Hair Rats

Hair rats have a historical origin, dating back to the 1860s when women styled their hair into rolls at the sides and nape. These rolled styles were often crafted from homemade "hair rats" composed of fallen hair collected from their hair brushes. The evolution of hair rats has introduced netted varieties, available for purchase in different lengths and styles. The contemporary market now offers these netted rats in 6", 8", and 10" lengths, some featuring donut shaped rats and cylinder shaped rats which may have snaps to transform to a donut-shaped style. These modern options which are available at beauty suppliers and department stores, allow for versatile styling and enhancing volume in vintage hairstyles like the French twist.

For a seamless blend, choose a rat color closest to the natural hair shade. Individuals can effortlessly create balanced buns using donut wraps by securing a high or low ponytail (depending upon the bun placement preference) through the donut, spreading the hair like a waterfall over the donut, and securing the style with elastics or bobby pins. For a perfect match to your hair, you may also construct your own hair rat, as they did years ago, by following these steps:

• Collect your hair from a brush or comb.

• Roll it into an oblong shape.

• Form a tight compact hair cylinder by rolling the collected hair between your palms.

• Customize the length and thickness by adding more hair to your personalized hair rat.

Note to hairstyling teachers, why not make this an assignment. Have students gather fallen hair from their mannequin, roll the hair to construct a hair rat and then use the hair rat to create a vintage up-style.