Having thick wavy hair is a beautiful gift, but styling it to look soft and defined can feel like solving a complex puzzle.
If you’ve ever struggled with frizz, bulkiness, or waves that lose their shape by midday, you’re not alone.
The key to gorgeous long wavy locks lies in choosing the right hairstyle that works with your hair’s natural texture, not against it.
This comprehensive guide explores 32 stunning long hairstyles specifically designed for thick wavy hair, covering everything from layered cuts and face-framing styles to boho waves and elegant updos.
You’ll discover techniques for enhancing definition, reducing bulk, and maintaining that coveted soft, touchable finish.
Whether you prefer low-maintenance looks or glamorous statement styles, these hairstyles will help you embrace your natural waves while keeping them manageable and beautiful.
Get ready to transform your thick wavy hair into your greatest styling asset as we dive into 32 Long Hairstyles for Thick Wavy Hair That Look Soft and Defined.
1. Long Layered Waves with Face-Framing Pieces
Long layered waves with face-framing pieces create movement and reduce bulk while highlighting your facial features.
This style works exceptionally well for thick wavy hair because the strategic layering prevents the heavy, triangular shape that often occurs with one-length cuts.
- The face-framing layers start around chin or cheekbone level, creating a flattering halo effect around your face.
- Interior layers throughout the length remove weight without sacrificing fullness, allowing waves to form naturally.
- This cut works beautifully with curtain bangs or side-swept fringe for added dimension.
- The layering technique helps distribute the hair’s weight evenly, preventing the bottom-heavy look common with thick hair.
- Style with a diffuser attachment on low heat to enhance wave definition while minimizing frizz.
- Apply a lightweight mousse from mid-lengths to ends before air-drying for soft, bouncy results.
2. Beachy Waves with Sea Salt Texture
Beachy waves deliver an effortlessly chic, undone look that celebrates the natural texture of thick wavy hair.
This style mimics the tousled appearance hair gets after a day at the ocean, creating soft, piecey waves with beautiful separation.
- Sea salt spray is the hero product for achieving this texture, creating grit and hold without stiffness.
- Scrunch product into damp hair and allow it to air-dry or diffuse on low heat for natural wave formation.
- The key to this style is embracing imperfection—waves don’t need to be uniform or perfectly polished.
- Beachy waves work particularly well on thick hair because they utilize the hair’s natural volume.
- For added dimension, twist random sections while drying to create varied wave patterns.
- This low-maintenance style looks equally stunning on second or third-day hair with dry shampoo at the roots.
3. Cascading Waterfall Waves
Cascading waterfall waves feature smooth, glossy S-shaped waves that flow down the hair like water, creating an elegant and refined appearance.
This polished style showcases the beauty of thick wavy hair while maintaining definition and softness.
- Create this look using a large-barrel curling iron (1.5-2 inches) to wrap sections away from the face.
- Brush through the curls with a paddle brush or wide-tooth comb to merge them into smooth waves.
- The thickness of your hair actually helps hold the wave structure longer than fine hair would.
- Apply a heat protectant before styling and finish with a lightweight shine serum for glossy definition.
- This style works beautifully for formal occasions, weddings, or any event requiring an elegant appearance.
- The cascading effect elongates the face and creates beautiful movement with every head turn.
4. Long Shag Cut with Choppy Layers
The long shag cut brings 70s-inspired cool to thick wavy hair through choppy, razored layers that create incredible texture and movement.
This edgy style removes substantial weight while maintaining length, making it perfect for those seeking a more relaxed, rock-and-roll aesthetic.
- Razoring techniques create softer, more feathered edges compared to traditional scissor cutting.
- The shag’s abundant layers throughout reduce bulk significantly while enhancing natural wave patterns.
- This cut naturally creates volume at the crown and sides, eliminating flat roots common with heavy hair.
- Style by scrunching in texturizing cream and letting hair air-dry for maximum lived-in texture.
- The shag works exceptionally well for oval, heart, and square face shapes.
- Ask your stylist for face-framing layers and shorter pieces around the crown for authentic shag styling.
