The Marcel Wave was invented by Marcel Grateau, a french hairdresser who lived from 1852 to 1936. Before curling irons or permanent waves, the first 'hairdresser applied' artificial curl was the Marcel Wave. This was done by heating a specialized tong-like iron and applying a preparation treatment to the hair which gave a wave, rather than a crimp. This smooth wave style was an acceptable uniform 'controlled' look appropriate for the stifled Victorian times and was long-lasting. This hairstyle became popular in the 1880's and lasted for nearly half a century... Think of the typical 'flapper' short hairstyle with the big, rolling waves, and that's a Marcel Wave.
And from the illustrious Annie Lennox we are reminded of their importance in the lyrics of 'Keep Young and Beautiful'
If you're seen anywhere with your hat off, wear a marcel wave in your hair...
Keep young and beautiful
It's your duty to be beautiful (that's right girls!)
Keep young and beautiful, if you want to be loved...
Boo - Pee - Doo!
Like this fine 'lass...
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