23 Chic Finger Waves Ideas You Will Love to Try
Finger waves are a women’s hairstyle created by shaping smooth, S-shaped waves with hair gel and your fingers or heated tools. They add a touch of elegance and make a bold statement, perfect for finishing your glamorous look!
The classic 1920s hairstyle has been updated for today and still shines on the red carpet. Stars like Amandla Stenberg, Beyonce, Zoe Kravitz, and Kate Upton wear these beautiful waves mixed with braids, updos, and bold hair colors. Their looks inspire many fans to try these styles.
Professional hairstylist Stephanie Anderson from The Living Room Hair Lounge in Michigan created a bright, soft wavy pixie cut. This style proves how flexible it is. No matter if your hair is short, long, natural, or straight, you can enjoy trendy waves right at home!
Whether you’re dressing up for a special event, a costume party, or just want to add volume to flat hair, you only need a curling iron, your favorite brush, and plenty of gel or hairspray for a shiny, smooth look. For a true vintage style, try shaping and pressing small sections of hair with your fingers. Check out these fresh ideas for styling hair inspired by Old Hollywood!
Take a look at these amazing photos of popular finger wave styles before your next hair appointment.
#1: Finger Waves on African-American Hair
For better finger waves on African American hair, first stretch the hair with a blow dryer. This makes the hair easier to shape. Next, apply a foam or gel lotion. Use a rat tail comb to press, style, and set the waves. Make sure the hair is fully wet with the product. To hold the waves in place, use flat, long clips.
#2: Finger Wave Updo
This stylish version of the classic finger wave hairstyle paired with a bun or updo brings back the 1920s vibe. The bold, flowing waves create a stunning look and highlight hair with multiple tones. Use a curling iron or wand to make beautiful Marcel waves around your forehead.
#3: Cornrowed Finger Waves
Cornrowed finger waves combine the classic waves from the 1920s with stylish braids. Skilled hair braiders create this beautiful look using tiny scalp braids and neat parting. You can make the finger wave style even more fun by adding colorful braided hair!
#4: Blonde Vintage Waves
For long-lasting blonde vintage finger waves, mix some air-dry cream with a small amount of gel. Apply this to damp hair and shape the waves. Let your hair air dry overnight. In the morning, gently comb through with a wide-tooth comb to soften the waves. This method helps the waves hold their shape longer, keeping them smooth and well-defined.
#5: Missy Elliot Finger Waves
Missy Elliot finger waves are a classic hairstyle perfect for any event. They work best on short hair that is either relaxed or naturally has loose waves. Your stylist can add a side part, make smaller waves, or create unique freehand designs along your hairline. To style, apply a lightly diluted foam wrap to damp hair. Finish by spraying a gloss or shine spray for a polished look.
#6: Madonna-Inspired Finger Wave
Madonna-inspired finger waves give a classic style a bold, feminine edge. This look works best on hair cut to the nape of the neck. Use Paul Mitchell Super Sculpt Styling liquid to shape the waves, then secure them with long flat clips until the hair dries. When done carefully, this style lasts for days and can change slightly as time goes on.
#7: 20’s-Inspired Finger Waves
Finger waves from the 1920s are a timeless hairstyle that shows off feminine strength. They work best on short hair because it is easier to shape and control. To style them, use a foam or gel lotion along with a rat tail comb. This helps press, shape, and hold the waves so they last longer. Make sure your hair is fully wet when styling, and let it dry completely for the best results.
#8: S-Shaped Waves
S-shaped waves are a classic style that gives a smooth and elegant look. People often wear them for weddings, themed parties, holidays, or photoshoots. There are many ways to create finger waves. The most common method is to section your hair horizontally and pin each curl. Begin at the top and move downward, letting each section cool completely. Spray a medium-hold hairspray like Big Spray & Play Cucumber Water + Fresh Gardenia on each part of your hair. Backcombing can add volume and help the style last longer.
#9: Marcel Waves
Marcel waves look similar to finger waves. Finger waves are usually styled on short hair, but you can also make them on long hair using a marcel curling iron. This style is popular for weddings or fancy events to get a vintage look. Flat, long clips help keep the curls in place for a longer time.
