Gabor Wigs: Ultimate Guide to European Craftsmanship

Gabor wigs stand as a premier choice in the wig industry, known for their exceptional European craftsmanship and innovative design features. These high-quality wigs combine comfort, style versatility, and natural appearance that help restore confidence for those experiencing hair loss or seeking fashion alternatives. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover everything about Gabor collections, cap construction, fiber technology, and how they compare to other leading brands.

What Are Gabor Wigs? Brand History and European Heritage

Gabor wigs represent one of the most respected European wig brands in the industry, known for combining innovative technology with classic design principles. Founded in Europe, Gabor has built its reputation on quality craftsmanship that blends timeless styling with modern comfort features.

The company’s European design heritage is evident in their attention to detail and commitment to creating wigs that look and feel natural. Over decades, they’ve refined their manufacturing processes, introducing cutting-edge fiber technologies while maintaining strict quality control standards. Their European design influence brings a distinctive aesthetic that balances classic elegance with contemporary styling.

As a certified trichologist, I’ve recommended Gabor wigs to numerous clients because their European manufacturing standards ensure consistent quality across all collections. Their evolution as a brand has been marked by steady innovations in cap construction and fiber development, establishing them as a trusted name for both first-time wig wearers and experienced users.

The Gabor Difference: What Sets Them Apart

Gabor wigs stand apart from competitor brands through several distinctive features and manufacturing approaches that have earned them loyal customers worldwide. What truly makes these wigs special is their perfect balance of comfort, style retention, and natural appearance.

Key differentiators include:

European design philosophy that prioritizes natural movement
Lightweight construction that reduces the “wearing a wig” feeling
Advanced fiber technology that mimics human hair shine and movement
Specialized cap designs for maximum comfort and security
Dimensional coloration techniques for realistic color depth

In my clinical practice, I’ve observed that clients who switch to Gabor from other brands often comment on the noticeable improvement in comfort and natural appearance. This European-engineered approach to wig design creates products that perform reliably in real-world situations.

Complete Guide to Gabor Wig Collections

Gabor offers several distinct collections, each designed to address specific needs and preferences. Understanding the differences between these collections is essential for selecting the perfect Gabor wig for your situation.

Each collection features unique combinations of cap construction, fiber type, and styling options that create distinct wearing experiences. While all maintain Gabor’s commitment to quality, the collections vary in their features, price points, and ideal users.

Gabor Next Collection

The Gabor Next collection represents the brand’s most technologically advanced line, featuring innovations in both fiber quality and cap construction. This premium collection showcases Gabor’s cutting-edge approach to wig design.

Features extended lace fronts for ultra-natural hairlines
Incorporates heat-friendly synthetic fibers for styling versatility
Offers the most lightweight construction across all Gabor lines
Price range: $200-350
Best suited for experienced wig wearers who prioritize natural appearance and styling options

My clients who choose the Next collection typically seek the most natural-looking options and don’t mind investing in premium features. The extended lace fronts create hairlines that can withstand close inspection, making these wigs ideal for those concerned about detection.

Gabor Sheer Elegance Collection

The Sheer Elegance collection by Gabor focuses on delivering exceptionally natural-looking hairlines and lightweight comfort. This collection specializes in creating the illusion of hair growing directly from the scalp.

Features monofilament tops for natural part lines
Includes lace front technology for realistic hairlines
Incorporates semi-hand-tied caps for improved movement
Price range: $180-300
Best suited for those who prioritize natural appearance, especially at the crown and hairline

The Sheer Elegance collection offers many of the premium features found in competitors like Rene of Paris wigs but with Gabor’s distinctive European styling approach. These wigs excel in creating convincing part lines and hairlines that mimic natural hair growth patterns.

Gabor Comfort Collection

Gabor’s Comfort Collection prioritizes all-day wearability through innovative cap construction designed specifically for sensitive scalps. This collection addresses the needs of those experiencing medical hair loss or scalp sensitivity.

Features velvet-lined ear tabs and nape for reduced irritation
Incorporates breathable cap construction for cooler wearing
Includes adjustable features for secure, personalized fit
Price range: $150-250
Best suited for those with sensitive scalps, medical hair loss, or those wearing wigs for extended periods

As a trichologist who works with medical hair loss patients, I often recommend the Comfort Collection for clients undergoing chemotherapy or those with alopecia. The thoughtful design elements make a significant difference in daily comfort for long-term wig wearers.

