long · airy
Butterfly Layers
Butterfly layers preserve long lower lengths while adding shorter, airy sections around the face and upper body of the hair.
Hairstyle guide
Long Waves: What It Looks Like and How to Ask for It
Explore the Long Waves, defined by long length shaped by loose, continuous bends. Compare its shape, maintenance, salon wording, styling, and virtual try-on tips.
Published 18 July 2026
Quick answer
Long waves combine below-shoulder length with broad bends, giving the hair visible movement while preserving a long silhouette.
- Length
- long
- Shape
- flowing and elongated
- Finish
- wavy
- Maintenance
- medium
What defines the look
The defining feature is long length shaped by loose, continuous bends. That distinction is more useful than relying on the style name alone, since names can be interpreted differently between salons.
- long
- waves
- movement
- layers
What to ask your stylist
Ask to preserve the overall length while adding enough long layering to stop the waves from forming one heavy block.
Bring a saved preview and clarify which parts of the generated result matter most to you. Your stylist can translate the reference for your current hair and practical routine.
Styling and upkeep
The look can be encouraged with a diffuser, loose braids, rollers, or a wide-barrel tool depending on the starting texture.
Maintenance labels are broad comparisons within this guide library. Your starting texture, chosen length, and preferred finish can change the real routine.
How to preview it
A photo that includes your shoulders helps show where the new length sits and how much visual volume the waves add.
Try the Long WavesCompare nearby looks
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