The Mid Century Vault

Currently Playing: 076 Hooded Hairdryer Chair: MidMod Architect Of The Bouffant!

Step back into 1958, where the beauty salon was more than just a place for a haircut—it was a Mother/Daughter sacred ritual. Join Philip Mershon in The Mid Century Vault as we explore the iconic history of the hooded hairdryer chair. From the high-end elegance of Marshall Fields’ Fifth Floor Salon to the neighborhood "Cut and Curl" gossip hubs, these space-age machines defined a generation of glamour. In this episode, we trace the evolution of the hairdryer from Alexandre Godefroy’s ominous looking 1888 gas-powered invention to the fiberglass and chrome marvels of the post-WWII era. Why did these "built-like-a-tank" chairs vanish by the 1970s? We’re diving into the shift from the "hard helmet" sets to the "wash-and-wear" revolution of Vidal Sassoon and Farrah Fawcett. In this video, we discuss: The mother-daughter ritual of the 1950s department store salon. The surprising origin of the Tresemme hair line. How the hooded dryer became the original "internet forum" for community gossip. ***Breaking News*** Because of my wonderful community here, YouTube has just allowed me to monetize!! On all the videos there is now a button for anyone to Super"Thanks" tip me! So, if you want to support my work I'd be honored. Watch more from The Mid Century Vault: The History of Avon https://youtu.be/w1F5AiABiFg?si=qJ3Ko2pFV2TJlvvx The Tupperware Revolution https://youtu.be/AxJz8j48YfA?si=-mio4XjYOXRqEyi0 The Rise of the Unisex Salon https://youtu.be/L70YzZQy81g?si=Vg9krb_XrLLFZ-jA What are your memories? Did your mother or grandmother have a weekly "wash and set" date? Tell us about that specific salon smell or your favorite vintage stylist in the comments! Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to help us keep the Vault open! #MidCenturyModern #1950sFashion #VintageBeauty #HairHistory #MarshallFields #SocialHistory #Nostalgia #PhilipMershon #TheMidCenturyVault