5. Soft Romantic Curls
Soft romantic curls transform thick wavy hair into dreamy, feminine spirals that maintain softness rather than looking overly structured.
This timeless style works beautifully for special occasions while remaining touchable and natural-looking.
- Use a medium-barrel curling iron (1-1.25 inches) and curl in alternating directions for natural movement.
- The key is not letting curls cool in a tight spiral—gently separate and tousle while still warm.
- Thick hair holds curl structure exceptionally well, making this an ideal style that lasts all day.
- Apply a flexible-hold hairspray before curling to help set the shape without creating stiffness.
- Brush through gently with fingers rather than a comb to maintain definition while creating softness.
- This style pairs beautifully with half-up styles, headbands, or decorative hair accessories.
6. V-Cut with Long Waves
The V-cut creates a stunning tapered shape at the back while maintaining maximum length in the center, perfectly complementing the natural fall of thick wavy hair.
This angular cut adds visual interest and removes weight from the sides.
- The V-shape creates a flattering focal point at the back, drawing the eye downward and elongating the torso.
- This cut removes bulk from the sides while preserving length where you want it most.
- The graduation in length allows waves to form more defined patterns without fighting excess weight.
- Style by applying curl-enhancing cream and letting hair dry naturally to showcase the V-shape.
- This cut works particularly well for those who wear hair down frequently and want back interest.
- The angled perimeter creates beautiful movement and dimension when hair sways.
7. Bohemian Loose Waves
Bohemian loose waves embody carefree, artistic styling with relaxed, undone texture that celebrates thick wavy hair’s natural beauty.
This effortless look combines volume, texture, and soft definition for a romantic, free-spirited aesthetic.
- Create this look by braiding damp hair in multiple sections and sleeping on them overnight.
- The resulting waves will be soft, irregular, and full of organic texture.
- Thick hair’s natural volume enhances the boho aesthetic without requiring extensive styling.
- Incorporate small braids or twists within the waves for added bohemian detail.
- This style works beautifully with natural, minimal makeup and flowing, relaxed clothing.
- Finish with a texturizing spray for enhanced separation and a matte finish.
8. Layered Waves with Balayage Highlights
Layered waves enhanced with balayage highlights create multi-dimensional color that accentuates movement and adds depth to thick wavy hair.
The combination of strategic layering and hand-painted color creates a sun-kissed, expensive-looking finish.
- Balayage works exceptionally well on wavy hair because the waves showcase the color’s gradient naturally.
- The hand-painted technique creates softer, more natural-looking highlights than traditional foiling.
- Lighter pieces around the face brighten your complexion and draw attention to facial features.
- The dimensional color makes waves appear more defined and separated, enhancing texture.
- Request face-framing highlights and interior lightening for maximum dimension and movement.
- This low-maintenance color grows out beautifully without harsh demarcation lines.
9. Mermaid Waves
Mermaid waves feature smooth, glossy, uniform waves that cascade down like ocean water, creating a mythical, ethereal appearance.
This polished style showcases thick hair’s ability to hold perfect wave formation while maintaining incredible shine.
- Create uniform waves using a three-barrel waver or multiple curling iron sections in consistent directions.
- The thickness of your hair helps maintain wave integrity throughout the day without falling flat.
- Apply a shine-enhancing serum or oil to damp hair before styling for that signature glossy finish.
- This style works beautifully with rich, vibrant hair colors like deep blues, purples, or ocean-inspired hues.
- The uniform wave pattern creates a mesmerizing, almost hypnotic visual effect.
- Finish with a light mist of shine spray for red-carpet worthy luminosity.
10. Long Layers with Curtain Bangs
Long layers paired with curtain bangs create a face-flattering frame while maintaining length and reducing bulk throughout thick wavy hair.
This versatile style works for virtually any face shape and lifestyle.
- Curtain bangs part naturally in the center, creating soft framing pieces that blend seamlessly into layers.
- The graduated length around the face prevents the heavy, curtain-like effect thick hair can create.
