The Italian Job is a timeless film. For some, it’s a cult classic. But the Italian job is only one of many things from Italy that have created waves around the world.

And no, we aren’t talking about Pizza, pasta, or other Italian food. We’re talking about the Italian wave!

Blake Lively is just one of several Hollywood stars who have graced the Italian wave hairstyle.

The Italian wave hairstyle is a timeless and classic look that has been popular for decades. Characterized by loose, voluminous waves, it gives off an air of relaxed sophistication - the best kind of sophistication if you ask us!

This versatile hairstyle is ideal for a day out with friends or a formal gathering. No matter what the occasion, not only will you fit right in, you will be the star.

What is the Ideal Hair Type for an Italian Wave?

The Italian wave hairstyle is suitable for all hair types but works especially well for those with long or medium-length hair. It is also versatile, as it can be worn loose and flowing or gathered into a half-up, half-down style. The key to achieving this hairstyle is to keep it looking effortless and natural, with soft waves that move freely with the hair.

If you want to sport this sumptuous look, you’re in luck! Today, we’ll show you how to get the perfect Italian wave hairstyle so you can look elegant effortlessly! Let’s go!

Step 1:

Start by washing your hair with a volumizing shampoo and conditioner. This will help add volume to your hair and make it easier to work with.

It’s best to use a sulfate-free shampoo. Sulfates can cause your hair to turn brittle and prone to breakage.

Step 2:

Towel dry your hair gently, and be careful not to rough up the cuticle. Aggressive rubbing causes excessive friction and strains your hair roots, causing them to break. Do not use a blow dryer - you’ll soon see why!

If you have fine hair, apply a mousse or root-lifting spray. This adds more volume that is key to the perfect Italian wave.

Step 3:

Apply a heat protectant spray or serum to your hair. This will protect your hair from heat damage and help your curls hold their shape for longer.

Note: You should always use a heat protectant when using heat tools like a curling iron, straightener, or blow dryer.

Step 4:

Remember when we said don’t use a blow dryer? Well, at this stage, you can! Using a round brush, blow dry your hair. Focus on the roots as this will help create volume.

Here’s a trade secret - If you flip your hair upside down while blow-drying, you can add even more volume!

Step 5:

After drying your hair, it’s time to divide it into sections. Usually, 4-6 sections should be enough. If you have very thick hair, you may need to do a few more.

Step 6:

Now that your hair has been divided into sections, it’s time to start putting in the first signs of the Italian wave. 

• Bring out the heat tools - a curling wand or a curling iron will do!
• Take a small section of hair, and wrap it around the barrel of your wand or iron. 
• Hold for a few seconds before gently releasing. 
• Repeat this process on all sections of your hair. 

For a more natural look, you can alternate the direction of the curls.

Step 7:

All sections of your hair curled? Time to move on to the next step!

Loosen the curls with your fingers and create a more natural wave pattern. Now, we know what you are thinking. You JUST put all those sexy curls in, and we are asking you to loosen them? All we can say is, trust us. We know what we are doing!

Note: If you want even more volume, you can gently backcomb the roots of your hair.

Step 8:

After loosening the curls, it's time to add some texture and volume. As we mentioned earlier, the key to the Italian wave is volume!

The easiest way to do this is by using a texturizing spray or dry shampoo. This will help create that effortless, lived-in look that is characteristic of the Italian wave hairstyle. We’re nearly there! (Yay!!)

Step 9:

After using the texturizing spray or dry shampoo, it’s time to finish the look. Bring out the hairspray!

Hairspray will help hold the Italian waves in place without weighing them down. Consider using a light hairspray as that will give you just the right oomph.

If you want, you can also use a shine spray or serum to add some extra gloss to locks - and you’re done! The Italian wave is complete!

Some Tips for Achieving the Perfect Italian Wave Hairstyle

The Italian wave is not a complicated hairstyle. One of the reasons it’s so popular is that it is suitable for all hair types. Having said that, there are a few things to keep in mind that will help get the perfect Italian wave.

Tip 1:

Choosing the Right Equipment: The key to achieving the perfect Italian wave is getting the wave right. And since the waves come from the curling iron or wand, it is necessary to use the right type.

When choosing a curling iron or wand, pick a larger barrel size (1.5-2 inches) to create loose, voluminous waves.

Tip 2:

Alternate Curl Directions: Alternating the direction of your curls is important to create a more natural and effortless look. If you find it a little difficult at first, don’t worry. After a few tries, you’ll be a natural!

Tip 3:

Use the Right Products: You will need hair products to get sufficient volume in your hair, and to keep the waves in your hair. Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner. A texturizing spray and light hairspray will help achieve the desired look.

Always use a heat protectant spray - it keeps your hair healthy and moisturized!

Tip 4:

Don't Overdo the Products: Using products is necessary for this look, but there is something known as too much product. Remember, less is more when it comes to styling products. Use them sparingly to avoid weighing down your hair.

Tip 5:

Loosen Your Curls: The name of the style is the Italian wave - use your fingers to gently loosen your curls to create a more natural wave pattern!

The Italian wave originated in Italy. But it gained popularity after icons like Sophia Loren and Brigitte Bardot rocked the red carpet during the golden age of Hollywood. These days celebrities like Blake Lively, Jennifer Aniston, and Jessica Alba have been spotted with this look.

Now that you know how to get an Italian wave, go ahead and give it a try! And let us know in the comments how it goes!