Inspired by Edna Parkinton’s fearless approach to reinvention
Introduction: Why Edna Gets It Right
In the Lady Marjorie Snellthorpe mysteries, no character embodies confidence (or lacks filter) quite like Edna Parkinton! After losing her hair to chemotherapy, Edna didn’t retreat—she transformed her challenge into an opportunity for daily reinvention. Her collection of wigs isn’t just about covering hair loss; it’s about expressing mood, personality, and refusing to let circumstances define her.
Whether you’re dealing with hair loss due to medical treatment, aging, or simply want to experiment with new looks, Edna’s approach offers a masterclass in confidence and style.
The Edna Philosophy – Your Hair, Your Rules
“I reserve the right to change it to whatever’s appropriate” – Edna’s motto applies to more than just shortening people’s names.
Edna’s key principles:
- Your appearance is your choice, not society’s
- Confidence comes from feeling authentic to yourself
- Hair (or lack thereof) doesn’t define your worth
- Change can be empowering, not just necessary
- Age is no barrier to experimentation
Building Your Wig Wardrobe Like Edna
The Mood Collection:
- Blonde (Edna’s “good mood” choice): For days when you want to feel attractive, optimistic and sociable
- Brunette: Professional, sophisticated, perfect for dinner out
- Red: Bold, dramatic, for when you’re feeling fiery
- Black: Classic, elegant, timeless
- Purple: Edna’s rebellion wig – for when you need to feel defiant, unconventional, or want to shake things up
When to Reach for Purple:
Edna discovered that purple gave her courage to speak her mind and stand her ground. It’s perfect for:
- Days when you need to have difficult conversations
- Moments when you want to challenge expectations
- Times when you’re feeling rebellious against ageist assumptions
- Situations where you need an extra boost of “I don’t care what others think”
As Edna puts it: “Sometimes a woman needs to feel a bit dangerous, and purple does that for me.”
Edna’s Shopping Tips:
- Start with one good quality wig in a style you love
- Choose colours that complement your skin tone
- Consider your lifestyle – low maintenance or high drama?
- Don’t be afraid to try something completely different
Wig Care and Styling Secrets
The Basics Edna Wishes Someone Had Told Her:
- Store wigs on wig stands to maintain shape
- Brush gently from tips to roots
- Use wig-specific products, not regular hair products
- Rotate between wigs to extend their life
- Keep a travel case for overnight trips
Quick Styling Tips:
- Adjust the ear tabs first, then the nape
- Use wig tape for extra security in windy Cornwall weather
- A light hairspray can tame flyaways
- Don’t over-style – most wigs hold their shape
Confidence in Public – Edna’s Fearless Approach
Dealing with Comments and Stares: Edna’s response to curiosity? Meet it head-on with humor and honesty. She never apologises for her choices and neither should you.
Key confidence boosters:
- Practice your “Edna stance” – shoulders back, chin up
- Have a few prepared responses for questions
- Remember: most people are too busy with their own concerns
- Focus on how the wig makes YOU feel, not others’ reactions
The Psychology of Hair and Identity
Why Edna’s Approach Works: When we lose our hair, we can feel like we’ve lost part of our identity. Edna flipped this narrative – instead of mourning what was lost, she celebrated what was possible. Each wig became a costume for a different version of herself.
Reframing the narrative:
- From “I have to wear a wig” to “I get to choose my look daily”
- From “People will know it’s fake” to “I’m expressing my creativity”
- From “This isn’t the real me” to “This is another facet of me”
Special Situations – Travelling and Events
Edna’s Travel Wisdom:
- Pack wigs in their boxes when possible
- Bring a backup for important events
- Check hotel mirror lighting before applying
- Pack a small kit: wig tape, brush, spray
Social Events:
- Choose comfort over perfection for long days
- Have a backup plan for weather (Edna learned this in Cornwall!)
- Let close friends know your preferences about touch/adjustment
Beyond Wigs – Building Overall Confidence
Edna’s Complete Confidence Package:
- Master your makeup (or embrace going without)
- Develop your personal style
- Cultivate your sense of humour
- Build a support network of understanding friends
- Focus on your other strengths and interests
Practical Resources
Where to Shop:
- Medical supply stores often carry high-quality options
- Online retailers offer variety and discretion
- Some salons specialise in hair loss solutions
- Consider custom pieces for special occasions
Budget-Friendly Options:
- Start with synthetic wigs – they’ve improved dramatically
- Look for sales at the end of seasons
- Consider gently used options from reputable sources
Conclusion: Embracing Your Inner Edna
Edna Parkinton shows us that confidence isn’t about having perfect hair—it’s about making choices that feel right for you and owning them completely. Whether you’re dealing with hair loss or simply want to experiment, approach it with Edna’s spirit: bold, unapologetic, and ready for adventure.
Remember Edna’s words: “I can still manage selective hearing.” Sometimes the best response to unwanted opinions is simply not to hear them.
Your hair journey is uniquely yours. Make it an adventure worthy of Edna herself.
“Some women choose the wrong blokes, but every woman can choose the right wig for her mood.” The Edna Parkinton Philosophy