Gabor Classic Collection

The Classic Collection represents Gabor’s enduring styles that have remained popular over time, offering reliable quality and timeless designs. These wigs provide excellent value while maintaining Gabor’s quality standards.

Features traditional cap construction with strategic open wefting
Incorporates ready-to-wear styling that requires minimal adjustment
Offers the most extensive color selection across all collections
Price range: $120-200
Best suited for first-time wig wearers or those seeking reliable, budget-conscious options

The Classic Collection serves as an excellent entry point to the Gabor brand, providing quality construction at more accessible price points. These wigs offer similar quality to TressAllure wigs but with Gabor’s distinctive European styling approach.

Understanding Gabor Wig Cap Construction

The foundation of any wig’s comfort and natural appearance lies in its cap construction. Gabor offers several distinct cap designs, each providing specific benefits for different needs.

Cap construction directly impacts how the wig feels, moves, and breathes during wear. It also determines how naturally the hair appears to emerge from the scalp and how much styling versatility you’ll have. Gabor employs various construction techniques across their collections to address different priorities.

Monofilament Top Caps

Monofilament tops represent one of Gabor’s premium cap features, creating the illusion that hair is growing directly from the scalp. This construction technique uses a fine, sheer mesh base at the crown area.

Creates natural-looking hair direction and movement at the part
Allows for part line versatility (can change part location)
Provides a more natural look when looking down at the crown
Found in Gabor’s Next and Sheer Elegance collections
Requires special care to maintain the delicate mesh base

The monofilament construction requires each hair to be individually hand-tied to the mesh base, creating the appearance of hair growing from the scalp. This feature is particularly important for those who wear their hair parted or pulled back, as it creates a natural-looking part line that can withstand close inspection.

Lace Front Technology

Gabor’s lace front technology creates a virtually undetectable hairline, one of the most important factors in achieving a natural-looking wig. This feature uses a fine, transparent lace at the front hairline.

Creates a gradual, natural-looking hairline without a visible edge
Allows for off-the-face styling without revealing the wig
Features individually hand-tied hairs for realistic density
Present in Next, Sheer Elegance, and select Comfort styles
Requires gentle handling to preserve the delicate lace

The lace front construction provides styling versatility similar to what you’d find in Zury wigs, allowing for pulled-back styles and natural hairlines. This feature is particularly valuable for active lifestyles where hair might be swept back from the face.

Hand-Tied Features

Hand-tied construction represents the pinnacle of wig comfort and movement, with Gabor offering this premium feature in select styles across their collections. This labor-intensive technique involves tying each hair to the cap by hand.

Creates the most natural movement and swing
Produces the flattest, most comfortable cap design
Allows hair to move in any direction naturally
Found primarily in Next collection and premium Sheer Elegance styles
Represents the highest level of craftsmanship in wig construction

Full hand-tied caps are the gold standard in wig construction, offering unparalleled movement and comfort. Many of my clients who have tried both machine-made and hand-tied caps report that the difference in natural movement is immediately noticeable, especially in windy conditions.

Comfort Features for Sensitive Scalps

For those with sensitive scalps or medical hair loss, Gabor offers several specialized comfort features designed to provide all-day wearability. These thoughtful additions make a significant difference in the daily wearing experience.

Velvet-lined ear tabs prevent irritation at sensitive contact points
Adjustable straps allow for personalized sizing without pressure points
Strategic open wefting creates improved ventilation and cooling
Lightweight construction reduces overall weight and pressure
Smooth cap interiors minimize friction against the scalp

In my practice working with medical hair loss patients, I’ve found Gabor’s comfort features particularly beneficial for those undergoing chemotherapy. The combination of velvet-lined contact points and strategic ventilation helps reduce the heat and irritation that can make wig wearing challenging during treatment.

Gabor Hair Fiber Technology Explained

The quality and appearance of a wig’s fibers play a crucial role in its overall look and longevity. Gabor utilizes several advanced synthetic fiber technologies across their collections to achieve different effects and benefits.

Understanding the different fiber types helps you select the right wig for your lifestyle and styling preferences. Each fiber type offers distinct advantages in terms of appearance, versatility, and maintenance requirements.

