Short wavy hairstyles are a perfect blend of effortless charm and bold sophistication. Whether you’re heading to work, attending a glamorous event, or simply embracing a laid-back vibe, these styles cater to every occasion. Below is a detailed guide to 50 stunning short wavy hairstyles, complete with styling tips, face shape recommendations, and hair type suitability.
1. Runway-Ready
Description:
This wet, slicked-back hairstyle was a standout trend during NY Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2022. It’s chic, low-maintenance, and works beautifully for wavy hair. Kat Graham’s look at a French space opera premiere is a prime example of this edgy style.
How To Style:
- Start with damp hair and detangle it using a wide-tooth comb.
- Apply a generous amount of thickening gel evenly through your hair.
- Smooth the hair back using a brush or your hands for a sleek finish.
- Allow the gel to set for a few minutes, then brush again for added shine.
- Secure the style with a strong-hold setting spray.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
This versatile style suits all face shapes and hair types, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a polished yet edgy appearance.
2. The Messy Goddess
Description:
Inspired by Joey King’s effortlessly cool shaved-head look, this style embraces natural waves and a rebellious vibe. Perfect for days when your hair has a mind of its own, this messy goddess look is both charming and carefree.
How To Style:
- Apply a dollop of thickening gel to damp hair.
- Scrunch the hair gently to enhance its natural wave pattern.
- Allow the hair to air dry or use a diffuser for added texture.
- Lightly tousle the hair with your fingers to create a lived-in effect.
- Finish with a flexible-hold setting spray to maintain the style throughout the day.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
Ideal for round and oval face shapes, this style complements wavy and voluminous hair textures.
3. Easy-Peasy Middle Part
Description:
Lana Condor’s classic middle-part hairstyle exudes timeless elegance. This look is perfect for date nights, casual outings, or formal events, offering versatility and effortless charm.
How To Style:
- Begin with freshly washed and damp hair.
- Apply a thickening gel evenly through the hair, focusing on the roots for added volume.
- Create a clean middle part using a fine-tooth comb.
- Scrunch the ends of the hair to enhance the waves and let them air dry.
- Once dry, run your fingers through the hair and lock the style in place with a setting spray.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
This face-slimming style works wonders for all face shapes and pairs beautifully with wavy or textured hair.
4. Vintage Victory Roll
Description:
Janelle Monáe’s victory roll hairstyle is a nod to vintage glamour with a modern twist. This bold and structured look is perfect for those who want to make a statement.
How To Style:
- Wash and towel-dry your hair, then apply a generous amount of styling gel.
- Use a wide-tooth comb to separate the front section of your hair from the rest.
- Tie the remaining hair into a small knot at the back to keep it out of the way.
- Roll the front sections of your hair into circular shapes, securing them with bobby pins.
- Set the rolls with a strong-hold hairspray for a flawless finish.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
Petite faces and small frames benefit most from this edgy style, which adds height and dimension.
5. The ‘90s Vibe
Description:
Janelle Monáe’s voluminous curls at the American Music Awards are a throwback to the iconic ‘90s era. This style combines nostalgia with modern flair, making it perfect for red-carpet events or themed parties.
How To Style:
- Apply a thickening mousse to damp hair and create a deep side part.
- Use a curling iron or hot rollers to create soft waves, securing each section with clips as you go.
- Allow the curls to set for 10–15 minutes before removing the clips.
- Gently tousle the hair at the crown for a messy, undone look.
- Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray to maintain the style.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
Round and oval face shapes with voluminous hair will shine in this retro-inspired look.
6. Sophistication Queen
Description:
Tyra Banks’ layered pixie cut is the epitome of elegance and versatility. This timeless style transitions seamlessly from casual to formal settings, making it a must-try for those seeking sophistication.
How To Style:
- Wash and dry your hair thoroughly.
- Use a one-inch curling rod to add soft waves to the crown area.
- Allow the hair to fall naturally onto your forehead for a relaxed yet polished appearance.
- Gently run a round brush through the hair and finish with a light mist of hairspray.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
Angular and oval face shapes with thick hair will look stunning in this chic pixie cut.
7. A Little Pixie Dust
Description:
Anne Hathaway’s iconic pixie cut is a testament to timeless beauty. Minimal effort is required to achieve this effortlessly stylish look, making it ideal for busy mornings.
How To Style:
- Shampoo and condition your wavy hair, then apply a lightweight mousse for volume.
- Detangle the hair and create a subtle side part.
- Allow the hair to air dry or use a diffuser for enhanced waves.
- Lock the style in place with a setting spray.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
Oval face shapes with wavy hair will particularly benefit from this versatile style.
