Create show-stopping Hollywood waves that bring red-carpet glamour to your hair. Hollywood waves hairstyles use soft, flowing curls to add shine, bounce and movement while maintaining a touch of elevated, Old Hollywood glamour.
Follow our step-by-step Hollywood waves tutorial to discover how to do Hollywood waves at home. Perfect for any length, these soft Hollywood waves are ideal for special occasions or when you want to enjoy every day glam. Quick to style and full of movement, your Hollywood waves hair will be sure to make them stop and stare.
SHOP THE LOOK
GHD CURLY EVER AFTER - CURL HOLD SPRAY
NEW GHD CHRONOS CURVE CLASSIC TONG (26MM BARREL) FOR DEFINED WAVES
GHD THE SECTIONER - TAIL COMB
GHD THE ALL-ROUNDER - PADDLE BRUSH
STEP-BY-STEPS
PREP & HEAT PROTECTION
CREATE A SIDE PARTING
SECTION THE HAIR
CURL THE LENGTHS
BRUSH TO SOFTEN WAVES
FINISH AND SET
FINAL LOOK
TOP TIPS TO REFINE THE FINISH
- Work in sections to maintain consistent waves.
- Brush slowly to smooth without flattening.
- Keep the curling barrel angled downward to create flowing movement.
- Spray hold lightly – the foal is soft, touchable waves, not stiff curls.
WHO THIS STYLE WORKS BEST FOR
Long hair, from just below the shoulders to waist length, works beautifully for this technique. It’s ideal for hair with natural movement or second-day texture that needs a soft, sleek refresh.
This style is perfect for glamorous events, evening occasions, or whenever you want hair that feels polished yet playful. The side parting adds an editorial, face-framing finish that elevates the waves without being rigid.
COMMON STYLING QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY OUR EXPERT GRANT WILLIAMS
Q: What are Hollywood waves?
Hollywood waves are sleek, side-parted waves brushed into one continuous, glossy S-shape. Created using a curler or tong, the look is defined by its smooth, uniform finish, which gives it that classic red-carpet glamour.
Q: How long do Hollywood waves last?
A full day and into the evening with the right prep. Set the waves with heat protection and a flexible-hold spray, then allow each curl to cool before brushing out. This helps the curler-formed waves hold their shape for hours.
Q: Do you need heat protectant for Hollywood waves?
Yes, always. Hollywood waves are created with a tong or wand, so a heat protectant with built-in curl hold is essential. It shields the hair from heat and helps the waves last longer. Skipping it risks heat damage and a finish that drops quickly.
Q: Can I create Hollywood waves on second-day hair?
Yes. Second-day hair often holds a curl better. Apply heat protection first, then use a curler to smooth and shape in sections without flattening the existing texture.
Q: How do I keep the side parting in place?
Set the part before you curl. Once the waves are formed, define the parting with a tail comb and finish with a light mist of hairspray at the roots. This keeps the part sharp while the waves stay soft.
Q: Can I do Hollywood waves on shorter hair?
Yes, although they sit best on long hair. On medium or shorter lengths, the waves sit higher and look slightly different, but the same curler technique still works across hair types.