If you don’t have a wig stand or head form, lay the wig hair out flat on a table or other flat surface. [2] X Research source
If you’re measuring the wig on a table, don’t place the tape measure at the front hairline![5] X Research source Make sure you start measuring at the wig cap’s crown. [6] X Expert Source Tiffany PateLicensed Cosmetologist Expert Interview. 9 November 2021. A straight ruler works in a pitch if you don’t have a flexible tape.
Wig length is usually measured in inches, but write it down in inches and centimeters just in case. This measurement is the “finished length. " It’s the only length measurement listed on wig websites and packaging. [8] X Research source Most wigs have shorter layers on top, so measuring the sides won’t give you an accurate length measurement.
This is the hair’s true length since unstretched curls and waves look shorter than really are.
You only need to measure 1 side since the other side should be identical in length.
If you want a chin- or shoulder-length wig, skip this step.
This is the standard way to measure wig hair length. Using the same technique gives you the most accurate measurement for wig shopping.
If you plan to buy a curly wig, add 1–2 in (2. 5–5. 1 cm) to the length. [15] X Research source It’s important to measure yourself first instead of choosing a standard wig length like “long” or “medium. " A 20 in (51 cm) wig might suit a tall, lean body frame just fine, but it could completely overwhelm a petite frame. Overall height, neck length, and torso length play big roles when it comes to what a wig actually looks like on a person. If you’re tall and lean, wigs tend to look shorter on you than they actually are.
Be sure to measure straight down! Don’t curve the tape over your cheeks or toward your chin. Shorter wigs tend to accentuate neck length. If you have a short neck, this can be a good thing. If you already have a long, lean neck, you may not want to accentuate that characteristic. If you want a curly wig, add 1–2 in (2. 5–5. 1 cm) to your the measurement.
Most shoulder-length wigs measure 14–18 in (36–46 cm) in length. That 4 in (10 cm) difference is a lot if you think about it! That’s because “shoulder-length” or “medium length” isn’t a one-size-fits-all category. Wig length can look drastically different depending on height, facial structure, and body type. Add 1–2 in (2. 5–5. 1 cm) to the measurement if you want a curly wig. Choose a wig according to your lifestyle. [18] X Expert Source Tiffany PateLicensed Cosmetologist Expert Interview. 9 November 2021. See what wig length you are comfortable with and will be able to wear. [19] X Expert Source Tiffany PateLicensed Cosmetologist Expert Interview. 9 November 2021.
