Wig Fit Guide

A well-fitting wig feels comfortable, stays secure, and looks natural. This guide walks you through everything you need to know — from measuring your head to adjusting straps and choosing the right cap style for your shape.

Step 1 – Measure Your Head

Grab a soft measuring tape (the kind used for sewing). Measure in inches or centimeters and write each number down.

Circumference – Start at your hairline above your forehead, go around the back of your head just above the nape, and return to the front. This is your head circumference. *This is the most important at determining size of cap.*
Front to nape – Place the tape at your front hairline and run it straight over the top of your head to the base of your skull (nape).
Ear to ear (front) – Run the tape from the top of one ear, across your forehead, to the top of the other ear.
Ear to ear (over crown) – Run the tape from the top of one ear, over the crown of your head, to the top of the other ear.
Temple to temple (around back) – Place the tape at one temple, run it around the back of your head, and end at the other temple.

Compare your measurements to the size chart on each product page. If you fall between sizes, we generally recommend sizing up for comfort.

Step 2 – Standard vs. Petite Caps

Most wigs come in a standard (average) cap, which fits a head circumference of roughly 21.5" – 22.5" (54–57 cm). A petite cap is designed for circumferences closer to 20.5" – 21.5" (52–54 cm).

If the wig rides high on your head or the ear tabs sit too far forward, a petite cap may be a better fit.
If the wig feels tight all around or the nape sits too high, you may need a larger or adjustable-band cap.
Many caps include hook-and-eye or velcro adjustment straps in the nape area that let you fine-tune the fit without switching sizes.

Step 3 – Temple Pressure

Temples are one of the most common pressure points with wig wear.

Mild pressure right after putting on a new wig is normal — many caps relax slightly after a few wears.
If pressure feels sharp or causes headaches, check that the wig is sitting at your natural hairline and not pushed back too far.
Try loosening the nape strap one notch. Tightening the nape actually pushes the sides outward against your temples.
If your cap has an adjustable front strip or ear tab loops, adjust these gently to redistribute pressure.

Step 4 – Nape Pressure & Nape Length

The nape is the back-lower edge of the wig, sitting at the base of your neck.

If the nape feels tight or digs in, try loosening the adjustment straps in the nape area first.
A nape that sits too high will expose your own hairline at the back — check the product's listed nape length before purchasing if this is a concern.
A nape that is too long may fold or bunch at the collar; look for styles with a shorter listed nape measurement if this is a recurring issue.
Wigs listed as petite typically have a shorter nape-to-front measurement overall, which can help if you find standard caps sit too low at the back.

Step 5 – Ear Tabs

Ear tabs are the small fabric strips or wefted extensions on either side of the cap, positioned near your ears. They help anchor the wig and frame your face.

Ear tabs should sit just in front of or level with the top of your ear — not behind it.
If the tabs sit behind your ears, the wig is likely sitting too far back. Slide the wig forward gently and re-check.
If the tabs pull uncomfortably, the cap circumference may be too small.

Step 6 – Preventing Sliding & Riding

A wig that shifts or rides back during wear is one of the most common fit concerns. Here are the most effective fixes:

Wig grip bands – A velvet or silicone headband worn under the wig creates friction and keeps the cap in place without the need for tape or glue.
Tighten the nape strap – Snugging up the back strap is the first adjustment to try. Make sure the wig is sitting at your natural hairline before tightening.
Wig combs and clips – Some caps include built-in combs. If you have natural hair, these can anchor into your own hair for extra security. Clips can be sewn in at the Boutique if desired.
Reposition before tightening – Always position the wig correctly first (front hairline aligned, ear tabs in place), then fasten straps. Tightening on a mis-positioned wig can cause discomfort without solving the sliding.
Wig tape or adhesive strips – Applied along the front hairline or temples for a more secure hold, especially under hats or in windy conditions. *Rarely would recommend this option based on the wigs in the Boutique, but the supplies are in the store if desired.*

Step 7 – Wig Caps & Liner Tips

Wearing a wig cap underneath your wig can improve comfort and security.

Nylon/mesh caps – Lightweight and good for pinning natural hair flat underneath the wig.
Cotton/bamboo caps – More breathable and gentle on sensitive scalps.
Silicone-lined caps – Offer grip without any pins or tape, a good choice if you prefer adhesive-free wear.
Choose a cap color close to your scalp tone for the most natural look at the hairline.

Step 8 – Adjusting the Straps

Most wig caps include one or more of the following:

Hook-and-eye nape strap – Adjust by moving the hook to a tighter or looser eye position. Tightening brings the back of the cap closer to your head.
Velcro tabs – Press together for a snug fit; pull apart to release. Check these periodically as the velcro can wear over time.
Elastic band – Some caps have a fully elastic perimeter. These stretch to fit but may loosen after many wears; a wig grip band underneath can compensate.

Always adjust straps when the wig is on your head at the correct position — adjusting before you put it on may not give you an accurate fit.

When to Contact Us

Reach out to Perruque Boutique if:

You've measured carefully and are unsure whether to choose a standard or petite cap.
A wig from us isn't fitting as expected and you'd like help troubleshooting.
You have a specific head shape concern (very narrow, very wide, flat nape, etc.) and want a recommendation before purchasing.

We're here to help you find a fit that works. Contact us here or visit us in store.

Fit can vary between wig styles and manufacturers. The guidance above reflects general best practices for wig cap sizing and adjustment and does not replace professional fitting advice for specific medical or therapeutic needs.