For a sophisticated look, try a sleek low bun with side-swept bangs. This style is perfect for formal events and keeps your hair tidy and elegant. If you prefer a more relaxed style, beach waves with sun-kissed balayage can give you that effortless, casual vibe.
This style is great for parties or casual gatherings, providing a fun and lively appearance. Another option is the high bun with bangs, which is perfect for keeping your hair off your face while still looking chic.
This style is modern and edgy, making it perfect for a night out or a special event. For a more classic look, long bouncy curls with dark roots and golden ends can create a timeless and elegant appearance.
Now, without further ado, let’s dive into 19 hairstyles for thick wavy hair you’ll love.
Long layers with caramel balayage
Long layers involve cutting your hair in varying lengths to create movement and volume. This style works best with hair that is at least shoulder-length. To achieve this look, you can either visit a salon or try a DIY method like the ponytail technique, where you gather your hair into a high ponytail and cut the ends at an angle to create layers.
It involves painting highlights in shades of caramel, gold, and light brown throughout your hair, giving it a sun-kissed appearance. For the best results, this technique works well on light brown to dark brunette hair. If you’re going to a salon, your stylist will use a freehand method, which means they will apply the color without foils, allowing for a more natural gradient.
Use color-safe shampoos and conditioners designed for colored hair to prevent fading. Regular trims will help keep the layers looking sharp, while deep conditioning treatments can keep your hair healthy and shiny. Remember to protect your hair from heat damage by using a heat protectant when styling, and consider scheduling touch-ups for your balayage every few months to keep the color looking its best.
Shoulder-length shag with curtain bangs
A shag cut features lots of layers that create a messy, textured look, while curtain bangs are longer bangs that frame your face, giving a soft and stylish appearance. This combination is perfect for adding volume and movement to your hair without requiring too much effort to style. It’s a versatile cut that suits various hair types, whether straight, wavy, or curly, making it a great choice for anyone looking to refresh their look.
A good stylist will customize the shag cut to enhance your features while ensuring it remains easy to maintain. For styling, you can let your hair air dry for a natural look or use a blow dryer for added volume. Products like mousse or texturizing sprays can help create that tousled effect typical of a shag cut.
Using a small amount of styling cream can help define the bangs and keep them in place. The key to mastering this hairstyle is to embrace its relaxed, effortless vibe, allowing for some natural texture and movement. With practice, you’ll find it easy to achieve that chic, laid-back look that the shoulder-length shag with curtain bangs offers.
Collarbone-grazing lob with face-framing highlights
This style, often called a “lob” (long bob), is cut to skim just above the collarbone. It’s versatile and works well for many face shapes, especially round, diamond, and oval. When you visit the salon, ask your stylist for a long square line bob. If you have fine hair, a blunt cut will give it a statement look, while thicker hair can benefit from long layers for a softer appearance.
This haircut is low-maintenance, which means you can often let it air dry with a leave-in conditioner for a natural finish. If you want to add some waves, use a curling wand or a flat iron to create soft curls. For a sleek look, you can blow-dry your hair straight with a round brush or use a hot brush tool. Remember, the goal is to keep it looking effortless, so don’t stress too much about perfection.
Regularly apply a hair oil to maintain shine and reduce dryness. If you have natural curls, a curl gel can help define your curls without weighing them down. For added texture, consider using a sea salt spray for that beachy wave look. Always remember that hair can be styled in many ways, so feel free to experiment until you find what works best for you. With practice, you’ll master this trendy hairstyle and feel confident rocking your collarbone-grazing lob with those stunning highlights.
Voluminous curly bob with honey blonde ombré
It’s essential to find a stylist who specializes in curly hair because cutting curls is different from straight hair. A good cut will enhance your natural curl pattern and give you the volume you want. Make sure to ask your stylist to show you examples of their work, especially with curly bobs, to ensure you get the best look for your hair type.
Apply a curl cream to help define your curls and twist sections of hair to encourage the curl shape. For drying, use a blow dryer on a low speed to minimize frizz, or let your hair air dry. If you want extra volume, consider using a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer.
A good hydrating oil can help reduce frizz and enhance shine. Regularly using a clarifying shampoo will keep your curls fresh by removing product buildup. Finish your look with a light hairspray to hold your curls in place without making them stiff. This routine will help you achieve a stylish and bouncy curly bob that stands out.
Mid-length cut with soft layers and warm chestnut lowlights
A mid-length cut typically falls between the jawline and collarbone, making it versatile and trendy. When cutting layers, the goal is to create a soft, flowing look. Begin by sectioning the hair into manageable parts, focusing on the center to establish a guide. This guide will help ensure that both sides are even as you cut.
