Every summer, a new hair trend comes along that’s effortless, chic, and made for sun-kissed days. Enter ghost waves the dreamy, barely-there waves that give you that cool-girl texture without looking like you tried too hard. Think soft, undone bends that move like a whisper in the breeze. If you love the idea of effortless, bohemian waves but don’t want to spend hours curling your hair, ghost waves are about to become your new go-to style.
So, What Are Ghost Waves?
Ghost waves are the epitome of understated beauty coined by hairstylist Tom Smith, the term describes waves so subtle and natural-looking, they almost seem like they just happened hence the name. The key to this style? Soft, relaxed bends that form an S shape, mimicking the way hair naturally moves. Unlike structured beach waves or defined curls, ghost waves feel organic and airy, almost as if your hair woke up with the perfect amount of movement.
The best part? You don’t need perfect waves to pull this off. This trend celebrates mixed textures, meaning that whether your hair is naturally wavy, slightly curly, or even straight with a little body, you can make it work.
Why Ghost Waves Are the Ultimate Summer Vibe
There’s something about summer that makes us crave effortless beauty think sunkissed skin, easy makeup, and hair that looks like it’s been kissed by salty ocean air. Ghost waves fit right into that aesthetic. They’re not about precision or perfection. Instead, they embrace an undone-but-still-put-together energy that works just as well at the beach as it does at a rooftop party. But what really makes this trend a summer favorite? Versatility. Ghost waves can lean casual for daytime with a flowy dress and minimal makeup, but they can also add a cool, modern edge to a sleek outfit for a night out. Whether you’re going for soft romance or effortless glamour, these waves have you covered.
How To Get Ghost Waves
The beauty of ghost waves is that they don’t require a complicated styling routine. In fact, if your hair has a natural wave, you can enhance it with the right products and minimal heat. Here’s how to get the look:
1) Air Dry with the Right Product
If your hair already has some texture, work with it! Apply a lightweight, cream-based styling product to damp hair to encourage soft waves. Scrunch it gently and let it air dry for the most natural result.
2) Use a Mermaid Waver or Three-Barrel Iron
If your hair is on the straighter side, you can create ghost waves with a mermaid waver (a three-barrel iron). The key? Use it sparingly and don’t clamp down too hard. You want to create bends, not structured waves.
3) Brush Through with a Wide-Tooth Comb
Once your waves are set, gently run a wide-tooth comb through your hair to break up the pattern and give it that effortless, airy texture. Avoid using a regular brush, it’ll make the waves look too polished.
4) Finish with a Texturizing Spray
For that perfectly imperfect finish, mist your hair with a lightweight texturizing spray. It’ll add movement without weighing your hair down.
Ghost waves are that cool, easygoing trend that fits right into a laid-back summer mood.
Also Read: Exclusive: Celebrity Hairstylist Priyanka Borkar Shares Easy Hacks For Long-Lasting Beachy Waves