How Many Bundles Do You Really Need?
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How Many Bundles Do I Need for a Full, Flawless Install?
We get this question all the time at SB Boutique: “How many bundles do I need?” And if you’ve ever stared at your cart wondering whether two is enough or if four is too many, you’re not alone.
Whether you’re planning a fresh sew-in, quick weave, or wig install, the number of bundles you buy makes all the difference between just okay and SB Babe levels of flawless.
So today, we’re breaking it ALL the way down—by hair length, texture, and real-life factors that matter when you’re going for that full, soft glam that lasts.
Why the Right Number of Bundles Matters
When it comes to an install, your bundles determine how full, seamless, and long-lasting your look is. Too few and you might end up with thin ends or see-through sections. Too many? You might waste money or end up with unnecessary bulk.
Here’s why bundle count matters:
- It affects the fullness of your look – The right number of bundles ensures body, bounce, and volume.
- It affects how natural your install looks – Too thin, and it’s a dead giveaway. Too thick, and it gets bulky and unnatural.
- It impacts styling flexibility – More bundles = more freedom to layer, curl, or style how you want.
The good news? We’ve made it easy to figure out what YOU need—no math degree required.
First, Let’s Talk Hair Length
The most important factor in deciding how many bundles you need is the length of the hair you’re installing.
Here’s the golden rule: the longer the hair, the more bundles you’ll need.
Why? Because hair is measured and sold by weight—typically 100 grams or about 3.5 ounces per bundle. As length increases, the hair is stretched longer, so the bundle appears thinner. That means less volume per bundle the longer you go.
📏 Hair Length vs Bundle Count Guide
| Hair Length | Bundles Needed | Look Description |
|---|---|---|
| 10" – 14" | 2 – 3 Bundles | Short bobs, blunt cuts, layered lobs |
| 16" – 20" | 3 Bundles | Medium-length glam with bounce |
| 22" – 26" | 3 – 4 Bundles | Long hair, flowing layers, statement styles |
| 28" – 30”+ | 4 – 5 Bundles | Super long glam, maximum inches |
Let’s break these categories down in more detail:
✨ Short Styles (10” – 14”)
For bobs, blunt cuts, and layered short styles, you can easily get away with 2 bundles. But if you want extra volume or a full stacked look, 3 bundles will give you the density you need without making the install bulky.
Recommended: 2–3 bundles
✨ Medium Styles (16” – 20”)
This is the most popular range for everyday soft glam. It gives you just enough length for curls, waves, or sleek straight styles without going into “heavy” territory.
3 bundles is the sweet spot here—it gives you body, bounce, and layers without looking too thick or thin.
Recommended: 3 bundles
✨ Long Styles (22” – 26”)
If you’re going for length that turns heads, you’ll want more hair. Long bundles have less density at the ends, so you need more to avoid a thin or see-through look—especially when straightened.
Depending on how thick or layered you want it, 3 may work—but 4 is usually ideal for fullness from root to tip.
Recommended: 3–4 bundles
✨ Extra Long Styles (28” – 30”+)
This is full glam territory. Waist-length installs and beyond require volume AND length. At this point, 4 is the minimum—but go with 5 if you want true fullness or like to layer lengths.
Recommended: 4–5 bundles
What About Hair Texture?
Not all bundles are created equal when it comes to texture. Different textures have different densities, and that plays a big role in how many bundles you’ll need.
💁🏽♀️ Straight Hair
- Sleek, smooth, and lays flat
- Requires more bundles to achieve volume
- Especially true for longer installs (22”+)
Recommendation: Add one extra bundle if you want thick straight styles.
💁🏽♀️ Body Wave / Loose Wave
- Has a soft wave pattern that gives natural volume
- 3 bundles is usually enough for a full look
- Can be styled straight or curled for versatility
Recommendation: 3 bundles (add a 4th for extra fullness)
💁🏽♀️ Deep Wave / Curly Hair
- Highly textured and voluminous
- You can get away with fewer bundles
- Great for big hair moments and natural textures
Recommendation: 2–3 bundles is usually enough, even for longer styles
Layering Lengths for Natural Results
Another tip: mixing lengths gives a more natural, layered look.
For example, instead of buying all 20” bundles, you might buy a 16”, 18”, and 20”. This gives you that salon-layered finish without needing to cut or style as much post-install.
Want your ends to look thick and blunt? Stick to all the same length. Want body and bounce with movement? Layer up your bundle lengths.
SB Babe Cheat Sheet: Real-Life Bundle Picks
Here’s what our customers typically choose based on the look they want:
- Shoulder-Length Sleek Bob: 2 bundles (straight)
- Everyday Glam Body Wave (18”): 3 bundles
- Long Layers (24”): 4 bundles
- Ultra-Long Inches (30”): 5 bundles
💡 Pro Tip: Always round up if you’re unsure. It’s better to have one extra bundle than not enough!
So… How Many Bundles Should You Order?
| Install Type | Hair Length | Bundles Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Short Blunt Cut | 10” – 14” | 2 – 3 |
| Natural Soft Glam | 16” – 20” | 3 |
| Long Statement Look | 22” – 26” | 3 – 4 |
| Super Long / 30”+ | 28” – 30”+ | 4 – 5 |
Shop the Look
Now that you know how many bundles you need, let’s get your glam started. SB Boutique has the quality you deserve—affordable raw Cambodian hair that lasts install after install.
Still unsure? DM us on Instagram @s.b.boutique__ or chat with us on the site. We’ll help you find the perfect bundle combo for your next slay.
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- Hair Talk: Why Raw Hair Bundles Are Worth It
SB Boutique — where soft glam meets everyday confidence.