Lace Sizes, Drawn to Scale: 4x4, 5x5, 6x5, 13x4, 13x6 and 360
What the two numbers on every lace wig actually mean, drawn to scale — and what each size lets you do that the one below it does not.
Every lace wig in the catalogue states a size like 13x4 or 6x5. It is the most useful number on the listing and the least explained, so here it is drawn to scale.
Both numbers are inches. The first is how wide the lace panel is, measured along the curve of your hairline rather than straight across. The second is how far back from the hairline it reaches. That second number is the one that decides where you can part.
The sizes, to scale
What each one buys you
4x4 and 5x5 — closures
A four- or five-inch square of lace at the front. Enough for a middle or a modest side part, and nothing more — push the parting further across and you hit the wefted cap. The trade is cost and simplicity: less lace to tint, less to cut, less to go wrong, and noticeably cheaper. For a first wig worn one way, a closure is not a compromise.
6x5 — the practical middle
An extra inch of depth over a 5x5 sounds trivial and is not. Five inches back is roughly where a deep side part stops looking like it is fighting the cap. This is the most common size in our catalogue for a reason.
13x4 — frontal
Thirteen inches runs temple to temple, so the entire front hairline is lace. You can part anywhere across the front and wear the hair pulled back off the face. Four inches of depth is enough for that but not for a high ponytail — pull it up and the wefts behind the lace show.
13x6 — frontal with depth
The same ear-to-ear width, two inches deeper. That extra depth is specifically what makes a middle part look convincing from above and what lets you get away with a low ponytail. It is the most versatile front you can buy, and priced accordingly.
360 — full perimeter
Lace right around the head rather than only at the front, with a wefted panel in the middle. Made for updos: high ponytails, buns, anything that exposes the nape. Heavier, more expensive, and more work to install — worth it only if you actually wear your hair up.
Choosing by what you actually do
Pick the size by the style, not the price
- Always wear it down, one parting. 4x4 or 5x5. You will not miss the extra lace.
- Change your parting often. 13x4 minimum — a closure will not follow you.
- Want a convincing middle part. 13x6. The depth is what sells it from above.
- Wear it up. 360, or accept that ponytails are out.
- Not sure yet. 6x5 is the size that disappoints the fewest people.
One caution on sizing. Retailers measure lace differently, and a "13x4" from one is not always identical to another's. Where a listing gives a range or two sizes, it is usually offering a choice at checkout rather than describing one panel. Confirm on the retailer's own page before ordering.
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