How to Choose the Right Wavy Hairstyle for You

A wavy hairstyle suits almost anyone, but the variation makes the difference. Here is how I pick the right one in the chair.

By face shape

  • Round face: Vertical movement matters — keep the top a little taller or layered to elongate the face.
  • Oval face: Almost any variation works on you. Pick by hair type and the time you can spend styling.
  • Square face: Soften the jaw with face-framing layers or a wispy fringe; avoid hard one-length edges.
  • Heart face: Add width at the chin — chin-length lobs and side-swept fringes balance a wider forehead.
  • Long face: Keep the silhouette wider than it is tall — fuller sides, less height, ear-to-chin layering.

By hair type

  • Fine or thin hair: Texture is your friend. Ask for point-cut layering and air-dry with a volumizing mousse.
  • Thick or coarse: Get internal layering to remove weight, otherwise the wavy hairstyle reads heavy by day three.
  • Curly or coily (3A–4C): Cut dry on a defined curl — wet hair stretches and you will lose 20% of the silhouette when it dries.
  • Straight or wavy: Most variations work cleanly. Pick by face shape and lifestyle, not behavior.
  • Fine + oily scalp: Wash with a clarifying shampoo every third wash; use cool-water rinses to keep the cuticle flat.

By lifestyle

  • Low maintenance: Pick the longest version of the wavy hairstyle you can — it forgives 6–8 weeks between visits.
  • Office / corporate: Smooth blow-dry, light styling product, neutralized volume.
  • Gym + everyday: Air-dry friendly variations; use a leave-in and a satin pillowcase to protect the shape.
  • Event / photo day: Pin out the wavy hairstyle into a half-up or fastened look — keeps it photogenic for hours.
1

Textured Wavy Lob

Textured Wavy Lob Wavy Hairstyles For Women Over 50

Description: A long bob with embraced wave and deliberately textured layers — modern, lifted, and the texture reads youthful. I point-cut for separation through the lob length. A wave-enhancing cream scrunched in; diffuse. Trim every 6–8 weeks. Styling Guide: (1) Apply SheaMoisture Curl Cream. (2) Air-dry or diffuse for wave definition.

Best ForShowing off natural texture and adding the look of fullness.
MaintenanceRe-cut every 5–6 weeks to hold the baseline crisp.

How to style it

  1. Apply a curl cream to soaking-wet hair and scrunch upward.
  2. Diffuse on low or air-dry without touching it.
  3. Break the cast with your fingers once fully dry.
↑ back to top
2

Long Soft Waves

Long Soft Waves Wavy Hairstyles For Women Over 50

Description: Long hair with soft romantic waves — set with a wand or air-dried. Romantic, timeless. I cut layers that hold a soft wave. A wave cream and 1.5-inch wand, or natural diffuse. Trim every 6–8 weeks. Styling Guide: (1) Apply light texturizing spray. (2) Air-dry or diffuse for soft waves. (3) Style loosely or in a half-up. (4) Add shine spray.

Best ForShowing off natural texture and adding the look of fullness.
MaintenanceDust the ends every 8–10 weeks; weekly mask to keep length healthy.

How to style it

  1. Apply a curl cream to soaking-wet hair and scrunch upward.
  2. Diffuse on low or air-dry without touching it.
  3. Break the cast with your fingers once fully dry.
↑ back to top
3

Wavy Pixie

Wavy Pixie Wavy Hairstyles For Women Over 50

Description: A pixie embracing natural wave pattern — short, modern, the wave reads sharp. I cut layers for the wave. A sea-salt spray; finger-style. Trim every 5 weeks. Styling Guide: (1) Apply Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray. (2) Air-dry or blow-dry with fingers. (3) Tousle for texture. (4) Add light hairspray.

Best ForShowing off natural texture and adding the look of fullness.
MaintenanceA precise cut — a shape-up every 4–5 weeks keeps it sharp.

How to style it

  1. Apply a curl cream to soaking-wet hair and scrunch upward.
  2. Diffuse on low or air-dry without touching it.
  3. Break the cast with your fingers once fully dry.
↑ back to top
4

Long Waves

Long Waves Wavy Hairstyles For Women Over 50

Description: Long hair with full embraced waves — proves women over 50 can wear long wavy hair beautifully. I cut layers to enhance the wave. A wave cream; air-dry or diffuse. Trim every 8 weeks. Styling Guide: (1) Apply SheaMoisture Curl Cream. (2) Air-dry or diffuse for waves. (3) Scrunch for movement. (4) Add anti-frizz serum.

