Ghost Waves Are The Easiest (& Chicest) Hair Trend For 2025
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6 mins ago
Undone, low-maintenance curls? Sign us up. Here's how to style the viral ghost waves trend.
Lazy girl waves just got a ghostly upgrade. Word from the salon is that ghost waves are set to be this season’s biggest (low effort) hair trend. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Are Ghost Waves?
Ghost waves are soft, barely-there waves with an emphasis on undone, natural texture. Think beach waves, but even more fluid in structure. ‘Ghost waves are all about creating a whisper of movement in the hair, waves that are soft, subtle and almost invisible in their intention,’ explains Jason Collier, celebrity hairstylist, founder of Studio23. ‘The name “ghost” comes from the idea that the wave isn’t bold or defined, but rather haunts the hair in a delicate, effortless way. It’s a barely-there texture that gives the impression of movement without shouting for attention. Think of it as the soft-focus filter of the hair world.
‘We’re in a moment where clients want hair that feels real, touchable, and easy to live in,’ he adds. ‘Ghost waves perfectly capture this shift toward effortless luxury. They’re stylish but unfussy, ideal for post-pandemic styling where high-maintenance looks just aren’t as appealing. Plus, they enhance natural texture and are gentle on the hair, aligning beautifully with the current focus on hair health and shine.’
@thatghdgirl Save this video for the next time your styling your hair 👻 – Apply ghd bodyguard heat protect spray and brush through – Ghost waves are created by mixing 2 techniques throughout the hair to create soft irregular waves – Rock styler back and forth down the section to create an undone mermaid style wave – On the next row guide sections for hair through the styler in an ‘S’ shape – Continue alternating these techniques in each row of your hair – Comb through with a ghd detangling home – Top tip – spray ghd perfect ending onto your hands and press into hair for added texture #ghdhair #ghdhairpro #ghdchronos #texturedhair #wavyhair #hairstyle ♬ Persuasive – Doechii
And the look already seems to be a hit on the celebrity circuit, with Jason noting that it’s a go-to for ‘stars who are known for that “off-duty model” vibe. Daisy Edgar-Jones nails it with her laid-back, breezy texture, while Sophie Turner has worn softer waves that give the same ghostly, ethereal effect. Even someone like Lily Aldridge has embraced this style in a more polished way, proving that ghost waves can swing from casual to red carpet.’
Who Suits This Cut?
This is one of the more versatile hair trends in the salon right now, making it much easier to tweak and adapt for each individual. ‘They suit most face shapes because the softness of the wave doesn’t add harsh angles, it gently frames the face,’ notes Jason. ‘In terms of hair type, they’re brilliant for fine to medium hair because they add body without bulk. Those with natural wave or texture will find them easy to achieve, but even straighter hair can hold the style with a little prep. For curly hair types, you can adapt the trend by relaxing your curls slightly for that same diffused feel.’
How To Ask For Ghost Waves In The Salon
‘When speaking to your stylist, ask for soft, irregular waves with an “undone” or accidental feel,’ recommends Jason. ‘You can reference the term “ghost waves,” but it’s best to also show a few photos to clarify the subtlety you’re after. Mention you’d like a natural, non-uniform bend through the hair that looks like it could have come from sleeping in a braid or air-drying perfectly. The goal is movement, not a defined curl.’
@tomsmithhd I’ve got a feeling this is going to be really popular! Ghost Waves are just the impression of movement in the hair, characterised by their S shape and very unstructured. Texture sprays, wax sprays and serums are all really good choices to help give extra definition and shine. #ghostwaves #springhairtrends #hairtrends #hairtexture #hairinspo #springtrends #hairtrends #fyp ♬ Soft Sunlight (Lofi) – Prodbyecho
How To Style Ghost Waves At Home
Simplicity is key when it comes to styling ghost waves, Jason tells us. ‘A large-barrel tong or straighteners work well, but the trick is to avoid repetition,’ he says. ‘Curl in different directions and skip a few sections altogether for that irregular feel. If you’re short on time or prefer heat-free methods, sleeping in loose, imperfect braids works wonderfully. Once you’ve styled, use your fingers, not a brush, to gently loosen the waves, and finish with a texturising spray or styling powder for that barely-there, airy lift.’
What Next?
‘Ghost waves are just the start of a broader shift toward understated beauty,’ says Jason. ‘I can see this trend evolving into even more personalised texture – waves that embrace each person’s natural pattern, rather than trying to conform to one specific look. We’ll likely see the technique combined with wet-look finishes or high gloss products for more editorial versions. It’s less about perfection and more about creating character and individuality through movement.’
Hair Inspiration: How To Wear Ghost Waves
Laid-Back Ghost Waves
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Structured Waves
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Ghost Locs
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XXL Waves
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Polished Ghost Waves
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Soft Waves
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Half Up, Half Down
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Boho Waves
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Volumised Ghost Waves
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