From blond to pink to curly to cropped, Leah Harper immersed herself in the world of wigs for a week to test-drive different styles and explore the growing trend. The global wigs and hair extensions market is predicted to reach $13.28bn this year, according to data insights company Statista.
Day 1: The Brunette Hair Topper
Leah started with a wiglet or 'topper' – an 18-inch straight synthetic hair topper from Peonymebeauty in 'chocolate brown'. She clipped it into her existing hair and waited to see if anyone noticed. No one did. The topper felt thick and swishy, bouncing around her jawline, but took far less time than a blow-dry for a similarly voluminous look.
Day 2: The Retro High Glamour Starlet Style
Inspired by celebrity wig-wearers like Sabrina Carpenter, Leah tried the Starlet Style wig from Wigs UK, a retro high glamour look. She learned from Melanie Burrell of Parrucche how to use a mesh wig liner and adjusters for a comfortable fit. The synthetic fibres remained unchanged in the rain, and by the end of her meal, her mother had forgotten she was wearing a wig.
Day 3: The Sleek Mono Part Wig
Leah tried a sleek 'mono part wig' from the Ellen Wille Hairpower collection in metallic blond. The silver-grey hair felt super-chic, reminiscent of Sarah Harris's mane. However, she looked a bit funny without her signature fringe and grabbed a baseball cap to feel incognito.
Day 4: The Bright Red Mermaid Wig
Leah bought a wavy red wig from Wokestar and cut in a fringe. The result was obviously a wig, but it hardly mattered – a neighbour complimented her 'new hair'. However, the cheaper synthetic hair began to knot and tangle quickly. Celebrity hairstylist Kim Kimble advises investing in good-quality wigs, which can range from $500 to $10,000.
Day 5: The Chiara Wig from Valentine Wigs
Leah tried the Belle Madame Chiara wig, a wavy ash blond with a lace front for a realistic hairline. The cap construction is crucial, explains Vicki Barnard of Valentine Wigs: fully hand-tied caps create the most natural look. However, Leah felt unbearably hot on a warm day and struggled to perch her sunglasses on her head.
Day 6: The Blond Pixie Cut
Feeling brave, Leah attempted a synthetic blond pixie cut from Ellen Wille. Hoping to channel Vicky McClure's punky crop, she ended up feeling more like Princess Diana and abandoned the wig shortly before leaving the house. She learned that once you go out in a wig, you're committed.
Day 7: The Pink Festival Wig
For a festival, Leah opted for a 24-inch ombre pink synthetic wig from Esmee Wigs. She trimmed the fringe, paired it with cowboy boots, and felt festival-ready. After posting a picture online, she received many positive comments. She decided to invest in wig stands, embracing wigs as a fashion accessory rather than a taboo.
Wigs are now worn by people with cancer, alopecia, trans individuals, older clients, and fashion enthusiasts. The popularity is 'really through the roof', says Barnard, with weight-loss drugs also contributing to hair loss and increased wig use. Burrell hopes wig shopping feels like a pamper, even through NHS prescription.