Best ForShowing off natural texture and adding the look of fullness.
MaintenanceDust the ends every 8–10 weeks; weekly mask to keep length healthy.

How to style it

  1. Apply a curl cream to soaking-wet hair and scrunch upward.
  2. Diffuse on low or air-dry without touching it.
  3. Break the cast with your fingers once fully dry.
↑ back to top
5

Wavy Layers For Shoulder Length Hair

Wavy Layers For Shoulder Length Hair Wavy Hairstyles For Women Over 50

Description: Shoulder-length wavy hair with strategic layering — the layers release the wave and add lift. I cut layers to support the wave throughout. A wave cream; diffuse. Trim every 6 weeks. Styling Guide: (1) Apply Pureology Volume Mist. (2) Air-dry or blow-dry with a round brush. (3) Style layers to frame face. (4) Add sea salt spray.

Best ForShowing off natural texture and adding the look of fullness.
MaintenanceA trim every 6–8 weeks keeps the shape clean and the ends strong.

How to style it

  1. Apply a curl cream to soaking-wet hair and scrunch upward.
  2. Diffuse on low or air-dry without touching it.
  3. Break the cast with your fingers once fully dry.
↑ back to top
6

Face-Framing Wavy Layers

Face-Framing Wavy Layers Wavy Hairstyles For Women Over 50

Description: Wavy hair with layers cut around the face specifically — lifts and frames mature features. I cut the shortest layer at the cheekbone. A wave cream scrunched in. Trim every 6 weeks. Styling Guide: (1) Apply Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray. (2) Air-dry or diffuse for waves. (3) Style layers to frame face. (4) Add shine spray.

Best ForShowing off natural texture and adding the look of fullness.
MaintenanceA trim every 6–8 weeks keeps the shape clean and the ends strong.

How to style it

  1. Apply a curl cream to soaking-wet hair and scrunch upward.
  2. Diffuse on low or air-dry without touching it.
  3. Break the cast with your fingers once fully dry.
↑ back to top
7

Layered Bob with Side Swept Bangs

Layered Bob with Side Swept Bangs Wavy Hairstyles For Women Over 50

Description: A wavy bob with internal layers and side-swept bangs — modern, the diagonal sweep adds angle. I cut weight to one side and layer throughout. A wave cream; blow-dry bangs. Trim bangs every 3 weeks. Styling Guide: (1) Apply SheaMoisture Curl Cream. (2) Air-dry or blow-dry with fingers. (3) Sweep bangs to one side. (4) Add light hairspray.

Best ForSoftening the forehead and framing the eyes; flatters longer faces.
MaintenanceTrim every 5–6 weeks; reshape the bangs every 2–3 weeks.

How to style it

  1. Dry the fringe first, straight down, before it sets.
  2. Smooth the bangs across with a flat brush and cool air.
  3. Add a little texture spray through the lengths.
↑ back to top
8

Soft Waves For Medium-Length

Soft Waves For Medium-Length Wavy Hairstyles For Women Over 50

Description: Medium-length hair with gentle soft waves — romantic and easy. I cut layers for the wave pattern. A wave cream; rough-dry or wand. Trim every 6 weeks. Styling Guide: (1) Apply light texturizing spray. (2) Air-dry or diffuse for waves. (3) Style loosely or in a ponytail. (4) Add anti-frizz serum.

Best ForShowing off natural texture and adding the look of fullness.
MaintenanceDust the ends every 8–10 weeks; weekly mask to keep length healthy.

How to style it

  1. Apply a curl cream to soaking-wet hair and scrunch upward.
  2. Diffuse on low or air-dry without touching it.
  3. Break the cast with your fingers once fully dry.
↑ back to top
9

Tousled Waves

Tousled Waves Wavy Hairstyles For Women Over 50

Description: Wavy hair styled deliberately tousled — relaxed, undone elegance. I cut layers for tousle. Sea-salt spray and finger-scrunch. Trim every 6 weeks. Styling Guide: (1) Apply Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray. (2) Air-dry or blow-dry with fingers. (3) Tousle for texture. (4) Add sea salt spray.

Best ForShowing off natural texture and adding the look of fullness.
MaintenanceDust the ends every 8–10 weeks; weekly mask to keep length healthy.

