Wigs allow you the freedom to experiment with a wide variety of colors, styles, and textures. However, the key to achieving a natural, flattering look is to learn how to match your wig color and skin tone.
The stylists at Gabi’s Wigs can help you find the perfect wig to create a flattering look that you can be proud of. In this article, we will explain the factors that you must consider when matching wig color and skin tone.
The first step to match wig color and skin tone is to understand undertones. The undertone is the subtle hue beneath the surface of your skin. This plays a critical role in which colors are the most flattering. There are three primary undertone categories:
Characterized by yellow, golden, or peach hue. Those with warm undertones typically look nice in earthy tones, yellows, reds, and oranges.
Characterized by a bluish, pink, or rosy tint. Those with cool undertones typically look nice in jewel tones, purples, blues, and greens.
Has a balance of both warm and cool undertones without leaning heavily either way. Those with neutral undertones typically look nice in a wide variety of colors
For some, it can be challenging to determine skin undertone. However, there are a few quick and easy tests you can do:
Take a moment to look at the veins on your wrist. If they appear green, you are likely warm. If they appear blue, you are likely cool. If it’s hard to tell, or they appear blue-green, you are likely neutral.
Think about the jewelry that is most flattering on you. Those with warm undertones typically look better in gold, while those with cool undertones typically look better in silver. Those with neutral undertones look nice in both.
Hold up a piece of white fabric and a piece of cream-colored fabric next to your face. If the white is more complimentary, you have cool undertones, but if the cream is more complimentary, you have warm undertones.
After you determine your undertone, you can start your search for the perfect wig and match your wig color and skin tone. Below are a few guidelines:
Warm undertones typically look nice in hair colors such as caramel, auburn, golden blonde, honey brown, and red shades including ginger and copper. Warm highlights such as warm chestnut and buttery blonde can add some dimension to your wig.
Cool undertones look nice in hair colors such as jet black, ash blonde, cool brown, platinum, and icy colors such as cool blue, lavender, and silver. Cool-toned brown or icy blonde highlights can enhance your overall look.
Neutral undertones look nice in a wide range of colors on both ends of the spectrum- but may want to stick with medium shades, such as medium auburn, brown, or blonde to create a versatile, balanced appearance.
A wig is a major investment. Therefore, before you buy, it’s important to try on a variety of wigs to see how they look against your skin. Most wig retailers- both online and in-store- will provide swatches or virtual try-on tools so that you can get an idea of what to expect.
In addition to the color, you should also consider the texture and style of the wig. Texture can have a significant impact on the overall look and certain styles will be more flattering for your face shape and body type.
In addition to your skin color, there are other factors to consider when choosing a wig:
While your skin tone can affect the way a particular wig looks on you, it’s also important to consider your personal style. If you like to experiment, you may be more likely to try bold, vibrant colors. However, if you prefer a more natural look, you may lean more towards natural shades. Your wig should reflect your personality and you should always feel comfortable and confident in your choices.
When choosing a wig, it's important to keep in mind that different materials and coloring techniques may require more care and maintenance than others. Typically, a synthetic wig is pre-styled and colored, while human hair wigs usually require more maintenance, including color touch-ups. Consider how much time you are willing and able to invest on maintaining your wig.
Wig color trends, just like fashion trends, come and go. What’s popular right now may not be the same time next year. While you want to stay true to yourself, you may also want to have some fun experimenting with some of the latest wig color trends and may find some fresh, exciting options.
Wigs can be a fun way to change your appearance. You can opt for a bold look or a more natural one. The key to creating a natural, flattering look is to consider your skin’s undertones and your personal style. The professional stylists at Gabi’s Wigs will work with you to find the perfect wig color for your skin tone.