Wavy Hairstyles

Wavy hair (type 2 on the Andre Walker scale) sits in the most versatile zone — not quite straight, not quite curly, and capable of convincingly going in either direction depending on how you style it. That versatility is its superpower: wavy hair can be blown out sleek, scrunched into beachy texture, or coaxed into soft curls, all from the same base. The challenge is learning which approach YOUR specific wave pattern responds to best.

Understanding Your Wave Pattern

Type 2A waves are barely-there bends that show up mostly at the mid-lengths and ends. They lay relatively flat and are the easiest to straighten or to curl — whatever you want. Type 2B waves form a definite S-shape from root to tip, with more body and natural movement. Type 2C waves are on the border of curly — defined waves that can frizz in humidity and may benefit from curly hair techniques like plopping and diffusing. Most wavy-haired people have a mix of patterns across their head.

The best cuts for wavy hair work with the natural movement rather than trying to create it or suppress it. Medium-length layered cuts let waves move freely. Blunt bobs give a polished, structured look where the wave pattern creates texture within a clean shape. Shags amplify the natural chaos of waves beautifully. The worst cut for wavy hair is a long one-length style — without layers, the weight pulls out the wave pattern at the top, leaving you flat at the roots and wavy only at the ends.

Styling and Product Tips

The signature move for wavy hair is the scrunch-and-go: apply mousse, sea salt spray, or a light curl cream to wet hair, scrunch upward, and air-dry or diffuse. This takes 5-10 minutes and gives you that effortless, just-came-from-the-beach texture. For smoother, more defined waves, a large-barrel curling iron enhances your natural pattern without looking overly done. Skip heavy oils and butters that weigh down waves — keep it lightweight. And embrace the fact that wavy hair looks different every day. That variability is a feature, not a bug.