How to style it

  1. Apply a curl cream to soaking-wet hair and scrunch upward.
  2. Diffuse on low or air-dry without touching it.
  3. Break the cast with your fingers once fully dry.
↑ back to top
10

Side Parted Shoulder-Length Waves

Side Parted Shoulder-Length Waves Wavy Hairstyles For Women Over 50

Description: Shoulder-length wavy hair with a defined side part — sophisticated, the side part adds angle. I cut weight to one side. A wave cream; rough-dry. Trim every 6 weeks. Styling Guide: (1) Apply SheaMoisture Curl Cream. (2) Air-dry or curl with iron for definition. (3) Part to one side. (4) Add shine spray.

Best ForShowing off natural texture and adding the look of fullness.
MaintenanceDust the ends every 8–10 weeks; weekly mask to keep length healthy.

How to style it

  1. Apply a curl cream to soaking-wet hair and scrunch upward.
  2. Diffuse on low or air-dry without touching it.
  3. Break the cast with your fingers once fully dry.
↑ back to top
11

Waves with Swooping Side Bangs

Waves with Swooping Side Bangs Wavy Hairstyles For Women Over 50

Description: Wavy hair with deep side bangs swooping across the forehead — dramatic, frames the eyes. I cut the bangs heavy on one side. A wave cream; blow-dry bangs across. Trim bangs every 3 weeks. Styling Guide: (1) Apply light texturizing spray. (2) Air-dry or diffuse for waves. (3) Sweep bangs to one side. (4) Add light hairspray.

Best ForSoftening the forehead and framing the eyes; flatters longer faces.
MaintenanceTrim every 5–6 weeks; reshape the bangs every 2–3 weeks.

How to style it

  1. Apply a curl cream to soaking-wet hair and scrunch upward.
  2. Diffuse on low or air-dry without touching it.
  3. Break the cast with your fingers once fully dry.
↑ back to top
12

Braided Bohemian Waves

Braided Bohemian Waves Wavy Hairstyles For Women Over 50

Description: Wavy hair with delicate braids woven through — bohemian, festival-leaning. I cut layers that braid easily. A wave cream; braid small sections. Re-style daily; trim every 8 weeks. Styling Guide: (1) Apply SheaMoisture Curl Cream. (2) Air-dry for waves. (3) Add loose braid. (4) Add sea salt spray.

Best ForEvents and heat; keeps hair off the neck while staying elegant.
MaintenanceNo extra cutting — just refresh the base cut every 8–10 weeks.

How to style it

  1. Prep with a texture spray for grip.
  2. Gather and pin the shape, leaving a few face-framing pieces.
  3. Lock it with a flexible-hold hairspray.
↑ back to top
13

Center Parted Waves

Description: Shoulder-length waves with a center part, enhancing natural curls for round faces. Styling Guide: (1) Apply SheaMoisture Curl Cream. (2) Air-dry or use rollers for waves. (3) Part center. (4) Add anti-frizz serum.

Best ForShowing off natural texture and adding the look of fullness.
MaintenanceDust the ends every 8–10 weeks; weekly mask to keep length healthy.

How to style it

  1. Apply a curl cream to soaking-wet hair and scrunch upward.
  2. Diffuse on low or air-dry without touching it.
  3. Break the cast with your fingers once fully dry.
↑ back to top
14

Shoulder-Length Wavy Lob

Shoulder-Length Wavy Lob Wavy Hairstyles For Women Over 50

Description: A shoulder-length lob with embraced waves — relaxed, modern, polished. I cut a soft U-shape. A wave cream; air-dry. Trim every 6 weeks. Styling Guide: (1) Apply Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray. (2) Air-dry or diffuse for waves. (3) Scrunch for texture. (4) Add shine spray.

Best ForShowing off natural texture and adding the look of fullness.
MaintenanceRe-cut every 5–6 weeks to hold the baseline crisp.

How to style it

  1. Apply a curl cream to soaking-wet hair and scrunch upward.
  2. Diffuse on low or air-dry without touching it.
  3. Break the cast with your fingers once fully dry.
↑ back to top
15

Textured Waves

Textured Waves Wavy Hairstyles For Women Over 50

Description: Medium-length hair with deliberately piecey textured waves — modern dimensional movement. I point-cut for separation. Sea-salt spray and diffuse. Trim every 6 weeks. Styling Guide: (1) Apply SheaMoisture Curl Cream. (2) Air-dry or diffuse for waves. (3) Tousle for texture. (4) Add sea salt spray.

Best ForShowing off natural texture and adding the look of fullness.
MaintenanceDust the ends every 8–10 weeks; weekly mask to keep length healthy.

