There's more than one way to wig out

When a hairstylist destroyed her $2,000 hairpiece, Luann Bauer, 54, knew she wasn't alone in her struggle with breast cancer and finding the perfect wig.

From a bad experience blossomed a fruitful business endeavor.

Bauer, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003, opened LuLu's Wiggin' Out in Algonquin in 2005 to make sure no other women had to endure a similar experience.

"I had such a bad experience when I was trying to find a wig that I said, 'If I live through this, I will help other women'," said Bauer of Cary.

"There are too many women out there with bad hair or thinning hair from medication who could use help. No one should have to go through what I went through."

Bauer said a wig made from human hair can cost more than $2,000, which insurance will not cover.

Since opening at 128 S. Main St. in Algonquin three years ago, LuLu's has added jewelry, hats and other accessories to its repertoire.

And while the Algonquin store was born from a disheartening situation, LuLu's Wiggin' Out now has a second location in West Dundee that store manager Michelle Finefield, 27, of Woodstock, says shows the fun side of wigs and accessories.

The new store is located inside the Complete Bridal Salon and Plaza at 121 W. Main St in West Dundee, a one-stop shop where brides can find their dress, accessories, photographer, DJ, invitations and china without leaving the building.

"We want this to be a place where spirits are lifted with all of the bright colors and fun stuff," Finefield said. "It is not just picking a wig and getting out. Here you learn about the wigs and how to take care of your wig."

Finefield and Bauer said wigs aren't just for women losing their hair because of medication, but all women can benefit from the right hairpiece.

The synthetic wigs also cost about a third less than wigs made from human hair and are much more resilient.

"We have brides who come in here with chin-length hair and they are rushing to grow it out," Finefield said. "When I tell them about the wigs, they 'Wow. I have never thought about that. That's a great idea.' It is something to make their wedding day much easier."

Bauer added some women prefer to wear a wig while on vacation because they can go from the pool to dinner without having to do their hair.

The boutique in the bridal plaza features a small collection of wigs and hairpieces, as well as handbags and accessories from around the world.

Bauer said many of the pieces are one of a kind, perfect for the bride looking for a unique piece to complement her dress.

But on a few occasions, brides-to-be have changed their dress to fit the handbag or necklace they found in LuLu's display cases, Finefield said.

Dave Gaffke, owner of the Complete Bridal Salon and Plaza said LuLu's Wiggin' Out is an example of conquering adversity.

"It started because of breast cancer but now it has opened so many different doors," Gaffke said. "It really is a unique thing."