Choosing a Costume Wig That Looks Right

A wig can finish a costume in seconds, or spoil it if it sits badly. Most of the difference comes down to fit, fibre and how you handle it. This guide covers the basics.

Wig styles and fibres

Start with the character. Look at the length, the colour, the fringe (bangs) and whether the hair is straight, curly or worn up. Then pick the wig that matches those, not the one that looks nicest on its own.

Common styles you will see:

• Long and straight, for many princesses, witches and fairy tale heroines.
• Short bobs, for characters with a neat, tidy look.
• Curly or wavy wigs, for ringlets, Victorian looks and wild hair.
• Braided or plaited styles, ready made so you do not have to plait a wig yourself.
• Bright or unnatural colours, for fantasy, cartoon and party costumes.

Most costume wigs are made from synthetic fibre. It is light, holds its style and costs less than real hair. Some synthetic fibres have a shiny, plastic look under bright light. A softer, matte fibre usually looks more like hair in photos.

Real hair wigs exist, but they are a different kind of purchase and are rarely needed for a costume worn once or twice. Check the product description for the fibre, and read the care label when it arrives.

Heat is worth a word. Many synthetic wigs are not made to take the heat of a hair dryer, straightener or curling iron. Some are labelled heat friendly. If the label does not say so, keep heat away.

Fitting a wig cap

A wig cap keeps your own hair flat and stops the wig slipping. It also helps hide the wig edge. It is a small step that makes a big difference.

1. Brush your hair smooth and free of tangles.
2. For short hair, tuck it flat under the cap. For long hair, plait it or twist it into a flat coil, then pin it close to the head.
3. Stretch the cap open and pull it on from the forehead back. Keep the front edge just at the hairline.
4. Tuck any loose strands and the edges of the cap under, so nothing shows.
5. Put the wig on from the front, then ease it back and down. Adjust until the wig sits level and the hairline looks natural.
6. Use the inner strap or clips, if the wig has them, to snug it up. A few hair pins help on a long day.

Keep a pair of spare pins in your bag. Wigs tend to shift when you take off a coat or hug someone.

Children and adult sizing

Costume wigs are often sold as one size, with an elastic or an adjustable band inside. That works for many adults, but check the size notes on the product page. Some wigs are listed as child size, and some as adult.

For children, a few things help:

• Measure around the head, above the eyebrows and ears, and compare it to the size given.
• Choose a shorter or lighter wig for younger children. A very long, heavy wig can pull and get in the way.
• Check the fringe. If it hangs into the eyes, it can be trimmed slightly or pinned back. Trim only if you are happy to make it permanent.
• Try it on at home first, for a few minutes, so you know if it is itchy or too tight.

For adults, the same measuring applies. If you have a lot of hair or a larger head, look for an adjustable cap and allow room for a wig cap underneath. If you are between sizes, a wig that adjusts is usually easier to live with than a fixed one.

If a child is unhappy with a wig, do not push it. A headband, a hat or a simple hair change may be all the costume needs.

Styling and brushing gently

Synthetic wigs tangle easily, especially long ones. A little care keeps them looking good.

• Take it out of the packaging and let it hang for a while. Creases often relax on their own.
• Use a wide tooth comb or a wig brush, not a normal hairbrush.
• Hold the hair near the ends and work upward, a small section at a time. Never drag a brush from the top to the bottom of a tangled wig.
• Brush it before you wear it, and again at the end of the day.
• Do not brush a wig when it is wet.
• Store it loosely, on a stand or in a bag, so it keeps its shape.

If you want to change the style, keep it simple. Pin up a section, add a ribbon, or tuck one side behind an ear. Follow the care label for anything more, and try any product on a hidden section first.

When a hat or hood does the job instead

Not every costume needs a wig. Sometimes a hat, hood or headpiece is easier, cooler and more comfortable.

• Characters known for a hat, hood or crown: the headwear is the recognisable part. A wig may not add much.
• Very active days, such as a school run, a playground or a long day out: a hat stays put and does not itch.
• Hot rooms or warm weather: a wig can get uncomfortable quickly.
• Young children who dislike things on their head: a soft hood or a hairband is often more welcome.
• Characters whose hair matches your own: styling your own hair may be enough.

A hooded cloak, a pointed hat or a simple headband can carry a whole costume. If you are not sure, try the hat first and add a wig only if the look needs it.

Whichever way you go, try the whole costume on before the day. It is much easier to fix a problem at home than at the door.