During the Middle Ages, hairstyles were highly formal with a rich variety of styles ¹. The early medieval age began in Europe after the end of the united Roman Empire and this was the result of the Germanic invasions which eventually led to the downfall of the Roman Empire and start of the medieval ages ¹. Germanic people gave great importance to medieval hairstyles and considered it a symbol of power and authority ¹.

The Middle Ages, spanning roughly from the 5th to the 15th century in Europe, had a significant influence on hair styling trends, reflecting the cultural, social, and religious norms of the time. Here's how the Middle Ages influenced hair styling trends:

1. **Religious Influence**: Christianity played a dominant role in medieval Europe, and religious beliefs often influenced hair styling trends. Modesty and piety were highly valued virtues, leading to hairstyles that covered the hair or were modest in appearance. Married women often wore veils or head coverings as a sign of modesty and obedience to their husbands.

2. **Social Hierarchy**: Social hierarchy and class distinctions were prevalent in medieval society, and hairstyles often reflected one's social status and wealth. Nobility and aristocracy typically wore elaborate hairstyles adorned with jewels, ribbons, and elaborate headdresses, while commoners and peasants had simpler hairstyles due to limited resources and access to grooming tools.

3. **Medieval Hairstyles**: Hairstyles in the Middle Ages varied depending on factors such as social status, gender, and occupation. For men, short hair was the norm, often combed back or parted in the middle. Beards were also common among men, symbolizing masculinity and maturity. Women's hairstyles ranged from loose, flowing locks to more elaborate styles adorned with braids, curls, and hair ornaments.

4. **Influence of Royalty**: The hairstyles of royalty and nobility often set the trend for the rest of society. Queens, princesses, and noblewomen were influential figures whose hairstyles were emulated by women of lower social status. Royal weddings and court ceremonies were occasions for elaborate hairstyles and extravagant hair accessories.

5. **Medieval Hair Accessories**: Hair accessories played a significant role in medieval hair styling, with women adorning their hair with a variety of ornaments such as jeweled combs, circlets, diadems, and fillets. These accessories were often made from precious metals and gemstones, reflecting the wearer's wealth and social status.

6. **Hygiene and Grooming Practices**: Hygiene and grooming practices in the Middle Ages were not as advanced as they are today, and hairstyles were often influenced by practical considerations such as hygiene and comfort. Washing and styling hair required time-consuming processes, and hairstyles were often designed to be practical and easy to maintain.

Overall, the Middle Ages influenced hair styling trends through a combination of religious, social, and cultural factors, shaping hairstyles that reflected the values, beliefs, and social structures of medieval European society.