50 Trending Wavy Hairstyles for Men in 2024

Explore 50 trending wavy hairstyles for men in 2024. Find the perfect style for your hair type, plus tips on how to achieve and maintain it.

Blog author: Georgina Cosgrove
In This Article

In This Article

Wavy hairstyles for men are trending in 2024, offering a perfect blend of casual and polished looks. Their versatility allows for easy styling across various occasions, from laid-back to formal events. The rise in popularity can be attributed to celebrity influence and the prominence of textured hairstyles on social media platforms, inspiring men to embrace their natural waves or experiment with creating them.

Understanding Wavy Hair

Wavy hair falls between straight and curly, forming loose S-shaped patterns. Unlike straight hair, it has natural texture and volume, but it’s less tightly coiled than curly hair. Men with wavy hair often struggle with frizz and dryness, requiring specific care routines. However, the benefits include effortless volume, versatile styling options, and a naturally textured look that’s highly desirable at the moment.

Read: What is Your Hair Type?

Discover the most popular wavy hairstyles for men in 2024. From short and sleek to long and luxe, these 50 trending styles showcase the versatility of wavy hair. Whether you’re looking for a formal look or a casual everyday style, you’ll find inspiration for your next haircut here.

Short Wavy Hairstyles

1. Wavy Textured Crop

The Wavy Textured Crop combines a short, low-maintenance cut with natural wavy texture. It features shorter sides and back with slightly longer hair on top, allowing waves to create volume and movement.

Celebrity inspiration: Zac Efron has sported this versatile, wavy look.

Suitable hair types: Best for 2A to 2C wave types, medium to thick density.

Styling tips:

  1. Apply sea salt spray to damp hair.
  2. Air dry or use a diffuser on low heat.

2. Wavy Quiff

The Wavy Quiff combines classic style with modern texture. It features longer hair on top styled upwards and backwards, with shorter sides for contrast.

Celebrity inspiration: Harry Styles has been known to sport a wavy quiff.

Suitable hair types: Ideal for 2A to 2C waves, medium to thick hair.

Styling tips:

  1. Use fingers to create texture with pomade.
  2. Set with strong-hold hairspray.

3. Wavy Fade

The Wavy Fade features longer, wavy hair on top that gradually fades into very short hair on the sides and back, creating a striking contrast.

Celebrity inspiration: Justin Timberlake has worn variations of this style.

Suitable hair types: Works for 2A to 3A curl types, all hair densities.

Styling tips:

  1. Use curl-enhancing cream on damp hair.
  2. Maintain the fade with regular trims.

4. Wavy French Crop

The Wavy French Crop features a short, textured fringe across the forehead with closely cropped sides and back. The wavy texture adds interest to this classic cut.

Celebrity inspiration: Tom Hardy has worn this style with his natural waves.

Suitable hair types: Best for 2A to 2C waves, works with all hair densities.

Styling tips:

  1. Apply texturising spray to damp hair.
  2. Push the fringe forward while blow-drying.

5. Wavy Side Part

The Wavy Side Part is a classic style updated with natural wave texture. It features a defined side part with longer hair on top and shorter sides.

Celebrity inspiration: Ryan Reynolds has worn this sophisticated wavy style.

Suitable hair types: Ideal for 2A to 2C waves, medium to thick hair.

Styling tips:

  1. Create a side part and comb into place.
  2. Finish with light-hold pomade for shine and control.

6. Wavy Buzzcut

The Wavy Buzzcut is an ultra-short style that allows natural wave patterns to create interesting texture across the scalp.

Celebrity inspiration: Zayn Malik has sported this edgy, low-maintenance look.

Suitable hair types: Works for all wave types, especially good for 2B to 3A.

Styling tips:

  1. Allow to air dry naturally.
  2. Maintain with regular trims every 2-3 weeks.

7. Wavy Caesar Cut

The Wavy Caesar Cut features short, layered hair styled forward to create a textured fringe. The natural waves add volume and interest to this style.

Celebrity inspiration: George Clooney has worn variations of this timeless look.

Suitable hair types: Best for 2A to 2C waves, works with all hair densities.

Styling tips:

  1. Apply lightweight mousse to damp hair.
  2. Enhance texture with a small amount of hair paste.

8. Wavy Ivy League

The Wavy Ivy League combines the classic preppy cut with natural wave texture. It features shorter sides with slightly more length on top, typically styled with a side part.

Celebrity inspiration: Matt Damon has worn this polished style.

Suitable hair types: Ideal for 2A to 2C waves, medium to thick hair.

