For this post, we deconstruct how to achieve messy wavy hairstyles such as the chunky lob in just a few steps. Read on and see how you, too, can work this look like a bonafide fashionista:
Messy Wavy Hairstyles: the Blogger Lob
Step 1: Wash Your Hair
Hair aficionados worth their salt know that any long-lasting style usually starts in the shower. A shampoo and conditioner that thicken your hair, like TRESemmé Thick & Full Shampoo and Conditioner help create a base for effortless-looking waves. Rinse well.
Step 2: Towel-Dry
Blot hair with a towel, and then lightly spritz on a salt spray, such as Nexxus Between Washes Beach Waves Sea Salt Spray, for texture and edgier waves. Mist hair all over, and then rough-dry with a blowdryer.
Step 3: Give Yourself a Blowout—No, Really
As TRESemmé Lead Stylist Jeanie Syfu mentioned, “a good foundation is key for [waves and curls] to work,” and, as counterintuitive as it sounds, this is usually done via a proper blowout. No need to stress about it: Just go in with a flat brush or a paddle brush to ensure kinks are straightened out before you curl.
Step 4: Use a Bigger Barrel
The smaller the barrel, the tighter the curl. So for this lob, or if you want messy wavy hairstyles with a chunkier bend, a 1 1/2” curling iron is best. First divide hair into top and bottom sections, then further divide into left, middle and right. Twirl each section around the barrel (holding it horizontally gives a softer, structured wave, vertically gives beachier waves), hold for around five to eight seconds, then release. Curl the fringe area last.
Step 5: Mess It Up
Gently brush out your curls with a paddle brush, scrunching from the ends up to give it more of a tousled feel. Finish with an anti-frizz hairspray, like TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist Smooth Level Hold 2, to set. You’re done!
10 Messy Wavy Hairstyles to Inspire You
1. Lighter and Lighter
Draw attention to your chic and messy waves by lightening your strands. Ask your stylist for a bleach blonde, ashy hue and leave your roots dark for some dimension.
2. Dimension is Key
Speaking of dimension, that kind of visual depth can play a big role in helping you create your signature messy style. This eye-catching contrast only adds to your messy texture.
3. Short and Edgy
Go shorter than you’ve gone before and consider a short and edgy bob. Styling messy waves is easiest on a short cut like this because your hair won’t weigh itself down…that means achieving height and volume in your waves will be easier than ever.
4. A Touch of Polish
If you’re looking for something a bit more polished then this is the messy wavy hairstyle for you.
5. Easy Texture
The more undone the better when it comes to messy wave hairstyles. Follow the natural texture of your wave pattern and embrace the results.
6. Subtle Ombré
Wear your waves long and lighten up just the ends with some subtle ombré color.
7. Let it Grow
Who said messy waves have to be short? Wear your strands long and embrace that messy texture.
8. No Age Limit
This style has absolutely no age limit and looks just as beautiful on vibrant gray strands as it does on younger hair.
9. Fallen Waves
Half the beauty of this style is just how effortless it is. Let your long waves fall and weigh themselves down for a truly effortless look.
10. Lighten Up
Draw even more attention to your new style by adding strategic bright highlights to make them attention-grabbing in the best way.