Heat-Friendly Fiber Technology

Gabor’s heat-friendly synthetic fibers represent a significant advancement in wig technology, allowing for styling versatility that approaches that of human hair. These specialized fibers can withstand limited heat styling.

Withstands temperatures up to 350°F (177°C)
Allows for curling, straightening, and reshaping
Features in the Next collection and select Sheer Elegance styles
Requires special heat protectant products when styling
Maintains style memory but offers versatility

While heat-friendly fibers offer styling options similar to Mayvenn wigs, they still require careful handling to maintain their longevity. I advise clients to use the lowest effective heat setting and always apply heat protectant products before styling.

Regular Synthetic Fibers

While heat-friendly fibers offer styling versatility, Gabor’s regular synthetic fibers provide exceptional durability and style retention. These fibers excel at maintaining their intended style with minimal maintenance.

Features excellent “memory” that returns to original style after washing
Requires no heat styling or special maintenance
Maintains consistent appearance with minimal daily styling
Predominant in Classic and Comfort collections
Typically lasts longer than heat-friendly options

Regular synthetic fibers are ideal for those who prefer a “wash and wear” approach to their wigs. The style memory means the wig returns to its original shape after washing, requiring minimal restyling compared to human hair or heat-friendly options.

Fiber Comparison: Gabor vs. Competitor Brands

When comparing Gabor’s fiber technology to other major brands like Raquel Welch, Jon Renau, and Ellen Wille, several key differences become apparent. Each brand has its own approach to synthetic fiber development.

Shine level: Gabor fibers have a more subdued shine compared to Nadula wigs and other competitors
Movement: Gabor achieves more natural movement through fiber variation
Texture: Gabor incorporates more texture variation than many competitor brands
Durability: Comparable longevity to other premium brands with proper care
Heat resistance: Similar temperature limits to other heat-friendly options

In side-by-side comparisons, Gabor’s approach to fiber development tends to prioritize natural appearance and movement over maximum shine. This subtle difference creates wigs that many of my clients find more realistic, especially in varied lighting conditions.

Gabor Wig Colors and Color Technology

Gabor offers a distinctive color palette with proprietary coloration techniques that create multi-dimensional, natural-looking shades. Their color technology is one of the brand’s most distinctive features.

Color selection is crucial for creating a natural look that complements your skin tone. Gabor’s approach to coloration includes subtle variations, highlights, and lowlights that mimic the natural variation found in human hair.

Understanding Gabor’s Color Coding System

Navigating Gabor’s color system requires understanding their unique coding approach, which provides precise information about each shade’s characteristics. This systematic approach helps identify exact shades and their properties.

Number codes indicate base color level (1-14, from darkest to lightest)
Letter codes indicate tone (R for red, G for gold, etc.)
Root designations (like “RT”) indicate darker root shading
Highlight indicators (like “H”) signal dimensional coloring
Special codes (like “SS” for shaded spice) indicate specialized blends

For example, a color labeled “8/27/26RT” indicates a medium blonde base (#8) with strawberry blonde (#27) and golden blonde (#26) highlights, featuring a darker root. This detailed coding system allows for precise color matching and selection.

How to Select the Best Gabor Color for Your Skin Tone

Selecting the most flattering Gabor wig color involves understanding how different shades interact with your skin undertones. The right color can brighten your complexion and create a natural, harmonious look.

Warm skin tones pair well with golden, auburn, and honey shades (G, R, H designations)
Cool skin tones complement ash, platinum, and cooler browns (A, P, 38 designations)
Neutral skin tones can wear most colors but look best with dimensional shades
Consider going 1-2 shades lighter than your natural color if you’re over 50
Multi-tonal colors with highlights create the most natural appearance

In my practice, I find that many clients initially select colors that are too dark, which can look harsh and unnatural. Gabor’s dimensional colors like “GL8/29” (Hazelnut) or “GL14/22SS” (Shaded Wheat) create a more flattering, natural effect than solid shades.

How to Choose the Perfect Gabor Wig

Selecting the ideal Gabor wig involves considering several key factors beyond just style preference. Finding the right combination of cap construction, fiber type, color, and style creates a wig that feels like it was made specifically for you.

The perfect wig matches not only your aesthetic preferences but also your lifestyle needs, comfort requirements, and maintenance capabilities. Approaching selection systematically helps ensure satisfaction with your purchase.

