Curls and waves add volume, movement, and elegance to any hairstyle, making them perfect for casual, chic, and formal occasions. Whether you have short, medium, or long hair, these 10 stunning curly and wavy hairstyles will help you achieve a stylish and effortlessly beautiful look.
1. Soft Beach Waves – Effortless & Chic
✔ Best for: Everyday wear, summer, casual elegance
Why It Works:
- Looks natural and relaxed.
- Adds volume and dimension to hair.
- Works well with all hair lengths and textures.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Use a 1-inch curling wand to create loose waves.
2️⃣ Run fingers through the waves for a tousled effect.
3️⃣ Apply texturizing spray for a beachy finish.
✔ Bonus: Try a deep side part for extra volume.
2. Hollywood Glam Waves – Vintage & Sophisticated
✔ Best for: Weddings, red carpet events, formal occasions
Why It Works:
- Creates a polished, red carpet-worthy look.
- Works well with long and medium-length hair.
- Exudes old-Hollywood glamour.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Use a 1.25-inch curling iron to curl hair in the same direction.
2️⃣ Brush through gently for smooth, sculpted waves.
3️⃣ Apply shine serum for a glossy finish.
✔ Bonus: Pair with a bold red lip for a classic touch.
3. Half-Up, Half-Down Curly Hairstyle – Romantic & Elegant
✔ Best for: Weddings, date nights, special occasions
Why It Works:
- Keeps hair off the face while showcasing curls.
- Looks effortless yet put-together.
- Works beautifully for shoulder-length and long hair.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Curl hair into soft, voluminous waves.
2️⃣ Gather the top section and secure with a clip or hair tie.
3️⃣ Add a pearl or floral hairpiece for elegance.
✔ Bonus: Works well with curtain bangs or face-framing layers.
4. Loose Braided Waves – Boho & Whimsical
✔ Best for: Festivals, casual days, outdoor events
Why It Works:
- Combines bohemian braids with soft waves.
- Keeps hair secure while still looking relaxed.
- Works great for medium and long hair.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Curl hair into loose, messy waves.
2️⃣ Take two small sections and braid them loosely on each side.
3️⃣ Secure the braids at the back for a half-up look.
✔ Bonus: Try adding tiny pearl pins for a magical effect.
5. Side-Swept Waves – Glamorous & Feminine
✔ Best for: Formal events, weddings, elegant evenings
Why It Works:
- A deep side part creates a dramatic, voluminous effect.
- Looks perfect for sleek, polished curls or tousled waves.
- Works beautifully for medium to long hair.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Curl hair in large, soft waves.
2️⃣ Part hair deeply to one side and pin behind the ear.
3️⃣ Add hairspray for long-lasting hold.
✔ Bonus: Looks amazing with statement earrings or a bold makeup look.
6. Messy Curly Bun – Elegant & Effortless
✔ Best for: Work, casual outings, weddings
Why It Works:
- Creates a chic, effortless updo with volume.
- Works well for curly and wavy hair types.
- Perfect for day-to-night transitions.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Gather hair into a loose bun at the nape.
2️⃣ Pull out a few curled strands to frame the face.
3️⃣ Secure with pins and add a light-hold hairspray.
✔ Bonus: Add a pearl hair clip for a classy touch.
7. Voluminous Ponytail with Waves – Chic & Playful
✔ Best for: Casual looks, night outs, high-fashion vibes
Why It Works:
- Adds instant lift and volume.
- Looks stylish yet easy to achieve.
- Works for medium and long hair.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Curl hair into loose waves before gathering it into a ponytail.
2️⃣ Tease the crown for extra height.
3️⃣ Wrap a section of hair around the ponytail base for polish.
✔ Bonus: Pair with hoop earrings for a fun, trendy look.
8. Claw Clip Updo with Curls – Trendy & Relaxed
✔ Best for: Quick, effortless styling
Why It Works:
- Perfect for second-day waves or curls.
- Keeps hair secure while still looking casual-chic.
- Works well for medium and long hair.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Gather hair into a twist and secure with a claw clip.
2️⃣ Let curly ends peek out for a soft, undone effect.
3️⃣ Pull out a few face-framing strands.
✔ Bonus: Try a vintage-style claw clip for a Parisian touch.
9. Textured Shag with Curly Layers – Edgy & Full of Volume
✔ Best for: Casual, trendy, rocker-chic looks
Why It Works:
- Layers add movement and volume.
- Looks stunning with natural waves or curls.
- A great low-maintenance style.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Scrunch hair with mousse or curl cream.
2️⃣ Let air-dry or use a diffuser for volume.
3️⃣ Use a bit of texturizing spray for an undone finish.
✔ Bonus: Looks amazing with curtain bangs or wispy layers.
10. Waterfall Braid with Waves – Fairy-Tale & Romantic
✔ Best for: Weddings, date nights, feminine looks
Why It Works:
- Blends intricate braiding with soft, flowing curls.
- Looks whimsical and delicate.
- Ideal for long or medium-length wavy hair.
How to Style:
1️⃣ Curl hair into soft, defined waves.
2️⃣ Braid a small waterfall section from the top of the head.
3️⃣ Secure with a small clip or floral pin.
✔ Bonus: Add tiny pearl or rhinestone pins for an ethereal effect.
Final Tips for Styling Curly & Wavy Hairstyles
✔ Use a Curl Enhancer – Mousse, curl creams, or salt sprays help define and hold curls.
✔ Avoid Heavy Oils – Lightweight products keep curls bouncy instead of weighed down.
✔ Experiment with Parting – A middle part creates a classic look, while a side part adds volume.
✔ Use a Diffuser for Natural Curls – Helps enhance definition and reduce frizz.
✔ Don’t Overbrush Curls – Instead, use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb for separation.
These 10 gorgeous curly and wavy hairstyles will keep your hair looking voluminous, stylish, and effortlessly chic! Which one will you try first? 💕