Having long hair means endless styling possibilities, but who has hours to spend in front of the mirror? Good news: many gorgeous looks require minimal time and effort. I’ve rounded up 12 quick styles you can master in minutes, plus 5 stunning but slightly more challenging options for when you’re feeling ambitious.
1. Messy Top Knot
Gather your hair at the crown, twist it around itself, and secure with a hair tie. Don’t worry about perfection—the messier, the better! Pull out a few face-framing pieces for that effortless vibe.
Works beautifully for second-day hair when you need a quick fix.
2. Half-Up Bun
Take the top section of your hair (about eye level and up) and create a small bun. Secure with bobby pins or a thin elastic. The bottom half stays flowing and free.
Perfect for keeping hair out of your face while still showing off your length.
3. Low Side Braid
Sweep all your hair to one side and create a loose three-strand braid. Secure with a clear elastic and gently tug at the edges to create fullness.
For extra style points, wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to hide it.
4. Sleek Ponytail
Brush your hair thoroughly and gather at your desired height. Apply a small amount of hair gel or serum to tame flyaways. Secure tightly with an elastic.
A sleek pony instantly elevates any outfit from casual to polished in seconds.
5. Twisted Headband Tuck
Place a stretchy headband around your head like a crown. Tuck sections of hair up and into the band all the way around. The ends create a beautiful rolled effect.
Looks complicated but takes just minutes once you get the hang of it!
6. Bubble Ponytail
Create a regular ponytail, then add hair ties every few inches down the length. Gently pull apart each section between ties to create “bubbles” of hair.
Switch up your everyday pony with this fun variation that looks way more complicated than it is.
7. Two-Minute Twisted Updo
Split hair into two sections. Twist each section away from your face, then cross them at the back of your head. Pin in place, tucking ends underneath.
Looks like you spent ages styling but takes just a couple of minutes!
8. Low Messy Bun
Gather hair at the nape of your neck and twist into a bun. Secure with pins, letting pieces fall naturally. No need for perfection—embrace the casual vibe!
The lower placement makes this style more relaxed than its top-knot cousin.
9. Twisted Crown Braid
Take a section from behind each ear. Twist each section separately, then bring them together at the back of your head. Pin in place for an instant crown effect.
Looks like a complex braid but requires zero braiding skills!
10. Side-Swept Waves
Part hair deeply to one side. Apply texturizing spray and scrunch gently. Sweep the heavier side behind your ear and secure with a decorative clip if needed.
Takes seconds but looks like you visited a salon.
11. Flipped Ponytail
Create a regular ponytail. Make a small hole in your hair just above the elastic. Flip the ponytail up and through this hole for an interesting twist.
Such a simple trick that completely transforms a basic ponytail into something special!
12. Scarf Braid
Add a colorful scarf to a simple three-strand braid by placing it alongside one section. Braid as normal, incorporating the scarf throughout the length.
Instantly elevates a basic braid and adds a pop of color to your look!
13. Mermaid Braid
This stunning variation looks complex but requires patience rather than skill. Create a loose braid, then gently pull out the edges of each section to create a wider, flatter appearance.
The result resembles a mermaid’s flowing locks cascading down your back.
14. Fishtail Braid
Divide hair into two sections. Take a small piece from the outside of one section and cross it over to join the opposite section. Continue alternating sides all the way down.
The intricate pattern looks complex but becomes surprisingly easy with practice.
15. Dutch Flower Braid
Start with a Dutch braid (like a French braid but crossing strands under instead of over). Once complete, gently tug at the edges and twist into a bun.
The result resembles a beautiful flower blooming on your head!
16. Waterfall Braid
Create a French braid along your hairline, but drop one strand each time instead of incorporating it. The result is strands “falling” like a waterfall while the braid continues.
Looks magical but requires coordination and practice to master.
17. Five-Strand Braid
Just when you mastered three strands, along comes this beauty! Divide hair into five equal sections and follow a specific over-under pattern. Looks incredibly impressive when complete.
Worth the learning curve for special occasions!