Styling tips:

  1. Create a side part and comb into place.
  2. Blow-dry using a small round brush for volume.

9. Wavy Undercut

The Wavy Undercut features a dramatic contrast between longer, hair on top and very short or shaved sides and back. This edgy style showcases natural texture.

Celebrity inspiration: Brad Pitt has sported this bold, textured look.

Suitable hair types: Works best for 2B to 3A curl types, medium to thick hair.

Styling tips:

  1. Apply sea salt spray to damp hair.
  2. Blow-dry using fingers for a tousled effect.

10. Wavy High & Tight

The Wavy High and Tight is a military-inspired cut adapted for wavy hair. It features very short wavy hair on top with nearly shaved sides and back, creating a neat, masculine look.

Celebrity inspiration: Jake Gyllenhaal has worn this sharp, low-maintenance style.

Suitable hair types: Suitable for all wave types, works well with any hair density.

Styling tips:

  1. Keep hair clean and well-moisturised.
  2. Allow to air dry naturally.

Medium-Length Wavy Hairstyles

11. Wavy Shag

The Wavy Shag features choppy layers that enhance natural wave patterns, creating a relaxed, rock-and-roll inspired look. This style typically includes a textured fringe and lots of movement throughout.

Celebrity inspiration: Kit Harington 

Suitable hair types: 2B to 3A waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Rough-dry with fingers, scrunching to enhance waves
  2. Use texturising spray for added definition

12. Wavy Curtains

Wavy Curtains feature a centre part with hair falling evenly on both sides, framing the face. This ’90s-inspired look has made a strong comeback, especially for wavy hair textures.

Celebrity inspiration: Timothée Chalamet 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 2C waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Apply leave-in conditioner to damp hair
  2. Create centre part, air dry or diffuse on low heat

13. Wavy Pompadour

The Wavy Pompadour combines classic style with modern texture. It features longer hair on top styled upwards and back, with shorter sides for contrast.

Celebrity inspiration: Bruno Mars 

Suitable hair types: 2B to 3A curl types, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Apply strong-hold mousse to damp hair
  2. Work in firm-hold pomade for structure and shine

14. Wavy Slick Back

The Wavy Slick Back is a sophisticated style that embraces natural texture. Hair is styled backwards, creating a sleek look while still showcasing the waves.

Celebrity inspiration: Oscar Isaac 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 2C waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Apply smoothing cream to damp hair
  2. Comb hair backwards while blow-drying

15. Wavy Side Sweep

The Wavy Side Sweep features longer hair on top styled to one side, often partially covering the forehead. This style allows for movement and showcases the natural wave pattern.

Celebrity inspiration: Chris Hemsworth 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 2C waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Apply sea salt spray to damp hair
  2. Use fingers to enhance natural wave pattern

16. Wavy Textured Bob

The Wavy Textured Bob is a bold, fashion-forward style for men with medium-length hair. This cut typically falls between the jaw and chin, with layers to enhance natural wave patterns and add movement.

Celebrity inspiration: Dev Patel 

Suitable hair types: 2B to 3A curl types, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Enhance texture with a small amount of styling paste
  2. Tousle gently for lived-in appearance

17. Wavy Faux Hawk

The Wavy Faux Hawk features longer hair on top styled upwards and towards the centre, creating a subtle mohawk effect. The sides are kept shorter but not buzzed, allowing for a gradual blend.

Celebrity inspiration: Zac Efron 

Suitable hair types: 2B to 3A curl types, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Blow-dry hair upwards, focusing volume in centre
  2. Use firm-hold pomade or gel to shape

18. Wavy Quiff Fade

The Wavy Quiff Fade combines a textured quiff on top with faded sides, creating a high-contrast look. The natural waves add volume and interest to the quiff.

Celebrity inspiration: Zayn Malik 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 2C waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Blow-dry upwards and backwards using a round brush
  2. Work in matte clay or paste for texture and hold

19. Wavy Side Part Taper

The Wavy Side Part Taper features a classic side part with longer, wavy hair on top gradually tapering into shorter sides. This style offers a polished look while embracing natural texture.

Celebrity inspiration: Ryan Gosling 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 2C waves, all hair densities 

Styling tips:

  1. Blow-dry using a paddle brush for smoothness
  2. Finish with light-hold pomade for control

20. Wavy Messy Fringe

The Wavy Messy Fringe features longer hair on top styled forward to create a textured, tousled fringe. This style embraces natural wave patterns for an effortless, bed-head look.