How to style it

  1. Apply a curl cream to soaking-wet hair and scrunch upward.
  2. Diffuse on low or air-dry without touching it.
  3. Break the cast with your fingers once fully dry.
↑ back to top
16

Wavy Updo

Wavy Updo Wavy Hairstyles For Women Over 50

Description: Medium-to-long wavy hair styled into a soft updo — romantic, occasion-perfect. I cut layers that gather softly. A wave cream, gather and pin into loose updo. Re-style for events. Styling Guide: (1) Apply light texturizing spray. (2) Air-dry or diffuse for waves. (3) Pull into a loose updo. (4) Add light hairspray.

Best ForEvents and heat; keeps hair off the neck while staying elegant.
MaintenanceNo extra cutting — just refresh the base cut every 8–10 weeks.

How to style it

  1. Prep with a texture spray for grip.
  2. Gather and pin the shape, leaving a few face-framing pieces.
  3. Lock it with a flexible-hold hairspray.
↑ back to top

Sources & Further Reading

Technique notes, salon-cost ranges and care recommendations in this guide draw on these hair-industry authorities:

  • Byrdie — Hair-focused editorial reviewed by licensed cosmetologists.
  • Allure — Hair — Award-winning beauty journalism on cut and color trends.
  • Refinery29 — Hair — Editorial coverage of cut, color and texture trends.
  • Behind The Chair — Largest US stylist community for cut, color and styling technique.
  • Modern Salon — Industry trade publication for working salon professionals.

Salon pricing and refresh-cadence figures draw on 15+ years of behind-the-chair experience with US clients. Reviewed by Jessica Hamilton, licensed cosmetologist.

What Makes a Textured Wave Cut Look Its Best

  • ✓Strategic layering throughout — minimum 2-3 inch layers create definition and prevent waves from appearing flat or one-dimensional
  • ✓Proper length foundation — waves require minimum 6-8 inches of length to showcase movement; shorter lengths lack the weight needed for wave formation
  • ✓Textured finishing technique — point-cutting or razor-texturing the ends removes bulk and allows waves to flow naturally without appearing blunt
  • ✓Wave-enhancing products — lightweight sea salt sprays and curl-defining creams provide hold without weighing down delicate wave patterns
  • ✓Moisture-rich conditioning — deep hydration treatments every 7-10 days maintain wave elasticity and prevent frizz that disrupts texture definition
  • ✓Proper blow-dry direction — directing airflow downward along wave patterns sets the style and enhances natural movement for 2-3 days between salon visits

What Diminishes a Textured Wave Cut

  • AVOIDBlunt one-length cuts — zero layers trap waves into a shapeless mass without dimension, eliminating the flowing movement that defines wavy styles
  • AVOIDHeavy silicone serums — they coat hair strands and create greasy buildup that flattens waves within hours and prevents natural texture from showing
  • AVOIDExcessive heat styling — repeated flat-ironing or aggressive blow-drying breaks down wave patterns and causes frizz that destroys the polished appearance
  • AVOIDNeglecting scalp health — product buildup and dry scalp conditions create dull, limp waves that lack the shine and vitality of well-maintained texture

Why These Wavy Hairstyles Shine

Wavy hairstyles enhance natural texture, add volume, and require minimal styling, making them ideal for women over 50. “Textured waves create movement without heavy maintenance,” Polko explains [1]. These styles align with 2026’s focus on eco-friendly products, natural textures, and vibrant hues like silver and balayage, as seen in client stories like Anna’s textured wavy lob transformation.

General Styling and Maintenance Techniques

  • Cutting: Use precision shears (e.g., Joewell) for soft layers or razors for textured waves. “Cuts should enhance wave patterns and frame the face,” says Polko [1].
  • Styling: Apply lightweight products like SheaMoisture Curl Cream for definition, Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray for texture, or Pureology Volume Mist for lift. Air-dry for natural waves, use a diffuser for definition, or a curling iron for structured waves.
  • Scalp Care: Nourish with sulfate-free shampoos like Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! and weekly rosemary oil massages to promote growth, per Dr. Carter [2].
  • Maintenance: Trim every 6-8 weeks to maintain shape; bangs every 2-3 weeks if included. Use silk pillowcases to reduce frizz and breakage.

