Hairstyles have changed throughout history but there was a period that had a moderate trend. The Middle Ages had many dilemmas ranging from religious fervor to witchcraft and diseases, such as the Bubonic Plague. It was also a time of fear, instituted on a combination of growing science and religious extremism. During this era it was thought to be a good policy not to upset one's Maker. The best way to do this was to appear moderate and religious at all times. Showing hair, as a result was considered flashy and upsetting.

However, when the hair did make an appearance it was close to the head and usually braided. The masses would possibly let it hang loose, except that it wasn't good to show your hair in public. It was even worse to use a lot of make-up items, as this practice could easily get a person accused of witchcraft. The slightest problem in the world called for a person to blame, and it was safer to choose the style of religious follower than to stand out in a crowd, by displaying flowing locks, and chancing being accused of witchcraft.

Medieval braiding became the style standard for having ones hair done. There was the three-strand braid style, the four-strand braid style, the twist-and-cross, and the weaving style. An expert hairdresser was necessary, but after all was done, most of the creative features were hid under caps and head pieces. It essentially felt as if almost all women of this period wanted to feel feminine and attractive, but were too frightened to display their hair to the outside world. As usual, the men in the court set the trends, so when Elizabeth I came to power in England, her red hair and white complexion sent the ladies of nobility to in search of white powder and red wigs. This ultimately started the Elizabethan Period and a new style.