on line makeover
on line makeover
"And Then...There Were - 'Many'"
bet you can't buy
"just one"
You can add a new blouse, change the color of your eye shadow - even lose a few pounds - but nothing will "change" your appearance like adding a new wig.
Do me a little
favor...
Take "note" of the blonde photo situated immediately to your left.
Now - look at the next photograph of my "red & black" show hair
"Guess what?"
Those photos were taken only minutes apart.
Same pose, same make-up, same location...just different "hair" and accessories.
This is but one of the many reasons t-girls often own a variety of
"manes".
It's a rare tranny indeed - that owns just "one" wig. Most gals own " several". Some gals - possess "hundreds".
Being "Little Miss Organized" - I'm situated between these two extremes. I try to keep my "stable" - at around 30 wigs - each with an intended purpose & usage.
section overview
Here I'm going to show you how to:
optional "stables"
We need different hair for a variety of alternative uses. Of course, should you become quite skilled in hair styling - you can "use" the same hair for all these different "uses".
To date - I continue to "stink" at wig styling. Thus, I choose to keep a number of different wigs "on hand" - for different purposes.
Generally, most t-girls classify wigs into three "major" categories based upon their intended use:
Within these major groupings are a number of potential subcategories, including:
Most gals eventually "settle" upon a preferred style and coloring from their hair.
We call this "look" - our signature hairstyle.
I'm a bit of a "chameleon". I enjoy testing the impact of different hairstyles on different ensembles. My lifestyle - and routine - are ideally suited to do "this". I go clubbing often, I occasionally work as a DRAG performer, and I "function" as a woman. I also reside in a city where all these "functions" are acceptable - to my life - and lifestyle.
Hopefully, your needs will be a tad less "schizophrenic" than your truly. *Laugh*
Following is a more detailed explanation of "common" wigs styles you might consider owning:
The "Pass" Wig - Certain styles, cuts, hair quality, etc. - look extremely "realistic". In a "perfect" world - you'd maintain a couple of "these" wigs for those special outings to the mall or for a casual dinner with friends - and subsequently restyle them for all your other "uses". However, no "new girl" possesses that skill - unless she's a professional hair stylist by "trade".
Likewise, most beginners are a bit obsessed with the concept of "passing". Thus, a wig "just for this look" - is common.
Club Wigs - I try not to
invest a great deal in the quality of hair for a club wig. 
Rather - in this
"department" - I invest in unique "styling".
If you're going to frequent transgender friendly night clubs - there's no reason to need to "fool" anyone regarding your sexual identity. Thus, I enjoy "letting my hair down" - with a more "fun" wig. It's this category that I learned the most about "what would look best on me" - with higher quality hair.
Please understand what I mean by "less quality" - versus "styling". These wigs don't necessarily "look" unrealistic. However, they sometimes don't feel as natural to the touch. Likewise, they don't usually last very long in the rough and tumble world of everyday female activities.
However, if you're not beginning full time transition - they'll last plenty long - for your needs.
The Human Hair Wig - If transitioning to full-time femininity is your goal - this look - should be your second highest priority.
Your first priority?
Buying cheaper wigs - and experimenting with a variety of styles and colors to determine "where" you want to subsequently invest in those expensive wigs. Once you've found a "hair" that will work best for you on a daily basis - you've knocked down a big challenge.
Human hair wigs are outstanding in appearance and longevity. They're also are a supreme bitch to style. Likewise, the best ones - aren't cheap! Make sure you know "what" you want - before making this investment - if ever. ((hugs))
Should you both need and "want" this look - get ready to drop some serious cash, get ready to be forced to learn all about styling, curling, etc. And - get ready to look very "realistic". A high quality "human hair" wig - that's properly cut - is undetectable...period. You'll want to invest in "laced" edges - where a most realistic hair line is "created". If you're bald headed - this will allow you options like creating a "widow's peak" in the front hairline. That tends to create a very nice look. If you already possess a decent head of hair - you might opt for custom "extensions" or "fillers" - to add depth and length to your existing mane.