#10: Deep Finger Waves
These beautiful finger waves are created by carefully and tightly shaping the hair. When done perfectly, your long hair will have extra bounce with this retro style.
#11: Blonde Finger Waves
Choose a Marilyn Monroe-inspired old Hollywood finger wave hairstyle with a fresh update. I enjoy the classic beauty of finger waves combined with a trendy, textured finish. Start by prepping your hair with a quality mousse before blow-drying. Use the right amount of hairspray and take your time curling and setting the waves. Lightly tease the rest of your hair for a relaxed, modern look that fits your style or event.
#12: Loose Finger Waves
This style features soft Hollywood waves or loose finger waves inspired by 1940s movie stars. The waves are brushed and shaped to form smooth ridges and dips. This gives a soft, bouncy, and glamorous look that highlights the cheekbones and eyes with a “peek-a-boo” effect. The roots stay flat, then flow into beautiful, classic waves that frame the face. It works best on medium to thick hair that is longer than shoulder length. You can add extensions to make the hair look fuller.
Finger waves may look soft and simple, but they are actually tricky to create. It’s best to ask your stylist or a hair expert for help. To get strong hold and shine, use mousse and a firm-hold hairspray. The curls should be brushed, teased, pinned, and sprayed to keep their shape and bounce.
#13: Flattering Finger Wave Curls
These finger wave curls blend different textures beautifully. The main shape is a classic Marcel wave with bold ridges and smooth sections that flow into messy, tousled hair. This style can look fancy or casual. It’s a timeless hairstyle with a modern, city vibe. Invisible Roller & Working Hairspray helped create these soft curls without using much heat. You can get this look while also helping repair chemical damage.
#14: Stunning Pixie Cut Finger Waves
This stunning Hollywood pixie cut features bold finger waves. The S-shaped waves can be styled to look subtle or dramatic. I chose deep, defined finger waves for a striking look. Missy Elliott once rocked this cut and style, making a strong statement. Jason Wu also showcased similar modern finger waves on the runway. To create the waves, I used foam wrap and gel, then set the hair under a dryer for 20 minutes. I finished the style with hairspray and oil sheen.
#15: Classic Finger Waves in Half-Up Hairstyle
Try a stylish finger wave hairstyle that takes you back to the classic days of old movies. Use plenty of gel and a fine comb to create these beautiful finger waves.
#16: Feminine Finger Waves for Short Hair
Soft finger waves add a gentle touch that pairs well with a short pixie cut. This style shows off smooth, flowing layers for a lovely look.
#17: Quick Weave Finger Waves
Quick finger wave weaves show off shorter waves. These waves add layers, making the style look more detailed and eye-catching. Even with short hair, finger waves give it great texture.
#18: Soft Finger Waves
Unlike regular beach waves, finger waves have a neat, defined pattern that makes your long blonde hair stand out. The “S” shaped curves highlight your hair’s shades, showing off caramel and ash-brown tones. Add a French braid to give it a fresh, modern twist.
#19: Sassy Finger Waves on Black Hair
Using black hair as a base for wavy styles is great because the light hits it and makes it shine even brighter. On short hair, a choppy cut works perfectly to create stylish finger waves.
#20: Amazing Finger Waves in 1920s Style
Check out this unique vintage look that fits perfectly in today’s world. These large finger waves add lots of bounce and volume to your short bob haircut.
#21: Beautiful Finger Waves for Long Hair
Choose a sharp, vintage style inspired by the 1920s. These cool finger waves add unique texture to your hair. Finger waves also help make your long hair look fuller and more voluminous.
#22: Gorgeous Finger Waves on Natural Hair
This style features loose, messy finger waves or beachy waves on black natural hair for African-American women. Keeping the sides short and the top long creates a mohawk look. Use a light mousse to shape soft, messy curls along the sides. Sleek, curly hair gives an easy, carefree vibe. You can quickly scrunch and style your curls with a little mousse on top. To refresh your finger waves, apply edge control to reshape your natural S-shaped curls.
#23: Super Short Finger Waves
Choose a stylish finger wave hairstyle with a bold look. These deep waves work well for both casual and fancy events. They are also simple to care for. To get smooth finger waves, try using a relaxer or texturizer. If your hair is already flat and sleek, you may not need these. Puffy finger waves do not look as polished or trendy.