Stunning Wavy Hairstyle Ideas For Long Hair!

Discover stunning long wavy hairstyle ideas that blend elegance and ease. From soft beach waves to glamorous curls, find the perfect look and expert styling tips for every occasion.

Long wavy hair has something that always attracts attention, and that is volume!

It’s soft, romantic, and just the right amount of tousled.

Whether you’re naturally blessed with magic waves or need to create them with a curling wand, waves in long hair are ideal for adding depth and texture that no other hairdo does.

From holiday events or down-to-the-wire chic, these stunning long wave hairstyle ideas work with any style or persona.

Take a look at these most gorgeous long, flowing waves in this guide with an array of beautiful hairstyle ideas.

Before you scroll through the dreamy visuals, go ahead and level up on the styling and trend tips below, so you can make the most of your own waves.

READ THIS >>> 40+ Pretty Prom Hairstyles To Make You Feel Like A Star

 

Why Long Waves Will Always Be in Style

Trends fade and come and go, but long waves endure as they’re the style that hits just the right note of polished and undone.

This section examines the evergreen appeal of wavy hair, why it’s a go-to for every face shape, and how it feels like an accessory in its own right, elevating the most basic of outfits.

What is Your Ideal Wave Style

Waves are not one-size-fits-all. From relaxed boho texture to polished, sculpted volume, every wave style says something different — and works for different hair textures.

If you hair is naturally thick or textured, relaxed waves will work wonders and means you won’t have to mess around too much with styling.

For fine or straight hair, loose, brushed-out curls or tighter, frizzy waves look gorgeous made with a small barrel iron.

READ THIS >>> How To Get Mermaid Hair At Home

Want an everyday look? Beachy, messy waves are casual and can work for most any occasion. For dressier looks, go for defined Hollywood-style waves with a deep side part and polished finish.

Consider what kind of hair you have, what you typical day looks like and what sort of mood you want to create. The best wave is the wave that fits with your life, not against it.

Essential Tools And Products For Beautiful Wavy Hair

The right tools can make all the difference. For soft, natural waves, use a 1 to 1.5-inch curling wand, and add texture with sea salt sprays or wave-enhancing mists.

Always begin with heat protectant and end with a light serum or texturizing spray to keep your waves touchable, defined, and free of frizz.

Whether you style with heat or sans heat, the right products will help your waves hold and look effortlessly polished.

SIMILAR >> Dip Dye Hair Ideas: How To Create Fun, Colorful Hair

 

Styling Long Wavy Hair for All Occasions

Waves are supremely versatile. Just by mixing up a few things, they can be low-key, romantic, or even red carpet-ready.

If you’re wearing this hairstyle in the daytime, you can start with just the loose waves and a classic middle part.

Heading to brunch? Toss on a claw clip or headband for a pretty, undone feel.

Date night or weddings? Polish your waves with a shine serum and tuck one side behind the ear with a statement earring or jeweled pin.

With the proper amount of coaxing, wavy hair can seamlessly transition from undone to polished — no complete re-do necessary!

SIMILAR >> Gorgeous Fishtail Braid Ideas: Get the Easy, Chic Look You Deserve

 

How to Maintain Healthy Long Waves

Wavy hair can mask a multitude of cuts that need to be leveled, and same goes for grey hair, but it still needs attention.

Don’t weigh your hair down with heavy gels and creams. Ditch harsh towel drying—go for a microfiber towel or a cotton T-shirt instead.

With some leave-in conditioner and trims every few months, your waves will look smooth and glossy — and super bouncy to boot!

 

 

Stunning Long Wavy Hairstyle Ideas You’ll Love!

Take a look at all of these REAL wavy hairstyle ideas all for long hair!

Boho Waves with Braids and Beads

This fun, boho-chic hairstyle involves loose waves combined with small braids and bubble ponytail sections held with gold beads.

It offers a playful texture and a touch of shimmer to any casual ensemble.

How to Get This Hair Style:

Wave your hair, braid a couple of smaller sections, and keep front pieces in bubble twists held with beads or cuffs. End with a light-hold hairspray to maintain soft, style.

READ THIS >>> 14 Stunning Braided Hairstyles for Black Women

 

Half-Up Twisted Ponytail with Romantic Waves

This soft and romantic half-up style has lots of body in the waves, and a clean twist around the base of the ponytail for a modern touch.

This is a go-to style for bridesmaids, date night or a like-worthy event.

How to Make It Yours:

Curl your hair with a large curling wand to create gentle waves, then gather the top part into a ponytail.

Wrap a piece over the base to cover the elastic, then tease slightly to create a bit of volume.

READ THIS >>> How to Curl Shaggy Hair: The Ultimate Guide to Effortless Waves and Curls

 

Sleek Wavy Ponytail with a Polished Finish

This super-glossy ponytail is all about the contrast – smooth up top and packed with sculpted, flowing waves down below.