- These bangs work with your hair’s natural wave pattern rather than requiring straight styling.
- Style by blow-drying bangs with a round brush, rolling them away from the face on each side.
- The combination of layers and bangs removes significant weight while maintaining fullness.
- This timeless style transitions easily from casual to formal with different styling techniques.
11. Textured Waves with Dry Cutting Technique
Textured waves achieved through dry cutting allow stylists to see exactly how your thick wavy hair falls naturally, creating customized layers that enhance your unique wave pattern.
This precision technique ensures perfect movement and shape.
- Dry cutting allows the stylist to cut hair in its natural state, seeing exactly how waves form.
- This technique is particularly beneficial for thick wavy hair, which behaves differently wet versus dry.
- The result is layers that work with your hair’s natural movement patterns for effortless styling.
- Point cutting and slide cutting techniques create softer, more textured ends.
- This method prevents the shock of discovering your waves spring up shorter than expected after cutting.
- The customized approach ensures you receive a cut specifically designed for your unique hair.
12. Hollywood Glam Waves
Hollywood glam waves deliver old-Hollywood elegance through structured, polished waves reminiscent of 1940s screen sirens.
This sophisticated style transforms thick wavy hair into red-carpet worthy glamour.
- Create deep, defined waves using a large-barrel curling iron and pin curls that cool before releasing.
- A deep side part is essential for authentic vintage glamour and creates dramatic asymmetry.
- The structure of thick hair helps hold these defined waves without dropping throughout the evening.
- Apply setting lotion before styling and finish with strong-hold hairspray for all-day wear.
- This style pairs beautifully with classic makeup, red lips, and elegant evening wear.
- The waves should look polished and intentional rather than natural or casual.
13. Braided Crown with Loose Waves
A braided crown with loose waves combines bohemian romance with practical styling, pulling hair away from the face while showcasing beautiful waves below.
This style works wonderfully for thick wavy hair because it utilizes volume and texture naturally.
- Create a Dutch or French braid along the hairline from ear to ear, forming a crown effect.
- The remaining hair flows freely in natural waves, creating beautiful contrast with the structured braid.
- Thick hair creates fuller, more impressive braids that hold shape without falling apart.
- Gently pull apart braid sections for a softer, more romantic “undone” appearance.
- This versatile style works for weddings, festivals, casual days, or summer events.
- Secure the braid with clear elastics and bobby pins that match your hair color.
14. Loose Spiral Curls
Loose spiral curls create bouncy, voluminous ringlets that maintain definition while staying soft and touchable.
This style celebrates thick wavy hair’s natural tendency toward curl formation.
- Use a medium to large curling iron (1-1.5 inches) and wrap hair in consistent directions.
- Allow curls to cool completely in a coil before releasing for maximum definition.
- Thick hair naturally creates fuller, more dramatic spiral curls than finer hair textures.
- Apply curl-defining cream to damp hair before heat styling for enhanced shape retention.
- Separate curls gently with fingers rather than brushing to maintain spiral integrity.
- This style holds exceptionally well on thick hair, often lasting multiple days with proper care.
15. Asymmetrical Waves with Deep Side Part
Asymmetrical waves with a deep side part create dramatic, editorial-worthy styling that showcases face-framing waves beautifully.
This bold look adds instant sophistication and modern edge to thick wavy hair.
- Part hair dramatically to one side, approximately above the outside of one eyebrow.
- The heavier side creates beautiful cascading waves while the lighter side shows sleek definition.
- This style elongates the face and creates interesting asymmetrical balance.
- Use a flat iron or curling iron to create smooth waves that all flow in the same direction.
- The weight of thick hair helps maintain the dramatic side sweep without falling flat.
- Secure the lighter side behind the ear with a decorative pin for added interest.
16. Layered Waves with Money Piece Highlights
Layered waves enhanced with “money piece” highlights—bright face-framing sections—create instant face-lifting dimension and modern style.
This trendy color technique pairs beautifully with strategic layering.
- Money piece highlights are typically 2-3 shades lighter than base color, framing the face prominently.
