Every summer, it seems like the effortless, rippling, beachy, signature beauty look makes a comeback. And in 2026, relaxed hairstyles will officially become popular again.
Featuring soft bends, airy textures, and an intentionally loose finish, beach waves have become a warm-weather beauty staple thanks to their balance of sophistication and manageability. Although this trend feels timeless now, its roots go back decades.
This look first became popular in the late ’90s and early 2000s, when surf-inspired aesthetics and relaxed California style began to dominate pop culture. Sun-kissed highlights, bronzed skin, and wind-swept textures quickly became the ultimate cool-girl aesthetic.
By the mid-2000s, celebrities like Gisele Bundchen helped elevate beach waves into a glamorous signature look. Her loose, voluminous texture inspired countless salon appointments and marked a transition from overly polished curls.
This trend grew throughout the 2010s, fueled by stars like Blake Lively, Mary-Kate Olsen, and Ashley Olsen. Their perfectly imperfect hair became synonymous with off-duty glamour.
