National Love Your Red Hair Day

Young woman with vibrant red hair, wearing vintage inspired outfit, standing in front of a beautiful autumn forest.. — National love your red hair day illustration

Everyone loves a fun and quirky celebration, and boy, have we got a fun, crimson-coated date for you! National Love Your Red Hair Day, a fabulous and fiery tribute to our redhead brethren. Now, let's dive head first, or should we say, hair first, into the story behind this unique day.

When is Love Your Red Hair Day?

It's national love your red hair day on the 5th November.

History of National Love Your Red Hair Day

Despite the rumors, Disney's Merida from 'Brave' did not start National Love Your Red Hair Day. Our orange-topped pals Stephanie and Adrienne Vendetti did! As flame-haired sisters, they desired a day devoted to celebrating the beauty and uniqueness of red hair. Thus, National Love Your Red Hair Day was born in 2011 to spread a positive body image message and to encourage everyone, especially those with the red-headed gene, to embrace their individuality.

Fan the Flames of Fame

Social media loved their idea, and the event exploded in popularity especially on November 5, 2016, when we observed a peak in online mentions. Highlighting the fiery spirit of redheads far and wide, the day encourages everyone to share the love and honor Vitamin D synthesizing champions for their unequalled charm and genetic rarity.

A Hot Topic

Only 1-2% of humans boast this fiery color, hailed from Vikings, and known for it's association with fantastic folklore and superstitions. Red hair is a result of a mutation in the MC1R gene, leading to the production of pheomelanin, causing the red tint to the hair and often accompanied by fair skin and freckles. So, to possess red hair is a firecracker feat of science too!

Celebrate in Style

While we don't recommend adorning a Viking helmet and running through the streets, feel free to embrace some fiery locks, whether genuine or wigged, and spread the redhead appreciation. Use #LoveYourRedHairDay to share the fun on social media.

History behind the term 'Love Your Red Hair'

1880

The Rise of 'Red Hair'

In the late 19th century, the term 'red hair' began to gain popularity as a descriptor for individuals with naturally red hair. This hair color, which is caused by a genetic variation, has always been relatively rare, making it stand out among other hair colors. As a result, 'red hair' became widely recognized as a distinctive trait and started to attract attention and curiosity.

1922

Celebrities and Fashion Influence

During the 1920s, celebrities, particularly actresses, began to embrace their natural red hair, challenging the prevailing beauty standards and inspiring many others to do the same. This shift in perception helped to ignite a sense of pride and admiration for red hair, fostering a stronger appreciation for its uniqueness and beauty. Red hair also became increasingly associated with fashion, with designers incorporating it into their designs, further propelling its popularity.

1960

The Rise of 'Love Your Red Hair'

In the 1960s, the phrase 'love your red hair' emerged as a rallying cry for redheads and their admirers. This phrase signified a movement towards self-acceptance and embracing the natural beauty of red hair. It reflected a growing cultural recognition and appreciation for the distinctiveness of redheads, promoting a positive outlook on this genetic trait.

2005

Redhead Pride and Social Media

With the advent of social media platforms, the redhead community found a global platform to connect and celebrate their unique identity. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter allowed individuals with red hair to share experiences, photos, and words of encouragement using the hashtag #LoveYourRedHair. This online movement fostered a sense of community and empowerment, leading to increased confidence and celebration of red hair worldwide.

Present

Embracing Diversity and Individuality

Today, 'love your red hair' has evolved into a broader message of embracing diversity and individuality. It serves as a reminder to appreciate and celebrate our unique characteristics rather than conforming to conventional beauty standards. The term continues to inspire people with red hair to cherish their distinctive features while encouraging others to embrace and celebrate differences in all forms.

Did you know?

Did you know that during the Middle Ages, a child born with red hair was believed to be conceived during 'uncertain times'? Oh, the scandal of it all!