Celebrity inspiration: Robert Pattinson 

Suitable hair types: 2B to 3A curl types, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Enhance texture with matte paste
  2. Tousle and arrange fringe for messy finish

Long Wavy Hairstyles

21. Shoulder-Length Waves

This classic long hairstyle allows natural waves to flow freely, typically falling just at or slightly past the shoulders. It’s a versatile look that can be styled in various ways.

Celebrity inspiration: Jason Momoa 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 3A waves, medium to thick hair

Styling tips:

  1. Apply leave-in conditioner to damp hair
  2. Air dry or use a diffuser on low heat

22. Long Layered Waves

Long layers enhance natural wave patterns, adding movement and reducing bulk. This style works well for those with thicker hair.

Celebrity inspiration: Kit Harington 

Suitable hair types: 2B to 3A waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Blow-dry with a round brush for volume at the roots
  2. Enhance waves with a curling iron if desired

23. Man Bun with Wavy Texture

This style involves pulling long wavy hair back into a bun, either at the crown of the head or at the nape of the neck. It’s a practical yet stylish option for long hair.

Celebrity inspiration: Chris Hemsworth 

Suitable hair types: All wave types, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Apply a smoothing cream to damp hair
  2. Gather hair at desired height and secure with an elastic

24. Long Wavy Quiff

This style combines the volume of a quiff with the length and texture of long wavy hair. The front is styled upwards and back, while the rest of the hair flows freely.

Celebrity inspiration: Harry Styles 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 2C waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Blow-dry the front section upwards using a round brush
  2. Set with a strong-hold hairspray

25. Surfer Waves

This laid-back style embraces natural texture for a beach-inspired look. It’s characterised by tousled, effortless-looking waves.

Celebrity inspiration: Matthew McConaughey 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 3A waves, all hair densities 

Styling tips:

  1. Use a small amount of texturising paste for definition
  2. Tousle with fingers for a messy finish

26. Long Side Part

A classic style that works well with wavy hair, the long side part creates a polished look while still showcasing natural texture.

Celebrity inspiration: Keanu Reeves 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 2C waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Create a deep side part
  2. Blow-dry using a paddle brush for smoothness

27. Wavy Shag with Curtain Bangs

This ’70s-inspired look features lots of layers throughout, with curtain bangs framing the face. It’s great for enhancing natural wave patterns.

Celebrity inspiration: Timothée Chalamet 

Suitable hair types: 2B to 3A waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Blow-dry with a diffuser, scrunching to enhance waves
  2. Style curtain bangs with a small round brush

28. Long Slicked Back

A sleek, sophisticated style that works well for formal occasions. The hair is styled back while still maintaining some of the natural wave texture.

Celebrity inspiration: Bradley Cooper 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 2C waves, all hair densities 

Styling tips:

  1. Apply a smoothing serum to damp hair
  2. Comb hair backwards while blow-drying

29. Textured Ponytail

A practical yet stylish option for long wavy hair. This look keeps hair out of the face while showcasing natural texture.

Celebrity inspiration: Jared Leto 

Suitable hair types: All wave types, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Gather hair at desired height and secure with an elastic
  2. Use strong hold hairspray to finish

30. Long Wavy Undercut

This edgy style features long wavy hair on top with shaved or very short sides. It creates a bold contrast and allows for versatile styling of the top section.

Suitable hair types: 2A to 3A waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Allow top section to air dry or diffuse for natural texture
  2. Use a matte paste to enhance definition and control

Formal Wavy Hairstyles

31. Classic Wavy Side Part

The classic wavy side part features a deep side part with soft, natural waves. This makes it a timeless formal style that works well with wavy hair, creating a sophisticated and polished look.

Celebrity inspiration: George Clooney 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 2C waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Apply a smoothing cream to damp hair
  2. Finish with a medium-hold pomade for control and shine

32. Slicked Back Waves

This sleek style maintains some natural wave texture while presenting a formal, put-together appearance.

Celebrity inspiration: Leonardo DiCaprio 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 2C waves, all hair densities 

Styling tips:

  1. Work in a strong-hold gel or pomade from roots to ends
  2. Use a fine-toothed comb to smooth and shape

33. Formal Wavy Quiff

A more structured version of the casual quiff, this style adds height and volume while maintaining a neat appearance.

Celebrity inspiration: Zac Efron 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 3A waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Apply volumising mousse to damp hair
  2. Blow-dry the front section upwards using a round brush

34. Textured Pompadour

This formal style combines the classic pompadour shape with natural wave texture for a modern, sophisticated look.

