How to style a long wig cosplay?

Choosing the Right Long Wig

Essential Tools and Materials

• Wig head and stand
• Sharp scissors (hair shears)
• Various combs (wide-tooth, fine-tooth, rat-tail)
• Hairdryer with a cool setting
• Heat-resistant gloves
• Strong hold hairspray
• Flat iron and curling iron (if the wig is heat-resistant)
• Hair clips and bobby pins
• Mini rubber bands
• Teasing brush
• Wig-specific products (shampoo, conditioner, detangler)

Preparing Your Wig

1. Detangling: Gently detangle the wig using a wide-tooth comb, starting from the ends and working your way up.

2. Washing (if necessary): Use cool water and wig-specific shampoo. Avoid rubbing or twisting the fibers.

3. Conditioning: Apply a leave-in conditioner designed for synthetic wigs to keep the fibers smooth and manageable.

4. Drying: Air dry the wig on a wig stand. Never use heat to dry a synthetic wig unless it's specifically heat-resistant.

Basic Styling Techniques

Cutting and Trimming

1. Section the wig into manageable parts using clips.
2. Start cutting small amounts at a time, using the "point cutting" technique for a natural look.
3. Regularly check the length and evenness by combing the hair down.
4. For layers, hold sections of hair at a 45-degree angle and cut upwards.

Creating Volume

1. Use a teasing brush to backcomb sections of hair at the roots.
2. Spray each teased section with hairspray to hold the volume.
3. Gently smooth the top layer of hair over the teased sections for a natural look.

Straightening

1. Section the hair and clip up all but the bottom layer.
2. Use a flat iron on a low heat setting, starting from the roots and moving down to the ends.
3. Work your way up through the sections, releasing one at a time.
4. Finish with a light mist of hairspray to set the style.

Curling

1. Section the hair and secure with clips.
2. For heat-resistant wigs, use a curling iron on a low setting. For non-heat-resistant wigs, use foam rollers or the pin curl method.
3. Curl small sections at a time, holding for 10-15 seconds before releasing.
4. Allow the curls to cool completely before styling.

Advanced Styling Techniques

Creating Updos

1. Tease the hair at the crown for volume.
2. Section off the hair you'll need for the updo.
3. Use bobby pins and mini rubber bands to secure the hair in place.
4. Wrap and pin sections of hair to create the desired shape.
5. Use hairspray to set the style and smooth any flyaways.

Braiding Techniques

1. Section the hair for your braid.
2. Apply a small amount of hair gel or styling cream to keep the strands together.
3. Braid as desired (French braid, fishtail, etc.), securing with mini rubber bands.
4. Gently pull on the edges of the braid to loosen it for a more natural look.

Adding Extensions

1. Purchase wefts or clip-in extensions that match your wig color.
2. Sew or clip the extensions into the wig cap, starting from the bottom and working your way up.
3. Blend the extensions with the existing wig hair using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.

Character-Specific Styling Tips

Anime Characters

1. Use a combination of teasing, hairspray, and wire supports for spiky styles.
2. Create exaggerated volume with strategic backcombing and strong-hold products.
3. For characters with colorful hair, consider using temporary color sprays or chalks to add streaks or highlights.

Historical Characters

1. Research the specific time period and social class of your character.
2. Use period-appropriate styling techniques, such as pin curls for vintage looks or elaborate updos for Victorian characters.
3. Consider adding hair accessories like combs, flowers, or period-specific headpieces to complete the look.

Fantasy Characters

1. Experiment with asymmetrical cuts and unusual color combinations.
2. Incorporate braids, twists, and intricate updos to create otherworldly looks.
3. Consider adding non-hair elements like feathers, beads, or small props to enhance the fantastical appearance.

Maintaining Your Styled Wig

1. Storage: Always store your wig on a wig stand to maintain its shape.
2. Refreshing the Style: Use a light mist of water and gently reshape the style with your fingers.
3. Touch-ups: Keep a small styling kit with you for quick fixes during wear.
4. Cleaning: Clean the wig only when necessary, following the washing instructions mentioned earlier.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Tangled Wig

1. Gently detangle using a wide-tooth comb, starting from the ends.
2. Use a wig detangling spray to help smooth the fibers.
3. For severe tangles, soak the wig in cool water with a small amount of wig shampoo, then gently comb through.

Frizzy Wig

1. Apply a small amount of wig-specific leave-in conditioner.
2. Use a steamer on low heat to smooth the fibers (for heat-resistant wigs only).
3. Gently comb through to distribute the product and smooth the hair.

Flattened Style

1. Use a steamer or the steam from a kettle to gently revive the style (be careful not to burn yourself).
2. Reshape the style with your fingers or a comb while the wig is still warm.
3. Allow the wig to cool completely on a wig stand before wearing.

Tips from Professional Cosplayers

1. Practice Makes Perfect: Start with inexpensive wigs to hone your skills before working on your main cosplay wig.
2. Document Your Process: Take photos or videos of your styling process for future reference.
3. Be Patient: Complex styles often require multiple attempts and adjustments.
4. Invest in Quality: While budget wigs have their place, investing in higher-quality wigs can make styling easier and more durable.

Wig Styling Resources

1. CrazeCosplay.com: Offers a wide range of tutorials and tips for cosplay wig styling.
2. YouTube Channels: Follow wig styling experts for video tutorials on specific techniques.
3. Cosplay Forums: Join online communities to share tips and get advice from experienced cosplayers.
4. Books and E-guides: Consider purchasing comprehensive wig styling guides for detailed instructions.

Conclusion