The “soft girl” look has taken over social feeds with its dreamy waves, curtain bangs, and that overall cozy, romantic vibe. But let’s be real—not every aesthetic translates easily to real life, especially on busy mornings or humid days. The good news? Some of these styles do work beyond the camera, and they’re a lot more wearable than you might think.
This list rounds up 18 “soft girl” hairstyles that are pretty and practical. They’re the kinds of looks that feel gentle and flattering without requiring an hour in front of the mirror. Think low-maintenance volume, soft textures, and just enough polish to feel put together without overdoing it.
Loose Beach Waves
Imagine strolling along the beach with the wind gently ruffling your hair. Loose beach waves capture this carefree essence perfectly. They add a touch of effortless elegance to any look while maintaining that laid-back vibe.
These waves are not only easy to achieve but also versatile. Pair them with a sundress for a day out or a cozy sweater for a night in. With just a bit of salt spray and a curling iron, you can create these waves and carry a piece of the ocean with you wherever you go.
Soft Pastel Braids
Braids have always been a classic, but pastel braids bring a fresh twist. Imagine the subtle hues of pink, lavender, and mint intertwined with each strand. It’s as if the colors of a soft sunset have been woven into your hair.
Not only do these braids look stunning, but they also reflect a playful personality. Perfect for festivals or a casual day out, they make a statement without being overwhelming. With pastel braids, you’re not just wearing a hairstyle; you’re wearing art.
Messy Low Bun
The messy low bun is the epitome of chic nonchalance. It’s perfect for those days when you want to look put-together without trying too hard. This hairstyle hugs the nape of your neck, creating a relaxed, elegant silhouette.
Ideal for any occasion, from brunch with friends to a day at the office, it offers a polished look with minimal effort. Add a few loose strands to frame your face, and you have a style that’s both sophisticated and carefree.
Glamorous Hollywood Curls
Step back in time with glamorous Hollywood curls. These voluminous, flowing curls offer a nod to the golden age of cinema. Perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to feel like a star.
These curls exude confidence and grace, turning heads wherever you go. To achieve this look, use a large-barrel curling iron and set your hair with a light hairspray. It’s a timeless style that adds a touch of drama and elegance to any outfit.
Cute Space Buns
Space buns are the perfect blend of fun and functionality. With two buns perched high on your head, they exude youthful energy and playfulness. Ideal for a day out in the sun or a casual hangout.
These buns keep your hair out of your face while adding a quirky twist to your look. Whether you’re at a music festival or just running errands, space buns are a delightful choice that promises to keep you smiling.
Elegant Side Swept Bangs
Side-swept bangs are a subtle way to change up your look. They offer a touch of elegance and sophistication, framing your face beautifully. Whether paired with long hair or a short bob, they add a refined touch.
Ideal for both formal and casual settings, these bangs can be styled in various ways to suit your mood. With a bit of styling cream, they stay in place all day, ensuring you look effortlessly chic.
Playful Pigtails
Pigtails aren’t just for kids anymore. This playful hairstyle brings a touch of nostalgia and whimsy to your look. Perfect for a carefree day or when you’re feeling particularly youthful.
With a bit of flair, pigtails can be styled to look modern and chic. Whether high, low, or braided, they offer endless possibilities. Embrace your playful side and let these pigtails swing freely with every step you take.
Classic French Braid
The French braid remains a timeless favorite. It combines elegance with practicality, making it ideal for any occasion. This intricate weave keeps your hair neatly in place while adding a touch of romance to your look.
Whether you’re heading to a formal event or a casual outing, the French braid never disappoints. With practice, it becomes easy to create, allowing you to enjoy its beauty and charm without hassle.
Charming Ribbon Tied Ponytail
Adding a ribbon to a ponytail transforms a simple hairstyle into something special. This charming addition provides a whimsical touch, reflecting a sense of youthful innocence.
Ideal for casual outings or romantic dates, the ribbon-tied ponytail offers a playful twist to a classic look. Choose a ribbon that complements your outfit, and you’ll have a cohesive and delightful appearance.
Subtle Ombre Waves
Ombre waves offer a soft transition of color that mimics the natural lightening effect of the sun. These waves add depth and dimension to any hairstyle, creating an effortlessly chic look.
Perfect for those looking to add some flair without a dramatic change, ombre waves suit any hair type. They seamlessly blend into your natural hair color, offering a sophisticated touch to your everyday style.
Pixie Cut with Soft Curls
The pixie cut is a bold choice, but when styled with soft curls, it takes on a gentle, feminine flair. Perfect for those who want to keep their hair short yet stylish.
These curls add volume and movement to the pixie cut, creating a playful and chic appearance. Ideal for artistic souls or anyone looking to make a statement, this hairstyle is both daring and delightful.
Braided Crown
The braided crown offers a regal touch to any look. This intricate style wraps around your head like a halo, creating an ethereal and sophisticated appearance.
Ideal for weddings or special occasions, the braided crown keeps hair elegantly in place. With a bit of practice, you can achieve this timeless look and feel like royalty for the day.
Delicate Hair Accessories
Delicate hair accessories can elevate any hairstyle, adding a touch of sparkle and sophistication. Whether it’s pearl pins or crystal-encrusted clips, these accessories offer a subtle elegance.
Perfect for formal events or when you want to add a bit of dazzle to your everyday look, they are versatile and easy to use. With the right accessory, you can transform a simple hairstyle into something extraordinary.
Natural Textured Bob
A textured bob is perfect for those who want to embrace their natural hair. This style adds volume and movement, creating a fresh and modern look.
Ideal for busy mornings or casual outings, the natural textured bob is low maintenance yet incredibly stylish. Embrace your natural texture and let your hair speak for itself.
Romantic Loose Fishtail Braid
The loose fishtail braid is both romantic and elegant. Its intricate design adds a soft touch to any outfit, making it perfect for special occasions or a romantic day out.
Despite its complex appearance, the fishtail braid is easy to create with a bit of practice. It offers a unique alternative to traditional braids, ensuring you’ll stand out with this lovely hairstyle.
Pastel Colored Tips
Pastel-colored tips bring a touch of whimsy to any hairstyle. They offer a fun way to experiment with color without committing to a full dye.
Perfect for those who want to express their creativity, pastel tips can be customized to suit your style. Whether you choose pink, blue, or lavender, these tips add a playful and artistic flair to your look.
Elegant Chignon
The chignon is the epitome of elegance. This timeless hairstyle gathers hair at the nape of the neck, creating a sophisticated silhouette.
Ideal for formal events or when you want to make a lasting impression, the chignon offers a polished and chic appearance. With a bit of practice, this style can be easily mastered, making it a go-to for any elegant affair.
Effortless Half-Updo
The half-updo strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and refined. It keeps hair away from your face while allowing the rest to flow freely.
Ideal for casual outings or when you want to keep things simple yet stylish, the half-updo is easy to achieve. With a few bobby pins and a touch of hairspray, you can create this effortless look in minutes.