Having long hair is like owning a gorgeous canvas that you can style in countless ways. But let’s be honest – who has hours to spend in front of the mirror every morning? That’s why I’ve rounded up these 13 quick styles for those busy days, plus 5 absolutely adorable looks you’ll fall in love with and want to wear again and again.
1. Noeud haut en désordre
Gather your locks into a high ponytail, twist until it coils, then wrap around the base. Secure with pins and pull out a few face-framing pieces.
Don’t stress about perfection here! The messier, the better for this effortlessly chic style that takes literally 30 seconds.
2. Half-Up Braid Crown
Start with a small section at each temple. Create two thin braids, pull them back, and connect them with a clear elastic at the crown of your head.
This romantic style elevates any outfit in just two minutes flat. The tiny braids create a gorgeous crown effect while keeping hair out of your face.
3. Queue de cheval lisse et basse
Smooth hair with a brush and gather at the nape. Secure with an elastic, then wrap a small section around to hide it. Finish with hairspray for shine.
This timeless style works for everything from office meetings to dinner dates. The wrapped section elevates it from basic to polished in seconds.
4. Side-Swept Fishtail
Pull all hair to one side. Split into two sections, then repeatedly take small pieces from the outside of one section and cross to the inside of the other.
The fishtail looks complicated but actually takes just minutes to master. Gently tug at the braid after securing to create a fuller, more textured look.
5. Twisted Side Bun
Gather hair at the nape and twist until it coils naturally. Wrap into a bun at the side of your neck and secure with pins or a cute clip.
The asymmetrical placement makes this style stand out from basic buns. For extra flair, add a decorative pin or small fresh flower on special occasions.
6. Double Dutch Braids
Part hair down the middle. Create two Tresses hollandaises (where you tuck sections under instead of over) along the scalp. Secure ends with small elastics.
These inverted braids create gorgeous texture and dimension that lasts all day. Perfect for workouts or second-day hair that needs refreshing.
7. Queue de cheval en forme de bulle
Start with a high ponytail. Add elastics every 1-2 inches down the length. Gently tug each section outward to create ‘bubbles’ between bands.
This playful style turns a simple ponytail into something special in under a minute. Use colorful elastics for a fun twist or clear ones for subtlety.
8. Twisted Headband Tuck
Place a headband over your hair. Tuck small sections around the band, working from front to back on both sides. Let ends hang loose underneath.
This vintage-inspired style works amazingly with second-day hair and takes just a minute. The headband does all the heavy lifting while creating gorgeous volume.
9. Queue de cheval tressée
Create a ponytail at your desired height. Split into two sections, twist each section clockwise, then twist them together counterclockwise. Secure the end.
The opposing twists create a rope-like texture that holds better than traditional braids. This style looks particularly stunning on highlighted or dimensional hair.
10. Half-Up Space Buns
Section off the top half of your hair. Divide into two parts, create high ponytails, then twist each around its base to form mini buns. Secure with pins.
This playful style combines sophistication with fun. The bottom half stays flowing and free while the top gets that cute factor everyone loves.
11. Twisted Crown Updo
Take two-inch sections from each temple. Twist back, adding hair as you go (like a French braid but twisted). Join at back, pin, then tuck ends underneath.
The continuous twists create a beautiful crown effect that looks complex but takes just minutes. This style stays secure all day without tons of pins.
12. Braided Topknot
Create a high ponytail. Braid the length, then wrap the braid around the base in a circular motion. Secure with pins and spray for hold.
The braid adds gorgeous texture to a simple topknot. This style works beautifully for formal events but is quick enough for everyday wear.
13. Five-Minute French Twist
Gather hair at the back and twist upward along the center. Tuck ends into the twist and secure with long pins inserted horizontally for maximum hold.
This classic updo looks like it took a professional stylist but actually requires minimal skill. The key is placing pins in a crisscross pattern.
14. Twisted Side Pony
Gather hair to one side at the nape. Divide into two sections, twist each individually, then twist them together. Secure with an elastic.
This elevated take on a queue de cheval latérale creates beautiful texture and keeps hair off your neck. The twisted technique prevents the annoying bumps regular ponytails can create.
15. Everyday Loose Waves
Section dry hair and wrap around a 1-inch curling iron, leaving ends straight. Hold for 5-7 seconds, release, and repeat throughout hair.
These natural-looking waves frame your face beautifully and add movement to long locks. The straight ends keep it modern rather than overly polished.
16. Half-Up Twisted Ponytail
Take the top section of hair and divide into two parts. Twist each section away from your face, then join at the back and secure with an elastic.
This style elevates the basic half-up look with minimal effort. The twisted sections create lovely volume at the crown while keeping your look polished.
17. Scarf Braid Accent
Choose a thin, colorful scarf. Create a three-strand braid incorporating the scarf as one strand. Position it wherever you like – side, crown, or underneath.
This instant style upgrade takes a basic braid to statement status. The scarf adds both color and texture while helping the braid stay secure all day.
18. Sleek Middle-Part Low Bun
Part hair down the middle and smooth with a brush. Gather at the nape, twist, and wrap into a tight bun. Secure with pins and apply serum for shine.
This minimalist style exudes sophistication and pairs perfectly with statement earrings. The center part creates beautiful symmetry that flatters most face shapes.