8. Silver Waves
Description:
Ciara’s silvery-wavy hairdo is a striking choice for those who want to stand out. The metallic sheen adds an edgy touch, while the waves provide softness and movement.
How To Style:
- Apply a thickening gel to damp hair and create a deep side part.
- Use claw clips to form loose waves throughout the hair.
- Allow the hair to dry completely before removing the clips.
- Finish with a shine-enhancing setting spray for a radiant finish.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
Long, angular faces with medium to thick hair will look breathtaking in this bold style.
9. Curtain Bangs
Description:
Naomi Scott’s curtain bangs offer a playful yet sophisticated twist to short wavy hair. This style is perfect for lazy days or cozy evenings.
How To Style:
- Wash your hair and apply a styling gel evenly.
- Create a middle part and separate the bangs from the rest of the hair.
- Allow the bangs to air dry naturally or use a diffuser for added texture.
- Tie the remaining hair into a small knot at the back and secure it with a pin.
- Finish with a light mist of hairspray.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
Suitable for all face shapes and hair types, this universally flattering style is a crowd-pleaser.
10. Eye-Grazing Bangs
Description:
Nina Dobrev’s eye-grazing bangs are picture-perfect and add a touch of romance to any look. This style is ideal for special occasions or everyday wear.
How To Style:
- Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair and detangle it thoroughly.
- Create a side part and tuck one side of the hair behind your ears, securing it with a pin.
- Brush the bangs outward for a flirty, face-framing effect.
- Tousle the rest of the hair lightly and allow it to air dry.
- Set the style with a flexible-hold hairspray.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
Round, oval, and heart-shaped faces will adore this versatile and feminine look.
11. The Vampire’s Girl
Description:
Demi Lovato’s dark, sleek hairstyle at the American Music Awards is a perfect blend of gothic glamour and modern chic. The deep side part and smooth waves create a striking contrast against her pale skin, making this look ideal for those who love bold, dramatic styles.
How To Style:
- Apply a thickening gel to damp hair for added volume and shine.
- Comb your hair to one side and secure it with claw clips while it dries.
- Once dry, remove the clips and mist with a setting spray to lock in the style.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
This universally flattering style works on all face shapes and hair types, especially those with voluminous or medium-thick hair. Pair it with smoky eye makeup and a bold red lip for maximum impact.
12. Like In The 1920s
Description:
Channel the roaring ‘20s with this timeless wavy hairstyle inspired by Arizona Muse. The side-swept waves and glossy finish evoke vintage Hollywood glamour, making it a standout choice for formal events or themed parties.
How To Style:
- Comb your damp hair to one side and apply a generous amount of styling gel.
- Secure the waves with clips and allow them to set for 10–15 minutes.
- Remove the clips and finish with a high-shine hairspray.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
This style suits long faces with prominent cheekbones and works best on medium to thick hair.
13. The Waterfall
Description:
Jennifer Lawrence’s cascading waves are effortlessly romantic and perfect for date nights or special occasions. The loose waterfall pattern adds movement and dimension, enhancing the natural texture of wavy hair.
How To Style:
- Apply a thickening gel to damp hair and scrunch for texture.
- Use your fingers to create a loose waterfall effect throughout the hair.
- Set the style with a flexible-hold hairspray.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
Round-faced individuals with thick, wavy hair will love how this style elongates their features and adds softness.
14. So Very Classy
Description:
Queen Letizia’s elegant wavy hairstyle exudes sophistication and refinement. The shiny waves frame her face beautifully, making this a versatile option for both casual and formal settings.
How To Style:
- Scrunch damp hair with a thickening gel for volume.
- Use a one-inch curling rod to curl the ends for a wavy-curly finish.
- Brush gently and finish with a shine spray for a polished look.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
Oval and round-faced women with normal to thick hair will look stunning in this chic hairstyle.
15. Messrs Mistress
Description:
Inspired by Roxie Hart from Chicago, this edgy yet feminine hairstyle combines vintage charm with modern flair. The tousled waves and choppy layers add a playful touch, making it perfect for those who love experimenting with their look.
How To Style:
- Apply mousse to freshly washed hair and use a round brush to create outward waves.
- Allow the hair to air dry or use a diffuser for added texture.
- Finish with a shine spray for a glossy finish.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
Women with long, angular faces and any hair type can rock this super-short style confidently.
16. Tousled Touch
Description:
Sarah Paulson’s spunky yet classy hairstyle is a masterclass in effortless elegance. The tousled waves and side-swept finish highlight her features while maintaining a laid-back vibe.
How To Style:
- Scrunch wet hair with a thickening gel for volume.
- Use a round brush to tousle the waves further and toss the hair to one side.