A high quality human hair wig runs about $500.00 "complete". Yes, I know you see them much "cheaper" ones in certain shops - I own several "$50.00 human-hair versions" myself. But trust me - the "quality" versions are that much better. High quality is discovered within the hair itself, the inside construction of the head "netting" & filaments, and of course - in the "amount" of hair. If you don't know how to identify the highest quality elements - find a "big sister" - and ask. Certain wig shops will "burn" you in this regard.
You'll want to buy a couple of them - allowing the "extra" one - time to "rest", regain composure - and be professionally reworked as needed.
If you don't have an expert source for this hair - contact Monty Schuth in Atlanta. Monty creates such pieces for a host of famous personas - and is considered one of the best in the southeastern US in providing such hair. For the highest quality human hair and cut-ins - his pricing is first-rate.
"Formally" Yours - Own a formal dress? Hoping to get asked to next year's "prom"? *Smile*
Then - you might want to get a wig styled just for those special occasions.
There is something decidedly feminine about "big
hair". You can forget about wearing it to "church" or the mall
- but it can be your bestest girlfriend - for "slimming down" a
wide face or adding pizzazz to any hot outfit.
"Two issues" to consider regarding your formal hair. "One" - you'll want this look - to be "stunning". Thus, try to "save" your formal hair for formal events - or get it styled just before your exciting "get together".
You know - just like women "go to a hairdresser" before a big night out? Treat your best hair to the same "deal".
Second, your "formal" hair can be doubly "used" for any DRAG performances you might plan - or to enhance the quality of a "photo" shoot. Every friend I have that operates a "tranny pay site" - uses "formal" hair in all their photos. It adds a lot of "zing" to any Kodak moment. *Smile*
The Sexual Predator - Wigs aren't well designed to withstand the "rough & tumble world" often endured in the "grown-ups" playroom. A wig you've spent your hard earned money getting professionally styled is your last candidate for intimate pleasures - unless your last name is "Rockefeller". Such "activity" will trash a wig in a flash.
It's a good idea to own an easy to maintain wig you keep "aside" for "sex".
Of course, considering its "use" - I know you'll want it to be one where you look "good". However, if you ever allow a lover to trash a $50.00 hairdo - you'll gain a whole new meaning about the "high cost" - of love.
An idea? Use a more "worn" version of your "pass" wig for these intimate moments.
Show Wigs - Most of you don't see my "show" wigs. I sometimes leave them at the venue where I'm performing - as carrying one is a hassle. However, the main reason - is I don't like "screwing them up".
Show hair tends to be "all of the above wigs" - and even
a
little bit "extra" - just for good measure. They're usually
"large" - and include detailed styling. If you ever decide to do stage shows, you'll want to consider
getting the finest and most exotic styles done to compliment your stage
"persona".
"Hat" Hair - Ever wear hats? They can add a unique statement to certain "looks" and outfits, Sadly, hats can also "wreck" great hairstyling.
A wig cut & styled to wear "with" hats are a worthwhile investment if you wear hats very often. The best styles are highly curled at the sides - with less intensive styling "on the top". These types are quite inexpensive.
Fetish Wigs - Some t-girls enjoy owning a wig or two that sends them "places" where only the wild reside.
A cut and styled "dominatrix" - or a submissive schoolgirl. You get the idea...
Spiked hair...Blue, orange, pink or green...- it's always fun to own a few wigs that make a statement regarding your style - and attitude.
My only suggestion? Don't invest too much in these looks. Our "attitudes" change - more often than not. ((hugs))
wig "evolution"
Jeez! Sounds like a lot of wigs to buy all at once, doesn't
it?
Here's some good news - you can let your wigs "evolve" into a variety of roles in an orderly fashion.
"Evolve?"
Yep - here's a few ideas on wig "Darwinism". *Laugh*
Recognized makeover artist "Jamie Austin" - echoes this
"statement" - by using red on most all his "models".
