Wavy hair can be incredibly versatile, adding texture and hold to hairstyles that might fall flat on straighter hair. That’s why when you need a break between wash days, you’ve gotta pull from the arsenal of wavy hairstyles at your disposal. Whether you are aiming for a protective wavy hairstyle or keeping it chic with a stylish wavy updo, there are many ways to change your everyday look. If you’re looking for inspiration, we’ve rounded up 15 of the best hairstyles for wavy hair.
1. The Half-up Ponytail
Image Source: @aslinurakinci
We’ll kick off with a quick and easy one! The key to this hairstyle is volume which wavy hair can sometimes lack. Asli gives a good tip here: once you’ve scooped the top layer into a high ponytail at the back of your head, use a claw clip underneath the pony to lift it even further.
2. Loose High Spacebuns
Image Source: @amberbuzz
Super cute for a beach trip or festival. Divide hair in half and loosely bunch hair at the base of your head (make sure they are even). Secure in loose messy buns using spiral bands. Pull a few tendrils out around the face for a softer look.
3. Messy Loose Pony
Image Source: @kellanywilliams
Wavy hair is the best type of hair for a messy pony. Simply scoop hair to the crown of the head and secure it in place with a spiral band or scrunchie. Leave loose sections around the face. This looks especially good with a middle part, as shown above.
4. Waves with Clip
Image Source: @itsmikaylanicolee
Have a day when your waves just won’t refresh? Enhance natural waves with a fun accessory. You can gently twist your hair at the base of your head and then securely or loosely clamp it down with your favorite clip.
5. Temporary Color
Image Source: @linnygd
To really stand out, why not try upgrading your waves with a pop of color? There are so many temporary color masks to try now, like the Curlsmith Hair Makeup, which also provides some hold. This on-trend blue hue tone really enhances waves and curls.
6. Top Knot
Image Source: @keilanihair
Using a scrunchie for a looser look, pull the hair at the base of your head and create a sleek or messy top knot. This simple, easy, and great if you need to create a wavy hairstyle between wash days.
7. Twist Low Bun
Image Source: @hanzcurls
Calling all my wavies looking for protective styles for wavy hair that aren’t complicated, this is for you. We all know how to do a simple bun, and it’s just as easy to do twice for a simple look that feels special. Securing the low bun with a scrunchie allows for a sleek yet functional style that really plays up the natural texture of wavy hair.
8. High Bun
Image Source: @curlylilly
Similar to the previous style, this creates a sense of relaxed elegance. We love to see easy updos for wavy hair that work for weddings or special events. Make sure to keep a short middle part and leave out any tendrils in the front or side of your face. Pull hair back into a loose bun and secure the extra pieces with fun accessories.
9. Boho Hairstyle
Image Source: @wavycurlymichelle
Festival girlies will love this very easy and functional wavy hairstyle. Allow tendrils to fall down on both sides of your face that you plan to braid. The key to this whimsical look is to embrace some frizz to look like you’ve just been dancing in the woods!
10. Claw Clip Updo
The key to this look is lots of volume and a big claw clip at the base of your neck. It’s messy and loose and won’t create a lot of tension on your scalp, which makes it an easy updo for wavy hair.
11. Tight Bun
Image Source: @laialdarwich
This slick high bun is giving glam! We all know the bread and butter of any bun is a light hold gel to secure the style. You can add some romantic touches with a few tendrils framing your face or opt for no tendrils.
12. Stylish Updo
Image Source: @curlycaridad
A very pretty style and not as complicated as it sounds! Divide your hair as if you were going to do a ponytail and apply mousse (make sure you stretch the hair). Then, you’ll separate the ponytail into two sections that you’ll individually braid before twisting into one giant bun that intertwines both braids.
13. French Braids
Image Source: @ohlala.keriting
Wavy hair can make this cute trick extra special by adding texture. If you’ve been looking for a simple protective style that won’t have you stressed out, opt for very simple french braids.
14. Accessorize with Bows
Image Source: @thegirlhabit
This updo is super easy and has maximum impact. Ensure you create a lot of texture with your waves with products that enhance the volume. Twist two sections of hair across the back of your head and then secure with a romantic accessory like a bow.
Did you bookmark your favorite hairstyle? Before you begin styling, learn How to Wash and Style Your Wavy Hair for Gorgeous, Defined Waves.
