Back in the late Victorian and dwardian times in Britain very long hair was a "must have " for women, especially those with the time and money to spnd on it. Just look at the amounts of adverting ther was for hair grower treatmnts. In books and diaries from the time there is much evidence that women let their admirers carress their hair and let it down etc..Remember this was a time when men rarely saw a bare arm or leg. Hair was one part of a woman they could take an interest in without fear of scandal.In the 1930's a magazine existed in UK which inclded many lettrs from men (and women) who regretted the passing of very long hair. Since then fashion and money making have dictated how women dress themselves.