Thanksgiving is a unique holiday that demands a delicate balance of style. You want to look polished for the family photos and the formal dinner, but you also need a style that feels comfortable enough for a long afternoon of lounging, kitchen prep, and perhaps a post-meal nap. Soft waves are the ultimate solution. They offer an effortless “cool girl” aesthetic that translates perfectly from the kitchen to the dining room.
Whether you prefer a classic Hollywood glam approach or a more bohemian, tousled look, soft waves provide a versatile foundation for any outfit. From velvet ribbons to intricate braids, these 23 hairstyles will ensure you look radiant this Thanksgiving.
1. Classic Tousled
The classic tousled wave is the backbone of Thanksgiving style. It’s approachable, feminine, and remarkably easy to achieve with a large-barrel curling wand. The key is to leave the ends straight for a more modern, lived-in feel rather than a tight, pageant-like curl. Brush through the waves once they’ve cooled to create that seamless, cloud-like texture.
2. Velvet Bow
Nothing says “holiday season” quite like velvet. Adding a velvet bow to a half-up style instantly elevates soft waves into something festive and intentional. Choose rich autumnal tones like forest green, burnt orange, or a classic wine red to complement your Thanksgiving ensemble.
3. Side-Swept Glamour
If your Thanksgiving involves a more formal dinner, side-swept waves offer a touch of old-world glamour. By pinning one side back, you open up your face and showcase your jewelry. Use a setting spray with a high-shine finish to give the waves a glossy, reflective quality.
4. French Braid Crown
Keep your hair out of the gravy while looking like a woodland queen. A French braid crown acts as a natural headband, securing the front sections of your hair while letting the back flow freely in soft waves. This style is particularly great for busy hosts who need their hair away from their faces.
5. Pearl Studded
For a look that is subtle yet sophisticated, try scattering small pearl pins throughout your waves. It adds a touch of whimsical elegance that catches the light beautifully during a candlelit dinner. This works best on smooth, well-defined waves rather than messy, textured ones.
6. Half-Up Twist
The half-up twist is the perfect “five-minute” hairstyle. It pulls the hair back from the eyes but retains the romantic volume of the waves below. It’s a versatile look that pairs just as well with a casual flannel shirt as it does with a dressy jumpsuit.
7. Autumnal Florals
Incorporate the colors of the season by tucking small sprigs of dried flowers or even a tiny autumnal leaf into your waves. This bohemian approach is perfect for an outdoor Thanksgiving gathering or a rustic farmhouse setting.
8. Low Sleek Ponytail
If you want a look that is both practical and chic, the low wavy ponytail is your best friend. Keep the crown of the head sleek and shiny using a bit of pomade, and let the waves in the ponytail provide the drama and movement.
9. Silk Scarf Wrap
A silk scarf is the ultimate accessory for masking second-day hair while looking incredibly polished. You can tie it as a headband, wrap it around a ponytail, or even weave it into a braid. Choose a scarf with warm earth tones to stay on theme for the holiday.
10. Voluminous Blowout
Sometimes the best wave is the one created by a round brush. A voluminous blowout provides a soft, bouncy wave that feels luxurious and bouncy. This style is all about movement and “touchable” hair that looks great in every candid family photo.
11. Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid is a literal work of art. It creates a beautiful horizontal pattern across the back of the head while allowing the rest of the hair to flow down in soft, rhythmic waves. It’s a great way to show off highlights or multi-tonal hair color.
12. Minimalist Gold Barrette
Sometimes, less is more. A single, high-quality gold barrette used to pin back one side of your waves creates a look that is modern, clean, and effortlessly elegant. This is especially effective for those with shorter hair, like a lob or a bob.
13. Messy Chignon with Tendrils
The chignon is a classic, but for Thanksgiving, we want it “softened.” By curling your hair first and then pinning it into a loose bun, you create a style that is full of texture. Leaving out a few wavy tendrils around the face keeps the look from feeling too stiff or formal.
14. Boho Fishtail Accent
If you love the boho look, add a tiny fishtail braid to your loose waves. It’s a “blink-and-you’ll-miss-it” detail that adds incredible depth and interest to the hairstyle without requiring a full updos.
15. Deep Side Part
A deep side part can completely change the silhouette of your face. It adds instant volume at the roots and gives your soft waves a more sophisticated, intentional vibe. This is the perfect look if you’re wearing a statement earring.
16. Hidden Peek-a-Boo Braids
This is for the person who wants a bit of edge with their elegance. Hide three or four tiny, tight braids underneath your top layer of waves. They provide a surprising bit of texture and a cool, effortless vibe when you move your head.
17. Padded Headband
The padded headband trend is still going strong, and for good reason. It’s the easiest way to make soft waves look “done” in under thirty seconds. It also helps keep hair out of your face while you’re enjoying your Thanksgiving meal.
18. Twisted Halo
Similar to the half-up twist but more ethereal, the twisted halo involves twisting the hair all the way around the back of the head. It’s a soft, romantic look that works beautifully with floral dresses or cozy knitwear.
19. Face-Framing 90s Tendrils
The 90s are back, and face-framing tendrils are the perfect accompaniment to soft waves. This style draws attention to your eyes and cheekbones while keeping the rest of the hair bouncy and full.
20. Bubble Braid Mix
For a more playful and modern look, incorporate a bubble braid into your half-up style. It adds a unique geometric element to the soft, organic flow of the waves. It’s a great conversation starter at the dinner table!
21. Cinnamon Highlights and Waves
Sometimes the best way to style waves is to let the color do the talking. Soft waves are the best way to showcase “Cinnamon” or “Pumpkin Spice” highlights, as the curves of the hair catch the light and show off the different tones in the dye.
22. Loose Dutch Braids
Dutch braids (where the braid sits on top of the hair) provide a beautiful, chunky texture. Stopping the braids at the neck and letting the rest of the hair flow into waves creates a look that is both sporty and feminine.
23. Polished Lob Waves
Don’t think that soft waves are only for those with long hair. A “lob” (long bob) looks incredibly chic when styled with wide, flat-iron waves. It’s a modern, sophisticated look that feels light and fresh for the holiday season.
Tips for Long-Lasting Thanksgiving Waves
- Prep is Key: Use a heat protectant and a light mousse on damp hair before blow-drying to give the waves some “grip.”
- Let Them Cool: Never brush out your curls immediately. Let them sit in their tight form until they are completely cool to the touch. This “sets” the shape.
- The Shake Out: Instead of using a brush, use your fingers to gently break up the curls. This results in a softer, more natural wave.
- Finish with Texture Spray: A dry texture spray is better than hairspray for this look. It provides hold without the “crunchy” feeling, keeping the waves soft and touchable all day long.
