Classic Hollywood waves are the epitome of glamour, sophistication, and timeless elegance. This iconic hairstyle, popularized in the 1920s and 1940s, has been worn by Hollywood legends like Marilyn Monroe, Rita Hayworth, and Veronica Lake, and remains a red-carpet favorite today.
Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, formal event, or vintage-inspired photoshoot, Hollywood waves never go out of style.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to achieve perfect Hollywood waves and tips for making them last all day!
What You’ll Need:
✔ 1-inch curling iron or hot rollers
✔ Heat protectant spray
✔ Boar bristle brush or wide-tooth comb
✔ Strong-hold hairspray
✔ Duckbill clips or pin curl clips
✔ Shine serum or lightweight hair oil
Step-by-Step Guide to Classic Hollywood Waves
Step 1: Prep Your Hair
- Start with clean, dry hair. If your hair is naturally silky, use a texturizing spray or mousse to add grip.
- Apply a heat protectant to prevent damage.
✔ Tip: If you want extra volume, blow-dry your hair with a round brush before styling.
Step 2: Create Deep Side Part
- Use a tail comb to create a deep side part for that vintage Hollywood effect.
- This parting enhances the dramatic, sleek wave pattern.
✔ Tip: The deeper the part, the more glamorous and dramatic the look!
Step 3: Curl Hair in One Direction
- Take 1-inch sections of hair and curl towards your face using a curling iron or hot rollers.
- Hold each curl for 8-10 seconds before releasing.
- Immediately pin each curl with a duckbill clip to set the shape.
✔ Tip: Do NOT alternate curl directions—all curls should be going the same way to achieve uniform waves.
Step 4: Let Curls Set & Cool
- Once all curls are pinned, let them cool completely (around 15-20 minutes).
- This step is crucial for creating long-lasting Hollywood waves.
✔ Tip: For extra hold, lightly mist curls with hairspray while they cool.
Step 5: Brush Out the Curls
- Remove the clips and use a boar bristle brush or wide-tooth comb to softly brush through the curls.
- As you brush, mold the waves into the signature “S” shape using your hands.
✔ Tip: If waves start to lose shape, use duckbill clips to redefine them and let them sit for 5 minutes.
Step 6: Define Waves & Add Volume
- To enhance the wave pattern, gently press the deeper sections with clips for a few minutes.
- Apply a light shine serum for a glossy, polished finish.
- Mist lightly with a strong-hold hairspray to lock in the waves.
✔ Tip: Avoid using too much product—Hollywood waves should look soft and touchable, not stiff.
Hollywood Waves Variations
💎 Sleek Hollywood Waves – Use a flat iron instead of a curling iron for ultra-smooth, modern waves.
💎 Soft Vintage Waves – Brush out curls more gently for a looser, romantic effect.
💎 Glam Ponytail Hollywood Waves – Gather hair into a low ponytail while keeping the front section in classic waves.
💎 Hollywood Waves on Short Hair – Use hot rollers or a small-barrel curling iron for a vintage bob look.
✨ Final Tips for Long-Lasting Hollywood Waves
✔ Use strong-hold hairspray – Keeps waves in place without weighing them down.
✔ Set curls properly – Pin curls until completely cool for long-lasting shape.
✔ Avoid touching your hair too much – This prevents frizz and keeps waves intact.
✔ Sleep with silk or satin – A silk pillowcase or bonnet helps maintain waves overnight.
Hollywood waves are the ultimate statement of elegance and sophistication, perfect for brides, red-carpet events, or any glamorous occasion. Will you be trying this look for your next event? Let me know! ✨💃💕