From blond to pink to curly to cropped – my wild week of wearing a new wig every day
From Blond to Pink to Curly to Cropped – My Wild Week of Wearing a New Wig Every Day
From blond to pink to curly - For a week, I challenge myself to a bold experiment: donning a fresh wig each day. The idea began as a playful nod to the viral trends that have swept through fashion and pop culture, but quickly turned into a deeper exploration of how hairpieces shape identity, confidence, and perception. From sleek blond barnets to bold pink curls, and everything in between, I navigate the world of wigs with curiosity and a dash of self-deprecating humor. The journey isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about understanding the evolving role of wigs in society and the personal stakes of embracing a new look daily.
The Language of Hair
“I think it’s the word – ‘wig’!” Melanie Burrell muses, scrunching her nose in a mix of amusement and resistance. “I prefer ‘hairpiece.’” This subtle distinction reveals a broader cultural shift in how we perceive and label these accessories. When Burrell launched her wig enterprise in Glasgow in 2010, she chose the Italian term “Parrucche” for her brand, partly to avoid the stigma that often clings to the word “wig.” In some contexts, the term still carries undertones of vanity or even desperation, but its connotations are rapidly evolving.
“The gag is,” A’zion told Deadline, “the LA premiere [of Marty Supreme] was a wig, and [for] the New York premiere, it took me five hours to do my hair, and everyone thinks it’s a wig.”
Once synonymous with hiding thinning hair or donning a costume, wigs are now a symbol of self-expression. This transformation is evident in their growing popularity across diverse demographics, driven by both practical needs and aesthetic desires. For instance, the global market for wigs and hair extensions is projected to hit $13.28 billion this year, according to Statista. This surge includes not just the traditional items but also innovations like hair systems tailored for men, blending functionality with flair.
Celebrity Influence and Public Perception
The fashion-forward nature of wigs has been amplified by celebrities who wear them with unapologetic confidence. Sabrina Carpenter, for example, has long been rumored to sport a flawless, bouncy blond mane—though she herself remains coy. “Will not confirm nor deny,” she told Time magazine, “I don’t even know what a wig is. But I also don’t know what not a wig is.” Her playful ambiguity highlights a new era where wigs are both a secret weapon and a statement. More recently, she embraced dramatic short black wigs for a shoot with Perfect magazine, showcasing how versatility in styling can redefine beauty standards.
Cardi B’s viral appearance in court with a series of rapidly changing wigs further cemented the trend’s mainstream appeal. “Yesterday you had black hair, short hair. Today it’s blond and long. Which one is your real hair? Or are they both real?” asked the baffled attorney. “They’re wigs,” the rapper replied, rolling her eyes and chuckling. Such moments underscore how wigs have moved beyond mere concealment to become a tool for reinvention. Even actors like Odessa A’zion play into this narrative, joking about the effort required to maintain a look that seems effortless. “The LA premiere [of Marty Supreme] was a wig,” she explained to Deadline, “but the New York premiere took me five hours of careful styling, and still, people assume it’s a wig.”
A Week of Transformation
My experiment begins with a wiglet—a hairpiece designed to sit atop existing hair and clip into it. This option feels less intimidating, offering a gentle introduction to the world of wigs. I opt for an 18-inch straight synthetic topper from Peonymebeauty, in “chocolate brown.” While the product description promises it will blend seamlessly with my natural hair, I soon realize the risk of online shopping: the shade is slightly darker than I expected. The result is a look that feels slightly off, like a mistake I can’t easily undo.
Despite the minor mishap, the wiglet proves its worth. It doesn’t require the time or skill of a professional blowout, and I’m surprised by how stable it is on my head. The only downside is its weight, which makes me feel like I’m wearing a helmet. Yet, the convenience is undeniable, especially for those seeking quick, low-maintenance transformations. As I move through my daily routine, I start to appreciate the subtle power of a hairpiece that demands little effort but offers a lot in return.
By the second day, I’m ready for something more dramatic. Inspired by Sabrina Carpenter’s signature style, I choose a wig from Wigs UK—the Starlet Style, priced at £295. This retro, high-glamorous piece contrasts sharply with my natural appearance, embodying the idea that wigs can be a bold declaration of identity. The process of fitting it is more challenging than I anticipated; the curls are relentless, and I spend hours adjusting it to sit perfectly. Melanie Burrell, a seasoned professional, demonstrates how to smooth my own hair under a mesh wig liner, likening the technique to “putting tights on your head.” She also explains the adjustable features of most wigs, which allow for a snug fit without glue or tape.
By the third day, I’ve embraced the wig’s volume, even as it feels slightly absurd. The platinum blond locks make me think of 1990s icons like Monica Lewinsky or Courteney Cox, but the effect is oddly empowering. My makeup, which I had applied before switching to the wig, now feels out of place. The contrast between my usual look and this new, striking hair color draws attention, but it also stirs a sense of playfulness. I can’t help but wonder: does it matter if others notice? Or is the act of transforming oneself through a wig simply about enjoying the moment?
As the week progresses, I explore different styles—pink curls, cropped cuts, and everything in between. Each change is a new chapter in this experiment, revealing how easily we can shift our appearance and the confidence that comes with it. The wig becomes a metaphor for the fluidity of identity, challenging the notion that our hair defines us. In the end, the experience isn’t just about the wigs themselves but about the stories they tell and the freedom they offer.