- Secure the style with a strong-hold hairspray.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
This updo works wonders for long faces with thick, wavy hair that tends to tangle easily.
17. Blond And Beautiful
Description:
Malin Akerman’s stunning wavy hairstyle at the 2015 Oscars is a lesson in understated glamour. The side-parted waves add a touch of sexiness, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.
How To Style:
- Shampoo and condition your wavy hair, then apply mousse for volume.
- Create a side part and detangle the hair while maintaining its natural wave.
- Let the hair air dry and finish with a shine spray.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
This hairstyle suits all face types but is particularly recommended for oval-faced women with wavy hair.
18. Lilac Effect
Description:
Katy Perry’s lilac waves are a whimsical and bold statement. The pastel hue adds a dreamy quality, while the tousled waves keep the look fresh and fun.
How To Style:
- Scrunch your dyed, damp hair with a thickening gel and let it air dry.
- Use a round brush to enhance the waves and create a messy, undone effect.
- Set the style with a shine spray.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
Round-faced girls with chubby cheeks can embrace this look to appear bold and radiant.
19. Spunk’d
Description:
Kristen Stewart’s choppy bob with bangs is effortlessly cool and edgy. The outward waves add a rebellious touch, making it perfect for those who want to stand out.
How To Style:
- Apply mousse to damp hair and let it air dry.
- Use a curling rod to create outward waves at the ends.
- Brush gently and finish with a strong-hold hairspray.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
This style is ideal for petite frames and small faces, adding height and dimension.
20. Out Of The Page
Description:
Zendaya’s goth-punk-inspired bun with waves is a bold and creative take on short wavy hairstyles. The combination of structure and softness makes it a unique choice for red-carpet events.
How To Style:
- Gel up your damp hair and use a wide-tooth comb to create waves.
- Secure the waves with clips and let them set.
- Remove the clips and finish with a shine spray.
Best Face Shape & Hair Type:
Angular faces with medium to thick hair will look stunning in this avant-garde style.
21. Loose Ends
Embed from Getty Images
They say “effortless is chic,” and this hairstyle proves it right! Inspired by Gloria Trevi’s look, this style beautifully complements her bronzed skin and glittery outfit. It’s elegant yet super easy to achieve in just a few steps.
How To Style:
- Start by parting your blonde hair neatly to one side.
- If your hair lacks volume, apply a thickening gel to damp hair and blow-dry.
- Use a curling rod to create loose curls at the ends, adding a refined touch.
- Finish the look with a light mist of hairspray for hold.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type:
Ideal for round-faced women, this style adds angles and dimension to the face.
Pro Tip:
Accessorize to elevate the look—try beaded or floral headbands, or even a chic bandana wrapped around the crown area.
22. Stick To The Basics
Image: Shutterstock
When simplicity reigns supreme, this sleek, side-parted look for pixie cuts is a bold and confident choice. Perfect for when spiking up your hair daily feels monotonous.
How To Style:
- Lather wet hair with gel and create a clean side part.
- Use a hair clip to craft elegant finger waves while your hair is still damp.
- Seal the style with a shine spray for a polished finish.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type:
Works wonders on angular or oval face shapes with normal hair.
23. Elegantly Mine
Image: Shutterstock
This style, inspired by Jaimie Alexander, is versatile and glamorous—effortless enough for daytime outings and sophisticated enough for night parties.
How To Style:
- Scrunch damp hair with a thickening gel for added volume.
- For less wavy hair, use a curling rod to achieve a defined wavy texture.
- Tousle your hair gently with a round brush and set with a shine spray.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type:
Flattering for all face shapes and hair types—perfect for any occasion!
24. Shades Of Me
Image: Shutterstock
Feeling adventurous? This edgy half-brown, half-blonde look is a head-turner, adding flair to your regular hair routine.
How To Style:
- Use a thickening gel to create volume and texture.
- Let your hair air-dry, pushing side hair back to highlight your bangs.
- Curl your bangs outward and brush them to one side.
- Lock the style in place with hairspray.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type:
Perfect for round faces, making them appear more angular and striking.
25. Miss No-Mess
Image: Shutterstock
Messy styles can be effortlessly charming, and this laid-back look is ideal for women on the go who want a stylish yet relaxed vibe.
How To Style:
- Air-dry your hair or use a thickening agent for texture.
- Push hair back on one side and secure with bobby pins.
- Rough-brush the crown hair to one side for a messy, chic appearance.
- Finish with a fixative spray.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type:
Great for heart-shaped or oval faces with naturally wavy or rough-textured hair.
