May 02, 2025
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Lulu's expands Crystal Lake selection

By NORTHWEST HERALD
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Wig specialist Dana Ratzek straightens a wig on a mannequin at Lulu's Wiggin Out in downtown Crystal Lake. The shop recently merged with the Algonquin store and will be selling all merchandise out of the Crystal Lake location. (Monica Maschak)

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CRYSTAL LAKE – Lulu’s Wiggin Out has expanded its selection of women’s fashion, accessories and wigs at its Crystal Lake boutique.

In addition to designer clothing and accessories, the store is now one of the premier Chicago area locations for wigs. It is located at 63 N. Williams St. in downtown Crystal Lake.

Lulu’s closed its Algonquin store after eight years to consolidate its operations under one roof.

“We have brought all of our services to a single location to better serve our customers," said owner Luann Bauer. "Our downtown Crystal Lake store is a popular location, easily accessible, and offers the room to expand our collection of women’s accessories.”

A breast cancer survivor, Bauer opened her first Lulu’s Wiggin Out in 2005 in Algonquin. She later added a collection of women’s clothing and accessories and now carries many sought-after designers.

“I was committed to helping women feel beautiful while undergoing the difficulties of cancer,” Bauer said.

The back of the Crystal Lake store is dedicated to wigs, and includes a privacy area for fittings.

The shop offers a wide selection of synthetic and natural hair wigs with the option to custom order. A licensed cosmetologist is on site to help customers with their wig selection. The store also sells hats, scarves, turbans and other items to help cope with hair loss.

Store manager Ashly Bauer, Luann's daughter-in-law, said wigs are priced from $130 to $400 for synthetic hair, and $500 to $2,000 for human hair. She said the store deals mainly with synthetics, but also provides human hair wigs for customers.

"Synthetic is much easier to maintain," Ashly Bauer said. "It keeps its shape and look. Curls stay no matter what the weather is like outside. Real hair you have to blow dry and style every day."

In addition to Wigs, Lulu’s Wiggin Out offers a twist on classic feminine apparel. The boutique features clothing, hats, jewelry, handbags, gifts, home décor and more.

“We pride ourselves on the personal service we offer to help our customers find the perfect wig, accessory or gift,” Luann Bauer said.

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Lulu's Wiggin Out
What: A boutique featuring designer clothing, accessories and wigs
Where: 63 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake
Information: 815-356-9900 or luluswigginout.com