Face Shape Analysis for Gabor Styles

Your face shape plays a crucial role in determining which Gabor styles will be most flattering for your features. The right style balances your proportions and highlights your best features.

Oval faces can wear nearly any style, from short pixies to long layers
Round faces benefit from styles with height at the crown and side-swept bangs
Square faces look best with styles that soften angles, like side parts and soft layers
Heart-shaped faces are flattered by chin-length bobs and side-swept styles
Long faces benefit from styles with volume at the sides and soft bangs

For example, if you have a round face, Gabor styles like “Sensation” or “High Impact” create flattering vertical lines with their layering. Square-faced individuals often look great in softly layered styles like “Zest” or “On the Go.”

Size Selection and Proper Fit

Achieving optimal comfort with your Gabor wig begins with selecting the correct size and understanding how to properly fit it to your head. Proper sizing is essential for both comfort and a natural appearance.

Measure around your hairline from front to nape to determine circumference
Gabor sizes: Petite (21″), Average (21.5-22.5″), Large (23″)
Use adjustable straps to fine-tune fit within each size range
Wig should sit about 1/4 inch behind your natural hairline
Cap should feel secure but not tight (no headache after wearing)

A properly fitted wig should feel secure without causing pressure points or slipping. If you experience headaches after wearing, the cap may be too small. If the wig shifts easily, it may be too large or need adjustment.

Gabor Wig Pricing and Value Analysis

Gabor wigs represent a premium product in the wig market, with prices reflecting their European design and technological features. Understanding what contributes to the cost helps evaluate the value proposition.

While Gabor wigs typically range from $120-$350 depending on the collection and features, their durability and quality construction often result in a lower cost-per-wear than less expensive alternatives. The initial investment delivers better performance and longevity.

Key value factors include:

Premium cap constructions that provide superior comfort and natural appearance
Advanced fiber technologies that maintain appearance longer
Dimensional coloration that requires less customization
Durability that extends useful life beyond cheaper alternatives
Warranty protection not available with budget brands

When comparing pricing to brands like Shake N Go Freetress wigs, Gabor’s higher initial cost is offset by longer useful life and reduced maintenance needs. This makes them an excellent value for daily wearers despite the higher upfront investment.

Where to Buy Authentic Gabor Wigs

Purchasing authentic Gabor wigs from authorized retailers ensures you receive genuine products with valid warranties and proper customer support. Authentic retailers provide important services like color consulting and proper sizing.

Authorized online retailers include Wigs.com, The Wig Company, and NameBrandWigs
Brick-and-mortar options include specialized wig boutiques and select salons
Warning signs of counterfeit products include unusually low prices and missing identification tags
Many authorized retailers offer price matching on identical items
Return policies typically range from 14-30 days for unworn items

I recommend purchasing from retailers that specialize in wigs rather than general merchandise stores, as they provide specialized knowledge and better post-purchase support. Many of my clients have had excellent experiences with dedicated wig retailers who provide color matching assistance and styling advice.

Complete Gabor Wig Care and Maintenance Guide

Proper care and maintenance are essential for maximizing the lifespan and appearance of your Gabor wig. With correct handling, cleaning, and storage, your investment can maintain its beauty for many months.

Establishing a regular care routine extends the life of your wig while keeping it looking fresh and natural. Different fiber types and cap constructions require slightly different approaches to maintenance.

How to Wash Gabor Synthetic Wigs

Washing your Gabor synthetic wig correctly will maintain its shine, movement, and style integrity. Following the proper procedure prevents damage and preserves the original style.

Step-by-step washing procedure:

Fill a basin with cool water and add 1-2 tablespoons of synthetic wig shampoo
Gently submerge the wig and soak for 5 minutes
Swirl gently without rubbing or twisting
Rinse thoroughly with cool running water
Apply synthetic wig conditioner, focusing on ends
Rinse thoroughly again
Blot excess water with a towel (don’t wring or twist)
Place on a wig stand to air dry completely

Regular synthetic wigs should be washed after 15-20 wearings, while heat-friendly fibers benefit from washing after 7-10 wearings. Never use regular hair products on synthetic wigs, as they can damage the fibers.

