More than likely, you’ve seen your favorite celebrities, the people you follow on social media, and various influential individuals sporting “beachy waves.” The soft, flowing curls look effortless and are perfectly suited to every event, whether formal or casual.

However, how do you achieve that beautiful look? Here are five ways you can join your Instagram feed in the beachy waves trend.

1. Twists and a flat iron

You might not believe it, but one of the easiest ways to achieve those soft waves takes only a couple of minutes.

First, use a spray bottle to lightly spray down your locks. Then, separate one half of your hair into two equal sections. Twist them individually, and then twirl them together. Tie the two halves together with a ponytail holder, and use your flat iron down the length of the hair. Repeat on the other side, and then leave to dry completely. Finally, undo the ponytail holders and shake out your beautiful waves.

2. A ponytail and a curling iron

Beachy waves should start from the shoulder down, but how do you make sure that the transition from straight to wavy is smooth? It’s easier than you’d think.

The key here is a high ponytail. Pull up all your hair into a high ponytail, ideally all the way at the top of your head. Then, curl the hair that spills out of the ponytail. Once you pull out the ponytail and shake your hair out, you should have lovely, cascading waves that start at just the right place.

3. A quick run with a curling iron

You can actually use a curling iron just as it’s intended to get the beachy waves look. You just need a little finesse.

If you’ve ever curled your hair before, this will seem very familiar to you; you’ll just be changing a few things. Work from back to front, and alternate between wrapping your hair toward your face and away from it. The most important thing to remember, however, is to work quickly. You only want to leave your hair wrapped around the curling iron for three to five seconds, after which you’ll want to unwind quickly. The quick curling method will ensure those loose waves, rather than tight curls.

4. Overnight buns or braids

One of the most tried-and-true methods of obtaining wavy hair, this one requires a bit of foresight, but almost no effort.

The day before you want to style your hair, take a nighttime shower so your hair is damp. Then, you can do one of two things. The first option is to pull it into four tight buns, equally spaced around your head. The second is to pull it into two braids, one to either side. The most effective method for you may depend upon your hair type, thickness, and length, so it’s a good idea to try both options out before any big days.

5. A wide curling wand and your fingers

This option works especially well for short hair, but can also work well with some longer hairstyles.

With this option, you’re going to want to work from bottom to top. First, tie up the top portion of your hair, so only the lower layers are available. Using a wide-barrel curling wand, gently curl large portions of your hair, sticking to only a few seconds per curl. Let down the top parts of your hair and curl those as well. Then, very gently spritz with a sea salt spray and scrunch up the curls with your fingers to get an uneven, tousled look.

You may be surprised at how achievable those beachy waves are, no matter how much hair experience you have. However, you can only learn so much on your own. If this is your first time styling your own hair, it’s a good idea to book a salon appointment first. A professional haircare expert, such as the ones at Ogle School salons, can help you determine your hair type, your ideal haircare routine, and the best way to get those waves you’re looking for.

You may be surprised at how achievable those beachy waves are, no matter how much hair experience you have. However, you can only learn so much on your own. If this is your first time styling your own hair, it’s a good idea to book a salon appointment first. A professional haircare expert, such as the ones at Ogle School salons, can help you determine your hair type, your ideal haircare routine, and the best way to get those waves you’re looking for.