Wavy hair is all the rage these days; from celebs like Kim Kardashian and Blake Lively to your next-door neighbor, everyone is going in for tousled, carefree ripples in their hairstyles. And whether this texture is yours by nature, or achieved through wavy extensions or wigs, we’ve got some great style ideas for you!
Braids and twists
Punch up your style by adding small braids or twists, strategically placed to frame your face, pull hair back from your crown area, or just add a bit of extra texture drama in the midst of otherwise smoother locks.
Experiment with parts
No, not acting. Switch up the depth, direction, and even very existence of your hair partings for different looks. Tip: Deep side parts give off a fresh-from-the-beach, California-Girl vibe, while center parts are great for almost any look, from office to after-party. For a sexy, nonchalant style, do away with the part completely, and just sweep the hair back like Megan Fox.
Layered hairstyles
No matter if you’re sporting long, short, or medium hairstyles, layers will give your waves movement and body, making your tresses truly live up to their name. Be aware, though, that the shorter the cut, the straighter your hair will appear—so if you want to keep your wavy look, stick with medium hairstyles, and don’t go too short.
Bold highlights
Mix high-contrast colors (bright reds are especially favorable) for more depth and versatility. Lowlights, if you already have light-colored hair, achieve the same effect of making it seem like the light is dancing on your sun-kissed wavy hairstyles.
Create a curl
Surprisingly, Type 2 hair is much like Type 4 hair, in that it often needs a bit of coaxing to take on a different texture or shape. Try setting your hair with braids, twists, Bantu Knots, or just plain rollers for bigger, bouncier curls. Use setting lotion, hairspray, mousse, or 
gel for hold, then release and enjoy the curliness. The Scarlet O’Hara. For the daring, playful, or nostalgic and definitely for those with curlier waves, or Type 2c hair—try asking your stylist to update this classic 19th-century style. Curlier on the bottom and swept back at the top, this style can work well for special occasions like weddings and formal dances, and only needs a few rollers and hairpins to pull off, at its simplest. (And if you like this kind of retro look, watch out for our upcoming “Timeline Tuesday” series, profiling style icons of the past to emulate.)
Anyway you slice it, though, you have a buffet of options for wavy hairstyles. So go out and enjoy them! And if you're not sure about your hair type, don't worry, we've created a handy hair texture guide that can help you!