Styling Gabor Heat-Friendly Wigs

Heat-friendly Gabor wigs offer styling versatility, but require specific techniques and temperature awareness to prevent damage. Understanding the limitations and best practices ensures your wig maintains its appearance and longevity.

Maximum safe temperature: 350°F (177°C)
Recommended tools: ceramic curling irons and flat irons with digital temperature control
Always use heat protectant spray designed for synthetic fibers
Style on a wig head or stand for best results
Allow to cool completely before handling or wearing

The most common styling mistake is using too much heat, which can permanently damage synthetic fibers. Start with the lowest effective temperature (usually around 270°F/132°C) and increase gradually only if needed.

Extending the Life of Your Gabor Wig

With proper care, your Gabor wig can maintain its beautiful appearance and comfortable fit for many months beyond average expectations. These strategies help maximize your investment.

Rotate between two or more wigs to reduce daily wear on each
Store on a wig stand or in the original packaging when not in use
Use a wide-tooth comb or wig brush designed for synthetics
Avoid exposure to high heat (ovens, barbecues, hot car interiors)
Remove before swimming, sleeping, or showering

In my practice, I’ve observed that clients who rotate between multiple wigs typically get 2-3 times the wear from each one compared to those who wear a single wig daily. This rotation strategy significantly reduces the cost-per-wear and extends the overall useful life.

Gabor Wigs for Medical Hair Loss

For those experiencing medical hair loss, Gabor offers several collections and styles specifically designed to address unique comfort needs and appearance concerns. These specialized options provide solutions for sensitive scalps and complete hair loss.

Medical hair loss presents unique challenges that Gabor addresses through thoughtful design features. Their Comfort Collection in particular offers features beneficial for those undergoing chemotherapy or living with alopecia.

Most comfortable caps: Gabor Comfort Collection with velvet-lined features
Best for complete hair loss: Lace front styles with full coverage caps
Most realistic for first-time wig wearers: Next Collection with lace fronts
Lightweight options for sensitive scalps: Any style with “Lightweight” in the description
Breathable options for scalp health: Styles with open wefting and monofilament tops

As someone who works with medical hair loss patients daily, I find that Gabor’s thoughtful design elements make a significant difference in the psychological adjustment to wig wearing. The natural appearance and comfortable fit help restore confidence during challenging times.

Insurance Coverage and Financial Assistance

Navigating insurance coverage and financial assistance options can make Gabor wigs more accessible for those with medical hair loss. Understanding these options helps reduce the financial burden during medical treatment.

Many insurance plans cover wigs with diagnosis code L65.9 (non-scarring hair loss)
Doctor’s prescription should use the term “cranial prosthesis” rather than “wig”
FSA/HSA accounts typically cover wigs for medical hair loss
Tax deductions may be available as medical expenses (consult tax professional)
American Cancer Society and other organizations offer financial assistance programs

To maximize insurance coverage, request a prescription from your doctor specifically for a “cranial prosthesis” with the appropriate diagnosis code. Keep all receipts and documentation of medical necessity for insurance claims or tax purposes.

Comparing Gabor to Other Premium Wig Brands

Understanding how Gabor compares to other premium wig brands helps determine which manufacturer best meets your specific needs. Each brand has distinctive strengths and approaches to wig design.

While all premium brands offer quality products, their design philosophies, color technologies, and cap constructions vary significantly. These differences create distinct wearing experiences that may better suit different preferences and requirements.

Gabor vs. Jon Renau: Detailed Comparison

Gabor and Jon Renau represent two leading premium wig brands, each with distinctive approaches to design, construction, and materials. Their different strengths appeal to different wearer priorities.

Cap construction: Jon Renau offers more SmartLace options; Gabor excels in classic comfort designs
Fiber technology: Jon Renau’s HD fiber has more shine; Gabor offers more subdued, natural luster
Color technology: Jon Renau offers more rooted colors; Gabor provides more dimensional blends
Style range: Jon Renau offers more contemporary styles; Gabor excels in classic, versatile cuts
Price point: Similar ranges with Jon Renau typically 10-15% higher for comparable features

Jon Renau tends to appeal to those seeking cutting-edge technology and fashion-forward styles, while Gabor attracts wearers who prioritize classic designs with natural movement and comfortable fit. Both deliver excellent quality with slightly different aesthetics.

