Perfect Imperfect Waves

Long hairstyle with waves and a just-rolled-out-of-bed vibe previous hairstyle next hairstyle
 
Click here to try this hairstyle using a photo of yourself!
 
Let's talk about that attractive just-rolled-out-of-bed gorgeousness that everyone's after! This long hairstyle is all about creating perfect imperfect waves that look like you spent the day at the beach, even if you haven't seen sand in months.
 
The magic is in the layering. We're cutting your hair in a way that encourages those beautiful waves to form. Think of it as architectural engineering for your hair, where every snip is strategically placed to work with your natural hair texture rather than against it.
 
What makes this look so special is the blend of blonde highlights dancing through darker roots. We're adding those lighter tones strategically around your face to brighten your complexion and add a dimensional pop that makes people wonder if you just got back from vacation at the beach. The highlights aren't uniform, they're placed with an artist's eye, mimicking how the sun would naturally lighten your hair if you spent every day lounging by the ocean.
 
The color technique here is what we call balayage. Instead of using traditional foils, we're hand-painting these highlights to create the most natural-looking blend possible. The result is hair that has depth, movement, and a multi-dimensional quality that catches light from every angle.
 
The just below the shoulders cut hits that perfect spot: long enough to feel feminine and romantic, but short enough that you're not spending your morning wrestling with styling tools. The layers start around your collarbone and work their way up, creating a beautiful cascade that enhances your natural wave pattern. We're also incorporating some face-framing layers that start around your cheekbones.
 
For styling at home, start with damp hair and apply a volumizing mousse from mid-length to ends. Scrunch gently and either air dry or use a diffuser on low heat. The key is to resist the urge to touch it while it's drying. Let those waves form naturally. Once it's completely dry, you can gently separate some of the waves with your fingers for a fuller look.
 
Curious to see how you'd look with this hairstyle? Use our hairstyle simulator for an instant virtual makeover with a photo of yourself. It's free!