16 of the Best Haircuts for Wavy Hair
From long layers to ‘70s-inspired shags, there are plenty of wavy haircuts worth exploring.
August 15, 2024
Whether worn tousled and beachy or sleek and polished, wavy hair is incredibly flattering. But choosing the right haircut for wavy hair is a must—you want something that has plenty of movement to show off that natural texture. Fortunately, whether you have long wavy hair or a slightly shorter ‘do, there are plenty of options to choose among, from layered wavy haircuts that help remove some bulk from thicker strands to on-trend choppy bobs that make a stylish statement. Read on as we share 16 of our favorite haircuts for wavy hair, ideal to save now and show your hairstylist the next time you’re due for a chop.
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Are Layers Good for Wavy Hair?
Layers are a great choice for those with wavy hair, as the technique can help remove unnecessary weight (and bulk) while allowing for plenty of natural-looking movement. Layering is particularly beneficial for those with thick and long wavy hair, which can oftentimes take on a triangular shape when dry.
If you’ve never had layers before, you can dip your toes in with long face-framing layers, which help accentuate your natural bone structure. Or, if you prefer the look of a blunt cut, try ghost layers—this technique involves cutting discreet layers throughout the hair to remove bulk while maintaining a uniform-looking length.
16 Haircut Ideas for Wavy Hair
From long layers to wavy bobs with wispy bangs, there are so many great haircuts to discover for your wavy strands. Here are 16 flattering haircuts for wavy hair to consider before your next salon appointment.
1. Classic shag
If you’re looking for a medium-length haircut for wavy hair that doesn’t require much maintenance, the shag should be at the top of your list. This retro cut features tons of layering throughout for a touseled, lived-in look—and the choppy layering helps ensure your natural texture shines. If your hair is on the finer side, use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner like the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Volume Sulfate Free Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Volume Sulfate Free Conditioner to add body before styling.
2. Cheek-length bob
Bobs are among the trendiest haircuts to sport this year, and the cheekbone-grazing length can be incredibly flattering for those with shortwavy hair. If your hair is on the thicker side, ask your stylist to use a razor to thin out your ends. It’ll remove unnecessary bulk to help keep that dreaded triangle shape at bay.
3. Blunt lob
A blunt lob is one of the most flattering haircuts for wavy hair, particularly for those looking for a style with plenty of volume. Though a lob can hit anywhere between the jaw and collarbones, we recommend aiming for a cut that falls just below the chin. This in-between length is short enough to be low-maintenance, but long enough that it’ll allow for plenty of body and movement.
4. Long layered lob
Welcome in extra texture with a choppy, layered lob cut. Layered wavy hair cut to a collarbone-skimming lob keeps the easygoing nature of the longer bob cut, but adds an extra dose of volume and bounce. If you’re game for adding even more dimension to your hair, consider adding some balayage for a tonal, sun-kissed look. Try it at home with the L’Oréal Paris Superior Preference Balayage At-Home Highlighting Kit.
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5. Feather cut
The feather cut is a ‘70s-inspired cut with soft, razor-cut layers that, as the name implies, lend the hair a fluffy, feathered look. On wavy hair, the cut creates a cascade of curled waves for a boost of dimension (and just a touch of nostalgia). Ask your stylist to add in extra layers around your cheekbones and jaw for a flattering face-framing effect.
6. Wispy bangs
If you’re interested in trying bangs but aren’t quite ready for straight-across fringe, consider opting for wispy bangs. These long, airy bangs help frame the face and highlight your perfectly touseled wavy strands (without the maintenance requirements of blunt fringe). Another bonus: You can easily clip them back or hide them with the rest of your hair if you need to take a break from styling.
7. Curtain bangs
Curtain bangs are the perfect in-between for those torn between face-framing layers and classic fringe. The chic style pairs longer-cut bangs with a center part for a face-framing style that highlights your texture beautifully. Plus, curtain bangs pair well with any wavy hairstyle, from sleek bobs to long, beachy waves. If you need help getting your face-framing fringe to stay put, mist your hair with the L'Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Hairspray - Color Treated Hair after styling for all-day hold without any stiffness or residue.
