Hair Extension Lengths Chart: How to Choose the Right Lengths
Your natural hair length, volume, thickness, the shape of your head, and preferred hairstyle all play a crucial role in selecting the correct length of hair extensions. Often, misunderstandings occur when discussing hair lengths with others, leading to disappointing results. To clear up any confusion when choosing the right length for hair extensions, we’ve created a convenient hair extension length chart that provides approximate measurements.
In general, hair extensions that blend naturally with your existing hair length tend to look more realistic than extensions that are excessively long. However, it’s still possible to wear longer extensions even if you have short natural hair.
The texture of the hair you choose also affects the overall length. Straight hair appears longer since it lays completely flat when measured. On the other hand, for curly hair, the length should be measured when the hair is straightened, as it has more volume despite having the same weight.
Wavy hair texture falls between straight and curly hair in terms of length. It is generally recommended to choose extensions that are about 3 to 4 centimeters longer than your natural hair for a balanced look. The chart below will help you determine where a specific length will fall when placed on top of your head.
Measuring your hair extensions correctly is essential to ensure they fit well and blend seamlessly with your natural hair. Fortunately, this is a simple process that only requires a mirror and a measuring tape.
To begin, stand in front of a mirror and use the tape measure to measure from the top of your head to the ends of your natural hair. Then, measure the length of the hair extensions you’ve purchased. This will give you a good idea of the appropriate length to add to your hair. For instance, if your natural hair is 14 inches long, extensions between 16 to 20 inches will likely suit you well.
Things to Consider While Selecting a Hair Extension
When choosing hair extensions, several factors should be considered to ensure the best fit for your natural hair and lifestyle. The following points will guide you in selecting the hair type that suits you best. Choose a hairstyle that complements your way of life and enhances your confidence.
Height
One of the most common questions is, “What length of hair extensions should I get?” Your height plays a significant role in determining the best length. For example, if a woman who is 4 feet 6 inches tall and another who is 5 feet 6 inches tall both wear 16-inch hair extensions, the extensions will look much longer on the shorter woman. Many overlook this factor, but it’s essential. If someone with shorter natural hair chooses a length that’s too long, it may not look as natural.
Styling
How you plan to style your hair is another crucial factor. Some people trim a small portion from the bottom of their extensions for a more even look. If you want a long extension but plan to style it with more trimming, buying a longer length (e.g., 20 inches) might result in 16 inches after trimming, which is ideal. However, if your style requires significant cutting, it’s better to opt for a longer extension from the start.
Cost
The length of the extension directly impacts its cost. For example, a 16-inch hair extension might cost $124, while a 14-inch one is priced at $108, leaving only a $16 difference. If you have the budget, choosing the longer 16-inch extension provides more flexibility in case you need to adjust or trim it.
Curly and Wavy Hair
It’s important to note that curly and wavy hair is measured when completely straight. This means that once the curls or waves form, the hair will appear shorter. Therefore, if you want your curly or wavy hair to be 18 inches long, it’s better to purchase a 20-inch extension to account for the shrinkage caused by the texture.
Hair Extensions of Various Lengths
Hair extensions come in a range of lengths, including ear-length, chin-length, shoulder-length, armpit-length, and mid-back-length, among others. Chin-length is considered a short cut, ear-length is very short, shoulder-length is medium, and mid-back-length is quite long. Below, we categorize various lengths into three main groups:
Short Hairstyles:
6″ Hair: This length is ideal for short hairstyles and works well with various styles like waves, keratin treatments, or clip-in extensions. It offers a neat, manageable look while still allowing for some texture and movement.
8″ Hair: This length reaches around the chin, providing a fuller, bouncy look. It works well for those seeking a voluminous yet manageable hairstyle with 8-inch hair bundles.
10″ Hair: Commonly used in tape-in, tissue, or wig styles, 10-inch hair is ideal for shorter hairstyles like bobs. It offers a stylish, polished look while maintaining versatility for different styling options.
12″ Hair: This natural length typically reaches the shoulders or just below the chin. It can be styled into shoulder-length locks, framing the face with layers or soft waves, creating a versatile and balanced look. This length is ideal for a more relaxed, everyday style with enough length to add volume and movement.
Average Hairstyles:
14″ Hair: This 14-inch hair extension, available in both tape-in and clip-in styles, is popular for those seeking medium-length hair. It offers a manageable yet stylish look, perfect for adding a bit of volume and length.
16″ Hair: With 16-inch keratin clip-in extensions, you can transform short hairstyles into longer ones that extend past the collarbone, creating a versatile and elegant appearance.
18″ Hair: This length is ideal for those who want their hair to reach the middle of their back or slightly shorter. It provides a longer, flowing look while still being easy to style and maintain.
20″ Hair: With 20-inch clip-in extensions, you can easily extend your natural short hair to the middle of your back, providing a long, sleek look with added length.
22″ Hair: These 22-inch extensions reach the ribs, making them perfect for those seeking a longer, more dramatic look, often associated with a softer, more elegant personality.
Long Hairstyles:
24″ Hair: If you’re not very tall, 24-inch extensions can stretch beyond your ribs and may even reach your waist, creating a stunningly long hairstyle.
26″ Hair: At an impressive 26 inches, these extensions can reach a woman’s waist, offering an extraordinary length that stands out.
28″ Hair: For women of average height, 28-inch extensions can extend to the waist, providing an elegant, flowing look.
30″ Hair: With 30-inch clip-ins, tape-ins, or lace frontal hair extensions, your hair can reach all the way to your hips, creating a beautiful, long, and luxurious style.
32″ Hair: These are the longest hair extensions currently available, reaching down to your thighs for an incredibly dramatic and luxurious look.
What Is the Most Popular Hair Extension Length?
Hair extension lengths can vary widely based on the manufacturer, the country of origin, and the materials used—whether they are made from 100% human hair, a blend of human and synthetic hair, or entirely synthetic. Due to these factors, there isn’t a standard length that is universally preferred. However, 20-inch hair extensions are the most popular choice among users.
Does the Length of Hair Extensions Affect the Choice of Color?
When selecting hair extension colors, the length can indeed influence your color choice. Longer extensions tend to showcase color more vividly, so it’s important to consider how your chosen shade will appear along the entire length of the extensions. This ensures a harmonious look that complements both the extensions and your natural hair.
Conclusion
We hope that after reading our comprehensive guide on hair extension lengths, you now have a better understanding of how to choose the right length to enhance your look. More hair offers greater styling possibilities, allowing you to create up-dos, French twists, and various other hairstyles for both everyday wear and special occasions.
Long-haired individuals are often described as delicate, graceful, and gentle, thanks to the elegance that longer hair can convey. Even a simple dress can appear sophisticated and beautiful when paired with long hair extensions. However, the most important factor is to ensure you feel comfortable and confident with your hair, whether it’s long or short.
