Planning to buy your first wig?
But maybe you bother checking if you’ve got the correct wig length.
In this article, you will discover why having the correct wig length is important, and learn how to choose the right wig length.
What Does Wig Length Mean?
Wig length is simply the measurement from the hair roots on the top of the head up to the tip of the longest hair strand.
Nowadays, there are a wide variety of wig lengths available for every woman–from super skimpy pixie cuts to extremely long cosplay hairs. Name it, you can have it!
Short, Mid-length, or Long Wig?
But before we go for the extremes, let’s first get to know the three standard wig length classifications.
1. Short Length
If you aren’t bold enough to drastically chop off your hair now, then short wigs are your next best option. It is the usual go-to length if you want to achieve that polished and professional look.
But do not be limited to these styles because short wigs can be sculpted into a fun, fierce, and edgy look too. Talk about having the best of both worlds!
2. Middle Length
Go hop on the trend wagon and give mid-length wigs a try!
It is the most versatile and trendy length you can wear because it can easily be switched from putting it in a sleek updo to letting your messy, undone hair down.
This wig length can beautifully frame your face while accentuating its natural structure too.
3. Long Length
Do you miss the feminine feeling of having long hair? Transform from short to show-stopping lengthy locks with your ever-trusted long wigs.
You can play around by curling, styling, and braiding it or just let it down for that effortlessly chic effect. The possibilities are endless with your long wig on.
Why Is It Important to Measure Wig Length?
1. Unique Needs
Everybody is different in terms of height and structure. That is why one specific wig length will not look exactly the same when worn by two different people.
With this in mind, always consider your own features when choosing your wig length.
This way, you will get the proportions right and ensure that the wig length you buy will suit you.
2. Save money
If you are planning to buy Remy hair wigs, hair extensions, or full lace wigs, which will be a huge investment.
You’d better make sure to buy the correct length if you don’t want to waste any of your money.
How to Measure the Wig Length?
1. Straight Hair
Get a ruler or a tape measure.
If your reference is your natural hair, start measuring from the hair roots on the crown of your head all the way down to the end of your hair strands.
Note: If your reference is an existing hairpiece, place the wig on a stand first before measuring it. And instead of measuring from the roots, your origin will be from the lace of the wig on the same crown portion of the head down to the tip of the hair strands.
2. Curly or Wavy Hair
a. Get a ruler or a tape measure.
b. Stretch your hair strands. Make sure it is as straight as possible. This will give you a more accurate measurement since curly or wavy hair looks much shorter than straight ones. You can refer to the chart below to see the difference.
c. While the hair is still stretched, measure your wig length from the roots on the crown of your head down to the bottom of your hair. This same method applies if you measure curly wigs. Just make sure to place it in a wig stand first for more precise measurement.
Shown below is a wig length chart you can refer to for straight, wavy, and curly hair.
Notice that the same wig length measurement varies in actual length depending on the hair texture. [1]
Keep this in check whenever you buy your wigs to avoid wrong or unflattering lengths.
You can check this video to learn more.
Tips to Choose the Right Wig Length
So, which length is best for you when shopping? I listed out some factors below to help you choose the proper hair length.
1. Your Height
Your height is a significant factor in choosing your wig length. Why? Because your wig length can either complement or work against it.
Let’s say you are on the petite side, a very long wig can drown you and make you look even shorter. But if you go for a short or mid-length wig, it gives an illusion that you are taller than you actually are.
2. Your Body
Your physique is uniquely you, and knowing your body’s build and structure can help you easily choose the correct wig length for you. Some things to consider are the length of your neck and your torso.
If you are taller and you lean on the longer side, the standard mid-length and long wigs may appear shorter on you.
3. Keep Longer
It is always safe to go for the longer option because you can always cut the extra inches off anyway.
Dealing with unnatural, shorter wigs, especially hair extensions, means having to sacrifice a few inches off your natural hair just to make ends meet.
I bet you would not want to go that route.
4. Try Different Lengths
Be adventurous and give every wig length available a try. Wigs give you a chance to experiment and find the wig length and style perfect for you.
Who knows, you might be surprised by the new facet you’ll be able to uncover upon trying different lengths.
FAQs about the Wig Length
What’s the shoulder-length hair in inches?
It falls at around 14 to 18 inches. The length varies depending on the physical structure of the wig wearer and the texture of the wig.
Let’s say you have a shorter neck, then a 14-inch wig will look longer on you compared to someone with a longer neck.
In terms of texture, shoulder-length hair measurement for curly wigs is longer compared to straight wigs. The deeper the curls, the longer the measurement will be.
Why do wigs appear longer on some people and shorter on others?
Because different people have different body structures, such as torso length. If you have a longer torso compared to others, wigs will look shorter on you and vice versa.
What is a stretched length?
It is the length of hair when it is stretched straight. This term is applicable for wavy and curly wig hairs because, in order to measure their true length, it has to be stretched straight first.
What is the common wig length most women buy?
The top three common wig lengths most women buy are 12 inches, 18 inches, and 26 inches, respectively.