These are darker shades placed underneath your natural or base color, which can enhance the overall look without being too dramatic. To achieve this, you can either visit a salon or use at-home dye kits. If you’re dyeing your hair yourself, make sure to follow the instructions carefully. Apply the lowlights in sections, focusing on the lower layers of your hair to create depth.
Use a lightweight mousse or styling cream to add volume and texture. When blow-drying, use a round brush to gently lift the roots and create a soft wave in the layers. For a polished finish, consider using a flat iron to smooth out any frizz and enhance the layers’ movement. Remember to use heat protectant spray to keep your hair healthy. With practice, you’ll find the right techniques that work for you, making it easier to maintain this stylish look at home.
Textured pixie cut with golden blonde pieces
A textured pixie is versatile, allowing you to style it smooth or with volume. When getting the cut, ask your stylist to create layers on top while keeping the sides shorter. This layering helps add texture, making it easier to style later. It’s also important to have your hair cut dry, as this allows for better control over the length and shape, ensuring you don’t lose too much hair when styling.
When styling, blow-dry your hair while directing it to the side. This will help create a natural shape. You can also use a bit of wax to piece out sections of your hair, giving it a more textured look.
You can create a sleek look for a polished appearance or tousle it for a more casual vibe. Adding accessories like bobby pins can also change up your look. Don’t forget to use hairspray to hold your style in place, especially if you’re going out. Regular trims will keep your pixie looking fresh and help maintain the golden blonde color, making it easier to manage and style over time.
Half Up Bun
First, gather the top section of your hair, leaving the bangs or front pieces down. Use your fingers to comb the hair back and secure it into a ponytail with a hair elastic. This step is crucial because it sets the foundation for your bun.
You can make it as tight or loose as you like depending on your style preference. Once you’ve shaped the bun, use bobby pins to secure it in place. If your bun feels heavy or is flopping over, try using a texturizing spray to give your hair more grip, which helps keep everything secure.
You can pull apart sections of the bun for a more relaxed, messy look, or smooth it down for a neater appearance. Don’t forget to add some hairspray to hold the style in place! With a little practice, this hairstyle can become your go-to for busy days or when you want to look cute without spending too much time on your hair.
Beach waves with sun-kissed balayage
Balayage is a hair coloring technique where the stylist hand-paints highlights onto your hair, creating a natural look that mimics how the sun lightens hair over time. This technique works for all hair colors, not just blondes, and gives a beautiful gradient from darker roots to lighter tips. The result is a sun-kissed appearance that looks like you’ve just come back from a beach vacation, making it a popular choice for those wanting a low-maintenance style that grows out nicely without harsh lines.
When you wake up and undo the braids, you’ll have loose, natural waves. Another method is to use salt spray, which mimics the effect of ocean water.
Finally, to keep your beach waves looking fresh and styled, finish with a good hairspray to hold the waves in place without making them stiff. Remember to use heat protectant if you’re using heat tools, like a curling iron or a waver, to create your waves. This combination of balayage and beachy waves not only gives you a trendy look but also allows for easy styling, making it perfect for anyone looking to enhance their hair with minimal effort.
Sleek low bun with side-swept bangs
It’s best to use hair that’s a day or two old, as it holds styles better. Begin by parting your hair in the way you like, then apply a conditioning mist to add shine and grip. Use a soft brush to smooth your hair back into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck.
Hold the base of your ponytail with one hand and twist the hair around it to form a bun shape. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect; you can secure it with a hair tie and use bobby pins to tuck in any loose strands. Adjust the bun to ensure it sits comfortably and looks balanced.
Side-swept bangs can be achieved by simply brushing them to one side and securing them with a pin if needed. A light spray of hairspray will help hold everything in place. This sleek low bun with bangs is not only chic but also practical, keeping your hair out of your face while looking stylish.
Long side-parted style with chocolate brown base and caramel ribbons
Make sure your hair is clean and dry. Use a good quality shampoo and conditioner to keep your hair healthy and shiny. Once your hair is dry, apply a heat protectant spray to shield it from damage when you style it. Then, create a deep side part with a comb, which will give your hairstyle a chic and polished look.
If you’re adding caramel ribbons, use a highlighting kit or visit a salon for professional highlights. The caramel ribbons should be strategically placed to frame your face and add dimension to your hair. Make sure to blend the colors well for a natural look.
