Top 12+ Hair Styles: American Designs You Should Try Today

Based on my overall experience, these hair designs not only look fabulous but are also easy to recreate with the right tools and a little practice. Let me show you how you can rock each of these looks and elevate your hair game.

1. The Beachy Waves Look

Nothing screams effortless chic like beachy waves. This hairstyle has become a go-to for many girls who want that laid-back, sun-kissed vibe. The beauty of beachy waves is that they work with almost any hair length, and the texture gives your hair volume and movement, which is perfect for every occasion.

To get this look, you don’t need to live near the beach. Instead, you can use a curling iron or a sea salt spray for the perfect beach wave effect. The key is to focus on creating loose, textured waves rather than tight curls. This gives the hair a natural, tousled appearance.

How to achieve beachy waves:

• Start with damp hair and apply a heat protectant to ensure your strands stay safe.
• Divide your hair into sections. The size of each section depends on how tight or loose you want your waves.
• If you’re using a curling iron, wrap the section around the barrel, leaving the ends out for a relaxed finish. If you’re using a sea salt spray, spray it evenly throughout your hair and scrunch it as you go.
• Once done, tousle your hair with your fingers to break up any curls and add more texture.
• Finish off with a light hairspray to hold the waves without making them crunchy.

This style is especially great for days when you want to look like you’ve just stepped off a beach without spending too much time on your hair. Plus, it looks amazing with a bit of volume, so make sure to tease the roots for extra body.

One of the great things about this hairstyle is that you can customize it based on the occasion. For a more relaxed look, keep the waves soft and effortless. If you’re heading to a party or a night out, you can make the waves a bit tighter for a more polished version.

Pro Tip:

If you have straight hair, consider using a curling wand with a tapered barrel for even more beachy texture.

2. The Sleek Straight Look

If you’re aiming for a more sophisticated and polished look, the sleek straight hairstyle is a timeless design that will never go out of style. This American hairstyle is perfect for any event, from business meetings to date nights. Straight hair can be incredibly chic and minimalistic, drawing attention to your face while allowing your hair to shine.

Getting sleek straight hair involves not just a good flat iron but also a few essential hair products. You’ll need a heat protectant, a smoothing serum or cream, and a good-quality straightener. The trick is to ensure your hair is super smooth and shiny.

How to achieve the sleek straight look:

• Start by washing your hair and applying a heat protectant to prevent damage from the flat iron.
• Blow-dry your hair straight using a round brush. This will help smooth out any frizz and give you a sleek base.
• Once your hair is dry, run a flat iron through small sections of hair. Be sure to move the iron slowly to get the smoothest results.
• After straightening, apply a serum to add shine and eliminate any flyaways.
• Finish with a spritz of hairspray for extra hold, but be careful not to weigh down the hair.

The sleek straight look is simple but always makes a statement. Whether you’re rocking it for a professional setting or a night out, it always looks polished and put together. If you have textured or curly hair, this look might take a little longer to achieve, but the results are worth the effort.

Pro Tip:

For an even sleeker look, you can use a smoothing spray or a shine-enhancing product to really give your hair that glossy, straight finish.

3. The Voluminous Curls

For those days when you want to embrace your natural texture or add some drama to your hair, voluminous curls are a fantastic option. This American hairstyle is perfect for girls who want to bring out the body in their hair while keeping things stylish. Whether you have naturally curly hair or need to curl it with an iron, voluminous curls give you that perfect blend of fun and sophistication.

The key to voluminous curls is to make them big and bouncy. This style works best with medium to long hair because it allows the curls to flow and bounce freely. With the right products, you can achieve bouncy curls that will last throughout the day.

How to achieve voluminous curls:

• Start by applying a mousse or volumizing spray to damp hair. This will give your curls extra body and hold.
• Use a curling iron with a larger barrel (about 1 to 1.5 inches) to create soft, bouncy curls.
• Wrap sections of hair around the curling iron, leaving the ends out for a natural finish.
• After curling, gently tousle your curls with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to break them up and add volume.
• Apply a lightweight hairspray to hold the curls without making them stiff.

The beauty of voluminous curls is that they can work for any event. Whether you want a chic look for a formal event or a fun and flirty vibe for a night out, this style is versatile and always attractive.

Pro Tip:

If you want more volume, try flipping your hair upside down and using a dry shampoo at the roots to add lift and texture.

4. The Classic High Ponytail

The high ponytail is an American classic and a favorite among many girls for its ability to give off a sporty yet chic vibe. It’s perfect for casual days when you want to keep your hair out of your face but still look stylish. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Whether you’re headed to the gym or a brunch date, the high ponytail can elevate your look in seconds.