26. Chopped Up
Image: Shutterstock
Channel retro vibes with this playful, choppy pixie reminiscent of the 1960s. Audrey Tautou’s signature style is perfect for sunny days.
How To Style:
- Create soft curls on your crown for texture.
- Use a round brush to brush hair into a haphazard, tousled look.
- Set with hairspray.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type:
Stunning on oval and angular faces with thick hair.
27. The Art Of Grandiose
Image: Shutterstock
Charlize Theron’s glamorous, wavy hairstyle combines ease with elegance, making it a go-to for red carpet-worthy looks.
How To Style:
- Scrunch wet hair with a thickening gel.
- Use a one-inch curling rod to curl the ends outward and brush to the side.
- Apply hairspray to hold the waves in place.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type:
Suits round, long, and oval faces, especially those with thick, luxurious hair.
Pro Tip:
Experiment with bold hair colors like icy blondes or deep caramel to add drama to the look.
28. In ‘High’ Light
A bang that can bring you into the limelight—literally! Deep side-parted hairstyles never go out of style, and this one strikes a balance between hot and cute.
How To Style
- Gel your wet hair and part it to the side.
- Push back the smaller section and secure it with pins.
- Slightly curl your bangs away from your face using a round brush.
- Use hairspray to hold the style.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
This hairstyle is simply stunning for oval faces—don’t you agree?
Pro Tip
Experiment with bold hair colors like bright pink, electric blue, or lilac purple to make this style pop!
29. A Messer’s Tale
This effortless yet stylish messy look, rocked by Alice Rohrwacher, is perfect for short, wavy hair. It’s ideal for those who love low-maintenance yet chic hairstyles.
How To Style
- Scrunch your damp hair and apply mousse for texture.
- Use a round brush to shape wavy locks, enhancing the tousled effect.
- Finish with a shine spray.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
Round and oval faces can carry this look effortlessly—just go for it!
30. The Age-Old Romance
Channel timeless elegance with a romantic hairstyle, much like Hofit Golan. Her softly twirled waves exude grace and sophistication.
How To Style
- Apply thickening gel to damp hair for volume and let it dry.
- Create a roller curl at the crown.
- Brush back the smaller side for a faux bun illusion.
- Set bangs with a styling spray and add shine spray for a polished finish.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
This romantic style works wonders on round faces with thick, lustrous hair.
31. A Ticket To The Platinum
Platinum blonde or white blonde hair looks stunning against bronze or tanned skin, as beautifully shown by Nene.
How To Style
- Apply gel to wet hair for a shiny finish.
- Create a sharp side part and secure waves with clips.
- Remove the clips once hair dries and set with hairspray.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
This style suits small, round faces with medium to thick hair.
32. Eye-Catching Love
Alysson Paradis proves that free-falling, tousled waves are effortlessly captivating for any occasion.
How To Style
- Scrunch damp hair and apply thickening gel for volume.
- Use a curling rod to create messy waves.
- Tousle waves with your fingers and finish with a shine spray.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
This universally flattering style complements all face shapes and hair types.
33. Tossed Up
This bouffant-inspired style, reminiscent of the ‘60s, exudes elegance and nostalgia.
How To Style
- Backcomb your hair for volume.
- Create loose ringlets that frame the face.
- Use hairspray to secure the style.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
Suitable for all face shapes and hair types.
34. So White As Snow
Minimal effort, maximum impact—this chic lob, popularized by Caroline Damore, is perfect for lazy yet stylish days.
How To Style
- Scrunch gelled hair for volume.
- Curl ends inward with a curling rod.
- Brush lightly for a neat finish.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
This hairstyle works beautifully for round faces with textured hair.
35. Things I Let Fall
Julia Stiles’ golden blonde locks bring an effortless charm to this soft, wavy hairstyle.
How To Style
- Apply thickening gel to damp hair for texture.
- Create a side part and curl the ends.
- Use a blow dryer and finish with hairspray.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
This style is perfect for round faces and adds a cute, delicate touch.
36. Swept Aside
Morena Baccarin’s swept-aside curls combine sophistication with effortless charm.
How To Style
- Apply mousse to damp hair and tousle it.
- Pin one side behind the ear.
- Curl bangs in sections and set with hairspray.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
Ideal for round, oval, or heart-shaped faces with any hair type.
37. The Vintage Glow
Bring back the charm of vintage glam with a polished, side-swept wave, as effortlessly shown by Evan Rachel Wood.
How To Style
- Start with dry, straightened hair.
- Create a deep side part and curl large sections with a curling iron.
- Use a comb to soften the curls into waves.
- Apply a shine serum for a sleek finish.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
This classic style works best for oval or diamond-shaped faces with medium to thick hair.
