Waves Aren’t Just a Style. They’re Cultural Currency.
From Chicago barbershops in the 1920s to today’s wave culture, the journey of men’s grooming has always been one of discipline, heritage, and identity. At Comme DeLaVie, we honor this legacy—and take it further—by rooting our wave approach in scalp health, ancestral ingredients, and minimalist performance.
The Classics Built the Wave
Murray’s Pomade emerged in 1925 from C.D. Murray’s Chicago barber shop, with a heavy, petroleum-based formula designed for maximum shine and hold. Its orange tin became iconic in wave culture—and for good reason: it molded patterns, defined styles, and became a cultural staple.:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
The Rise of 360 Wave Brands
By the mid‑20th century and into the 90s, brands like Sportsheen Carson’s Sportin’ Waves (in both gold and black cans) became essential for those seeking consistent wave definitions. The gold can offered maximum hold; the black can offered a lighter gel finish.:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2} Over time, products like Wave 360 and Ocean View launched with shea-enriched formulas to provide smoother texture and hydration.:contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
The Gold & Black Can Debate
Wave culture veterans still discuss the differences: gold can users praise the max hold, while some prefer the black can’s easier washout. Forums going back decades debated these distinctions—with many users saying both cans are effective, but the gold is significantly thicker and harder to rinse.:contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
SoftSheen‑Carson: The Wave Leader
Sportin’ Waves by SoftSheen‑Carson has been a wave staple for over 110 years. With its 'Wavitrol III' formula, it was one of the earliest accessible products for people of African descent aiming for 360s. While effective for lock-ins and brushing, some users noted scalp irritation or buildup with frequent use.:contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Why CDLV Brings the Upgrade
- No petroleum jails: Traditional pomades are heavy, greasy, and hard to wash out. CDLV prioritizes clean absorbability.
- Ancestral ingredients: Shea, mango, jojoba, and essential oils hydrate the scalp and nourish curls—bringing wellness back to the wave.
- Multi-functional care: Crème de la Crown works as a moisturizer, scalp tonic, and light styler—all in one.
CDLV’s Wave Philosophy: Pattern & Presence
We believe waves are more than just visual—they’re a statement of order. But you can’t prioritize pattern over health. With CDLV, the wave comes second to the crown. Healthy skin. Balanced hydration. Intentional scent. That’s how our waves outperform shine.
What Wave Veterans Say
In communities like r/360Waves, many users reflect on their journey: “I used to rely on Sportin’ Waves or Murray’s—but now I use conditioner, moisturizer, and oils.” One user noted: > “Wash and Style is the cheat code … hair is much more defined, shiny and healthy when just using natural stuff.”:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Product Spotlight: CDLV Crème de la Crown Shea Butter
Lightweight enough for daily brushing, rich enough for nighttime compression. Infused with essential oils that don’t weigh you down. Perfect for wavers who lead with care.
→ Discover the CDLV Crown Ritual