A little history: Wigs and hairpieces

Wigs and hairpieces were once considered a luxury accessory. They were used to mark social standard. The richer you were the larger your wig and hairpiece.

They were objects to covet. They demonstrated prestige, sophistication and financial welbeing.

A good wig material was horse hair although llama and alpaca wigs and hair pieces were introduced in early Victorian times.

The base of a traditional wig in Victorian times was mink leather. The hair would be woven through the mink without knotting as this would cause scalp irritation.

Wigs and hairpieces used mink right up to the turn of this century as it prevented sweating from the scalp.

Interestingly, they were never invented to cover baldness. It wasn't until around 200 years ago that they were first used to cover and hide premature baldness.

Wigs today: Wigs and hairpieces

Many of todays wigs are synthetic, although some manufactures still use the traditional methods mentioned above. The use of human hair became fashionable for wigs and hairpieces in the time of Elizabeth the 1st. She would have at least 2 aids to help produce hair for her wigs.

Today, baldness caused by health matters or natural hair loss is the most common reason for using wigs and hairpieces. Hair extensions and the push from modern pop culture have increased the number of people using wigs for social purposes. A good wig is the perfect companion for many a night out. Fancy dress is another reason for people experimenting with wigs.

wigs and hair piece online store

Buying a wig: Wigs and hairpieces

While buying any wig or hairpiece, one should first consider what it is going to be used for. The importance of the wig should determine factors like cost, material, shape etc.

A good quality wig will last for years as long as it is looked after and the manufacturers care advice is followed. Buying a wig that is made of good quality material is wise. The saying, you get what you pay for can definitly apply to wigs. Cheap wigs and hairpieces will lose their shape and appearance much quicker than more expensive quality wigs.

wigs and hair pieces

Some tips for buying a wig

  • Choose a wig that suits your face structure. There are many varieties of wigs of all different lengths, sizes, styles etc.

  • Consider your 'look' and the style you want to portray when choosing a wig. There are many styles including long, wavy, short, sleek, straight and curly.

  • Select the wig for the job. A fun night out wig can be a cheap wig. A serious reason e.g. a health problem may mean you have to wear the wig for a length of time therefore quality is much more relevant.

  • If the wig is going to be used daily, we recommend you have at least one replacement wig

Good luck on your search for Wigs and hairpieces

A warm welcome from Wig on the Web, the online wigs and hairpieces store. We hope you find everything you are after here, whether it be a fun wig or something a little more serious or simply something to help give you that new look.
wigs and hairpieces

Wig on the Web

The Online Wig shop