18 Hairstyles For Thick Wavy Hair You’ll Love
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Dealing with thick, unruly hair? Or just need some new inspiration? You’re not alone. These hairstyles for thick wavy hair are about to become your go-to solutions for those unruly locks. Whether you’re headed to work or out for the evening, you’ll find styles that work for you.
Ready to make your hair cooperate? Let’s get into it. We’ll cover looks that are both manageable and eye-catching, so you can spend less time fighting your hair and more time enjoying it. From quick fixes to statement styles, you’re about to discover new ways to rock your natural texture.
Why Wavy Hair Deserves Special Hairstyles
Wavy hair has this amazing texture that adds instant movement and life to any hairstyle. Choosing the right cut can make all the difference — instead of letting your waves look heavy or bulky, the right layers or shape can enhance their natural bounce. L’Oréal Paris points out that styles like long layers and wavy bobs “help your hair’s natural shape shine before you even start styling it.”
Meanwhile, The Right Hairstyles reminds us that “wavy hair adds notes of playfulness and allure to your look,” so picking a flattering cut lets your waves work for you, not against you. With the right haircut, you can celebrate your hair’s natural beauty and make styling effortless.
Fresh and Stylish Hairstyles For Thick Wavy Hair
Thick wavy hair is full of volume and natural texture, making it perfect for a variety of hairstyles. From casual everyday looks to chic cuts and fun braids, there are plenty of ways to show off your waves. Here are some fresh and stylish ideas to inspire your next look.
1. Show Off Your Length And Volume
This girl’s long, flowing locks are a perfect example of how to handle thick, wavy hair.
Her long layers and natural waves create such beautiful movement and volume.
Adding some wispy bangs, like hers, really frames the face and looks so soft.
It’s an effortless and stunning style that totally celebrates all that thick hair.
2. Play With Deep Mermaid Waves
This look is giving major mermaid vibes with those defined, crimped waves.
It is such a cool way to add personality to thick hair without trying too hard.
I love how the texture catches the light and adds so much dimension.
You should totally try this style if you want something fun and beachy.
3. Elevate Your Ponytail With Golden Cuffs
Okay, this look is absolutely perfect for taming thick wavy hair in the chicest way.
Gathering your hair into a low ponytail controls that volume beautifully.
Using those gorgeous gold accessories to segment the length makes it so much more interesting.
It’s a super elegant and easy style that takes five minutes and looks so high-fashion.
4. Go Bold With Half-Up Space Buns
Oh my gosh, I love this half-up look so much for really thick hair.
Pulling half of your hair into those two cute mini buns is a perfect way to manage volume.
It keeps the hair off your face while still showing off all that gorgeous length and wave underneath.
This is the ultimate casual weekend or festival look that is just effortlessly cool.
5. Make It Sparkle With Full Voluminous Waves
Wow, this is how you make thick, wavy hair look absolutely iconic.
The length and volume here are just incredible and show off that healthy texture.
You can create this look by using large rollers or a big barrel curling iron for those soft waves.
Pulling up the crown section like she is helps add even more root lift and drama.
6. Keep It Simple With Face-Framing Waves
This hairstyle is the ultimate low-maintenance look for your beautiful thick hair.
Those subtle face-framing layers are perfect for giving your hair shape without losing any of that amazing volume.
The loose, long waves are so natural and look super healthy and shiny, too.
It’s a fantastic everyday style that is always going to look polished and effortless.
7. Choose A Sleek Thick Braid
When you have thick hair, a simple braid becomes a total statement piece.
This look keeps the roots super smooth and pulls all that volume into a sleek, gorgeous plait.
The contrast between the slicked-back top and the chunky braid texture is so chic.
Adding a little ribbon or bow on the end is a perfect way to make it look even more polished.
8. Switch It Up With A Deep Side Part
Playing with a deep side part is the easiest way to add instant glamour to thick, wavy hair.
It creates this incredible volume at the crown and lets those layers cascade so beautifully.
The way the waves frame her face and fall over the shoulder is so incredibly flattering.
This simple switch feels dramatic and sophisticated without needing any complex styling.
9. Rock Show Off Your Big Bouncy Waves
Seriously, this is the ultimate blowout goal for girls with thick hair, it has so much body.
The big, bouncy curls add the most gorgeous movement and life to her long blonde hair.
A salon treatment or big rollers are definitely the key to getting this kind of glamorous, full finish.
It is such a beautiful, feminine style that just looks super polished and luxurious.
10. Add A Little Half-Up Scrunchie Style
This is such a simple and cute way to deal with thick hair on a chill day.
Pulling back the top half with a scrunchie instantly makes your waves look less overwhelming.
It’s perfect because you still get to show off your length and all that great texture.
You can grab a different color scrunchie for every outfit—it is the best accessory!
11. Go For A Super High Messy Bun
Honestly, the messy bun is an absolute lifesaver when you have a ton of hair.
It is the quickest way to get all that volume up and off your neck, especially when it is hot.
Leaving out those cute fringe pieces like hers really keeps the look soft and casual.
This style is perfect for pool days or whenever you want that effortless, I-just-woke-up-like-this vibe.
