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Throwback Thursday: In 1947, kids' hairstyles were complicated

In the 1940s, party hairdos were a labour-intensive mix of bows, clips, creams, and sprays. The same held true for the under-10 set.

1947kids-opener

The issue: January 1947

The times: The Canadian Citizenship Act is introduced; David Bowie is born in London; Nova Scotian racing schooner Bluenose sinks off the coast of Haiti.

The party hair: Complicated. These days, all that's expected of young kids at birthday shindigs is that they try to avoid "accidents" and keep cake off of their dresses. In 1947, pre-tween parties had bring-your-own-bow policies: In "If she's under ten," Chatelaine beauty editor Adele White provided readers with some pretty haute hair looks for junior misses. "Hair fixing can be such fun—even for the A-B-C crowd," she said. "[Whether in] pigtails or curls, crisp bows and pretty ornaments make it a special treat." Below, a look at some of White's pint-sized party coifs. (Hot rollers and taffeta sold separately.)

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1947kids-milkmaid

For this festive milkmaid look, White recommended tying "a big, splashy taffeta bow behind each ear—or clip on readymade ones to save yourself the trouble."

1947kids-bangs

"A feather cut with bangs seems just made to order for this enchanting round face."

1947kids-swirls

A suitable updo in the event a young gal's hair gets a little shaggy between cuts. (Or if she needs to wear a wig in an upcoming school play.)

1947kids-birdbow "If the hair curls naturally, you can set it with water," said White. "If not, a wave-set lotion diluted with three parts water will make curls stay in longer." If all else fails, put a bow on it.

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Every Thursday, we bring you selections from our archive of 86 years of Chatelaine, featuring weird and wonderful recipes, vintage fashion and décor, and stories that still resonate today.

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