Case Study: Anna’s Textured Wavy Lob Transformation

Anna, 53, a marketing consultant with thick, wavy hair, chose a textured wavy lob. “The waves make my hair look vibrant and effortless,” she said. Her stylist used SheaMoisture Curl Cream, creating a low-maintenance, voluminous look for her oval face.

Case Study: Lisa’s Braided Bohemian Waves

Lisa, 56, a writer with long, wavy hair, chose braided bohemian waves. “The loose braid and waves give me a carefree, romantic look,” she said. Her stylist used SheaMoisture Curl Cream, creating a low-maintenance, boho style for her round face.

How to Ask Your Stylist

“I'd like a textured wave cut with strategic layering throughout that enhances my natural wave pattern, styled with a soft, piece-y finish that works for both casual and professional settings.”

  1. 1

    Specify Length & Layer Density

    Tell your stylist your desired length and request 2-3 inch layers throughout, emphasizing that you want enough length to showcase wave movement while layers create definition and remove bulk.

  2. 2

    Discuss Wave Technique & Finish

    Ask whether your stylist recommends a permanent wave service for lasting texture, or if your natural waves can be enhanced through expert layering and texturizing cuts alone.

  3. 3

    Evaluate Face Shape Compatibility

    Show your stylist photos of wavy styles that flatter your face shape — discuss how to angle layers around your face and whether side-swept or center-parted waves work best for your features.

  4. 4

    Address Maintenance & Lifestyle

    Explain your daily routine and styling commitment — clarify whether you need low-maintenance waves that look good air-dried, or if you're willing to blow-dry and style regularly for fuller definition.

  5. 5

    Request Product & Color Recommendations

    Ask your stylist to recommend specific wave-enhancing products, lightweight serums, and conditioning treatments designed for textured hair that maintain waves between salon appointments.

  6. 6

    Request Live Styling Demonstration

    Ask your hairstylist to demo styling before you leave — have them show you exactly how to blow-dry, which products to use, and styling techniques to recreate salon-quality waves at home.

Pro 2026 Tip: In 2026, the key to gorgeous wavy hairstyles is requesting a customized cut that works with your hair's natural texture rather than against it — ask your stylist to analyze your wave pattern during a dry consultation and build the cut specifically around your hair's unique movement, not a generic template. This personalized approach ensures your waves look effortless and radiant every single day.

Best Products to Use

→

Volumising Shampoo:

Nioxin System Kit or Pureology Pure Volume — lifts fine and thinning hair

→

Light Conditioner:

Pureology Hydrate Sheer — adds moisture without weighing down volume

→

Root Lift:

Kenra Platinum Volumizing Mousse or Bumble and Bumble Thickening Spray

→

Styling:

TIGI Bed Head After Party Smoothing Cream or Moroccanoil Curl Control for frizz and finish

→

Weekly Treatment:

Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector — strengthens aging, fragile strands from within

Final Takeaway

Don't chase the photo; chase the version of this style your hair will actually hold between washes. The right call is a short conversation away; bring the photos, but trust your stylist when they steer you somewhere better.