What makes this hairstyle stand out is the way it elongates your neck and adds instant height to your overall appearance. It’s sleek, sophisticated, and effortlessly cool.

How to achieve the classic high ponytail:

• Start with clean, dry hair. If you want extra volume, you can curl your hair before pulling it into the ponytail.
• Brush your hair to remove any tangles and ensure it’s smooth.
• Use a hair tie to secure your ponytail at the crown of your head. The higher you place it, the more dramatic the effect.
• If you want to add extra volume or a polished finish, gently tease the hair at the crown before securing it in place.
• For a sleek look, apply some smoothing serum or gel to the ponytail to keep flyaways at bay.
• If you want to make your ponytail look more elegant, wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to hide the hair tie. This adds a polished touch to the look.

The classic high ponytail is ideal for girls who want a hairstyle that is both simple and sophisticated. It works well with all hair types, from straight to curly, and can be adapted for any occasion. For an extra bit of fun, you can add a cute bow or a sparkly hair tie to make the look even more playful.

Pro Tip:

If you want a fuller ponytail, use a volumizing powder at the roots or add clip-in extensions for extra length and thickness.

5. The Messy Bun

For the days when you want to look effortlessly stylish with minimal effort, the messy bun is a go-to choice. This American hairstyle is perfect for those laid-back days when you don’t want to spend too much time on your hair but still want to look put together. It’s all about embracing a carefree vibe while keeping things chic.

The messy bun works for virtually any occasion, whether you’re running errands, having a casual hangout with friends, or even attending a low-key event. This hairstyle is easy to do, low-maintenance, and gives off a fun, relaxed vibe.

How to achieve the messy bun:

• Start with slightly tousled or textured hair for the best results. If your hair is too smooth, you can add a little dry shampoo or sea salt spray to create texture.
• Pull your hair into a loose ponytail and secure it with a hair tie.
• Twist the ponytail around itself, wrapping it loosely to form a bun. The messier, the better.
• Secure the bun with bobby pins or hairpins, leaving some pieces of hair out to frame your face.
• Gently tug on the bun to loosen it and create a more relaxed, voluminous look.
• For extra texture, you can pull out a few wispy strands at the front or around the sides of your head.

The messy bun is all about embracing imperfection. It’s great for days when you’re feeling lazy but still want to look like you’ve put in some effort. Whether you’re going for a cute and casual look or something more edgy, the messy bun can be adapted to fit your personal style.

Pro Tip:

If you want your bun to last longer, try using a texturizing spray before styling, and secure it with a strong-hold hairspray.

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6. The Half-Up, Half-Down Style

The half-up, half-down style is an American favorite that gives you the best of both worlds. It’s perfect for girls who can’t decide whether to wear their hair up or down. This hairstyle allows you to leave your hair down for a relaxed look while also pulling back the top section to keep things neat and stylish.

The beauty of the half-up, half-down style is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can wear it with sleek hair, soft curls, or even messy waves. Whether you’re going for a boho-chic vibe or a more polished appearance, this hairstyle can be customized to suit your personal style.

How to achieve the half-up, half-down style:

• Begin by parting your hair down the middle or on the side, depending on your preference.
• Take the top section of your hair (from your temples to the crown of your head) and pull it back into a ponytail or bun. Secure it with a hair tie or a clip.
• If you want to add extra volume, you can tease the hair at the crown before securing it.
• Leave the remaining hair down, whether you choose to curl it or keep it straight.
• For a more polished look, you can smooth out the top section and curl the bottom for a layered effect.
• To add a touch of elegance, wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail or bun to hide the tie.

This hairstyle is perfect for days when you want to keep your hair out of your face but still show off those beautiful waves or curls. It’s a great choice for almost any occasion, from casual outings to more formal events.

Pro Tip:

If you want a more sophisticated take on the half-up, half-down style, try adding a sleek braid to the top section before securing it.

7. The Braided Crown

If you’re looking for a hairstyle that combines elegance and versatility, the braided crown is a beautiful American-inspired style to try. It exudes a regal and sophisticated vibe, and it’s perfect for girls who want to look put together without a lot of effort. The braided crown can be worn for various occasions, from weddings to casual outings, and it’s also great for festivals or brunch dates.

What makes this style so appealing is its unique look, where the braids frame your face and wrap around the top of your head like a crown. It’s a great way to keep your hair out of your face while still showcasing your hair’s natural texture and beauty.