- These bright sections draw attention to facial features and create a glowing effect.
- The contrast between highlighted and natural sections enhances wave definition visually.
- This technique works particularly well on thick hair because it creates focal points amid density.
- Request highlights that start closer to the root than traditional face-framing for maximum impact.
- The dimensional color makes waves appear more textured and separated naturally.
17. Textured Ponytail with Wavy Extensions
A textured ponytail with natural waves flowing from the base creates effortless elegance while managing thick hair practically.
This style combines sophistication with functionality for busy days.
- Create volume at the crown by teasing gently before pulling hair into the ponytail.
- Wrap a section of hair around the elastic to conceal it for a polished finish.
- The ponytail itself should feature soft, defined waves rather than being stick-straight.
- This style works excellently for workouts, work environments, or casual outings.
- Thick hair creates fuller, more impressive ponytails that hold shape without additional padding.
- Pull out a few face-framing pieces for a softer, more romantic appearance.
18. S-Wave Pattern Styling
S-wave pattern styling creates uniform, horizontal wave formations that showcase thick hair’s ability to hold structured shapes.
This editorial-worthy style delivers geometric precision with soft finish.
- Create S-waves using a flat iron with a specific waving technique or a three-barrel waver tool.
- The uniform pattern creates a striking, artistic appearance that photographs beautifully.
- Thick hair’s density makes S-waves appear more dramatic and impressive than on finer textures.
- This style requires sectioning hair carefully and creating waves in consistent horizontal lines.
- The geometric precision contrasts beautifully with the soft, touchable texture of waves.
- Finish with light-hold hairspray to maintain the pattern without creating stiffness.
19. Half-Up Half-Down with Twisted Crown
The half-up half-down style with twisted crown sections combines practical functionality with romantic styling, perfect for thick wavy hair that needs face-framing control while showcasing length.
- Twist sections from each temple toward the back, securing with bobby pins or a decorative clip.
- The remaining hair flows freely in natural waves, creating beautiful volume and movement.
- This style removes hair from the face while avoiding the severity of a full updo.
- Thick hair creates more substantial twists that hold shape and add visual interest.
- Gently pull apart the twists for added width and a softer, more romantic appearance.
- This versatile style transitions seamlessly from day to evening with different accessories.
20. Tousled Bedhead Waves
Tousled bedhead waves embrace intentionally undone styling that celebrates thick wavy hair’s natural texture with minimal effort.
This effortlessly cool look channels just-woke-up beauty in the most flattering way.
- Achieve this look by applying texturizing spray to dry hair and scrunching randomly throughout.
- The goal is imperfect, lived-in texture that appears natural rather than styled.
- Thick hair naturally provides the volume and texture this style requires without additional work.
- Sleep with damp hair in a loose bun or braid for authentic bedhead texture.
- This low-maintenance style celebrates natural wave patterns and requires minimal products.
- The tousled appearance works beautifully for casual weekend wear or relaxed social occasions.
21. Voluminous Crown with Smooth Waves
Voluminous crown styling with smooth waves throughout creates dramatic height at the roots while maintaining sleek, defined waves below.
This style maximizes thick hair’s natural volume potential.
- Tease roots at the crown section gently and smooth over with a brush for lift without visible teasing.
- The volume at the crown creates face-flattering height while smooth waves add elegance below.
- Use a volumizing mousse at roots before blow-drying for maximum lift.
- This style works exceptionally well for special events, photoshoots, or glamorous occasions.
- The thickness of your hair helps maintain crown volume throughout the day without collapsing.
- Finish with strong-hold hairspray focused on the crown area to lock in volume.
22. Long Waves with Balayage Ombré
Long waves enhanced with balayage ombré coloring create stunning gradient effects that transition from dark roots to lighter ends.
This dimensional color technique beautifully complements wave patterns and adds depth to thick hair.
- Ombré creates a gradual color transition, with the lightest shades concentrated at ends and mid-lengths.
- The color gradient naturally guides the eye downward, emphasizing length and wave formation.
- Balayage application ensures the transition appears soft and natural rather than harsh or stripey.
