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Selecting the right wig length can seem confusing for first-time buyers. Understanding how wig lengths are measured, what the most popular styles are, and factors to consider when choosing, helps ensure you pick the perfect hairpiece. Yoghair hopes this guide will cover everything you need to know about wig lengths and styles to find your best fit.
Understand the Wig Length Chart
Categories of Wig Length
Wig lengths are measured from the crown or top of the head to the bottom of the hair. Most wig companies provide a chart with lengths listed in inches. Standard wig lengths include:
- Short – 8 to 12 inches
- Medium – 14 to 16 inches
- Long – 18 to 22 inches
- Extra Long – 24 inches and longer
Understand Wig Length
Keep in mind that length charts are just guidelines. The actual length of a person depends on their head size and where the wig falls on their head. A 16-inch wig may hit at the shoulders of one person and slightly below the shoulders of someone else.
It’s helpful to take some measurements of your head to estimate what length will look best on you:
- Crown to nape of the neck
- Crown to shoulder
- Crown to bra strap
- Crown to mid-back
Comparing your measurements to a wig brand’s length chart will give you a rough idea of what length will work for your proportions and desired look.
How to use a wig length chart
When reviewing a wig length chart, here are some tips:
- Look at the range for each length category. For example, 14-16 inch wigs are considered medium length but differ between 14 and 16 inches.
- Pay attention to increments. Some brands have more options like 10, 12, 14, and 16 inches, while others may just have short, medium, or long. More increments give you more flexibility to narrow down the ideal length.
- Look at photos of each length worn on models. Photos allow you to visualize how the length will look on an average person.
- Read product descriptions which often include details like “falls just past shoulders” or “hits at mid-back.”
- Consider your hair goals. Do you want a dramatic change or a length close to your natural hair?
- Think about your face shape and what flatters it. Length can accentuate or downplay certain features.
- Consider your lifestyle and if the length will be inconvenient. For example, very long hair getting tangled at work.
These tips when consulting a length chart will ensure you select a wig length tailored to your needs and preferences.
Popular wig length charts
While choosing the right wig length is a personal decision, there are some popular “go to” lengths that suit a wide variety of styles and preferences:
Shoulder Length (12-16 inches)
This adjustable medium length wraps across the shoulders and collarbone. If you desire length but don’t want to go too far, this is a fantastic alternative. Wigs that fall past the shoulders suit most facial forms nicely. To add volume and movement, the hair has some weight to it, but not too much that it becomes unpleasant. It’s simple to style into hairstyles, ponytails, braids, and gentle waves.
Mid-Back Length (18-22 inches)
Mid-back length wigs are an amazing option for people who prefer long, luxurious locks. This wig length offers a lot of volume and styling options, reaching halfway down the back or around the bra line. Although they save the trouble of sitting on really long hair, mid-back wigs still make a statement. The weight prevents strings from forming in curls and waves. Buns, ponytails, and braids work really well with it.
Bob Length (6-10 inches)
A timeless look, bob-cut wigs are popular. Bob wigs are simple to wear and style, ending just below the chin. The most attractive shape has a slightly longer front and a shorter behind. In straight, curly, or wavy styles, bobs work well to frame the face. Women who seek a stylish yet low-maintenance style should definitely try it.
How to Know Your Wig is True to Length
When you receive a new wig, you’ll want to check that the length matches what was advertised. Here are some tips:
- Lay the wig flat on a table to measure from top to end. Compare to the advertised length range.
- Try the wig on and use a measuring tape from the crown to the tips in a few spots. Again, compare to the advertised length.
- If wearing straight, ensure the ends hit at the length indicated. Styling like curls can shorten the appearance.
- Ask someone to take a photo of you wearing the wig from the back to see where it hits your body.
- Check the length in the side and front by taking photos of the wig on you.
- Move around in the wig to ensure it doesn’t shorten when moving naturally.
- Read reviews to see if others found the wig ran true to length.
Getting the length right is crucial for being happy with your wig. Spending a few minutes double-checking will give you confidence you received the advertised length.
How to measure wig length
Before we discuss how to measure the length of your wig, there is one very crucial issue we would want to clarify. The length of the wig’s package indicates the length of the hair after installation.
More specifically, it’s a measurement of the length of the hair (when the wig is on) taken from the top of your head to the end of the longest strand. Let’s say you purchased an 11-inch wig; assuming the wig is true to length, the measurement should be 10 inches from the head’s crown to the tip of the longest strand.
In just three easy steps, you can measure the length of your wig:
- Dress a mannequin head in your wig the same way you would if it were your own. The measurement won’t be accurate if you place the wig on a table. Don’t turn the wig upside down.
- At the mannequin’s head crown, place one end of a soft measuring tape (the one that starts at 0 inches). The measuring tape should be placed where the top of the head begins to slope downward to guarantee that you are measuring at the correct location.
- When you get to the end of the hair, hold one end of the measuring tape at the crown and move it straight down the back of the wig. As you measure, use your palm to spread the hair out if it’s not quite straight.
Common Misconceptions About Wig Lengths
There are some common mistakes and misconceptions people have about wig lengths:
Longer is Always Better
Although many people believe that the longest option is best, extremely long wigs have drawbacks. They can look over the top in formal or professional contexts, require more maintenance, and are hotter. Before thinking that longer is better, consider your goals and lifestyle.
Length is Standard Among Brands
There can be up to a 2-inch difference in what brands consider “shoulder length.” Always check the inch measurements, not just length names.
Wigs Can Be Cut and Remain Undetectable
A skilled wig stylist should always cut wigs. Significant length variations can affect how a wig looks and how concealable it is. Make cautious cutouts.
Online Lengths Will Match In Person
The web photos have inaccurate representations. The way length appears is affected by lighting, model proportions, and styling. There may be minor differences between the wig in person and the images.
Lengths Work the Same On Everyone
The appearance of length on a person is influenced by their height, head size, shoulders, and face shape. If the structure or features are really small or enormous, set reasonable expectations.
You can choose the best wig length for your needs and style by verifying what you know about how wigs work.
How to Choose Your Best Hair Length
With so many wig length options” choosing your ideal hair length can be overwhelming. Here are some tips to guide you:
- Consider your face shape. Play up your best features. Shorter styles tend to flatter round or square faces while longer lengths complement oval or heart-shaped faces.
- Think about your hair goals. Do you want to enhance your natural look or go for a dramatic change? Stay relatively close to your real length or go much longer/shorter?
- Assess your hair care routine. Long wigs require more styling and management. Short styles are lower maintenance. Find the balance for your lifestyle.
- Review your wardrobe. Make sure lengths complement your clothing like shoulders bare or covered.
- Think about occasions. Very long or short wigs may not be right for professional settings. Have a few lengths suitable for different contexts.
- Look for versatility. Medium lengths allow for more styling like updos. Go for texture over length if you want options.
- Ask a stylist. Consult a wig expert who can assess your face shape, and needs and make personalized recommendations.
Being honest about your hair goals, face shape, lifestyle, and preferences will make choosing your perfect wig length easy. Take your time, do your research, and don’t overthink it!
Conclusion
Selecting the ideal wig length involves a number of considerations from measuring your head shape and face, to assessing lifestyle needs, to determining your hair goals. While length selection is personal, most wig wearers opt for versatile medium-shoulder length and classic bob styles. Reviewing specific inch measurements, not just wig length categories ensures the best fit. Expect some variance from photos online to try on in person too. No matter what length you choose, embrace the chance to experiment with fun new wig styles.
