If you’ve got wavy hair, you already know how versatile and effortlessly chic it can be. But add bangs into the mix? That’s when the magic happens! Wavy hair with bangs is having a major moment—and for good reason.
Bangs soften features, add dimension, and give your waves a playful, romantic touch. Whether you have loose beachy waves or tight, bouncy curls, the right wavy hair with bangs can enhance your face shape and elevate your look.
The key? Finding the Perfect Bangs for Your Unique Face Shape From side-swept fringe for round faces to wispy bangs for long faces, we’ve rounded up the 13 best wavy hair with bangs to flatter every structure.
But before we dive into the styles, let’s talk about why this combo is so universally flattering and how to determine which type of bangs will work best for you.
Why Wavy Hair with Bangs Works for Every Face Shape
Waves and bangs are a dynamic duo because they complement each other perfectly. Here’s why:
✔ Adds Volume & Movement – Waves create natural texture, while bangs frame the face beautifully. Unlike straight hair, which can sometimes fall flat, wavy hair has built-in body that makes bangs look fuller and more dynamic.
✔ Balances Proportions – The right bangs can shorten a long forehead, soften a strong jawline, or add width to a narrow face. When paired with waves, the effect is even more flattering because the texture creates balance.
✔ Low-Maintenance Glam – Wavy hair is forgiving—it looks great even when slightly messy. Bangs can be styled in seconds for a polished look, making this combo perfect for busy lifestyles.
✔ Timeless Yet Trendy – From ’70s shags to modern wolf cuts, wavy hair with bangs has been a staple across decades. It’s a look that never goes out of style but can easily be adapted to current trends.
How to Pick the Perfect Bangs for Your Unique Features
Before picking a style, consider your face shape:
- Oval – Almost any bangs work! Blunt, curtain, or side-swept all look great.
- Round – Opt for side-swept or layered bangs to create angles.
- Square – Wispy or curtain bangs soften sharp jawlines.
- Heart – Curtain or wispy bangs balance a wider forehead.
- Long – Blunt or full bangs help shorten the face.
Now, let’s explore the best wavy hairstyles with bangs for you!
1. Blunt Bangs with Shoulder-Length Waves – Best for Oval Faces
The Look: A sharp, straight-across fringe paired with loose, shoulder-grazing waves.
Why It Works: Oval faces are the most versatile, so you can pull off bold, blunt bangs without worry. The waves add softness, preventing the look from feeling too harsh.
Styling Tips:
- Use a flat iron to keep bangs sleek.
- Enhance waves with a texturizing spray for a lived-in feel.
- To boost volume, try drying your hair upside down—it helps lift the roots for a fuller look.
Celeb Inspiration: Alexa Chung’s signature blunt bangs with undone waves.
2. Side-Swept Bangs with Long Layers – Best for Round Faces
The Look: A deep side part with long, face-framing layers and soft waves.
Why It Works:Â Side-swept bangs create diagonal lines, which elongate a round face. Long layers add movement, making your face appear slimmer.
Styling Tips:
- Blow-dry bangs with a round brush to add lift at the roots.
- Use a curling wand to define waves, focusing on the ends.
- Avoid center parts—they can make a round face look wider.
Celeb Inspiration: Selena Gomez’s side-swept bangs with beachy waves.
3. Curtain Bangs with Beachy Waves – Best for Heart-Shaped Faces
The Look: Soft, parted bangs that blend seamlessly into tousled, sun-kissed waves.
Why It Works: Heart-shaped faces (wide forehead, narrow chin) benefit from curtain bangs, which create balance. The waves add volume around the jawline, enhancing symmetry.
Styling Tips:
- Apply sea salt spray for effortless texture.
- Use a wide-tooth comb to gently separate waves.
- Let bangs dry naturally for a relaxed vibe.
Celeb Inspiration: Taylor Swift’s effortless curtain bangs with loose waves.
4. Wispy Bangs with Voluminous Waves – Best for Square Faces
The Look: Light, feathery bangs paired with big, bouncy waves.
Why It Works: Wispy bangs soften a strong jawline, while voluminous waves add femininity and movement.
Styling Tips:
- Pump some texturizing mousse into your palms and scrunch it into roots first for maximum volume.
- Curl hair in alternating directions for natural-looking waves.
- Keep bangs piece-y—avoid making them too dense.
Celeb Inspiration: Olivia Wilde’s wispy fringe with glamorous waves.
5. Micro Bangs with Textured Waves – Best for Edgy Styles
The Look: Super short, cropped bangs with piece-y, undone waves.
Why It Works: This bold look is perfect for those who want to stand out. The contrast between micro bangs and loose waves creates an effortlessly cool vibe.
Styling Tips:
- Use a matte pomade to define texture.
- Scrunch waves with your fingers instead of brushing them out.
- Pair with a lob (long bob) for a modern twist.
Celeb Inspiration: Zoë Kravitz’s iconic micro bangs with textured waves.
6. Long, Feathered Bangs with Mermaid Waves – Best for Long Faces
The Look: Blended, feathered bangs with cascading, mermaid-style waves.
Why It Works: Longer bangs help shorten the appearance of a long face, while mermaid waves add width at the sides.
Styling Tips:
- Use a large-barrel curling wand for loose waves.
- Keep bangs slightly layered to avoid a heavy look.
- Apply a shine serum to enhance wave definition.
Celeb Inspiration: Blake Lively’s long, feathered bangs with Hollywood waves.
7. Choppy Bangs with Shaggy Waves – Best for Fine Hair
The Look:Â Piece-y, choppy bangs with a shaggy, layered wolf cut.
Why It Works: This cut adds instant volume to fine hair, making it look thicker and fuller. The choppy texture gives a cool, lived-in feel.
Styling Tips:
- Use a dry shampoo for added grit and lift.
- Twist random sections while air-drying for natural texture.
- Avoid heavy products that can weigh hair down.
Celeb Inspiration: Billie Eilish’s shaggy, textured waves with choppy bangs.
Final Thoughts: Find Your Perfect Wavy Hair with Bangs Look!
From blunt bangs for oval faces to shaggy layers for fine hair, there’s a perfect wavy hairstyle with bangs for everyone. The key is choosing a cut that enhances your natural texture and face shape.
Pro Tips Before You Commit:
- Bring reference photos to your stylist.
- Consider your hair’s thickness and wave pattern.
- Start with longer bangs—you can always go shorter!
Ready for a change? Book that salon appointment and embrace your new look with confidence. And don’t forget to tag us in your hair transformation—we’d love to see it!