Pro Tip
Pair this look with bold makeup for a red-carpet vibe!
38. Asymmetry Rules
An edgy asymmetrical bob adds sharpness and sophistication to your look. Ruby Rose’s take on this trend is undeniably bold.
How To Style
- Apply texturizing spray to damp hair.
- Blow-dry the longer side with a round brush for volume.
- Straighten the ends with a flat iron for a sharp, clean finish.
- Finish with hairspray to hold the shape.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
Perfect for round, oval, and square faces with fine to medium hair.
Pro Tip
Consider a fun, bold color like deep red or icy blue to elevate this hairstyle further.
39. Pixie Perfect
Anne Hathaway’s soft pixie cut highlights her delicate features and gives a youthful, fresh vibe.
How To Style
- Work a small amount of styling cream into damp hair.
- Blow-dry using your fingers to add texture.
- Use a small round brush to shape the bangs.
- Add a finishing spray for hold and shine.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
Ideal for oval, heart, and square faces with fine to medium hair.
Pro Tip
Accessorize with bold earrings to draw attention to your face.
40. Retro Delight
Zooey Deschanel’s retro-inspired short curls bring playful charm to any occasion.
How To Style
- Apply mousse to damp hair for volume.
- Use a curling iron to create tight curls.
- Gently brush through curls for a softer look.
- Set with a medium-hold hairspray.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
Round and oval faces with medium to thick hair will carry this style beautifully.
Pro Tip
Pair this look with a bold cat-eye for vintage perfection.
41. Tousled Elegance
Scarlett Johansson’s tousled bob is the perfect mix of casual and sophisticated.
How To Style
- Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair.
- Blow-dry using a diffuser to enhance natural waves.
- Use a curling iron to define a few strands.
- Finish with a texture spray for a carefree look.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
Oval and heart-shaped faces with wavy or curly hair look stunning with this style.
Pro Tip
Use sea salt spray for a beachy vibe.
42. Sharp And Sleek
Charlize Theron’s sleek, chin-length bob exudes elegance and modernity.
How To Style
- Apply smoothing serum to damp hair.
- Blow-dry with a paddle brush for a smooth finish.
- Use a flat iron to ensure a sharp, straight look.
- Set with a shine spray for a polished appearance.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
Works best for oval and square faces with straight, fine to medium hair.
Pro Tip
Tuck one side behind your ear to highlight your jawline.
43. Playful Pixie
A choppy, layered pixie cut like Jennifer Lawrence’s brings texture and playfulness to your look.
How To Style
- Apply a small amount of styling cream to damp hair.
- Blow-dry with your fingers for a tousled effect.
- Use a texturizing spray to add dimension.
- Finish with a light-hold hairspray.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
Great for oval and heart-shaped faces with fine or medium hair.
Pro Tip
Experiment with highlights to add depth and interest to the layers.
44. Undercut Chic
Kristen Stewart’s undercut adds an edgy twist to short hair, perfect for those who love bold styles.
How To Style
- Apply pomade to damp hair.
- Slick the top back using a fine-tooth comb.
- Allow the undercut to stand out by keeping the sides neatly trimmed.
- Finish with a strong-hold gel.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
Oval and square faces with thick hair will rock this look effortlessly.
Pro Tip
Add a subtle fade or shaved design for extra flair.
45. Wispy Bangs
Emma Watson’s wispy bangs paired with a short bob offer a soft, romantic look.
How To Style
- Blow-dry your bangs using a small round brush.
- Apply a light texturizing spray to the rest of the hair.
- Curl the ends inward for a neat finish.
- Use a lightweight hairspray to hold the style.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
Perfect for round and oval faces with straight or slightly wavy hair.
Pro Tip
Keep your bangs trimmed regularly to maintain their shape.
46. Feathered Bob
The feathered bob, as seen on Michelle Williams, adds softness and movement to your hair.
How To Style
- Blow-dry hair using a round brush to create volume.
- Use a flat iron to flip the ends slightly outward.
- Apply a light serum for shine.
- Set with a medium-hold hairspray.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
Oval and heart-shaped faces with fine to medium hair look great with this style.
Pro Tip
Add subtle highlights to enhance the feathered layers.
47. Side-Swept Waves
Side-swept waves, like those worn by Carey Mulligan, bring elegance and charm to short hair.
How To Style
- Apply mousse to damp hair for texture.
- Create waves using a curling wand.
- Sweep all hair to one side and pin securely.
- Finish with a shine spray.
Best Face Shape And Hair Type
Oval and diamond-shaped faces with wavy or curly hair will love this style.
Pro Tip
Use embellished pins to elevate the look for formal occasions.