- Lighter ends make waves appear more defined and separated, enhancing texture visibility.
- This coloring technique requires less maintenance than traditional highlights since roots remain dark.
- Popular combinations include brunette to caramel, black to chocolate, or dark blonde to platinum.
23. Pinned-Back Waves with Accessories
Pinned-back waves incorporate decorative hair accessories while maintaining flowing wave patterns throughout the length.
This style combines practical face-framing with glamorous embellishment.
- Pin front sections back with decorative clips, barrettes, or jeweled accessories for instant glamour.
- The remaining hair flows freely in beautiful waves, creating romantic movement.
- This style works beautifully for weddings, proms, or any formal occasion requiring elegance.
- Thick hair holds pins and accessories more securely than finer textures.
- Experiment with asymmetrical pinning, multiple clips, or cluster arrangements for varied looks.
- The combination of structured pinning and flowing waves creates beautiful contrast.
24. Piece-y Textured Waves
Piece-y textured waves feature separated, defined sections rather than uniform smooth waves, creating modern, editorial-worthy styling with enhanced dimension.
This technique showcases individual wave formations beautifully.
- Apply texturizing paste or clay to damp hair, distributing evenly from roots to ends.
- Scrunch hair while drying to create separated, defined pieces with visible texture.
- The piece-y effect works exceptionally well on thick hair, preventing it from appearing too uniform.
- This style creates a lived-in, effortlessly cool appearance perfect for modern aesthetics.
- The separated sections catch light differently, creating multi-dimensional visual interest.
- Finish with dry texturizing spray for additional separation and matte texture.
25. Low Messy Bun with Face-Framing Waves
A low messy bun paired with intentional face-framing waves combines practical updo styling with romantic softness.
This versatile look manages thick wavy hair elegantly while maintaining feminine appeal.
- Pull hair into a low ponytail, leaving face-framing sections free, then twist into a loose bun.
- The deliberately messy bun appears effortless while the framing waves add softness and romance.
- Thick hair creates fuller, more impressive buns that require less padding or teasing.
- Pull out additional pieces randomly throughout for an undone, casual appearance.
- This style works beautifully for both everyday wear and special occasions depending on polish level.
- Secure with bobby pins and finish framing waves with curling iron for definition.
26. Ribbon Waves
Ribbon waves create flat, wide wave formations that resemble flowing ribbons, offering a unique alternative to traditional cylindrical curls.
This sophisticated style showcases thick hair’s ability to hold dramatic wave shapes.
- Create ribbon waves using a flat iron with specific twisting techniques or specialized ribbon wave tools.
- The flat, wide waves catch light beautifully, creating dimensional shine and visual interest.
- This style requires careful sectioning and consistent technique throughout the head.
- Thick hair’s substance helps ribbon waves hold their distinctive flat shape without collapsing.
- The result is modern, editorial-worthy styling perfect for fashion-forward occasions.
- Apply shine serum before styling to enhance the glossy, ribbon-like appearance.
27. Waterfall Braid with Flowing Waves
A waterfall braid features cascading sections that drop through the braid while the rest of the hair flows in beautiful waves below.
This intricate style combines detailed braid work with natural wave beauty.
- Create a French braid along the hairline, dropping the bottom section of each stitch to cascade down.
- The dropped sections blend into the flowing waves below, creating beautiful integration.
- This technique works wonderfully on thick wavy hair, as the braid appears fuller and more impressive.
- The combination of structured braid and loose waves creates romantic, fairy-tale styling.
- This style works beautifully for weddings, proms, or any occasion requiring intricate beauty.
- Secure the end of the braid with a clear elastic and hide it among the flowing waves.
28. Slicked-Back Wet Look Waves
Slicked-back wet look waves create editorial-worthy, high-fashion styling through intentionally glossy, sleek appearance that transitions into defined waves.
This bold style makes a dramatic statement.
- Apply generous gel or styling cream to damp hair, slicking back from the hairline.
- The front sections appear sleek and wet while waves begin at ear-level or below.