12. Try Go For Shaggy Bangs And Layers
I am obsessed with how cool and effortless this shaggy fringe looks on thick wavy hair.
The choppy bangs and layers create such great shape and take away some of the weight.
It is a fantastic style if you want that kind of grungy, rock-and-roll vibe for your look.
This cut lets you fully embrace your natural texture without needing to over-style anything.
13. Bring On The Ultimate Long Voluminous Waves
Honestly, thick wavy hair looks absolutely incredible when it’s this long and full.
The defined waves help control the volume while still giving it so much gorgeous bounce.
This length really lets you show off how healthy and rich your hair color is, too.
It’s the perfect statement style for anyone who loves dramatic, eye-catching hair.
14. Go Bold With A Short Blunt Fringe
This is a seriously cool and unexpected way to change up your thick wavy hair.
The short, blunt bangs provide such a striking contrast to the long, flowing waves.
It is a commitment, but that short fringe really frames the eyes and gives you a super edgy vibe.
This cut shows everyone that having thick hair doesn’t mean you can’t be daring with your style.
15. Keep It Classic With A Slicked High Pony
This style is seriously flawless and such a great way to handle lots of thick hair.
Slicking the front back keeps your hair totally controlled and shows off your features.
The volume and texture in the actual ponytail is so fun and adds great movement.
It’s a timeless, chic look that works for literally any occasion, day or night.
16. Keep It Classic With Soft Glam Waves
Seriously, this is the perfect polished look for thick hair when you want to feel totally elegant.
The waves are soft and large, which gives you beautiful movement without any frizz or wildness.
A deep, warm color like hers makes the style look extra rich and luxurious, too.
This is your go-to style for a date night or any time you need to feel instantly put-together.
17. Try Go For A Bouncy Voluminous Lob
This medium-length cut is literally perfect if you want to keep your thickness but lose the heavy weight.
The subtle layers and movement make your waves look so fluffy and full of life, not triangular.
I love how the soft, curtain-style bangs frame the face without feeling too heavy or demanding.
It’s a chic, easy style that gives off major effortless ’70s style vibes.
18. Switch It Up With A Low Textured Pony
This is such a cool and polished way to wear your thicker, curlier waves.
Pulling your hair back really sleek in the front shows off your face and cheekbones so well.
It lets all the amazing natural texture and volume really pop in the ponytail itself.
This look is perfect for dressing up or just adding some effortless chic to your day.
Caring for Thick Wavy Hair Between Styles
Taking care of thick wavy hair between hairstyles is key to keeping your waves healthy, soft, and easy to manage. Here are some simple tips to help your hair look its best every day:
- Wash and condition gently to keep hair hydrated without weighing it down.
- Detangle carefully using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to prevent breakage.
- Sleep on a silk pillowcase or loosely braid your hair at night to reduce frizz and tangles.
- Apply leave-in conditioner or lightweight hair oils to maintain softness and shine.
- Avoid over-styling with heat to let your waves recover and stay healthy.
With these easy steps, your wavy hair will stay nourished, bouncy, and ready for any style you choose.
Best Products for Thick Wavy Hair
Choosing the right products can make your thick wavy hair easier to style, softer to touch, and more defined without frizz. These essentials help enhance your natural texture and keep your waves looking their best between hairstyles:
- Moisturizing shampoo & conditioner – Hydrates waves without weighing them down. Try Ouai Wave Shampoo & Conditioner or SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine.
- Leave-in conditioner – Keeps hair smooth and helps with detangling. Popular options include It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In and Moroccanoil All in One Leave-In Conditioner.
- Curl-defining cream or mousse – Enhances wave shape and adds light hold. Try Bumble and Bumble Curl Defining Cream or DevaCurl Wave Maker.
- Lightweight oils or serums – Tames frizz and adds shine without heaviness. Popular choices are Moroccanoil Treatment or Verb Ghost Oil.
- Heat protectant spray – Shields your hair when you use blow dryers or styling tools. Good options include ghd Heat Protect Spray or TRESemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray.
With these trusted brands, your thick wavy hair will stay soft, bouncy, and ready for any hairstyle you choose.
Wavy Hair FAQ Guide
How often should I wash my thick, wavy hair?
Most people with thick, wavy hair benefit from washing 2-3 times a week. Overwashing can strip natural oils and lead to frizz. Use a sulfate-free shampoo and focus on your scalp, letting the suds cleanse the length as you rinse.
What’s the best way to style wavy hair without heat?
Try the “plopping” method: After washing, apply a leave-in conditioner and curl cream. Flip your head upside down and “plop” your hair onto a microfiber towel or old t-shirt. Secure it and leave for 20-30 minutes or overnight for heat-free, defined waves.
How can I reduce frizz in my wavy hair?
Start by using a microfiber towel to gently squeeze out excess water instead of rubbing. Apply a leave-in conditioner and style your hair while it’s still damp. Avoid touching your hair as it dries, and consider using a silk pillowcase to reduce friction while you sleep.
How can I refresh my wavy hairstyle on non-wash days?
Mix water and a small amount of leave-in conditioner in a spray bottle. Mist your hair lightly, then scrunch to reactivate your waves. You can also twist sections around your fingers to reshape any loose waves. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to set the style.