A wrapped hair tie is the little cherry-on-top detail for a crisp, polished look.

How to Make it Yours:

Iron the top flat to create a solid base, and run a curling wand over the ponytail for controlled waves.

Twist a piece of hair around the base to hide the tie and give a good mist of shine spray for that glassy finish.

READ THIS >>>  How to Keep Your Curls Intact All Day (Step-by-Step Guide)

 

Glossy Waves with a Retro Pink Headband

This is an amazing hairstyle. It combines sleek, flowy waves with a large, pink headband in the perfect retro style.

The deep gloss and defined shape make it feel high-glam with plenty of playfulness and fun.

How To Make It Your Own:

A large curling iron makes the soft waves, which are brushed through for softness.

Pair with a wide fabric headband to match your outfit or makeup vibe. Polish it off with some shine spray for a photo-worthy finish.

READ THIS >>> Your Glossy Guide to Wig Hairstyles

 

Half-Up Top Knot with Loose Beach Waves

This long, wavy hairstyle combines beach waves with a fun half-up top knot.

It’s laid-back and flirty, perfect for weekend days out or hitting it up at a festival.

How to Make It Your Own:

Curl your hair with a big barrel wand for waves, then section off the top and twist it into a casual bun.

Secure with pins or a hair tie and pull out a few face-framing tendrils for a laid-back vibe.

READ THIS >>> Fun Pink Hair Ideas You Have to See!

 

Straight vs. Wavy Transformation

Here, this side-by-side hairstyle catches the glamour of a salon masterpiece — the freshly washed hair to the perfectly flat, straight look, then the relaxed, dimensional waves.

The blonde balayage is striking with both straight and textured styles.

How to Style These Waves:

Use a curl cream and blow dry with a large barrel curl brush, then use a medium curling wand for beautiful, voluminous and colored waves.

READ THIS >>> Copper Balayage Looks To Transform Your Hair

 

Long Wet-Look Waves with Deep Side Part

These long defined waves have a glossy, wet look. That deep side part adds a lot of drama very quickly so it’s perfect for nights out or that photo-ready glam.

How to Make This Wavy Long Hairstyle Your Own:

A curl-defining gel or mousse should be spread through damp hair with a wide-toothed comb. Allow it to air dry or diffuse for additional hold.

Apply a few drops of shine serum on top to set that shiny, just-out-of-the-water look.

READ THIS >>>  Thinking About Going Pink? Here are 10 Pink Hair Ideas!

 

High Half-Up Style with Loose Glam Waves

Pairing volume and texture with soft, smooth waves, this flowing half-up look is eye-catching. A lifted crown brings a bit of fierceness, but the soft waves are still soft and feminine.

How to Make It Your Own:

Pull the top half into two slightly parted high ponytails and hold it securely.

Just run a wand through to define all of the waves, flick through with your fingers to fluff if you want more of a volume and natural look, do a fastidious part.

READ THIS >>> Fun Festival Hair Ideas to Get You Inspired

 

Rainbow Basket Braid with Soft Waves

This side braid involves bright rainbow colors woven into a basket design through the top, to a flowy, voluminous, and wavy long ponytail.

It’s daring and fun, and it’s the ultimate statement hairstyle.

How to Make This Look Yours:

Get a temporary or pastel braid hair color for the braid, then make it a wide basket weave throughout the top.

Leave the rest of your hair and wave it with a large barrel iron for a more whimsical vibe.

 

Defined Natural Curls to Soft Glam Waves

This before-and-after is a huge change with seemingly tight, natural curls followed by soft, beachy waves with a loose half-up twist.

It also shows how versatile long hair can be — one minute it’s textured and bouncy and the next it’s sleek and romantic.

How to Make It Your Hair:

To get the after look, blow-dry and stretch curls using a round brush then create smooth waves with a large curling iron.

Complete with a soft brush-out and half up style for a sleek, flowing finish.

 

Low Curled Ponytail with Smooth Finish

This sophisticated low ponytail combines straight roots with subtle, defined curls at the ends.

The covered hair tie gives a polished finish, wear it at work or at parties.

How to Get This Hair Style:

Comb hair back with a fine-tooth comb, then gather in a low ponytail and tie with a coated elastic band and light styling cream.

Curl the ends with a medium barrel iron and twist a piece around the base to hide the hair tie.

 

Glossy Retro Waves with Pearl Details

This lovely long wavy hairstyle has absolutely stunning, pinpoint, retro waves in a stunning copper shade with subtle pearly pins across the crown, adding a soft and feminine flair. It’s polished but playful — perfect for a special occasion.

How to Get This Hairstyle:

Form opulent waves with a curling iron at the ends and brush out for the sake of smoothness.

Stud the top of it with pearl pins or clips to upgrade and to add a dash of vintage charm.

