From Zurich "Idol Worshipped Objects" to High-End Luxury Hair
Devoted reverence for celebrities and extravagant spending habits
Making a pretty penny in the real-hair wig business can net you a cool 7 billion dollars annually. But, as a crime thriller, this topic might fall flat...regardless of the intriguing yarns behind it.
"The tresses of the impoverished decorate the heads of the affluent – this ridiculous venture is a thriving business." A quote from the "stylistically over-the-top" (director Tobias Ineichen) latest Swiss "Tatort" that could easily apply to reality: In 2023, a whopping 7.06 billion USD was generated from wigs and extensions crafted from real hair – and experts predict the ten billion mark will be hit by 2028.
"Hair symbolizes diversity, hair makes politics," it says in the film – and indeed, various topics such as social power dynamics, religious convictions, and cultural identities can be explored and connected via the hair trade. "Rapunzel" delves into a particularly captivating true story that shook the industry over two decades ago.
TV "Tatort" Quick Facts ## "Objects of Adoration"
According to Jewish law, married Orthodox women must cover their hair in public. The Sheitel – an elegant wig made of real hair – has established itself as an astute solution allowing women to follow religious rules without sacrificing a contemporary appearance.
However, in 2004, a rabbinical ruling shook up the market. Shalom Yosef Elyashiv declared that Indian hair, which comprises the majority of global real hair production, was not kosher. The reason: Many of these hairs originate from Hindu temples, where women donate their locks as religious offerings. According to Jewish understanding, this falls under "idol worship," Elyashiv explained, and promptly banned the practice.
The repercussions were substantial. The Rabbi even advised burning already purchased Indian wigs, as "objects of idol worship must be destroyed." Orthodox Jewish women were instructed to pay with precisely counted money when purchasing to avoid receiving change that may have come from Indian wig sales.
Now, hair factories must provide special kosher certificates, and each wig comes with a corresponding label. The prices for kosher real hair wigs range between 700 and 1700 euros – and that's just the initial cost. Monthly maintenance fees also weigh in, as women cannot wash their wigs themselves. With proper care, a high-quality real hair wig can last up to ten years.
The Shady Side of the Gloss Business
With big money comes shady dealings. "Rapunzel" nudges at real-life issues within the industry regarding counterfeit real hair. In fact, the black market thrives with inferior or mislabeled products. The origin of the hair is a significant concern, as while "European hair" is branded as a premium product, much of it comes from other regions. The traceability of supply chains is often impossible, opening the door for fraud.
As Commissar Grandjean and Ott wrap up their investigation in Zurich, the hair industry continues elsewhere. Somewhere in the world, a woman is cutting her hair – for religious reasons, out of necessity, or for fashion. And somewhere else, another woman is slipping on a wig – to keep her identity a secret, to preserve her dignity, or simply to look stunning.
Source: ntv.de
- Crime
- Tatort
- TV
In the grand scheme, the real-hair wig business is a complex affair, influenced by cultural, religious, and technological factors. Here's a brief rundown of its evolution and current state:
Historical Perspective
- Perukes and Wigs Through History: The use of wigs, known as perukes or periwig, dates back to the 17th century. They were initially worn as a status symbol and fashion statement among men, particularly in Europe. The practice gained popularity after Louis XIII of France popularized it in 1624[2].
- Cultural and Religious Influences: Wigs have been used in various cultures for both aesthetic and religious purposes. For example, in some Jewish communities, wigs are worn by married women as a sign of modesty.
Present State
- High-End Businesses: The industry includes high-end operations like Karen Mitchell's True Hair Company, catering to celebrities and professional women with luxury hair extensions and wigs. Ethical sourcing is a priority for this market[1].
- Ethical Sourcing vs. Black Market: The industry grapples with unethical sourcing practices. Many hair extensions marketed as "Indian" are actually sourced from other countries and may be mixed with synthetic or animal hair[4].
- Technological Advancements: Technological advancements have improved the processing and maintenance of real hair wigs. Remy hair, for instance, is considered superior due to its natural look and durability[5].
Impact of Religious Beliefs
- Modesty and Cultural Expression: Wigs continue to serve as a means of cultural and religious expression. In some communities, they symbolize modesty or spiritual beliefs, while in others, they are a fashion statement or used for theatrical purposes.
Impact of Cultural Identities
- Diversity and Representation: The industry now caters to a broader range of hair types and styles, reflecting the growing demand for authentic and culturally respectful hair products.
Impact of the Black Market
- Counterfeit and Unethical Practices: The black market poses challenges, including the sale of counterfeit or unethically sourced hair. This undermines trust in the industry and highlights the need for transparency and ethical practices.
Advancements in Technology
- Quality and Maintenance: Technology has improved the quality and maintenance of real hair wigs. Advanced processing techniques ensure that hair is clean, conditioned, and durable, making it easier for consumers to style and maintain their wigs[3].
- Sourcing and Verification: Technological tools can aid in tracing the origin of hair, helping to combat the black market by ensuring that hair is ethically sourced and genuine.
In essence, the real-hair wig industry is shaped by a delicate mix of historical, cultural, technological, and ethical factors. It faces challenges like unethical sourcing and the black market, but it also offers opportunities for innovation and growth.
- The following shall be added to the discussions on high-end businesses in the real-hair wig industry: the fashion and beauty sector, as well as the business world, with Karen Mitchell's True Hair Company catering to celebrities and professional women.
- In light of the interrogation between Commissar Grandjean and Ott in Zurich, it would be prudent to investigate the financial aspect of the global real-hair wig business, which could potentially skyrocket to $10 billion by 2028.
- Alongside the exploration of social power dynamics, religious convictions, and cultural identities in the real-hair wig industry, a thorough investigation of the impact of the fashion and lifestyle industry, including luxury brands and marketing strategies, would provide a more complete understanding of the intricacies within this lucrative business.