How to achieve the braided crown:

• Start by parting your hair down the middle or on the side.
• Take a section of hair from one side of your head (near the temple), and begin braiding it, making sure to pull in small sections as you go along to create a Dutch or French braid.
• Once you’ve braided all the way to the back of your head, secure the braid with a bobby pin.
• Repeat the process on the other side of your head with another section of hair.
• After both braids are secured, you can pull on the braids slightly to loosen them up and create a fuller, more voluminous look.
• If you like, you can leave a few strands loose to frame your face for a more relaxed vibe.

The braided crown works wonders for any occasion, and it’s especially nice if you have layered hair or enjoy incorporating different textures. It’s a delicate yet bold statement that adds an air of royalty to your look. If you’re looking for something that’s both chic and easy to maintain throughout the day, this is the hairstyle to try.

Pro Tip:

If you have shorter hair, you can use bobby pins to secure the ends of the braids, or even add a faux braid for extra volume.

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8. The Slicked-Back Look

For those who love to experiment with a sleek, clean aesthetic, the slicked-back look is one of the trendiest American hairstyles that can easily become your go-to for a polished and chic appearance. Whether you’re dressing up for a formal event or simply want to add a bit of sophistication to your day-to-day style, the slicked-back hairstyle is a powerful choice.

This hairstyle emphasizes smooth, shiny, and controlled hair. It can be paired with a variety of outfits, from professional attire to more casual wear, making it a versatile and timeless choice.

How to achieve the slicked-back look:

• Start with damp hair. If your hair is dry, spritz a little water to moisten it.
• Apply a generous amount of styling gel or pomade to your hair to achieve that glossy, slicked-back effect.
• Using a comb, smooth the hair back from the forehead towards the back of your head. Be sure to keep everything neat and tidy for a polished look.
• For a stronger hold, use a fine-tooth comb to make sure every section of hair is in place.
• If you prefer a little more volume, gently tease the hair at the crown before combing it back, but keep the sides sleek and smooth.
• Finish off with a light mist of hairspray to keep everything in place for the day.

This hairstyle is perfect for those days when you want something elegant without having to spend too much time styling. It’s chic, professional, and the perfect solution when you’re running late but still want to look effortlessly chic.

Pro Tip:

To give your hair even more shine, you can apply a lightweight serum or oil after styling to enhance the glossy finish.

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9. The Loose Beach Waves

Beach waves have been a staple of American hair trends for years. This laid-back yet stylish look gives you that perfect sun-kissed vibe, as if you’ve just stepped off the beach. Loose beach waves work well with almost every hair texture and can be worn for a variety of occasions, from casual hangouts to more formal events. It’s an ideal hairstyle when you want something that’s relaxed yet sophisticated at the same time.

The beach wave style is perfect for girls who love texture and volume but don’t want to commit to tight curls. It’s all about achieving a tousled, natural wave that looks effortless but still has plenty of bounce and movement.

How to achieve loose beach waves:

• Start with clean, dry hair. If you have naturally straight hair, you can use a texturizing spray or salt spray to give your hair the volume and texture needed for the waves.
• Using a curling iron with a larger barrel, wrap sections of hair around the barrel, leaving the ends out for a more natural look.
• Once you’ve curled all the sections of hair, allow the curls to cool for a few minutes before gently running your fingers through them to loosen the curls into waves.
• If you prefer more volume, you can backcomb the roots slightly to lift the hair. Make sure to keep it soft, so it doesn’t become too frizzy.
• To lock in the waves, finish off with a light hold hairspray.

Loose beach waves are perfect for a carefree yet stylish look. The beauty of this style is that it works with both straight and curly hair, and it’s easy to adapt for any type of event, whether you’re going to a summer picnic or attending a more formal evening gathering. The key to this look is to keep the texture loose and natural, so don’t be afraid if it’s not perfectly polished, imperfection is what makes it special.

Pro Tip:

For extra volume, flip your head upside down and shake out your hair once it’s curled. This will add more bounce and texture to the waves.

10. The Modern Shag Cut

The shag cut has made a huge comeback in recent years, and it’s one of the coolest American-inspired styles to try. This style is perfect for girls who want a trendy, edgy look that’s easy to maintain. The modern shag combines layers with a tousled, rock-and-roll vibe that makes it perfect for any girl who loves a laid-back but rebellious style.

The beauty of the shag cut is that it gives your hair texture and volume without requiring much styling. It’s a great option if you want a bit of a wild, carefree look but still want to keep your hair manageable. The layers can range from choppy to soft, depending on your preference, and the look can be adapted to various hair lengths, from short pixie cuts to longer bobs.

