How to choose a wig? This beginner’s guide covers everything: styles, colors, sizes, and tips to ensure you look and feel your best. Let’s read right now!

Finding the perfect wig can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. With so many styles, colors, and sizes available, where do you even start? In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know how to choose a wig that looks natural and feels comfortable.

Contents

1. Choosing the right type of wig
- 1.1. Lace front wigs
- 1.2. Full lace wigs
2. Choosing wig style based on face shape
3. Choosing wig style based on hair color and skin tones
4. Choosing wig style based on length
5. Choosing wig style based on density
6. How to choose a wig size

1. Choosing the right type of wig

How to choose a wig ? When choosing between lace front and full lace wigs, it’s essential to understand their distinct features and benefits. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which type is right for you:

1.1. Lace front wigs

On these wigs, a blank lace section is sewn onto the front hairline. The rest of the wig is typically made of a wig cap.
Unlike full lace wigs, lace front wigs are less expensive because they are easier to make. This also means that people who want a realistic front hairline without paying a lot can use these wigs.

Appearance:

The main distinguishing characteristic of lace front wigs is that there are lace portions that extend from one temple to the other at the front hairline. This lace is so thin that it gives the effect of hair coming out of the scalp.
When the wig is worn with the lace blended properly, the lace front wig appears realistic as the boundaries of the lace section of the wig become invisible.
Lace front wigs give the best result especially when the hair is worn in the middle since the parting can blend with the skin giving a very realistic look.
Modern lace fronts are often “pre-plucked” which makes them look even more natural because they imitate real hairlines and their density in the manner they grow.

How to choose a wig is always a women’s problem. You can select a lace front wig when reading this pros and cons right now.

Pros:

Reputable hair suppliers with unmatched professionalism often offer wigs with extremely realistic plucked hairlines which mask the lack of finesse on their part.
Their realistic hairline makes the wig appear more natural than other wig types ‘straight style’.
This style of wig serves as a cheaper substitute for full lace wigs.
In addition to full lace wigs, lace front wigs have a reputation for being easily put on.

Cons:

The absence of lace all over the cap has severely restricted varying styling preferences. This limitation is commonly noticeable during high ponytails or even when done in an updo because the cap becomes visible and ruins the natural appearance.
The lace front of the wig is beautiful but also very delicate, so it is important that it is always properly handled and looked after.

1.2. Full lace wigs

These wigs can be worn with minimal restrictions since hair can be styled in any manner because the wig is made entirely from a lace cap.
Full lace wigs are designed more expensive than lace front wigs. This is usually because more effort, in the form of money, time, and intricate handiwork, goes into making them.
Full lace wig is the answer for the question “how to choose a wig”.

Appearance:

Full lace wigs are made of a lace base and every single hair strand is placed individually all over the cap. This perfectly crafted wig replicates the natural appearance of hair growing from the scalp.
Unlike lace front wigs which only look effortless from the front hairline, full lace wigs allow for style and beauty from all angles. Since the entire cap is made from lace, any place can be parted like hair and look like a real scalp.
The scalp remains realistic regardless of whether there is a braid, a middle part, or a deep side part.
This level of realism is especially important for those who want to wear their wigs in a variety of styles without worrying about revealing any unnatural-looking areas.
The ability to see the scalp anywhere on the head makes this the most realistic wig type.

Pros:

Naturally appealing: The full lace cap is multi-directional, making it resemble a natural scalp from all angles.
Unrestrained creativity: Complete freedom of styling is offered because you can create any hairstyle you can think of.
Breathable comfort: Due to the entire cap being lace, the wig is oftentimes very breathable which adds to the comfort.

Cons:

Pricey: A full lace wig does require a premium, which makes it costly because of the construction’s benefit.
Handy work: To preserve the lace and avoid damage, more attention is required to handle full lace wigs.
Application: A steeper learning curve comes from applying a full lace wig as compared to the lace front.
How to choose a wig that looks natural is not difficult if you read this blog.

2. Choosing wig style based on face shape

Before diving into the vast array of wig options, it’s essential to consider your face shape.
Different face shapes work best with specific wig styles as they can balance and highlight beauty. The questions that arise are how to choose a wig for your face shape? What are the well-known types of face shapes that tell us the suitable wig?

Oval faces:

This is the face type that is the most flexible and accepting, thus, it can go well with literally every hairstyle.
Short, long, straight, curly, bangs, side-swept… whatever floats your boat, feel free to mix and match all different kinds.
To achieve the ideal look, balance the proportions of the body and take your fashion style into account.
A case in point, a petite person’s frame can rock a short bob wig as it radiates energy while a more feminine long soft wave hairstyle works to compliment a girl’s style.

Round faces:

The intention is to achieve an elongating illusion.
Wigs featuring volume on the crown, shoulder-length, or cut-in layers add an overall slim appearance.
Steer clear of very shortcuts or too much volume at the cheeks.
Side bangs draw a line which further reduces the roundness of a face.