For a more relaxed look, you can leave the ends straight. Finish off with a light hairspray to hold the style in place without making it stiff. You can also add some hair serum to give your hair a glossy finish, making the chocolate brown and caramel colors pop. With practice, you’ll be able to achieve this stylish look effortlessly!
High Bun With Bangs
It’s best to use hair that hasn’t just been washed, as “Day 2 hair” has more texture, making it easier to style. Begin by brushing out any tangles with a paddle brush, then apply some dry shampoo at the roots to add volume and absorb any oil. This step is crucial because it helps your hair hold the bun better and gives it a fuller look.
Make sure to leave your bangs out in the front. The ponytail should be tight enough to hold but not so tight that it causes discomfort. Once your hair is in a ponytail, twist it around the base to form the bun.
Finally, style your bangs to complement the high bun. You can either leave them straight or add a slight wave for a more casual vibe. Use a bit of hairspray to keep everything in place, and adjust any loose pieces until you achieve the look you want. This hairstyle is not only chic but also perfect for any occasion, whether you’re heading to school or hanging out with friends.
Messy topknot with soft wispy edges
Make sure it’s loose, as a tight ponytail can make the bun look too polished. Once you have your ponytail, tie it with a hair elastic but don’t pull all the way through on the last loop. Instead, leave a small loop of hair and let the rest hang down.
As you wrap it, allow some pieces to fall out to create that soft, wispy effect. Secure the bun with bobby pins or spin pins, which are great for keeping everything in place without making it look too neat. You can also pull out a few strands around your face to enhance the messy vibe.
This step is key to achieving that effortless style. Remember, the goal is to look chic while still feeling relaxed, so don’t stress about perfection. The messy topknot is all about embracing a carefree attitude with your hair, making it perfect for any casual outing or even a day at school.
Shoulder-length cut with subtle layers and warm honey highlights
A shoulder-length cut typically falls between the chin and collarbone, making it versatile for various styles. When you ask your stylist for subtle layers, you’re looking for gentle variations in length that add movement and texture without drastically changing the overall length. This means the layers should blend seamlessly, enhancing the natural flow of your hair rather than creating a choppy look.
When you get highlights, ask your stylist to use a technique called balayage, which involves painting the color onto your hair for a sun-kissed effect. This method creates a more natural look compared to traditional foils, allowing for a soft transition between your base color and the highlights. Make sure to discuss the placement of the highlights with your stylist to ensure they frame your face nicely.
You can blow-dry your hair using a round brush to create soft waves or curls, which will enhance the layers. For a more polished look, consider using a flat iron to create sleek ends or gentle waves. Remember to finish with a light hairspray to hold your style in place without making it stiff. With these tips, you’ll be able to rock your shoulder-length cut with confidence!
Long bouncy curls with dark roots and golden ends
Use a good quality curling iron, ideally with a smaller barrel (around 3/4 inch), to create those defined curls. First, section your hair into manageable parts. Begin curling from the mid-lengths down to the ends, leaving the roots untouched to maintain that dark color. Make sure to alternate the direction of the curls for a more natural look.
If you’re dyeing your hair, apply the color only to the ends after curling, ensuring that the dark roots remain untouched. This will create a beautiful gradient effect. If you prefer a less permanent option, a color spray can be applied to the ends for a fun, temporary look.
Avoid heavy products that can weigh your curls down. You can also gently tousle your curls with your fingers to enhance their volume. If you want to maintain the look overnight, consider using a silk scarf or a loose bun to prevent frizz and preserve the curls. With a little practice, you’ll master the art of styling long bouncy curls with dark roots and golden ends!
Asymmetrical lob with textured waves and subtle auburn balayage
An asymmetrical lob is longer in the front and shorter in the back, creating a modern and stylish look. When you visit a salon, show your stylist pictures of the lob you want, focusing on the asymmetry and texture. Make sure to ask for layers that will help add movement and volume to your hair, which is essential for achieving those beautiful waves.
Use a curling wand or a flat iron to create loose waves. For a more relaxed look, wrap sections of hair around the wand and hold for just a few seconds before releasing. After curling, gently tousle your hair with your fingers to break up the curls and create a more effortless vibe.
Balayage is a technique where the color is painted on in a way that looks natural and sun-kissed. If you’re doing it at home, choose a shade of auburn that complements your skin tone and apply it to the ends of your hair, blending it upwards for a soft transition. This will give your lob a trendy and fresh look, enhancing the overall style with depth and dimension.
