How do I find the right wig size for my head?

Short Answer

Measure your head circumference with a soft tape, compare it to standard wig sizes, and choose one with adjustable features. You'll get the hang of it quickly.

Measure your head circumference with a soft measuring tape, starting at your hairline, wrapping around the widest part of your head, and ending where you started. Most wigs come in small (20.5–21.5 inches), medium (21.5–22.5 inches), and large (22.5–23.5 inches). If you're between sizes, go with the larger one — you can always adjust.

If you've never measured your head before, it might feel awkward. You're not alone in that. Many first-time wig wearers worry they'll get it wrong, or that their head is somehow "too big" or "too small." But here's the truth: wigs are made for real heads, in all their beautiful variety. And finding your size is simpler than you think.

How to measure your head for a wig

You'll need a soft measuring tape — the kind used for sewing. If you don't have one, a piece of string and a ruler work just fine.

Start at the center of your hairline, just above your forehead. Wrap the tape around the widest part of your head, which is usually just above your ears. Bring it around the nape of your neck and back to where you started. Keep the tape snug but not tight. You want to measure where the wig will actually sit.

Write down that number in inches. That's your head circumference — and your starting point for wig sizing.

What do wig cap sizes actually mean?

Most wigs come in three standard sizes:

Small (Petite): 20.5–21.5 inches
Medium (Average): 21.5–22.5 inches
Large: 22.5–23.5 inches

Medium fits the majority of people. But if your measurement falls between two sizes, go with the larger one. Wigs have adjustable straps and hooks inside the cap that let you tighten the fit. You can't make a too-small wig bigger, but you can make a slightly large wig fit perfectly.

Some brands also offer custom or one-size-fits-most caps with maximum adjustability. These are great if you're nervous about sizing or your head falls outside the standard range.

What if I don't have a measuring tape?

Use a piece of string, ribbon, or even a phone charging cable. Wrap it around your head the same way you would with a measuring tape, then mark or hold where it overlaps. Lay it flat against a ruler or tape measure to get your number.

It doesn't have to be perfect. Even a rough measurement helps you get close — and most wigs are forgiving.

Wig fit tips: What to do after you measure

Once you know your size, check the wig's product description for its cap size and adjustability features. Look for things like:

Adjustable straps: Located at the nape, these let you tighten or loosen the fit.
Combs or clips: Sewn into the cap for extra security.
Elastic bands: Stretch to accommodate slight size variations.

If you're a first-time buyer, consider choosing a wig with maximum adjustability. It gives you room to learn what feels right without the pressure of getting it perfect the first time.

Many women in our BossCrowns community recommend trying your wig on as soon as it arrives and adjusting it right away. That way, you'll know exactly how it should feel when you're ready to wear it out.

What if my wig doesn't fit perfectly?

Adjustable straps are your best friend. Most wigs have small hooks at the back that attach to a stretchy band. Move the hooks inward to tighten, outward to loosen. Start loose and tighten gradually until the wig feels secure but not uncomfortable.

If the wig still feels too big, you can add foam sizing strips inside the cap. These stick to the interior and create a snugger fit without altering the wig itself.

If it's too tight, you might need to size up — or look for brands that run larger. A wig that's too tight will cause headaches and discomfort. Comfort matters more than anything else.

Your head is not the problem

If your measurement doesn't fall neatly into a standard size, that doesn't mean something's wrong with you. Wig sizing is an industry standard — not a reflection of your body.

Heads come in all shapes and sizes. Some are more oval, some more round. Some people have more hair underneath, some have less. All of that affects how a wig sits and feels.

The goal isn't to fit into a wig. It's to find a wig that fits you.

You deserve to feel comfortable. You deserve a wig that sits securely, moves naturally, and doesn't make you think about it all day. That's not too much to ask — it's the baseline.

You're learning, and that's enough

Finding the right wig size is one of those things that feels intimidating until you do it once. Then it's just something you know.

Measure your head. Compare it to the wig sizing guide. Choose the size that gives you room to adjust. And know that even if it's not perfect the first time, you can tweak it, exchange it, or try again.

You're not expected to get everything right on the first try. You're just expected to start — and you're already doing that.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to measure your head for a wig?

Use a soft measuring tape to wrap around your head from hairline to nape, across the widest part above your ears. Keep it snug but not tight.

What size wig should I get if I'm between sizes?

Go with the larger size. Wigs have adjustable straps inside that let you tighten the fit, but you can't make a small wig bigger.

Will my wig be too loose if I order the wrong size?

Not necessarily. Most wigs have adjustable straps and hooks, and you can add foam sizing strips for a snugger fit if needed.