Square faces:

The purpose is to lessen the severity of square shapes.
Curl, wave, or gent donuts as bangs hairstyles make a rigid jaw less noticeable.
Shoulder length and layered wigs are also suitable.
Avoid boxy cuts and barber spikes that increase squareness.

Heart-shaped faces:

Wigs where volume is in the forehead area and ends are curled or have bangs help to balance a wide forehead with a narrow chin.
Bobs or chin-length layered styles both look good.
Stay away from overly short and top-heavy styles as they tend to widen the forehead.
Chin-length layered styles elongate the neck and manage to make the wig look natural.

3. Choosing wig style based on hair color and skin tones

Next, the crucial aspect of selecting the ideal wig color. This decision plays a significant role in achieving a natural and flattering look, ultimately boosting your confidence.

How to choose a wig color? The most important thing is that it should be almost the same as your hair, but not quite. It is also essential to consider your skin tone. The two – skin and hair color – have to work together or else one will visually clash with the other. They can be divided into three categories: warm, cool, and neutral skin tone.

Warm undertones: suitable hair shades include warm browns, golden blond, honey, auburn as well as golden blonde.
Cool undertones: New Fashion hairstyles plus recent trends in hair coloring like cool brown, platinum blonde, ash, and deep black work best.
Neutral undertones: Colors that carry both warm and cool shades of neutral undertones provide added flexibility. People with neutral undertones can wear almost any hair color, as long as the shade is not too extreme.

A well-chosen wig color not only enhances your natural features but also instills a sense of confidence and empowerment.

4. Choosing wig style based on length

When choosing a wig style, length is a fundamental factor that significantly impacts your overall look. Here’s how one should go about choosing the right wig for themselves:

Short wigs: They usually range between 6 to 12 inches. Best suitable for people who are looking for bold, modern chic with a hint of easy maintenance. Ideal for edgy as well as professional styles. A few examples would include bobs or pixie cuts.
Medium wigs: They are usually 14 to 22 inches in length. They are a great option when versatility is required in styles, along with easy manageability. Great for working professionals. A few examples would include shoulder-length hairstyles and long bobs.
Long wigs: They start from 24 inches in length. In comparison to others, these wigs maintain a greater degree of glamour and drama and provide an illusion of flowing waves. Other styles can also be achieved, ranging from simple up-dos to braids. However, these wigs do require greater maintenance.

Besides, your personal style preferences play a crucial role in choosing the right length. Let’s consider whether you prefer a classic, trendy, or dramatic look.

5. Choosing wig style based on density

Wig density is defined as the measurement of how thick a hair strand is on a wig or, in other terms, how many strands of hair are sewn onto the wig’s cap. This is normally expressed as a percentage.

When purchasing a wig, density is one element that has the most impact on the wig’s appearance and feel. Below is the guide based on density:

Low density (100% – 120%): This range emulates the look of fine or thin hair. It gives a subtle, delicate look. Perfect for people who prefer a low profile and subtle look.
Medium density (130% – 150%): Strikes the perfect balance between looking natural and stylish. Suitable and appropriate for most occasions. Great volume for sufficient styling versatility.
High density (180% – 250%): Gives an illusion of hair that is full-bodied. Best for people with a luxurious style. Used more often for longer hairstyles.

Even with the correct density, it is essential to properly blend the wig with the hairline. This includes techniques such as plucking the hairline, applying wig glue around the wig area, tape, and hair styling.
If you’re unsure about your natural hair density or how to choose the right wig density, consult a professional wig stylist. They can assess your hair and recommend the best options for you.

6. How to choose a wig size

Selecting the correct wig size is paramount for both comfort and a natural appearance. A wig that’s too tight can cause discomfort and headaches, while one that’s too loose can shift or slip. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you find your perfect fit.
Measuring your head helps you find the right wig size chart.

Circumference:

This section is the most crucial measurement.
First, the tape measure should rest on your front hairline.
Turn the tape measure around your head, stopping just over your ears, then allowing it to slide to your nape.

Front to nape:

Start with one end of the tape resting on your front hairline.
Pull the tape measure straight over the top, terminating at the nape of your neck.

Ear to ear:

Begin at the hairline in front of one ear. Pull the tape across the forehead to the hairline in front of the opposite ear.
Starting at the hairline above one ear. Pull the tape over the head and underneath the hairline above the other ear.

Temple to temple:

Position the tape at one temple.
Pull the tape back around the head to the other temple.

After measuring, check your measurements against a wig size chart to determine which size wig would fit you best. If not, you can always consult the people who style your hair or reach out to the brand directly.

Conclusion
Learning how to choose a wig requires careful consideration of many factors. This process ranges from figuring out your face shape to closet color coordination, the length of hair needed, and even the volume of the wig. Each step plays a critical role in achieving a realistic and self-assured appearance.