The Rise of Bridal Wigs: Why More Brides Are Embracing Luxury Hairpieces

Los Angeles Times

15-05-2025

Wigs aren't what they used to be, and today's brides are loving it. A new wave of women is opting for high-end, hyper-realistic wigs as part of their wedding-day glam routine, not just to conceal hair loss but also to be confident, express themselves, and have peace of mind during one of the most significant moments in their lives.
We spoke to three wig experts to learn why brides turn to wigs on their wedding day. Here's what they had to say.
Many brides are realizing that once looked down upon or seen as theatrical, wigs are now becoming a meaningful, beautiful part of the bridal experience. With rising autoimmune conditions and medical hair loss among young women, custom wigs provide more than just coverage. They're offering brides the opportunity to walk down the aisle with confidence and certainty.
Modern luxury wigs feature hand-tied lace caps, breathable silicone linings, and undetectable hairlines that move and part like natural hair. They're virtually indistinguishable, an option that's particularly helpful for brides struggling with hair loss due to various reasons ranging from Alopecia to chemotherapy.
Serenity Wig Salon, a Pittsburgh-based custom wig atelier, retails wedding-friendly designs for women facing medical hair loss.
'Everyone knows how stressful wedding planning can be for a bride. For those experiencing hair loss, the daily challenge of feeling confident in your appearance can add another layer of stress. A high-quality wig can provide a sense of relief and empowerment,' declared Chami Saks, owner of Serenity Wig Salon. 'When you trust your wig to look natural, style beautifully, and reflect your personal taste, that inner confidence quiets the chaos around you.'
Real brides diagnosed with conditions like Alopecia chose Serenity wigs for their wedding celebrations—not merely to conceal hair loss but to reclaim their identity.
'When I put on that wig, I felt like the woman my husband fell in love with again. It felt like such a fun, liberating moment. Not just because of the hair switch, but because of what it represented, this new beginning, this confidence I hadn't felt in years,' confided bride Isabelle Kim. 'They didn't treat me like a patient. Not like someone broken. Just a bride.'
Bride Kelley Ray added: 'I was most nervous about matching the wig to my natural hair color since it's a very specific Auburn Red, but they nailed it, and it was all the comfort I needed to know I would look like myself again on my wedding day. Being able to get my hair done on my wedding day nearly brought me to tears. I didn't think something so trivial would matter, but it's something every bride dreams about.'
The appeal of bridal wigs extends far beyond simply concealing hair loss. The latest wigs are far more realistic and easier to wear than they were in the past. Younger generations, especially Gen Z, are more open to experimenting with wigs and often already have experience using them for fashion or cosplay.
Her Wig Closet, an independent wig retailer based in Pasadena, offers two product lines, one of which focuses on trend-driven, fashion-forward styles.
'Traditionally, most bridal inquiries were for hair extensions, especially during the summer wedding season. However, more recently, we've seen growing interest in wigs for bridal styling,' remarked Hailie Han, founder and CEO of Her Wig Closet. 'Many brides want to avoid damage from hot tools, hair bleach, or heavy styling products. Wearing a wig enables them to achieve their desired look while maintaining their natural hair health. Hair extensions and professional wedding stylists can be expensive, especially when coordinating looks for bridesmaids. Wigs offer a more affordable and convenient alternative.'
Additionally, wearing a wig gives brides the confidence that their hair will look perfect from morning to night, regardless of the weather. This reliability is especially comforting when every moment is being captured and memorialized.
'Today's brides can choose styles that can be curled, straightened, or restyled throughout their wedding events—from rehearsal dinner through reception and even honeymoon,' stated Angela Holley, owner of MyHairMail.
The popularity of bridal wigs showcases a more inclusive shift in how we think about wedding beauty. It reflects a positive approach where brides are empowered to make decisions that make them feel confident and comfortable on their special day.
'Ultimately, bridal wigs represent more than just a beautiful hairstyle. They offer confidence and certainty during one of life's most significant moments. When a bride knows her hair will look perfect from first look to the last dance, she's free to focus on what truly matters—celebrating her special day,' added Holley.