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The Best Cuts for Wavy Hair

Lean into your natural texture with these expert-recommended haircuts.

Wavy hair is not simply a stop between straight and curly strands—it’s a moment all its own. When cut properly, wavy hair can be truly striking in its effortless coolness. However, if you get a few wrong snips, your hair could end up looking bulky, undefined and lackluster.

“Wavy hair lives in that sweet spot that can go between straighter and curlier looks, so the best cuts work with the movement, not against it,” says celebrity hairstylist Mark Ballance. “I always recommend leaning into the texture instead of trying to control it.” He adds that intentionality is essential when cutting wavy hair. “The key is to cut with intention, not just add layers for the sake of it. Wavy hair can fall flat or frizz out if it’s not balanced properly, so a thoughtful cut makes all the difference.”

As a general rule, celebrity hairstylist Jennifer Korab recommends avoiding blunt or overly heavy cuts, which can weigh down the waves and create a bulky, blocky appearance. Instead, opt for soft layers to let the natural texture shine through, keeping the cut light, airy and easy to manage. If you have tricky waves, consider consulting an expert. “Wavy hair needs a bit of coaxing sometimes to spring up, so partnering with a curl specialist and talking about your ultimate hair goals is super important,” says curl specialist Libby Brenner.

It’s important to note that the best cut may also vary based on how loose or defined the shape of your waves are. “The right cut should enhance the hair’s pattern while managing density and frizz,” says Korab. “Ultimately, the best haircut for wavy hair is one that’s customized to the individual’s wave type, density and lifestyle, creating a flattering, low-maintenance style that looks effortlessly chic.”

Featured experts

• Mark Ballance is a celebrity hairstylist
• Jennifer Korab is a celebrity hairstylist
• Libby Brenner is a curl specialist
• Sanda Petrut is a hairstylist at Maxine Salon in Chicago

Expert-Recommended Wavy Haircuts

Layers

All the experts agree layers are great for wavy hair. “When it comes to wavy hair, so many people have a hard time seeing their maximum curl potential because they are afraid of layers. Long, medium or even shorter layers can all work on waves depending on the wave pattern, the density, and overall goal,” says Brenner.

Ballance specifically recommends medium to long layers to “help open up the wave pattern and keep the shape from feeling too heavy or flat.” Hairstylist Sanda Petrut adds that layers can help achieve movement and texture while removing unnecessary weight. “Layered cuts help create dimension and prevent the hair from looking bottom-heavy, which can happen when waves are left unshaped,” says Korab.

Bob

Korab and Petrut say there are a handful of bobs that work well with wavy hair. Petrut recommends “Layered bobs, graduated bobs or French bobs (great for very relaxed waves) or a bob with underneath layers.” The inner layers are key for removing bulk and creating negative space that allows the hair to curl and move, she explains.

Shag

Korab says the choppy layers and lived-in feeling of a shag gives wavy hair an effortlessly cool, voluminous look that moves well. Petrut agrees shags, as well as wolf cuts, are perfect haircuts for enhancing hair texture. “It’s fun and messy, low maintenance, still a wash-and-go style, plus the haircut can be cut as often as desired and will grow out beautifully.”

Lob

“Lobs are great options for those who want a more structured yet still natural style; these cuts help control shape while letting the waves softly frame the face,” says Korab. Ballance agrees, noting that a lob with internal texture will give hair structure without losing the effortless, lived-in feeling.

Pixie

“From a longer tousled pixie to an Audrey Tautou pixie, pixies are effortless and chic,” says Petrut. Styling tends to be a breeze with wavy hair—simply use a pomade or wax to accentuate the texture and take the cut to the next level of sophistication, she adds.