Wig Length Guide
What’s the Hair Length of a Wig?
The most common purchased wig lengths are 12–24 inches. This is no surprise since these lengths give you just enough hair to rock bobs, layered styles, straight styles, and long cascading curls and waves. The appeal of these wig lengths is that they are neither too short nor too long. Even beginners can handle caring for a wig between 12–24 inches long.
Understand Wig Hair Length
Wig lengths are typically categorized into 4 main groups: short, medium, long, and extra long.
- Short Length: Short wigs range from just a few inches to around 10 inches in length.
- Medium Length: Medium-length wigs fall between 12 and 16 inches long, striking a balance between shorter and longer styles.
- Long Length: Long wigs extend from 18 inches to approximately 24 inches in length, offering an elegant look.
- Extra Long: Extra-long wigs measure 26 inches and beyond, providing dramatic length.
Wig Hair Length in Inches
8-inch wig
The 8-inch wig is great for those seeking a cool and breezy option, especially during hot summer days or while working out. It works well for short straight bobs, asymmetrical cuts, cute short curls, and super short beach waves. If your hair is straight, this length will reach your chin and collarbone comfortably.
10-inch wig
The 10-inch wig is perfect for women who prefer a slightly shorter style but find 8 inches to be too brief. It’s ideal for achieving a middle or side bob with a bit more length, and can handle fun spiral curls. For straight hair, the length typically falls approximately 10 inches above the collarbone.
12-inch wig
The 12-inch wig is popular for achieving the trendy lob (long bob) hairstyle often seen on social media. Many individuals favor this length as it offers both adequate length and volume. It works well for curly bobs and beach waves, and when straightened, it falls around most people’s collarbones.
14-inch wig
Sitting between medium and long lengths, 14-inch wigs offer versatility. This length works wonders for long bobs, wavy curls, spiral curls, and super-tight curls. It also allows for options such as a bangs bob, an A-line bob, or a feathered style with layers. Falling a few inches above the collarbone and back bra strap, it strikes a flattering balance.
16-inch wig
The 16-inch wig has slightly less volume but remains suitable for longer lengths. It accommodates various styles, ranging from loose waves and deep waves to smaller curls and straight looks. Approximately 16 inches of hair will fall to the right side of the chest.
18-inch wig
Considered a long wig and immensely popular among women, the 18-inch wig falls from the shoulders and offers a lovely appearance in a multitude of styles. Whether you prefer curly hair, silky straight locks, or teasing waves, this length provides versatility. One of the best aspects of having an 18-inch wig is that it brings about a sense of beauty while remaining manageable.
20-inch wig
With longer lengths, the 20-inch wig provides flowing movement and the ability to create stunning looks that leave a lasting impression. This length reaches close to the waist, making it ideal for special occasions. While flattering for most face shapes, it may be less comfortable during extended periods outdoors or in hot weather.
22-inch wig
Similar to the 20-inch wig, the 22-inch wig captures attention with its noticeable length. It works well for layered curls, wavy hair, sleek and straight styles. Falling just above the waistline, it strikes a balance between achieving a long look without being too lengthy.
24–32 inch wig
Wigs longer than 24 inches are classified as “extra long.” These wigs boast flowing hair that cascades almost down to the hips, or even further. With such generous length, styling options are nearly limitless, allowing for various creative choices to be explored and enjoyed.
Wig Length Chart
Wig Lengths for Different Hair Textures
Straight hair wig
When it comes to a straight-hair wig, the length of the strands will appear as their actual measurement. Straight hair lacks curls or kinks that would affect its length. Therefore, an 18-inch straight wig will gracefully fall all the way down to the mid-back area.
Wavy hair wig
With a wavy wig, the hair will visually appear slightly shorter than its actual length due to the bends in the hair texture. For example, a shoulder-length wig that measures 12 inches may look more like 11 inches in length when worn.
Curly hair wig
For a wig with a curly texture, the hair will seem to be 1 to 2 inches shorter than its actual length. This is because the hair forms deeper curls throughout its length, which effectively reduces the visual length. As a result, a 14-inch curly wig may give the impression of being around 12 to 13 inches long.
How to Measure a Wig Length?
- Start by securing the wig onto a wig stand or mannequin head.
- Comb or brush the wig gently to remove any tangles or knots.
- Take a measuring tape and place one end at the top center of the wig, where the hairline starts.
- Hold the measuring tape straight down, allowing it to hang freely, and measure the length of the wig.
- Measure all the way to the bottom of the wig, following the hair strands until you reach the desired length.
- Read the measurement on the measuring tape to determine the wig length.
- If the wig has layers, you can measure each layer individually to understand the different lengths.