Wig Color and Style Variance Explained

MAY 24, 2013

Same Shade, Different Color?

Hey there! Do you know the feeling of reordering a wig in the same color, only to be disappointed when the shade doesn't quite match your first one? Or have you tried switching up your style with a new wig from the same brand and color, but found that the color looks different? Let's talk about why this happens!

Both featured styles by Estetica (both in color Sunlit Blonde)

These three styles are all made by Ellen Wille and are pictured in color Sand Multi Rooted. Notice how they look similar but color distribution, style and texture all slightly differentiate the “same color” on different styles.

Manufacturing & Variance

All of the wigs we carry are handmade. Even the ones labeled as "machine made" are crafted with the help of skilled artisans using a sewing machine. It's pretty amazing, right? And even though manufacturers strive for consistency in style and color, they have to allow for some variation, which is why they allow up to 10% variance. Let's face it, with the level of craftsmanship that goes into each wig, it's impossible not to allow for a little wiggle room. So embrace the uniqueness of your wig - it's what makes it special! It's similar to going to a hairstylist for a cut and color. Even if you asked for the same thing you got last time, it will always turn out slightly different, right? The same goes for wigs and hair toppers!

Intentional Designs

There are also other factors that go into why colors vary from style to style within the same manufacturer. Sometimes this is intentional, like with Ellen Wille wigs and hair toppers. Ellen's color philosophy is very intentional. She believes each wig and hair topper should be colored to suit the style. So even if you order Champagne Rooted in one style, there is a strong chance it will be slightly different if you order another Ellen Wille style in the same color. This is also true for manufacturers who use various factories to produce their wigs. Getting the color exactly right from one factory to the next is almost impossible, even if they have a sample to compare it to.

Jon Renau’s most recent human hair launch featured two styles that are both human hair, listed as the same color, but the hues are slightly different. This is an example of the 10% variance that the manufacturers allow.

Phoenix by Jon Renau (left) Layla by Jon Renau (right)

Both in color 14-88H

Different Fibers

Have you ever bought a human hair wig and a synthetic wig in the same color, only to find that they didn't match perfectly? That's because different fibers show color differently! It's a bit like how black looks different on a cotton shirt than on a silk shirt. Same color, different hue.

From left to right: Human Hair, Synthetic, Heat Friendly Synthetic

Lighting

Another factor that plays a role in color variation is lighting. Depending on the lighting the image was taken in, or the screen you are viewing the image on, colors can appear different than in person. Also consider the model’s skin tone compared to your skin tone when deciding if the color will work for you.

Before you make a purchase, take the time to do your research. Check out the True Color images (exclusive to wigs.com), watch videos on each product, and check out our social channels to get a better idea of what you're buying. Be sure to compare the colors on synthetic and human hair options, as well as across different styles within the same brand. It's worth investing the effort upfront to ensure you find the perfect wig for you. If you still need help, schedule a complimentary virtual consultation with one of our Experts!