Under Cover

Great for a bad hair day or an instant change of image, wigs are this season’s must-have accessory.

Do you want short tresses a la Nia Long in The Best Man but don’t want to go for the chop?

Wigs are fun, and as the weather slips towards autumn, it’s a great way of changing your image without taking the plunge of having a drastic hair cut or colour change. Li’L Kim’s white hot look has been very influential, as have the natural ‘fros of Macy Grey and Angie Stone. Wigs allow you to change your mood and personality instantly. They are brilliant for bad hair days And there are designs for every type of style. We’ve even seen dreadlock hair pieces with a ready made hair band that you just pull on your head and looks just like the real thing.

Then try this crop wig by Sleek.

Begin by choosing the right wig material. Synthetic wigs are cheaper and have in-built ‘design memory’ which allows the wigs, texture and style to snap back into place after washing and styling. Human hair wigs create the most realistic impression, allowing you to heat style for a variety of effects (synthetic wigs should never be touched by heated implements since the heat will melt the fibres).

The type of wig you choose depends on the effect that you want. They can be divided into three different types. A hairpiece - great for adding length and filling in); a ponytail - (usually attached to your hair); a full wig - (which covers your entire head).
Old fashioned wigs used to be hot and itchy to wear, modern wigs are softer and lighter due to the materials like Kanekalon hair fibres used.
We asked Frank Van Laarhoven of La Coupe Futur to create these fantastic looks using wigs.

Be a cutie in curls with this Whitney inspired wig by American Pride

Pink strapless top by Warehouse. Denim jacket by Diesel

Frank’s tip Aim to keep hair under the wig as flat as possible-Too long

Imitate Aaliyah’s luxurious locks

Sultry songstress Mary J Blige

Calling all you dance hall queens!

Frank's tip - Aim to keep hair under the wig as flat as possible

Wig Tips
New wigs can be softened by washing in a mild shampoo. Or try soaking in water mixed with fabric softener for about 30 minutes. Shampoo and air dry.
A styrofoam head helps keep your wig in shape. If you’re travelling or space is at a premium, turn wigs inside out and put into a plastic bag or net wig bag. Rolling up the wig won’t harm the design and the plastic helps to keep the dust off.
When shampooing remember to use downwards strokes while working in a mild shampoo. In order to allow a synthetic wig’s curls to re-form, avoid brushing it while wet. Instead air dry the wig then finger style the locks into position.
A plastic brush is essential for detangling and combing out the hair (use downward strokes to avoid tangling). Do not use a regular nylon brush on a wig since the brush may pull the hair out of the wig cap.
For a quick style lift, use a wig piece to create a French roll or another type of updo. Position the piece where you need the length and style into the high hair design of your choice.
Considering a colour change and can’t make your mind up? Before you commit, slip on a wig in the same colour you’re considering. That way you get a preview of how the colour looks on you before you even step.