 

Half-Up Twist with Soft Blonde Balayage Waves

This romantic half up do mixes glossy brunette roots with soft blonde balayage waves. The twisted design adds a nice tailored element, the big curls create some movement and softness in it.

How to Get Hair Like This:

Coil your hair with a medium-barrel wand, and then gently twist back the top of it and pin it at the crown. Leave the waves natural to show off the color contrast and depth.

 

Waterfall Braid with Soft Blonde Waves

This is a gorgeous and creative look that’s all about the stunning Waterfall Braid – a gorgeous braid that graces the glossy, full blonde waves effortlessly sweeping down.

It’s dreamy and elegant and perfect for weddings or other special occasions.

How to Make It Your Own:

Begin with soft waves made with a big curling wand. Start a waterfall braid in the back, allowing pieces to fall into it and melt in with the curls.

Set the look with light-hold hairspray for all-day perfection.

 

High Ponytail with Natural Red Waves

Looks cute when styled with both long waves and a high ponytail. This style is voluminous and easy—no fuss.

The discreet texture creates dynamics while the volume in the upper part of the ‘do sets the whole look in the air.

How to Get the Look:

Brush hair up into a high tight ponytail. Jazz up waves with a large wand or braid hair before bed as a heat-free alternative. Complete with a sheer glossing spray for shine.

 

Reviving Wavy Hair with Curl Definition

This amazing before-and-after demonstrates what great care and styling can do for long waves.

On the left, the dry, undefined mess that is natural curls; on the right, bouncy gloss-drenched curls with shape and shine, demonstrating how hydration and curl-friendly products can really elevate the curl game.

How to Get the Look:

Begin with a sulfate-free shampoo and heavy conditioner, followed by a curling cream and gel on soaking wet hair.

Scrunch and diffuse or air dry and do not touch until completely dry for best results.

 

High Half Up Ponytail with Defined Spiral Curls

This bouncy look combines a high, slick ponytail with well-defined spiral curls that fall down the back.

It’s a gorgeous, dramatic look that’s just the thing for a night out or a special occasion.

How to Make It Your Own:

Use styling gel or cream to slick the top half of your hair up into a high ponytail.

Twist tight spirals with a small-barrel curling wand and break them apart with your fingers for volume and definition.

 

Voluminous Natural Waves with Side Part

These beautiful loose long waves are luxuriously full of bouncy body and styled in a casual side part, which effortlessly frames the face.

It’s a high-impact, low-maintenance look that exudes confidence and ease.

How to Get This Hairstyle:

Opt for a curl cream or mousse to enhance your natural texture and air dry or diffuse for extra volume.

For an even fuller look, flip your part to one side and tousle with your fingers for added texture and volume.

 

Classic Voluminous Waves with a Glamorous Flip

With its retro-inspired glam waves that are full and brushed out with a deep side part and luxurious volume, this vintage-inspired style is fit for the silver screen.

The soft champagne shade and sculpted shape boast that classic supermodel vibe.

How to Get This Hair Style:

Blow-dry with a round brush for volume at the roots, before using hot rollers or a large curling iron to produce full waves.

Brush out softly and secure with a flexible spray for that light and airy wind-swept look.

 

Glossy Layers with Curtain Bangs

So clean and polished, this is all about those full, long waves and those blended curtain bangs delivering the softest face-framing with such a glamorous edge.

The layers create movement and body, but the sleek finish keeps it polished and wearable.

How to Get This Hairstyle:

Request long layers with curtain bangs that begin at the level of the cheeks.

When blow-drying, use a round brush to shape the bangs and create lift through the lengths. Complete with a shine spray for a lustrous, salon-worthy finish.

 

Long Wavy Hair with Curtain Bangs

This style is just romantic by the way, with long, voluminous flowing waves that fall naturally and full, airy curtain bangs which frame the face beautifully.

The entire look reads ripe, boho beauty, in the best way: modern, free-spirited, and a bit undone.

How to Make It Your Own:

Request long layers for movement and fullness, and throw in some soft, wispy curtain bangs for a face-framing flair.

Use a large-barrel curling iron or spray on some sea salt spray to add to your natural texture and achieve that dreamy, never-washed-this-hair-ever vibe.

 

Boho Braided and Curly Half-Up Hairstyle

This gorgeous style features lots of detailed braids and natural, voluminous curls that are half pulled up for a messy, textured look.

Playful and classy, the juxtaposition between tight braids and loose curls helps elevate this look that works for weddings, brunch or a day in the sand.

How to Make It Your Own:

Add thin plaits interspersed with soft ringlets to give your hair a bohemian twist and pull back the top half in to a relaxed bun or ponytail for a winning cool-girl touch.

Throw in some hair accessories or gold jewelry and you are good to go!

 

 

YOU’LL LOVE THESE NEXT >>>

Gorgeous Hairstyles for Curly Hair

Ponytail Hairstyles Perfect For Upping Your Hair Game

Must-Try Short Shag Hairstyles