Celebrity inspiration: David Beckham 

Suitable hair types: 2B to 3A waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Use a matte pomade to shape and add texture
  2. Finish with medium-hold hairspray

35. Neat Wavy Crop

A shorter style that works well for formal occasions, featuring neatly trimmed sides with textured waves on top.

Celebrity inspiration: Ryan Reynolds 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 2C waves, all hair densities 

Styling tips:

  1. Apply a light styling cream to damp hair
  2. Blow-dry using fingers to enhance natural texture

36. Formal Man Bun

This is a more polished version of the casual man bun, suitable for formal events when executed neatly.

Celebrity inspiration: Chris Hemsworth 

Suitable hair types: All wave types, medium to long hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Gather hair at the crown and secure tightly with an elastic
  2. Use hairspray to tame any flyaways

37. Wavy Faux Hawk

A more subtle and formal take on the mohawk, featuring longer wavy hair styled upwards along the centre of the head.

Celebrity inspiration: David Beckham

Suitable hair types: 2B to 3A curl types, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Apply strong-hold mousse to damp hair
  2. Blow-dry hair upwards, focusing volume in the centre

38. Formal Curtains

A more polished version of the curtain hairstyle, featuring a neat centre part and smoothed waves.

Celebrity inspiration: Chase Stokes 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 2C waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Blow-dry each side using a round brush for smoothness
  2. Finish with a light-hold pomade for control and shine

39. Wavy Comb Over

A classic formal style adapted for wavy hair, featuring a side part and hair neatly combed to one side.

Celebrity inspiration: Jon Hamm 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 2C waves, all hair densities 

Styling tips:

  1. Create a side part and blow-dry using a comb
  2. Work in a medium-hold pomade for control

40. Formal Wavy Bob

A longer style that can work for formal occasions when styled neatly, allowing natural wave patterns to shine.

Celebrity inspiration: Kit Harington 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 3A waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Apply anti-frizz serum to damp hair
  2. Blow-dry using a diffuser to enhance natural waves

Casual Wavy Hairstyles

41. Messy Wavy Crop

A short, textured style that embraces natural wave patterns for an effortless, tousled look.

Celebrity inspiration: Robert Pattinson 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 2C waves, all hair densities 

Styling tips:

  1. Use a small amount of matte paste for texture
  2. Tousle with fingers for a messy finish

42. Relaxed Side Part

This is a more casual, effortless take on the traditional side-part hairstyle, perfect for wavy or textured hair. Instead of the sharp, defined part associated with classic styles, this version features a looser, more natural parting, allowing the hair to fall freely. 

Celebrity inspiration: Ryan Gosling 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 2C waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Apply leave-in conditioner to damp hair
  2. Air dry or use a diffuser on low heat

43. Wavy Shag

The Wavy Shag showcases lots of layers that accentuate natural waves, giving off a laid-back, rock-and-roll vibe. This hairstyle often incorporates a textured fringe and is full of movement throughout for a dynamic, effortlessly cool appearance.

Celebrity inspiration: Milo Ventimiglia 

Suitable hair types: 2B to 3A waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Scrunch while air drying or diffusing
  2. Tousle with fingers for a lived-in look

44. Casual Man Bun

The Casual Man Bun is a relaxed and effortless hairstyle, perfect for men with long, wavy hair who want to keep it off their face while maintaining a cool, laid-back aesthetic. 

Celebrity inspiration: Jason Momoa 

Suitable hair types: All wave types, long hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Air dry until slightly damp
  2. Secure with an elastic, leaving some strands free

45. Wavy Fringe

This look is ideal for those who want to add texture and movement to their hairstyle while emphasising their facial features. The wavy fringe can be styled to fall just above the eyebrows or longer, depending on personal preference.

Celebrity inspiration: Timothée Chalamet 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 3A waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Air dry or diffuse on low heat
  2. Finish with a light-hold hairspray

46. Tousled Surfer Waves

Tousled Surfer Waves embody a carefree, beach-inspired style that celebrates natural texture and the effortlessly relaxed vibe of spending a day by the ocean. 

Celebrity inspiration: Chris Hemsworth 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 3A waves, medium to long hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Enhance waves with a small amount of texturising paste
  2. Tousle with fingers for a windswept look

47. Relaxed Quiff

The Relaxed Quiff is a laid-back version of the classic quiff that incorporates natural waves for added texture and volume. 