- This creates striking contrast between structured sleekness and natural wave texture.
- The thickness of your hair supports this style well, maintaining sleekness without appearing flat.
- This bold look works beautifully for fashion events, photoshoots, or avant-garde occasions.
- Finish with high-shine gel or glossing spray for maximum wet-look effect.
29. Vintage Pin Curls Transformed to Waves
Vintage pin curl techniques create beautiful, uniform waves when brushed out, delivering retro-inspired styling with modern wearability.
This classic method works exceptionally well on thick wavy hair.
- Create pin curls on damp hair using setting lotion, pinning flat against the scalp in uniform rows.
- Allow to dry completely (overnight or under a dryer) before carefully removing pins.
- Brush through gently to merge pin curls into smooth, uniform wave patterns.
- Thick hair holds pin curl sets exceptionally well, creating long-lasting wave definition.
- The resulting waves have a distinctive vintage character that’s both elegant and timeless.
- This technique provides heatless styling while delivering polished, defined wave patterns.
30. Natural Air-Dried Waves with Curl Cream
Natural air-dried waves enhanced with curl-defining cream celebrate thick wavy hair’s inherent texture with minimal manipulation.
This healthy, low-maintenance approach lets natural beauty shine.
- Apply curl-defining cream to soaking wet hair immediately after washing for maximum absorption.
- Scrunch product into hair gently, encouraging natural wave formation without disrupting pattern.
- Allow hair to air-dry completely without touching, which prevents frizz and maintains definition.
- This method works beautifully on thick wavy hair, which has enough substance to hold wave shape.
- The result is soft, natural-looking waves that appear effortless and healthy.
- This technique minimizes heat damage while maximizing your hair’s natural texture potential.
31. Fishtail Braid with Loose Waves
A fishtail braid combined with loose flowing waves creates intricate textural contrast that showcases thick hair’s versatility.
This style balances detailed braid work with soft, romantic waves.
- Create a side fishtail braid from the temple, incorporating sections gradually while leaving remaining hair loose.
- The intricate fishtail pattern contrasts beautifully with soft, undefined waves flowing freely.
- Thick hair creates fuller, more impressive fishtail braids with beautiful dimension.
- Gently pull apart the braid for added width and softer, more romantic appearance.
- This style works wonderfully for festivals, beach days, or bohemian-inspired occasions.
- Secure the braid end with a small elastic and tuck it into the flowing waves naturally.
32. Dimensional Waves with Lowlights and Highlights
Dimensional waves enhanced with both lowlights and highlights create maximum depth and visual interest through strategic color placement.
This comprehensive color approach makes thick wavy hair appear multi-toned and richly textured.
- Combining darker lowlights with lighter highlights creates depth that makes waves appear more defined.
- The varied tones catch light differently as hair moves, creating dynamic visual interest.
- Strategic color placement can enhance specific wave formations and add perceived texture.
- This technique works exceptionally well on thick hair, where color dimension prevents flatness.
- Request face-framing highlights and interior lowlights for maximum three-dimensional effect.
- The multi-tonal approach requires less frequent maintenance than single-process color while looking more expensive.
Conclusion
Embracing your thick wavy hair means understanding its unique needs and choosing styles that work with, not against, your natural texture.
Throughout this comprehensive guide to 32 Long Hairstyles for Thick Wavy Hair That Look Soft and Defined, we’ve explored everything from classic layered cuts to modern textured styles, vintage-inspired waves to contemporary color techniques.
The key to achieving that coveted soft, defined look lies in strategic layering to remove bulk, using the right products for your specific wave pattern, and selecting styling techniques that enhance rather than fight your hair’s natural tendencies.
Whether you prefer the effortless beauty of air-dried waves, the polished elegance of Hollywood glamour, or the playful creativity of braided styles, there’s a perfect option waiting for you in this collection.
Remember that thick wavy hair is a blessing that offers incredible versatility, volume, and styling potential when treated with the right approach.
Experiment with these styles, find what works best for your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences, and most importantly, embrace the natural beauty of your gorgeous thick waves with confidence and style.
