You’re getting a new wig and you have narrowed your choices to two; ombre vs balayage wigs. Both of them look equally stunning but you want to nail that cosplay and have the perfect hair. So, how do you choose between the two?
If you are confused by these two terms, it’s not your fault. We sometimes use them interchangeably even though they mean different things. However, without the knowledge of what they are, your limit your fashion choices to simple visual aspect.
Art goes a lot deeper than first impressions. Understanding the secrets of ombre vs balayage wig would unlock another level of possibility in your artistic expression.
Table of contents
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Ombre vs Balayage Wigs – What Are They?
Ombre and balayage are terms used to describe how a hair or wig is colored. Both of them relate to the mixing of more than one color to produce specific effects.
What is Ombre?
Ombre comes from the French word ombré, which means shaded. It is a coloring effect where the hair gently but dramatically transitions into a different color. Traditionally, we highlight darker hair and gently lighten it around the midway mark. The gradual color change would then continue into a full transformation by the end.
With natural hair color, this often gives your hair the appearance of depth and volume. When expertly done, this can also give the impression of the sun’s radiance glowing from your hair. You can also have a ‘reverse ombre’, where the lighter roots creep down the darker ends.
Ombre on wigs
However, ombre hair, or wigs, go beyond the natural hair colors. Tokyo Revenger’s Rindo Haitani cosplay wig is one example such example. His pink hair transitions into deep, dark blue streaks on both ends, likely a nod to his stoic façade.
You can also use ombre for a mix of natural and unique colors. Genshin Impact’s Sangonomiya Kokomi cosplay wig only has the tip of her salmon-colored hair dipped in light blue. The color palette complements that of the island of her charge.
When choosing ombre vs balayage wigs, the ombre’s striking look would pull eyes towards you. This allows you to express a particular voice through your hair, adding complexity to your character. With ombre hair, there is no limit to your self-expression and artistic indulgence other than your imagination.
What is Balayage?
Balayage is a technique of highlighting only small sections of hair. What sets it apart from traditional highlights is the subtler application, giving the hair a more natural appearance. Balayage hair often appear sun-kissed and adds warmth to your look.
The general appearance adds life and dimension to your hair. While balayage is more common on wavy and curly hair, professionally painted straight balayage looks just as stunning.
The word itself originates from the French word ‘to sweep’. This refers to the way the hair is sparingly painted in long but small sections to make it pop. While it generally is associated with blond hair, you can use this technique on any hair color.
Some even choose to use bright dyes for their balayage. While the technique itself is just subtle, the general effect of colored balayage is more pronounced. It’s like having a personal colored spotlight centered on you at all times.
Balayage on wigs
Balayage wigs are harder to come by and they tend to cost more. This is because balayage wigs have to be carefully hand-painted. Good balayage application also requires a lot of skill, further increasing the price of labor.
If you have the cash to spare, you may look up specific shops or even artists that cater to balayage wigs. However, be careful with the labels. Ombre and balayage are often used interchangeably. You may end up buying an ombre wig which you can buy at a cheaper price.
The pros of balayage in the question of ombre vs balayage wigs are the impressive natural-looking blend. There is less room for artistic expression without stepping out of the subtlety of balayage. Nonetheless, you cannot argue with its quiet elegance.
Ombre vs Balayage Wigs – Which One Suits You Best?
Ombre and balayage wigs are both popular in recent years. Compared to the foil highlights of the ’80s, these new techniques look more natural and impressive. Both of these styles are still evolving as well. Multiple colored ombre techniques have brought about some amazing shading effects. 3D Balayage also add extra colour for impeccable contouring.
Since both of these are equally trending at the moment, choosing between the two will depend on your needs. Ask yourself these questions.
- Do you want all eyes to be on you when you sweep into the room? Or do you want to hide a little among the crowd but be irresistible once people see you?
- Do you have a strong voice you wish to project through your self-expression? Or do you prefer to whisper it through gentle shades?
- What is your budget? Would you rather have a collection of wigs to match your mood or just a few that speaks to your soul?
- If you are looking for a wig for cosplay, how would your character see themselves?
Conclusion
There is no generally correct answer for the question of ombre vs balayage wigs. Both of them are equally captivating but each has its own charm. The choice rests entirely on you.
Ombre wigs are entrancing and the more flexible style gives you greater freedom and customization. Especially with the rise in the popularity of colored ombre, the choice is limitless. Many manufacturers are also crafting ombre wigs in both natural and bright colors. They are more affordable, allowing you to own a sizeable collection for your cosplay or daily wear.
Balayage wigs, on the other hand, replicate the subtleties of mother nature. While your entrance may not be as dramatic, but nobody will want you to leave their sight. However, good quality balayage may be hard to get and you need to set aside more cash for each wig. Nonetheless, if it speaks to you and you will be using them long-term, it may be the perfect wig for you.