Already found a style you like but wondering how to buy a wig? A human hair wig is a significant investment, especially if you plan to wear it regularly, so its color and hairstyle are only part of the decision. Other important factors to consider include the specific wig’s measurements, cap construction, security features, and customization options. After all, even two wigs that look similar on the outside may fit differently or even be designed for different needs.
So how do you figure out whether a wig will suit the proportions of your head, meet your needs, and stay in place without glue? This guide will show you how to read a wig’s product description and what to look for before ordering, so you can feel confident in your choice.
Table of Contents
Quick Take
- Before ordering a wig, check its appearance, measurements, and cap construction using the specific product’s description.
- Head circumference and front-to-nape are the two most important measurements, as even wigs of the same nominal size may vary slightly.
- Adjustable straps can help slightly adjust the wig’s fit, but they won’t solve the problem if you’ve chosen a wig with an incorrect front-to-nape measurement.
- The cap construction and securing elements affect how the wig stays on your head. These features may vary across different models.
- All in-stock Hairalicious wigs can be customized before shipping. Available options vary by model, and customization affects preparation time and return eligibility.
- Before confirming your order, double-check the specifications of the selected model, the customization options, and the purchase and return terms.
What to Look for When Buying a Wig
When considering what to look for when buying a wig, start by reading the full description of the model you’ve chosen. This is very important, even if it’s not your first time buying from the same seller. Why? For example, every time Hairalicious® restocks a wig, its detailed product information is updated, so even if you’ve seen the same model before, the specifications may now be different.
At the Hairalicious store, you’ll find the most important product specifications by clicking on these tabs:
If you want to learn more about a specific parameter, expand the tab and click the question mark next to it – you’ll see an additional explanation or a visual example.
Can’t find these tabs next to a specific product? Click the buttons under the “select options below:” section, and you’ll see all the specifications in one place:
If you’re looking at the description but aren’t quite sure what to focus on or what to look for, here’s what you need to know to make sure the wig is the right fit:
- what type of hair the wig is made from;
- what color and length the wig is;
- what the wig‘s size dimensions are;
- how the cap is constructed;
- what securing elements are used in this specific product.
If you start the wig selection process by keeping the technical details in mind, it’ll be easier to determine whether its features meet your needs. This also applies to appearance – after all, even details such as the hairline or parting can have a significant impact on the final result. If it’s especially important to you that the wig looks as natural as possible, we explain what creates a realistic wig appearance in another blog post.
How to Buy a Wig for the First Time
If you haven’t bought a wig before, that doesn’t mean you have to become a wig expert right away and learn all the terms used in the market. To understand how to buy a wig for the first time, focus on the key details that help you evaluate a specific product. And if you follow this sequence, the whole process can be quite simple:
- Pick out a specific product (or a few). Choose the style, color, and length you like, then open the description.
- Compare the measurements. Check your head circumference and front-to-nape measurements against the ranges specified for that wig.
- Evaluate the construction. Find out what type of cap is used, how stretchy it is, and what fastening options are available.
- Review the ordering options. If you’d like to customize the wig, find out what options the seller offers and how your chosen modifications might affect the preparation time and return policy. If you‘re buying a wig for the first time, we recommend skipping customization so you can return it if needed, provided the standard return conditions are met.
Of course, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all guide on which style or collection a beginner should choose. For one woman, ease of putting it on may be more important, while for another, greater styling freedom or a more breathable cap might be key. However, buying a wig for the first time becomes a much clearer process when you know what features to look for and how to check if they meet your needs.
And if you’d like to learn more about wig types, their features, and other topics relevant to women wearing a wig for the first time, we invite you to read our first-time wig wearer guide.
Size and Fit: What to Check Before Ordering
Although wigs, much like clothing, are also categorized by size, it’s not enough to choose one based solely on the label “small” or “medium.” If you’re comparing different brands, a “small” wig from one brand won’t necessarily match a “small” wig from another, and the sizes can vary even within the same brand’s range. So if you’re wondering how to buy a wig that fits properly, you should first pay attention to the specific numbers – the measurements.
Understanding the Measurements in a Wig Product Description
Once you know your head measurements, you can shop wigs by cap size, making it easier to select the right size. However, size categories are only a starting point. Before ordering, make sure to check the specific measurements of the wig.
Although wigs at the Hairalicious store are divided into four main size categories (ultra small, small, medium, and large), all products also include more precise measurement information. In the “Measurements” section of the product description, look for head circumference and front-to-nape.
Instead of a single abstract size, the product description will list a range of measurements that the specific wig can accommodate. Both of your measurements should fall within the specified range or be slightly smaller. A slight difference in circumference can be compensated for by adjustable straps, but the front-to-nape measurement is much less flexible, so you want to make sure the wig isn’t too short in this area.
These measurement ranges can also help you understand cap elasticity, as they show how much the wig cap can stretch to accommodate different head sizes. Elasticity also depends on the cap construction. For example, sewn-in wefts can make a cap less stretchy, compared to a hand-tied construction.
Adjustable straps at the back of the wig can also slightly reduce the cap’s circumference, but they do not alter its front-to-nape measurement. As a result, even a larger wig that is tightly fastened may wrinkle or sit improperly at the nape, while a cap that is too short may ride up and cause pressure.
If you don’t yet know your exact head measurements or would like to better understand the wig size chart, we recommend our detailed wig size chart guide. In it, we explain how to measure your head correctly and compare the results with wig sizes.