How to achieve the modern shag cut:

• Begin by cutting your hair into layers of varying lengths. The layers should be shorter around the face and longer at the back to create a voluminous, choppy effect.
• Keep the layers light and airy, so they fall naturally without looking too heavy. A good stylist will know how to create that perfect “shag” vibe.
• If you want to enhance the texture, use a texturizing spray or mousse to lift the layers and create separation.
• Dry your hair by scrunching it with your hands or using a blow dryer with a diffuser to maintain the voluminous texture.

This hairstyle is bold, fun, and effortlessly chic, making it perfect for girls who want to embrace their natural texture while adding a little edge to their look. Plus, it’s low-maintenance, which means you won’t have to spend too much time styling it daily. It’s also great for girls who have wavy or curly hair, as the shag cut embraces those natural waves.

Pro Tip:

For an extra “rock star” finish, apply a dry shampoo to your roots for added volume and texture.

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11. The High Ponytail with a Twist

If you’re all about comfort and practicality without sacrificing style, the high ponytail with a twist is an American hairstyle that’s both classic and chic. This style is ideal for girls who are always on the go but want to look polished while still having a playful flair. It’s one of the easiest yet most effective ways to keep your hair looking put together.

What sets the high ponytail with a twist apart from your regular ponytail is the added detail that can take this style from basic to fabulous. Whether you choose to add braids, a twist, or even a scarf, this style gives a fresh take on a timeless classic.

How to achieve the high ponytail with a twist:

• Start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles and gather it into a high ponytail, securing it with an elastic.
• Once the ponytail is secure, you can add a twist to the front section of your hair. Take a small part of hair from each side of your forehead, twist them, and secure them with bobby pins at the back.
• To make the ponytail even more stylish, you can wrap a small piece of hair around the base of the ponytail to hide the elastic, giving it a cleaner look.
• For an added touch, you can even braid the ponytail or add a ribbon or scarf around it.

This hairstyle works well for girls with any hair type, and it’s versatile enough to take you from the gym to a night out. It’s also great if you’re in a rush because it’s quick, easy, and can look both casual and glam depending on how you style it.

Pro Tip:

If you want extra volume, pull gently on the sides of the ponytail to loosen it a bit and create a more textured look.

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12. The textured Messy Bun

Sometimes, the simplest hairstyles can be the most effective, and the messy bun is the ultimate go-to for many American girls. It’s effortless, chic, and versatile, making it the perfect style for any occasion, whether you’re lounging at home or heading out to a social gathering. The messy bun is all about creating an intentionally undone look that still feels polished in its own unique way.

This hairstyle works especially well for those days when you don’t feel like styling your hair but still want to look put together. Plus, it’s ideal for any hair length and texture, from short bobs to long locks. The messy bun can be dressed up or down, depending on how you pull it off.

How to achieve the messy bun:

• Start by gathering your hair into a loose ponytail at the crown of your head. The higher you position the ponytail, the more voluminous the bun will be.
• Twist the ponytail around the base and secure it with an elastic or a few bobby pins. Don’t worry about making it too neat; the messier, the better!
• To add even more volume, you can pull at the edges of the bun gently to loosen it up and make it appear fuller.
• If you have shorter pieces of hair, you can leave them loose to frame your face for a more relaxed vibe.
• For a final touch, use a little hairspray to keep flyaways in check without making the style too stiff.

The messy bun is a go-to for many because it’s so easy to create yet always looks chic. You can wear it to work, out for a casual hangout, or even as a quick style when you’re running errands. It’s a look that says you’re effortlessly stylish without even trying, and it’s perfect for any girl who’s looking for a low-maintenance hairstyle that still turns heads.

Pro Tip:

If you want to add more texture to your hair, use a sea salt spray or dry shampoo before styling to give it more volume and grip.

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Which One Will Be Your Favorite?

Now that we’ve gone through even more fabulous American hairstyles, which one are you most excited to try? Are you feeling the rock-and-roll edge of the modern shag cut, the chic elegance of the high ponytail with a twist, or the carefree vibe of the messy bun? Each of these styles offers something unique and fun, so don’t be afraid to experiment and see what fits your personality best.

Which one stole your spotlight? Let me know which hairstyle you’re planning to try or if you’ve already rocked any of these looks before. I’d love to hear about your experience, did it turn out as expected, or did you make any fun adjustments? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to include your name and location so we can keep the conversation going!

Final Thoughts

Based on my overall experience, I can tell you that trying out new hairstyles can be one of the best ways to refresh your look and boost your confidence. Whether you go for something edgy like the shag cut, a timeless classic like the high ponytail, or a simple yet chic messy bun, there’s no wrong choice. Your hair is an expression of your unique style, so have fun with it!

Enjoy experimenting with these American-inspired hairstyles, and remember that confidence is the best accessory you can wear. Whatever style you choose, own it, and you’ll look fantastic.