Flat waves — bends that zig-zag rather than spiral — are one of the easiest looks to make with a straightener. Three methods, from five-minute easy to a little more polished.
- Step-by-step for flat iron waves
- Variations and common mistakes
- Works with cordless tools — no socket needed
Tutorial card
- Time: 10–20 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best hair length: Chin to mid-back
- Tools: classic cordless straightener
What you need
- The classic cordless straightener
- Heat protectant
- A fine-tooth comb
- Two sectioning clips
Curlylooks Cordless Hair StraightenerFrom €34.99View productHow to do flat iron waves: step by step
- Method 1 — zig-zag clamp: Clamp a section near the top, angle the straightener up, move down a few centimetres, angle down. Repeat to the ends for S-shapes.
- Method 2 — twist-and-pull: Twist a section into a rope, then glide the straightener slowly down the twist. Untwist once cool.
- Method 3 — braid-press: Braid small sections, press each braid with the straightener, let cool, unbraid.
- Cool completely. Whichever method you choose, let the hair cool before touching.
- Break up. Run fingers through and shake out.
- Finish. Light texture spray for a matte, modern finish.
Variations to try
- Ends-only bend: Zig-zag just the bottom third.
- Half-up S-waves: Wave first, then pin the top back.
- Tight crimp: Smaller braids for a 2000s crimp.
Common mistakes and quick fixes
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Waves look like curls | Don't rotate — clamp at angles instead |
| Kinks look sharp | Use larger sections and slide between angles |
| Waves drop | Texture spray, cool fully |
Curlylooks Cordless Hair Straightener
€34.99
PinkGreenProtective capUSB rechargeable
Slim, cordless and capped — precise enough for a fringe, small enough for your bag.
A slim straightener makes tight zig-zag clamps easy, especially on bobs and lobs.
✦ Pairs well with: Texture spray · Small elastics for braids
Best for: Bobs, lobs, modern minimal waves, second-day hair
Three ways to start
Get the kit for flat iron waves
Just this look
The classic cordless straightener is all you need for flat iron waves.
Curls and polish
Curl, then smooth the ends and front pieces — the Curl & Polish bundle puts both tools together.
Every look in this series
The Complete Collection covers all our tutorials: the curler plus both cordless straighteners.
Frequently asked questions
How do you get S-waves with a straightener?
Clamp at alternating angles down the section — up, down, up — or press small braids with the straightener.
Can you do flat iron waves on short hair?
Yes — the zig-zag clamp works on chin-length hair.
Is the braid-and-straighten method damaging?
Use heat protectant and the lowest effective temperature, and one pass per braid.
Try it with cordless tools
Cordless, USB-rechargeable curler and straighteners — style anywhere, no socket needed.
Shop all styling tools →See the bundles →Keep reading
Safety note: heat tools get hot. Always follow the operating and safety instructions supplied with your device, use on dry hair only, keep heated parts away from skin and scalp, switch off after use and store out of reach of children.