Gabor vs. Raquel Welch: Detailed Comparison

When comparing Gabor and Outre wigs, both premium wig manufacturers with loyal followings, several key differences become apparent. These distinctions help determine which brand better suits your specific needs.

Cap construction: Raquel Welch features more Memory Cap options; Gabor offers more traditional constructions
Fiber technology: Raquel Welch Tru2Life offers slightly higher heat tolerance; Gabor fibers provide more natural movement
Color technology: Raquel Welch offers more dramatic highlight options; Gabor provides more subtle, natural blends
Style range: Raquel Welch offers more voluminous, glamorous styles; Gabor excels in everyday, wearable designs
Price point: Comparable with slight variations by collection

Raquel Welch wigs often appeal to those seeking statement styles with volume and dramatic coloration, while Gabor tends to attract wearers looking for subtler, European-inspired designs with natural movement and realistic color blending.

Expert Styling Tips for Gabor Wigs

Professional stylists have developed specific techniques for customizing and styling Gabor wigs to achieve the most natural and flattering results. These expert approaches help personalize your wig for a truly custom look.

While Gabor wigs come beautifully styled out of the box, professional customization can elevate them to a new level of personalization. These techniques help adapt standard styles to your unique features and preferences.

Professional Customization Options

Professional wig stylists can customize your Gabor wig in several ways to enhance its fit, appearance, and personalization. These services transform a ready-made product into a truly personalized hair solution.

Thinning and texturizing to reduce bulk and create natural movement
Bang customization to flatter your specific face shape
Hairline customization for a more natural front edge
Strategic trimming to enhance face-framing layers
Color blending to add subtle dimension

When seeking a wig stylist, look for professionals with specific training in wig customization, as regular hair stylists often lack the specialized knowledge needed. Expect to pay $50-100 for basic customization services, with more extensive work commanding higher prices.

Gabor Wig FAQs and Troubleshooting

These frequently asked questions address the most common queries and concerns about Gabor wigs, with expert solutions to typical challenges. From fit issues to styling problems, these answers provide practical guidance.

How long do Gabor wigs typically last?
With proper care, Gabor synthetic wigs typically last 4-6 months with daily wear. Heat-friendly styles usually last 3-4 months with daily wear. Rotating between multiple wigs can extend their life significantly, with many clients reporting up to a year of good wear when using 2-3 wigs in rotation.

Can Gabor wigs be colored or permanently curled?
No, synthetic fibers cannot be permanently colored or permed. The color is embedded in the fiber during manufacturing and cannot be lightened or changed. For style changes, heat-friendly fibers can be temporarily restyled with heat tools, while regular synthetic fibers must be worn as designed.

Is it normal for synthetic wigs to shed?
Minimal shedding is normal, especially when new. Excessive shedding may indicate damage from improper brushing or heat styling. Use only wide-tooth combs or specialized wig brushes, working from the ends up to minimize fiber loss.

Can I swim or shower in my Gabor wig?
Swimming and showering in synthetic wigs is not recommended. Chlorine, salt water, and hot water can damage fibers and affect the cap construction. Remove your wig before these activities to preserve its appearance and extend its life.

How can I fix a wig cap that feels too tight?
If your Gabor wig feels too tight, first ensure the adjustable straps are set to their widest position. If still uncomfortable, try wearing a wig cap liner made of satin or bamboo to reduce friction. For persistent issues, consult a professional wig stylist who can sometimes adjust the cap construction.

Conclusion: Is a Gabor Wig Right for You?

After exploring the complete range of Gabor wigs, collections, features, and considerations, you can now make an informed decision about whether this premium brand aligns with your specific needs. Gabor wigs represent an excellent investment for those who prioritize natural appearance, comfortable fit, and European styling.

Gabor wigs are particularly well-suited for those who value subtle, natural-looking hair with dimensional coloring and comfortable cap construction. They excel at providing classic, versatile styles that work well for both everyday wear and special occasions.

For those experiencing medical hair loss, Gabor’s Comfort Collection offers thoughtful features that address the unique needs of sensitive scalps. The brand’s commitment to quality construction and natural appearance helps restore confidence during challenging transitions.

Whether you’re a first-time wig wearer or experienced user, Gabor offers collections at various price points to meet different needs and budgets. Their combination of quality construction, natural appearance, and comfort features makes them a worthwhile consideration for anyone seeking premium synthetic wigs with European design influence.