Reviewed by Mackenzie Silva, Licensed Cosmetologist · Last updated October 2026
To find your wig size, measure your head in three places with a soft tape measure: around your hairline, from ear to ear over the top, and from your front hairline to the nape of your neck. Most adults wear an average cap, and many styles also come in petite and large. A well-fitting wig feels snug and secure without pressure, sits at your natural hairline and doesn't slide when you move. Adjustable straps inside most caps let you fine-tune the fit.
At a Glance
- Measure three things: circumference, ear to ear and front to nape.
- Compare with the size chart below, using your circumference first.
- Between sizes? Adjustable straps let you tighten a cap a little; sizes also vary slightly by brand.
- Good fit: secure without headaches, pressure marks or slipping.
- Still slipping? A wig grip, wig cap or small clips can help.
How to Measure Your Head for a Wig
Grab a soft, flexible tape measure and something to write with. If you have hair, smooth it flat the way you will wear it under your wig.
- Circumference: start at your front hairline, wrap the tape around just behind your ears and across the nape of your neck, and bring it back to the starting point.
- Ear to ear: find the top of your head, about seven inches back from your front hairline. Measure from the hairline in front of one ear, over that point, to the hairline in front of the other ear.
- Front to nape: measure from the center of your front hairline straight back over the top of your head to the nape of your neck.
Measure twice to be sure, and see the step-by-step video on our measuring guide.
Wig Size Chart
| Cap size | Circumference | Ear to ear | Front to nape |
|---|---|---|---|
| Child | 20" | 12" | 12" |
| Petite | 21" | 13" | 13.25" |
| Petite/Average | 21.25" | 13.25" | 13.75" |
| Average | 21.5" | 13.5" | 14.25" |
| Average/Large | 22.25" | 13.75" | 14.75" |
| Large | 23" | 14" | 15.5" |
Sizes vary slightly by brand, and not every style comes in every cap size. Check each product page for its available sizes.
Shop by size: petite wigs and large wigs.
What If I'm Between Sizes?
- Start with circumference. It matters most for a secure fit.
- Use the adjustable straps. Most caps have straps at the nape that tighten the fit by a small amount, so a slightly larger cap can often be adjusted down.
- Consider the brand. Some brands run a little smaller or larger, and many wearers find one brand simply fits them best.
- Ask us. Send your three measurements to support@wigstudio1.com or book a free virtual consultation, and a Personal Hair Consultant can suggest brands and styles that suit your size.
How Should a Wig Fit?
A good fit: feels snug and secure, sits at your natural hairline, the ear tabs rest just in front of your ears, and the wig stays put when you turn your head.
Too tight: headaches, pressure or red marks, or the wig riding up at the back. Loosen the straps, or try a larger size or a different brand.
Too loose: the wig shifts, lifts at the nape or slides back from your hairline. Tighten the straps, add a grip, or try a smaller size.
Your head can feel a little different with or without hair, so a cap that fit before may need adjusting as your hair changes.
How to Keep a Wig From Slipping
Use a Wig Grip
A velvet wig grip is a soft band that holds your wig in place without glue and can ease pressure from the cap.
- Place the grip around your head, just behind your front hairline, with the adjustable band at the back.
- Adjust the band until it feels secure and comfortable.
- Put your wig on over the grip and settle it into place.
Other Ways to Keep Your Wig Secure
- Wear a wig cap. A wig cap helps prevent shifting and keeps your wig cleaner. Choose one close to your wig color.
- Add small wig clips. Sew a small clip inside each ear tab and close it onto your own hair, or onto your wig cap if you have no hair.
- Use tape or adhesive only if needed. Most wigs stay put without it. If you choose it, use products made for wigs and patch-test sensitive skin.
Learn where to place your wig in What Is the Four Finger Rule for Wigs?
Fit Is About More Than Measurements
Longtime wig wearer and Wig Studio 1 guest writer Vickie Lynn noticed that a wig can fit perfectly and still look different on you than on the model. That's because your face shape, features and even neck length change how a style falls. A style may look longer on a shorter neck, more hair at the sides can widen a round face, and a lot of volume on top can overwhelm petite features. Use the model photo as a starting point, and choose a style for your own face. See How to Choose the Right Wig for face-shape tips.
Measuring for a Hair Topper?
Toppers are sized by the area you want to cover rather than your whole head. See How to Measure for a Hair Topper.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common wig size?
Average. Most adults wear an average cap, and many styles also come in petite and large.
Can I make a wig smaller?
Yes, a little. Most caps have adjustable straps at the nape. For a bigger change, choose a smaller cap size or a brand that runs smaller.
Why does my wig keep slipping back?
It may be slightly too large, or your hair or scalp may be very smooth. Tighten the straps, add a wig grip, or try a smaller size.
Why does my wig give me a headache?
The cap may be too tight. Loosen the straps, try a larger size, or ask us about brands with roomier caps.
Are wig sizes the same for every brand?
No. Sizes are similar, but each brand's caps fit a little differently.
Get Personal Help
Not sure which size or brand is right for you? Book a free virtual consultation, email your measurements to support@wigstudio1.com, or explore more guides in Strands of Knowledge: The Wig & Hair Loss Learning Center.
