Dorothy's Hair In The Wizard Of Oz: A Style Guide & Secrets!
Did you ever notice that the girl from Kansas, Dorothy Gale, had a chameleon-like ability to alter her hairstyle? The iconic pigtails of Dorothy in the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz are a fascinating study in cinematic inconsistencies, undergoing several transformations throughout the movie.
The whimsical and vibrant world of Oz, conjured on screen in that pivotal year, continues to captivate audiences. From Dorothy's famous blue gingham dress to Glinda the Good Witch's ethereal bubble gown, the film offers a wealth of inspiring fashion elements. In 1939, Judy Garland, portraying Dorothy, skipped onto the big screen and captivated millions. The dream of stepping into those ruby slippers remains alive for many even today. Though the original shoes are safely kept under lock and key at the Smithsonian, the enduring charm of the film offers opportunities to immerse oneself in its magic, including attempts to recreate the look.
| Character | Dorothy Gale |
| Film | The Wizard of Oz (1939) |
| Played By | Judy Garland |
| Hair Style | French braided pigtails with long loose ends |
| Notable Feature | Changes in hair length during filming due to reshoots and alterations. |
| Costume | Blue gingham dress, white blouse, red shoes |
| Reference | IMDB - The Wizard of Oz (1939) |
The film, a cornerstone of cinematic history, provides rich material for discussion and analysis. And, beyond the technical elements, the storys enduring appeal to people of all ages continues to enchant.
Interestingly, L. Frank Baum, the author of the original Wonderful Wizard of Oz series, sets the scene for Dorothy's adventures. He never specifically described her hair color, nor did he mention her skin tone. Thus, any cinematic portrayal of Dorothy's appearance is an interpretation of the source material.
Judy Garland's portrayal of Dorothy, in particular, is a subject of scrutiny. Her hair, in particular, invites close examination. The length of Dorothy's hair is inconsistent. At one moment, it barely touches her collarbone, only to appear much longer later on, reaching down to her chest.
This shift in hair length is most noticeable in the famous scarecrow scene. The pigtails transform repeatedly, from short and curly to long and straight. It is a testament to the complexities of filmmaking during that era, as the changes are attributed to reshoots, modifications to the costume, and adjustments to the overall look. The film was shot on a studio set.
The iconic hairstyle worn by Dorothy is a signature element of the film. It is a key component to recreating Dorothy's look, adding volume, movement, and embodying the popular hairstyles of the 1930s. The characters pigtails, styled in French braids with long loose ends, are a memorable aspect of her appearance.
This isn't the only inconsistency or change that happened throughout the film, there are many others. In one instance, the Tin Man's spear magically transforms into an ax. These instances, though minor, contribute to the movie's unique character.
Even a simple tutorial on replicating Dorothys hair demonstrates how the look can be achieved. The style offers a balanced, symmetrical appearance, reflecting the popular trends of the time. The enduring appeal of this look has inspired numerous renditions, from Halloween costumes to gender-bent interpretations, showcasing the timeless popularity of the character.
The film has a rich legacy, and the story of Dorothy Gale, her journey through Oz, and her memorable appearance will continue to resonate with audiences. The ability to re-imagine the film and its characters further ensures its place as a cultural touchstone.
