“The ‘bedhead’ look, starting on day one”: the 70s-inspired wavy hairstyle that’s going to be everywhere this summer
This summer of 2026, a new hair trend is taking the spotlight with its disarming simplicity. Canyon waves promise natural, effortless waves—no elaborate blow-drying or perfect curls required. Here’s everything you need to know about this hairstyle that’s set to be a must-have.
Canyon waves: the wavy hairstyle inspired by the 1970s
Every summer, wavy hair makes a strong comeback as one of the most sought-after trends. This year, the inspiration comes from 1970s California and its desert landscapes. As a result, canyon waves are emerging as the hairstyle of the season.
The idea is simple: forget about overly elaborate hairstyles. Instead, go for a soft, natural, and effortless look. Plus, these light, airy waves give you a relaxed, summery vibe.
In line with the resurgence of 1970s-inspired hair trends, this hairstyle subtly celebrates a retro vibe. The goal is to create a light, flowing look that highlights natural waves. This gives the hair more structure without losing its natural feel.
A balance between naturalness and structure
Canyon waves aren’t quite a meticulously styled blowout, nor are they defined curls. They fall somewhere in between, creating a soft, lively look. It is precisely this balance that makes them so appealing.
Mara Roszak is a celebrity hairstylist. She described this trend in Byrdie magazine in very precise terms.
“Canyon Waves offer the perfect balance between a polished blowout and a touch of imperfection: movement without stiffness and texture without a stiff, cardboard-like feel.”
According to her, the goal is to achieve “the next-day hair effect, starting on day one.” This phrase refers to a well-known phenomenon: those blowouts that seem even better after a night’s sleep. As a result, canyon waves naturally replicate this effect.
How to get canyon waves at home
Good news: recreating this hairstyle takes very little effort. Your must-have product is a sea salt spray. It adds texture, helps define the hair strands, refreshes the roots, and brings out your natural waves.
The result looks like a beach-inspired look. However, it’s perfectly controlled and suitable for everyday use. That way, you don’t have to spend hours in front of the mirror.
- Apply a sea salt spray to slightly damp or dry hair.
- Create waves using a curling iron or straightener for straight or fine hair.
- Vary the direction of the waves for a naturally tousled look.
- Make two braids, then quickly run a flat iron over them to set the waves.
- Don’t strive for perfection: imperfection is part of the desired result.
For naturally straight or fine hair, Mara Roszak offers a specific tip. She recommends creating some waves first using a curling iron or a flat iron. Then apply the texturizing spray on top.
In addition, varying the direction of the waves is essential. This technique creates a naturally tousled look, far from a uniform effect. The final result resembles authentic, effortless canyon waves.
The Quick Two-Ply Braid Trick
Mara Roszak also shares a quick technique. Simply create two braids, then run a flat iron over them for a few minutes. This sets the waves for a soft, natural look.
This method works just as well for fine hair as it does for thicker hair. As a result, canyon waves are suitable for all hair textures. No professional equipment or complex techniques are required.
A trend that embraces imperfection
What sets canyon waves apart from other trends is their philosophy. We don’t strive for perfection. We embrace movement, lightness, and even a certain controlled chaos.
Elaborate hairstyles are giving way to a more relaxed look. This trend reflects a desire for a natural look that is sweeping across many sectors of the fashion and beauty industries in 2026. What’s more, it easily adapts to the pace of everyday life.
Canyon-style waves don’t require a long or complicated routine. However, they do require a bit of technique and the right product. With a sea salt spray and a few simple steps, the style comes together in just a few minutes.
So this summer, put away the blow dryer and let your hair breathe. Canyon waves are here to remind us that a natural hairstyle can be just as elegant as a carefully styled one. Sometimes, doing less is the key to achieving more.
