Pigtails Hairstyle: How to Achieve the Perfect Waves with Easy Step-by-Step Tips

Looking for a stylish, playful, and effortlessly chic way to wear your hair? Look no further than pigtails! The signature two-strand braid pigtail look has taken social media and fashion worlds by storm—especially among teens, young adults, and anyone who loves volume, texture, and a touch of retro flair. Whether you're aiming for cool and spiky waves or smooth, soft curls, mastering the pigtail hairstyle is simpler than you think.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through easy, step-by-step tips to achieve perfect pigtails with beautiful waves every time—just with minimal tools and confidence.

Understanding the Context


Why Love Pigtails With Waves?

Pigtails instantly elevate your look with a youthful, bold vibe. When combined with waves, they balance structure with softness, offering a versatile style suitable for casual outings, festivals, or even runway-inspired photoshoots. Plus, the format encourages easy volume, minimizes frizz, and complements every face shape beautifully.


What You’ll Need for Perfect Pigtail Waves

Key Insights

  • Fine-tooth comb – Ensures smooth, even braiding without breakage
  • Blow dryer with round brush – Promotes wave definition and speed
  • Texture-enhancing serum or mousse – Adds shine and grip for lasting curls
  • Clear elastic bands or satin scrunchies – Prevent hair damage
  • Hair clips or bobby pins – For securing pigtails
  • Optional: Hair serum, heat protectant spray, or lightweight gel

Easy Step-by-Step Guide to Pigtails with Waves

Step 1: Prep Your Hair

Start with clean, dry hair or apply anti-frizz serum to reduce tangles. If your hair is sleek or large, use aatter Shine Serum or lightweight mousse to boost texture and volume. Smooth sectioning helps create neat pigtails—use clips to separate the crown area.

Step 2: Create Clean partings

Part your hair into two equal halves, usually in a center or side part, depending on your desired pigtail placement. Smooth each section thoroughly for even braiding later.

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Final Thoughts

Step 3: Build volume with cowlicks (optional)

Gently pull outer sections upward in small cowlicks—this builds root volume and sets the base for dynamic waves. Avoid over-pulling to keep pigtails natural.

Step 4: Start braiding

With one section at a time, divide each half into three even strands. Begin a 3-strand braid at the root—not near the ends—carrying the braid downward. To achieve wave-like movement, slightly loosen each curl as you braid; avoid tight, rigid braids.

Step 5: Weave in soft waves

As you bring each braid toward the ends, gently twist or curl each section twice to form loose waves. Use your fingers to loosen and reshape—this is where waves come alive! Avoid over-curling; the goal is soft, tousled texture.

Step 6: Secure the pigtails

Once both braids reach about 4–6 inches long, gather them together in the center at the nape. Secure firmly with a satin scrunchie or soft-haired elastic—satin avoids static and shine, keeping pigtails looking polished. Avoid metal-b Kropped bands unless using them only for securing ends.

Step 7: Finishing touches

Gently tug on the pigtail strands to soften waves and add volume. If curls feel stiff, lightly brush through with a boar-bristle brush or add a spray of styling serum for shine and long-lasting texture.


Pro Tips for Perfect Waves in Pigtails

  • Use a slicked-back mousse or sea salt spray before braiding to boost wave definition.
  • For ultra-soft waves, let braids air-dry slightly before braiding—modern texture thrives on relaxed barely-formed curls.
  • Avoid over-processing if using curler tools; poofy, lived-in waves last longer naturally.
  • Store pigtails on satin pillowcases or scrunchies to prevent frizz overnight.

Final Thoughts

The perfect pigtails with waves blend retro charm and modern flair, looking stylish whether worn during a festival, a brunch, or a casual photoshoot. With these easy steps and simple tips, you can master the art of braided waves with minimal tools—and maximum confidence.

Try incorporating pigtail waves into your next outfit—they promise effortless coolness every step of the way!