Voluminous Auburn Waves
Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to give your hair a good base. After washing, apply a heat protectant spray to keep your hair safe from damage when you style it. Towel-dry your hair gently, avoiding rough rubbing, which can create frizz. For extra volume, consider using a mousse or a volumizing spray while your hair is still damp.
Start by flipping your head upside down while drying to boost the roots even more. Once your hair is mostly dry, section it off and use the round brush to curl the ends slightly while directing the airflow from the blow dryer down the hair shaft. This will enhance the waves and give your hair a bouncy look.
After curling, let the waves cool to set them. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep the style in place without making it stiff. For added shine, you can use a serum or shine spray. With practice, you’ll achieve beautiful, voluminous auburn waves that are perfect for any occasion.
Wavy midi cut with soft choppy layers and buttery blonde highlights
Wavy hair is in between straight and curly, and recognizing how it dries naturally can help you choose the right style. If your hair forms an ‘S’ shape and tends to frizz, you likely have wavy hair. Consulting a hairstylist can help you determine your specific hair type and the best haircut that enhances your natural waves. A layered cut is often recommended for wavy hair, as it reduces bulk and adds definition, creating a beautiful, beachy look.
When your hair is wet, apply a curl-enhancing mousse or cream and scrunch it to define your waves. Avoid brushing your hair when it’s dry to prevent frizz; instead, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle. For styling, let your hair air dry or use a blow dryer with a diffuser to enhance the waves without damaging them. Regular trims are essential to keep your hair healthy and prevent split ends.
When getting highlights, you can choose techniques like balayage, where the color is painted on for a more blended look. This method creates dimension and a sun-kissed effect. Make sure to communicate with your hairstylist about the specific shade you want and how much maintenance you’re willing to do. With the right care and styling techniques, your wavy midi cut with soft choppy layers and buttery blonde highlights will look stunning!
Voluminous half-up half-down style with caramel-toned balayage
First, ensure your hair is clean and dry. If you want extra volume, consider using a volumizing mousse or spray before blow-drying your hair. Once dried, use a curling iron to create loose waves throughout your hair.
Next, it’s time to style the half-up, half-down look. Gather the top section of your hair, about the width of your forehead, and tease it at the crown for added volume. Secure this section with a hair tie or clip.
Finally, finish off with some hairspray to keep everything in place. If you want to add a bit more flair, consider pulling out a few face-framing strands or adding some decorative hairpins. This will give your hairstyle a relaxed yet chic vibe. With these steps, you can confidently rock the voluminous half-up, half-down style that beautifully showcases your caramel-toned balayage.
Effortless bedhead waves with rich espresso base and cinnamon highlights
First, wash and dry your hair, then apply a heat protectant spray to shield it from damage. This is crucial, especially when using styling tools. If your hair is naturally wavy or straight, it will work best for this style.
Turn it on and set it to medium heat. Take small sections of hair, starting a few inches from the roots, and clamp the waver down for a few seconds.
Finally, once all your hair is styled, finish off with a texture spray for extra volume and a light hairspray to hold everything in place. The rich espresso base with cinnamon highlights will give your waves depth and warmth, making your hair look vibrant and full of life. Enjoy your stylish, relaxed look!
Q&As for hairstyles for thick wavy hair
Q: How can I style my thick wavy hair with long layers and caramel balayage for any occasion?
A: Long layers with caramel balayage add depth and dimension to thick wavy hair. This style helps control volume and highlights your natural waves, making it suitable for both casual and formal events.
Q: What makes a shoulder-length shag with curtain bangs a good choice for thick wavy hair?
A: A shoulder-length shag with curtain bangs is great for thick wavy hair because it reduces bulk and frames the face beautifully. The shaggy layers add texture, while the curtain bangs provide a trendy, effortless look.
Q: Why is a collarbone-grazing lob with face-framing highlights ideal for thick wavy hair?
A: A collarbone-grazing lob with face-framing highlights is perfect for thick wavy hair as it balances volume and adds movement. The highlights accentuate facial features, making it a versatile style for any occasion.
Q: How can a voluminous curly bob with honey blonde ombré enhance thick wavy hair?
A: A voluminous curly bob with honey blonde ombré enhances thick wavy hair by adding bounce and lightness. The ombré effect gives a sun-kissed look, making it a chic option for both day and night events.
Q: What benefits does a mid-length cut with soft layers and warm chestnut lowlights offer for thick wavy hair?
A: A mid-length cut with soft layers and warm chestnut lowlights offers a sophisticated look for thick wavy hair. The layers make the hair more manageable, while the lowlights add richness and depth, suitable for any occasion.