Unconventional Means

• Please note that similar to drag queen culture, research about drag queen concepts and features takes a few unconventional means. This is because the mainstream arms of the economy have been slow to catch on to how and what people interested in drag are willing to spend (in terms of time and money). For that reason, some of the concepts and suggestions for this initial research were originally gleaned from Reddit’s Drag forum where a Drag 101 was done on wigs, specifically. Note that Wonder does not typically reference Reddit since these sources are not always reliable (but in this case, they proved helpful)

Drag Wig Styling

• One of the Reddit reviewer’s comments shed light on the complexities in determining popular styling and this had to do with understanding end goals. The commenter [oneboytoldme] noted that the best wigs were based on the desired function (e.g., the ability to take on heat, where the lace is located, cleaning issues, length for teasing issues, etc.).

• “Shake and go” wig styles are recommended for newbies.

• Some insights can be gleaned from how top drag queens care for their wigs. One article highlights that synthetic vs human hair required additional time, which can impact cost as well as popularity.

Costs

• Drag costuming (including costume, wigs, makeup, nails, fragrance, and treatment) cost Jan Sport $6,256/year. Sasha Velour, one of the winner’s on Drag Race, spent ~$4,000 for her looks on the show (note hat this winner for wigs less often than the other contestants).

Popular Drag Wig Makers

• In drag culture, the top queens are specifically set up to stand out from the pack, so as soon as something becomes popular it is likely passé. This may be why so many popular wig makers appear to be more boutique-style operations. Below is a mix of ‘boutique’ wig makers and more mainstream wholesalers.

RuPaul's Drag Race Styles

• According to Vulture, the top RuPaul’s US Drag Race queens include Bianca Del Rio, Shangela Laquifa Wadley, and Courtney Act (to name a few; this list goes to the top 20 and runners up).

Wig Exhibitors at DragCon

• Some top exhibitors that were highlighted by World of Wonder (Drag Race’s production company) include KritterKlips, Wigs By Vanity, Wigs And Grace, Diva Dreads, & Rockstar Wigs!.