Watch This Visual History of Hairstyles Over the Centuries

On the lookout for a new hairstyle? Instead of flipping through the latest issue of Vogue, why not use history as your source of inspiration? For thousands of years, humans around the world have expressed their own personal style—or the aesthetics of their culture—through the way they wear their hair.

In the short video “A Visual History of Ancient Hairdos (and Don’ts),” The Atlantic traces some of the most popular hairstyles of the last five millennia. The animated video is full of braids and ringlets, elaborate up-dos, and fascinating facial hair. From the first known hairstyles to the fashions of today, the animation covers an impressive amount of hair history in just two minutes.

“The documented history of hairstyles begins prior to 3200 BC, when braided wigs were in vogue,” explains The Atlantic, “From the chignon of 9th century BC, to horned buns that peaked in the 15th century, hair fashion has always been a significant expression of human creativity.” Check it out above.

Banner Image Credit: The Atlantic, YouTube