Club versions can subsequently be restyled for wilder "fetish" looks with loads of hairspray and "locked in" styling .
"Show wigs" can toned / cut down - and make a stunning statement with a formal dress or "club" hair.
"Get the idea?"
Notice the photos I included of the "same" blonde wig. I've owned it for several years. It's now on the final leg of its life with "Renee" - with the chic-style "look" - you see on the left.
After this phase - you'll find it on "ebay".
Think - and you'll save lots of money...((hugs))
restyling "as a tool"
Sometimes - restyling is not just about the evolution of "wear & function" with a wig. You'll end up with certain wigs you adore - but for some strange reason - just don't "work" on you.
At this point - there are a few options.
First, you can sometimes ship it back to your "source of purchase" for restyling. However, expect to pay an extra fee for doing so. They "might" do it for free the first time - but if they're not making money on you in time - they'll simply quit selling to 'ya.
If
you use a local stylist you respect - have them take a look at it for
"ideas" - and get their opinion on "keeping" it.
Second, you can "cut your losses" - place the wig on ebay - get "what you can" for it - and forget about it. This is the best option when you realize the wig just isn't worth a damn. *Laugh* I bought my share of "those" wigs - even wasted money on restyling trying to make a "silk purse" - out of a sours ear. Don't be afraid to just lick your wounds - and chalk it up to experience.
Third,
you can "gift" the wig to a friend who you believe it might look
better situated on. Sometimes - the problem is "color". This challenge
- might work well for a friend. They might even trade you a wig of theirs that
will "work" for you.
Finally, you can find a stylist to try an "overhaul" - and see if you can get what you want. I sometimes "buy" wigs just for restyling. For instance, in some larger wig shops - you'll notice some pretty cool hair - stuck off to the sides. For some reason - that style never sold - and can be purchased cheap. The "scarlet & cream" wig you see in these photos was such a wig. It's a large "two wig" hair piece that I bought for $125.00. The original retail was well over $200.00 - but the coloring and style attracted no buyers.
I took the wig to my favorite stylist - and let him do what he could. The result? The final photo is included. I haven't yet worn it - but it's breathtaking - for that "just right" occasion.
which wig to wear?
Once you possess a decent "stable" of manes to choose from,
you'll have to decide which one seems right for certain occasions.
"Can't make that decision?"
"Welcome" - to female hell. *Laugh*
The environment you're heading plays a big role. While "wild hair" is my favorite - I don't wear "that" - to the mall. Likewise, formal and show hair can make "driving a car" challenging. Seems the auto manufacturers never plan enough head room for a "queen". *Grin*
The most important criteria is the simplest - which hair will make you feel "best" - about you?
One question I almost always ask myself is if there is even a remote possibility of intimacy "as a woman". If this is the case - there is no way I'm going to wear one of my highly "styled" wigs.
"Sleeping" with a wig on - let alone rolling all over the sheets with it attached to your skull - is very hard on a wig. (No pun, intended). Thus, why not "carry" your sexual predator wig in a plastic bag - just in case - if "this" is your thing. ((hugs))
time for an "upgrade"
The investments you make in wigs depend a great deal
on the intended use. If you plan to simply shoot photos for a web site - it can
last "forever".
The cost of a "good wig" is not cheap. I hear gals brag often about the killer wig they own they purchased for only $60.00. I own a number of $60 wigs - and they can and do look awesome. However, I accept the fact they won't last very long.
Perhaps I should state "that" better...they won't "last long" and still look good. I can't begin to tell you the number of t-girls I see that don't realize their cheap wig with their favorite style - is simply "worn out".
If they start "frizzing" - or require tons of hairspray to "look right" versus lock in a custom styling - it's time to "do something".
I know this - because I did "it" - as well.
It took a local entertainer friend to make me the butt end of a very bad joke for me to "learn" this lesson.
When you "need" an upgrade - get it! ((hugs))
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