Celebrity inspiration: Zac Efron 

Suitable hair types: 2A to 2C waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Blow-dry the front section upwards using fingers
  2. Use a light-hold pomade to shape

48. Wavy Faux Hawk

A more understated and formal version of the mohawk, this style features longer wavy hair styled upward along the center of the head.

Celebrity inspiration: Adam Lambert

Suitable hair types: 2B to 3A curl types, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Blow-dry hair upwards, focusing volume in the centre
  2. Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray

49. Curly Top Fade

A style featuring longer, wavier hair on top that gradually fades into shorter sides. It’s a versatile look that can be adapted to various curl types and fade lengths, making it popular among men with curly or wavy hair.

Celebrity inspiration: Justin Timberlake 

Suitable hair types: 2C to 3A waves, medium to thick hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Use a diffuser to dry the top section
  2. Enhance definition with a small amount of styling paste

50. Messy Half-Up Bun

The Messy Half-Up Bun is a laid-back yet stylish look, perfect for those with longer hair who want a balance between casual and chic. It’s ideal for days when you want your hair out of your face but still want to showcase your hair’s texture and length.

Celebrity inspiration: Kit Harington 

Suitable hair types: All wave types, long hair 

Styling tips:

  1. Apply leave-in conditioner to damp hair
  2. Pull out a few face-framing pieces after putting it in a bun for a relaxed look

Choosing the Right Wavy Hairstyle

Hair Types:

  • Fine: Short to medium layered cuts for volume
  • Thick: Longer styles, layers manage bulk
  • Coarse: Longer styles, focus on moisturising

Face Shapes:

  • Oval: Shorter sections at the front will open up the face
  • Round: Height on top elongates face
  • Square: Softer waves balance strong jawlines
  • Heart/Rectangle: Add fullness at chin/sides respectively

Lifestyle:

  • Busy/Active: Low-maintenance cuts, short styles, or updos
  • Creative: Experimental styles like shags or tousled looks
  • Corporate: Neat, polished wavy styles

Styling Tips for Wavy Hair

Products:

  • Sea salt spray: Enhances natural texture
  • Lightweight mousse: Adds volume without weighing hair down
  • Curl-defining cream: Shapes waves and reduces frizz

Daily Care:

  1. Condition thoroughly, focusing on ends
  2. Apply leave-in conditioner to damp hair
  3. Air dry or diffuse on low heat
  4. Style with preferred product, scrunching to enhance waves

Heat Tool Tips:

  • Use lowest effective heat setting
  • Always apply heat protectant
  • Opt for diffuser attachments on hair dryers
  • Use heatless styling methods when possible

Maintaining Wavy Hairstyles

Trimming:

  • Schedule regular trims every 6-ish weeks
  • Maintains shape and prevents split ends
  • Keeps layers fresh, enhancing wave pattern

Hydration:

  • Deep condition weekly
  • Apply leave-in conditioner to damp hair
  • Use lightweight oils (argan, jojoba) on ends

Managing Humidity:

  • Use anti-humidity styling products
  • Apply a light hold gel or mousse before air drying
  • Carry a small bottle of anti-frizz serum for touch-ups
  • Consider protective styles like braids or buns in extreme humidity

Inspirational Celebrity Wavy Hairstyles

Harry Styles:

  • Style: Long, tousled waves
  • Why it works: Enhances natural texture, frames face
  • Adaptation: Shorter for round faces, add volume for fine hair

Timothée Chalamet:

  • Style: Medium-length wavy curtains
  • Why it works: Youthful, versatile, suits oval face
  • Adaptation: Shorter sides for round faces, texturising products for fine hair

Book Your Hair Appointment Now

Don’t let your waves go wild — book an appointment at RUSH today and let our expert stylists help you achieve the perfect wavy hairstyle that suits your unique look and lifestyle.

FAQ's

What are the best wavy hairstyles for men in 2024?

Textured crops, medium-length shags, and long layered cuts are trending, embracing natural texture and versatility.

How can I style my wavy hair for a professional look?

Opt for a neat side part, slicked-back waves, or a well-groomed wavy quiff. Use smoothing products for a polished finish.

What wavy hairstyles work well with short hair?

Textured crops, wavy fades, and short messy styles work well, enhancing natural wave patterns.

What wavy hairstyles work well with medium-length hair?

Wavy quiffs, textured pompadours, and layered cuts are ideal, offering versatility and ease of styling.

What wavy hairstyles work well with long hair?

Man buns, flowing layers, and long shags showcase natural waves while providing various styling options.

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