8. Brow-skimming bangs
Another great way to frame the face and bring attention to your eyes is to opt for a medium-length cut with fringe that falls right below the brows. The longer length keeps the bangs feeling light and airy—and helps ensure a pain-free grow-out period.
9. Blunt cut
A blunt cut skips the layers and bangs and opts for one long length that puts the focus on your wavy texture. This option is particularly well-suited for those with fine wavy hair, as the lack of layers helps create the illusion of denser, thicker strands. This is also a great pick for those who favor low-maintenance haircuts—regular trims are all you need to keep the cut looking great.
10. Asymmetrical bob
Opting for an asymmetrical haircut is a great way to put your enviable waves on full display. This ultra-chic cut involves cutting the hair slightly shorter on one side than the other for a dynamic, high-low effect. It’s a great pick for those with short wavy hair who still want a bit of length to play with. After the chop, all you’ll really need to nail your daily style is a volumizing leave-in or mousse, such as the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle BOOST IT Volume Inject Mousse.
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11. Long layers
For those who want to keep their length but add dimension, long layers are the way to go. The layering adds movement without sacrificing length and helps highlight your natural texture. Keep in mind that growing out your hair can take time, particularly if you’re dealing with damage. Schedule regular trims to nix split ends (once every six to eight weeks is ideal) and use a hydrating hair serum to help keep your strands nourished so they can grow long and strong.
12. Micro bangs
If you’re ready to commit to a bold chop, micro bangs may be what you’re looking for. This style involves cutting ultra-short (think: one- to two-inch) bangs high up on the forehead for an edgy, face-framing effect. While micro bangs do require regular trims to maintain their shorter length, they’re relatively low maintenance as far as daily styling goes. In many cases, you can let them air-dry along with the rest of your waves for a unique—and undeniably cool—wash-and-go hairstyle..
13. Butterfly cut
The butterfly cut is one of the most flattering haircuts for those with medium-length or long wavy hair. The trendy cut features long, fluid layers that gradually cascade from the mid-lengths to the ends for a glam yet understated face-framing effect. To style your butterfly cut, you’ll need a round brush and a heat protectant (we love the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate Free Blow Dry Primer for 48 HR Frizz Control). Work the heat protectant throughout your strands, then rough-dry your hair until its about 90 percent dry. Then, use a round brush to lightly curl your ends away from your face while drying for added body and bounce.
14. Whisper cut
The so-called “whisper cut” is worth considering if you have thick or unmanageable waves. This technique involves cutting ultra-subtle layers throughout your mane to remove bulk while maintaining the appearance of a blunt cut. It’s super chic and pairs well with both long and short wavy hair hairstyles.
15. Tapered bangs
Think of tapered fringe as a hybrid of curtain bangs and blunt fringe. The flattering, face-framing cut features a thick fringe that’s slightly shorter in the center than it is on the sides. Often, the sides taper further, cascading into longer face-framing layers. This type of fringe is relatively low-maintenance and lends any wavy haircut, long or short, an effortless, lived-in feel.
16. Wolf cut
Popular on TikTok, the wolf cut has been co-signed by a handful of celebrities for its rocker-chic aesthetic. The trendy cut features lots of choppy layers that sit shorter in the front and longer in the back (like a modern mullet, but less severe). The ultra-textured cut is a great way to highlight your natural waves and looks especially great when worn a bit messy. If your waves tend to be sleek rather than tousled, you can use the L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Overworked Hair Putty to give your hair body and texture.
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There are no rules when it comes to makeup 一 that’s part of what makes it a fun, creative outlet. However, creating makeup looks that are flattering to your unique features requires a true understanding of your facial structure, especially your eyes.
If you’re hoping to up your eye makeup game and create looks that will complement your distinct looks, knowing your eye shape will go a long way. If you’re not sure what you’re working with, keep reading to learn how to determine your eye shape — you can actually do it in just three simple steps.
