres.
*Midwest Book Review/California Bookwatch*
Victoria Sherrows survey of the history of hair explores the
meanings attached to head dressings in different periods and
cultures around the world. Her scope includes specific hair styles,
the treatment of facial hair, grooming tools, colorants, ornaments,
hair diseases and beliefs. The impact of innovative hairdressers,
advertising, and trendsetting celebrities is also examined.
Finally, the coverage also includes the hair care business and
consumer safety issues. Dozens of color and black-and-white
photographs illustrate numerous fashions, but fortunately no
mullets. The often anecdotal entries may not satisfy every research
need, but Sherrow has conveniently compiled a wealth of information
that could previously only be gleaned from a variety of clothing,
fashion, anthropological and historical encyclopedias. Her notes
also provide students with other potential avenues of research. Her
handy volume will be welcomed in public and academic libraries.
*Lawrence Looks at Books*
Encyclopedia of Hair is an insightful and thorough academic book
looking at the subject throughout time….It helps to know about the
history of your hair to justify paying $18 for a tiny tube of
serum, but hair history won't squirt back at you.
*MetroLA*
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