How the Wig Stays Secure Without Glue
Not all wigs are designed to be worn without glue, but all Hairalicious® wigs are glueless and can be worn with or without natural hair. The way they stay secure can differ between models, so when learning how to buy a wig, check which securing elements the specific product includes and which ones best suit your needs.
Adjustable straps are located at the back of the cap. They allow you to increase or decrease the tension so that the cap fits more comfortably.
An extra elastic band provides additional support for wearers with or without natural hair, including those with complete hair loss, and can help the front lace section lie flatter. The band can be adjusted or removed if the tension causes discomfort.
Combs and clips are designed to attach to natural hair. Combs generally put less tension on the hair, while clips can provide a firmer hold but also put more strain on the hair. If your natural hair is weak or absent, these elements should not be considered the primary solution. Some caps feature silicone sections instead of or in addition to these, which help the wig stay in place by making contact with the skin or hair.
It’s worth paying special attention to ear tabs. Firm ear tabs provide more stability on the sides and help the wig stay in place without adhesive, but their sturdier construction limits certain hairstyles, such as a sleek, high ponytail. Meanwhile, lace ear tabs are more flexible and can be trimmed to fit around your ears and better follow the shape of your head. They offer more styling options, although some styles may require additional securing with glue.
When considering how to buy a wig for everyday wear, choose a glueless fit that stays in place securely without causing unnecessary pressure, and be sure to check the specific product’s construction and fastening elements before ordering. If you’d like to compare different cap construction options offered by Hairalicious in more detail, we recommend our Cap Guide. There you’ll find photos, key features, and the differences which can help you make a decision.
Personalization Before You Order
Wondering how to buy a wig with a specific haircut or parting? At Hairalicious®, all in-stock wigs can be customized. Before ordering, check the personalization options available for that model. After selecting an in-stock item, answer “Yes” to the question “Would you like to customize this style?” to view the available options.
You can change the cut, add bangs or layers, shorten the length, or adjust the parting or styling. You can also adjust the number of clips or combs, choose to add or remove an extra elastic band, and have the wig prepared with the excess lace already trimmed. If you’re unsure how a selected detail will look, clicking the question mark next to the corresponding field will display a visual example.
However, before confirming your selections, be sure to read the terms and conditions. At Hairalicious, preparing customized orders for shipment takes two days longer, and customized products are not eligible for standard returns.
How to Buy a Wig Online
Learning how to buy a wig online also means reviewing the details of the exact product you’ve selected before paying. When shopping online, you can’t try the wig on, but you can compare the most important information on the product page and spot any discrepancies in advance.
Before adding the item to your cart, ask yourself:
- Have you selected the correct product version? The color, length, available options, and description must match what you intend to order.
- Have you checked both measurements? Compare your head circumference and front-to-nape measurements with the ranges listed for the selected product.
- Is the cap’s construction clear? Review its design, elasticity, ear tabs, and securing elements.
- Have you decided on customization? Check the selected modifications, turnaround time, and return policy.
- Are there any unclear fields left? If necessary, use the question marks next to the parameters and the visual examples.
Still have questions? Our team is happy to help! You can contact us directly or use the “Product Inquiry” option available on every product page.
If the model you like is sold out, Hairalicious lets you select a size and click “Notify me” to receive an email when it becomes available again.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Measure My Head for a Wig?
Before taking measurements, style your natural hair the way you plan to wear it under the wig (we recommend a style that’s as flat as possible against your head, without any bumps). Use a soft measuring tape to measure the circumference of your head and the front-to-nape length without pulling it too tight, and double-check the results a few times. You’ll find detailed steps in our wig size chart guide.
What if the Wig Feels Too Loose or Too Tight?
First, make sure the wig is positioned correctly and check whether you can adjust the tension of the straps or elastic band. If the wig still wrinkles, slips, or feels tight, the problem may be related to an improper fit.
How Do I Keep a Glueless Wig Secure?
Stability is ensured by the proper cap size and the fastening elements designed for that specific wig. Depending on the design, these may include adjustable straps, an extra elastic band, or silicone sections; and if you want to secure the wig to your natural hair, you can also use combs or clips.
What Do I Need to Know Before Buying a Wig?
When learning how to buy a wig, start by measuring your head accurately and choosing the right size. A proper fit affects not only how comfortable the wig feels but also how natural it looks. Next, review the specific product description to make sure its features meet your needs, and check the return policy before placing your order.
Is It Better to Buy a Wig at a Store or Online?
Both methods have their advantages: in a store, you can try on a wig, while online, you can compare different models and their specifications in detail and at your convenience. If you’re buying online, check the measurements, photos of the design, the description, and the return policy very carefully. Most importantly, make sure you have enough information about the specific product before placing your order.
What Information Should a Wig Product Description Include?
A helpful product description should allow you to check the hair type, color, length, cap construction, size ranges, and included fasteners. At Hairalicious, we provide exceptionally detailed product descriptions, so you can understand the specific features of each wig before ordering. This information may be presented in expandable tabs or appear when you select specific product options. If a particular term is unclear, click the question mark next to it to find out more information.
What Should I Check Before Buying a Wig Online?
Before paying for your order, double-check the wig‘s size dimensions, cap construction, and current product description of the item you’ve selected. Check which clips, combs, or elastic bands are included and make sure you’ve selected your desired customization options. Finally, read the preparation and return policies, especially if you’re modifying any product details.
Can a Wig Be Personalized Before Ordering?
Yes! At Hairalicious, all in-stock wigs can be customized before ordering. You can adjust the haircut, parting, lace, or certain securing elements, depending on the available options for the selected wig. Customized orders take two additional days to prepare for shipping and are not eligible for standard returns.
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