Styling wavy and curly hair can be exciting, as these textures offer a wide range of versatile looks to try out. Whether you’re aiming for effortless waves, playful buns, or a relaxed updo, embracing your natural texture can bring out the best in each style. Here are a few styling ideas that work perfectly with wavy and curly hair, so you can experiment and find your new go-to look!

Know Your Type

The first thing you need to do is discover what type of hair you have, both in the broad and more nuanced sense. These hair types come in a variety of shapes and textures, so it’s important to know where on the spectrum you personally fall. The main categories and subcategories are as follows:

Type 2 (Wavy Hair)

Wavy hair is classified as Type 2 and can be broken down further into 2A, 2B, and 2C, with increasing levels of wave intensity and definition as the alphabet progresses. 

Type 3 (Curly Hair)

Curly hair is categorized as Type 3, which is further distinguished, once again, by subtypes of 3A, 3B, and 3C. The same principle as with wavy hair applies here – the higher the alphabet goes, the tighter the curls. 

Take a look at the diagram in this article to find out which type you come under. Next, let’s take a look at one of the main factors to focus on for both Type 2 and Type 3 hair. 

Keeping an Eye on the Weather

Perhaps the most important element to consider for these hair types is the weather. The weather can play a major role in how wavy or curly your hair appears on a daily basis – some days it has the potential to look bouncy and vibrant, while other days it needs some extra love. 

Anti-humidity Products

Environments with high humidity will commonly cause frizz and loss of definition in your waves or curls. Anti-humidity sprays (as well as serums) work by creating an active barrier between the moisture in the air and your hair, helping to lock in the natural oils. Some moisture is good, but excessive amounts are likely to cause problems. 

Winter Protection Products

As the cold air inherent with the winter months starts to kick in, wavy and curly hair can get especially dry and brittle. During this time period, you can use hydrating creams, oils, and masks to help maintain your hair’s natural bounce and repel the cold temperatures from doing damage. 

Styling: Beachy Waves

If you want effortless, wavy messy hair, use salt spray and gently scrunch it through to the tips. You could also use a hairdryer with a diffuser for a more textured look.

Half Up, Half Down

This style is great for those with wavy hair who want something versatile. Essentially, the half up, half down look gathers some of your hair on top which is then secured with a clip or hair tie, but allows the rest of your waves to flow freely. 

Space Buns

Space Buns are a fun, cute, casual option for people with curly hair types. To create it, the hair is split into two separate round buns that are secured with elastic on either side of the head. Commonly, a few strands are left hanging loose around the face. 

Messy Bun

Occasionally, people find themselves in between curly and wavy hair, and the messy bun is a perfect option if this is the case for you. This style loosely bundles the hair to the top of the head, letting strands cascade down – it’s super easy, so it’s a brilliant everyday option for both hair types.

With so many styling options for wavy and curly hair, there’s no limit to the creative looks you can achieve. Whether you’re going for casual and carefree or polished and put-together, embracing your natural texture allows each style to have its own unique charm. So, try out these styles, find the ones that suit you best, and enjoy the beauty and versatility of your waves and curls!