Theatre Wigs: 3 Essential Tips for a Perfect Fit

Theatre wigs are a vital part of any production, helping actors to transform into their characters and create a believable world on stage. But finding the right wig can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to the world of theatre. Here are three essential tips to help you find the perfect fit.

1. Know Your Head Shape

The first step to finding the right theatre wig is to know your head shape. There are six basic head shapes: oval, round, square, diamond, triangle, and oblong. Once you know your head shape, you can start to narrow down your search for a wig that will fit properly.

• Oval: Oval heads are the most common and can wear most types of wigs.
• Round: Round heads are wider than they are long and look best in wigs that have a lot of volume on top.
• Square: Square heads have a strong jawline and look best in wigs that have a soft, rounded shape.
• Diamond: Diamond heads are widest at the cheekbones and narrow at the forehead and chin. They look best in wigs that have a lot of volume at the sides.
• Triangle: Triangle heads are widest at the forehead and narrow at the chin. They look best in wigs that have a lot of volume at the bottom.
• Oblong: Oblong heads are longer than they are wide and look best in wigs that have a lot of volume on the sides and back.

2. Choose the Right Wig Size

Once you know your head shape, you need to choose the right wig size. Wigs are typically measured in inches, from the circumference of the head to the crown. The average head size for women is 22 inches, and the average head size for men is 23 inches.

If you are not sure what size wig to get, it is always best to err on the side of caution and choose a wig that is too big rather than too small. A wig that is too small will be uncomfortable to wear and may not stay in place. A wig that is too big can be adjusted to fit properly by a wig stylist.

3. Consider Your Hair Type

Finally, you need to consider your hair type when choosing a theatre wig. If you have thick hair, you will need a wig that is made of a durable material that can withstand the weight of your hair. If you have thin hair, you may want to choose a wig that is made of a lighter material that will not weigh your hair down.

You should also consider the texture of your hair when choosing a wig. If you have curly hair, you may want to choose a wig that is made of a curly material that will blend in with your natural hair. If you have straight hair, you can choose a wig that is made of any material.

Conclusion

Finding the right theatre wig can be a daunting task, but by following these three essential tips, you can find a wig that will fit properly and help you to transform into your character.

Additional Tips

• Bring a picture of your character to the wig shop. This will help the wig stylist to choose a wig that matches your character's look.
• Be prepared to try on several wigs. Don't be afraid to experiment until you find a wig that you feel comfortable in.
• Get your wig professionally styled. A wig stylist can help you to style your wig so that it looks its best on stage.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How much do theatre wigs cost? The cost of a theatre wig can vary depending on the type of wig, the material it is made of, and the brand. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $500 for a quality theatre wig.

• How do I care for my theatre wig? Theatre wigs should be brushed and washed regularly to keep them looking their best. You can wash your wig in the sink or in the washing machine on a gentle cycle. Be sure to use a mild shampoo and conditioner.

• How long will my theatre wig last? The lifespan of a theatre wig depends on how well you care for it. With proper care, a theatre wig can last for many years.

Table 1: Head Shapes and Wig Styles

Table 2: Wig Sizes

Table 3: Wig Materials

Table 4: Wig Textures