Good to know

Frequently Asked

How often should I trim this style?+
A trim every six to eight weeks keeps this style crisp and the ends from splitting. Fine hair can usually stretch to eight to ten weeks; a precise, short shape shows growing-out faster, so lean toward the shorter end.
How much does wavy hairstyles for women over 50 in 2026: vibrant, low-maintenance looks cost at a US salon in 2026?+
At a mid-range US salon expect $45 to $90 including the wash, cut, and blow-out — major-metro pricing trends higher. Tipping the stylist 18–22% is standard. Membership salons and apprentice chairs can run 20–30% lower without sacrificing the result.
What are wavy hairstyles for women over 50?+
In short, wavy hairstyles for women over 50 are ways of shaping and styling the hair to flatter specific face shapes, hair textures, and lifestyles. Each look in this guide reflects technique a licensed stylist would use in the salon chair.
How much does a wavy hairstyles for women over 50 cost at a US salon?+
At a mid-range US salon expect $65–$150 for the cut, wash, and blow-out; major-metro pricing trends higher. Tipping the stylist 18–22% is standard. Apprentice chairs and salon-school cuts can run 30–40% lower without sacrificing the technique.
How long does a wavy hairstyles for women over 50 last between salon visits?+
Most wavy hairstyles for women over 50 variations hold their shape for 4–8 weeks. The shorter and sharper the cut, the more often it needs a refresh — a defined baseline blurs after week six. I book most clients on a 5-week rotation.
What products help a wavy hairstyles for women over 50 hold its shape?+
A sulfate-free shampoo, a leave-in conditioner, a heat protectant before any hot tool, and a finishing product matched to the texture you want — matte clay for a dry finish, smoothing serum for shine, sea-salt spray for piecey movement. A weekly bond-repair treatment (K18, Olaplex No. 4/5) keeps the ends strong.
Is Wavy Hairstyles for Women Over 50 still in style in 2026?+
Yes. Wavy Hairstyles for Women Over 50 remains a 2026 salon-favorite because modern variations — softer fringes, refined fades, and texture-cut layering — keep the silhouette current. Stylists are tailoring the cut to face shape and hair density rather than copying a single celebrity look.
How do I ask my stylist for Wavy Hairstyles for Women Over 50?+
Bring 2–3 reference photos showing the angle, length, and fringe shape you want. Mention your hair texture (straight, wavy, curly, coily), density, and how much daily styling time you’re willing to commit to. A skilled stylist will adapt the cut to your features.
How long does Wavy Hairstyles for Women Over 50 last between salon visits?+
Most variations hold their shape for 4–8 weeks before they grow out. Shorter, sharper variants (skin fade, sharp baseline) need a refresh every 4–6 weeks; softer mid-length variants stretch to 8–10 weeks with a glaze or trim.
Does Wavy Hairstyles for Women Over 50 suit thin or thinning hair?+
Yes — the right variation actually makes thin hair read fuller. Look for a defined baseline, point-cut layering on top to add lift, and a matte clay or sea-salt spray to build volume without weight.
How long does wavy hairstyles for women over 50 in 2026: vibrant, low-maintenance looks take in the chair?+
Plan for 30 to 45 minutes including consultation. Bring reference photos and flag any cowlicks or growth patterns up front so the cut maps to your hair, not the inspiration image.
Does wavy hairstyles for women over 50 in 2026: vibrant, low-maintenance looks work on curly, coily, or textured hair?+
Yes — a stylist experienced with type 3 and type 4 hair will cut on dry, defined curls so the silhouette reads the same once the curls bounce up. Ask about curl-by-curl or rezo techniques and a leave-in finish over a heavy oil.
What at-home products keep wavy hairstyles for women over 50 in 2026: vibrant, low-maintenance looks looking salon-fresh?+
A sulfate-free shampoo, a weekly bond-repair mask (K18, Olaplex No.4/5), a heat protectant before any hot tool, and a satin pillowcase to reduce friction overnight. Dry shampoo extends days two and three; a curl cream or smoothing serum carries you to wash day.
Which face shapes does this style suit?+
Most face shapes can wear it once the weight is balanced. Round faces want height and length to slim, long faces want width and a fringe to shorten, and a good stylist moves the layers to flatter your proportions.
What hair types does this style work best on?+
It adapts to most textures when the cut is tailored to them — shape, layer placement and finish all shift with fine, thick, wavy or curly hair. Bring your natural texture to the consultation, not a blow-dried photo.
How do I style and maintain this style at home?+
Use a heat protectant every time you reach for a hot tool, and lean on a weekly mask once hair is past the shoulder. Most days a light styling cream or a round-brush blow-dry is all this style needs — heavy product just weighs the shape down.
Is this style high-maintenance?+
It's middle-of-the-road. A trim every six to eight weeks and a weekly mask keep it honest; the daily styling is usually quick once the cut is right. Tell your stylist how much time you'll really give it so the shape matches your routine.
Can I do this style at home, or is this a salon job?+
Styling it at home is realistic once you've watched your stylist finish it once. The cut and any color, though, are worth leaving to a professional — home layering and box dye are the two things I most often get called in to correct.
How do I add volume and movement to this style?+
Most volume comes from the dry, not the product: rough-dry the roots, then set the shape with a round brush or a few large-barrel curls and let it cool before you touch it. A light texture spray holds movement without stiffness.
What should I ask my stylist for?+
Bring two or three photos and, just as usefully, one of a look you didn't like — it tells your stylist what to avoid. Then be honest about your real morning routine so the cut is built for the time you'll actually spend, not the salon's blow-dry.

Related Guides

JH✓
About the Author

Jessica Hamilton

Licensed Master Stylist & Creative Director

Jessica is a licensed cosmetologist and Paul Mitchell graduate with 15+ years behind the chair in New York and Los Angeles, specializing in precision cuts, balayage and bridal work. Every guide on Expert Hairstylist is personally written and reviewed by her. Read her full bio →