by 
The Curious Bag
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Rat hair pieces, also known as hair rats, are oblong-shaped styling aids used to add volume and lift to a variety of hair styles.
Identification
Rat hair pieces are named for the teased or "ratted" hair styles they help create.
Types
The original hair rats were made from horse or human hair. Modern versions are frequently made from foam, plastic or synthetic hair.
Function
Rat hair pieces are positioned against the scalp. Hair is then teased, combed over the piece and secured with bobby pins to create a more voluminous look.
Significance
Hair rats help recreate period looks such as '40s-style victory curls or the Victorian era's popular Gibson Girl pompadour. Hair rats are also useful for creating glamorous up-dos and chignons.
Fun Fact
During the Victorian era, women often made their own hair rats by collecting stray hair in a specially designed container called a hair receiver.
Source:
HairArchives.com: Victorian Hair
Southeastern Antiquing and Collecting Magazine: Hair Receiver
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