Every working morning, you're faced with the age-old question: what to do with your long, luscious hair? While you may want to spend hours creating intricate styles, reality often calls for a speedy, effortless solution. Easy updos that you can do yourself at home are a must-know for any busy professional. Let's explore some simple yet stylish options that'll take you from bedhead to boardroom-ready in minutes.
Before we dive into our favorite updos, remember that the key to a quick morning routine is a bit of prep the night before..expanding your hair with a styling product before bed ensures your locks are manageable and full of body, making it easier to create these easy updos. Now, let's get started!
Braids for the Win
Braids are a quick, timeless way to tame long hair and keep it out of your face, making them an excellent choice for work. The good news? You don't need to master complex French or fishtail braids to achieve a stylish look.
Mermaid-like waves and loose ends can be just as elegant as tight, neat braids. In fact, the more imperfect, the more effortless and chic your braid will appear.
Classic French Braid
Start by brushing your hair smooth to remove any tangles. Then, take a section of hair from the top of your head, about 3-4 inches wide, and divide it into three smaller sections. Begin braiding as you would a regular braid, adding small strands of hair from each side as you go, working your way down your head and securing with an elastic at the nape of your neck.
For a looser, more undone look, simply tug gently on the loops of the braid after securing it to give it some volume and dimension. Finish with a quick mist of hairspray to keep flyaways at bay.
Fishtail Braid
Although fishtail braids may look complex, they're surprisingly easy to create. Start with a center part, then divide your hair into two equal sections. Take a small piece from the outer edge of the left section and cross it over to the right section, pulling it tight. Do the same on the other side, crossing a small piece from the right section over to the left.
Continue this process, alternating sides and pulling tight to keep the braid neat. Once you reach the nape of your neck, secure with an elastic, and gently tug on the loops to loosen the braid and give it some messy texture. Add a cute hairpin or barrette for an extra touch of styling.
Effortless Bun Options
Buns are another quick, go-to option for long hair, perfect for adding a touch of polished elegance to any work outfit. Rolling out of bed and straight into a meeting? Flawlessly execute these easy buns in seconds with minimal effort.
Remember, the key to a great bun is creating texture and volume. Quickly backcomb your hair using a teasing comb or your fingers before gathering it up to create body and hold.
Messy Top Knot
nothing screams effortless cool quite like a messy top knot. Start by texturizing your hair, then gather the top section in your hands, twisting it into a bun on top of your head. Secure with bobby pins, ensuring no strands are loose at the nape of your neck.
For an extra tousled look, gently pull out a few pieces of hair around your face to create a romantic, slightly undone feel. A quick mist of dry shampoo can also help add some grit and texture to your roots, enhancing the messy bun vibe.
Low Twisted Bun
For a polished look that's still easy to achieve, try a low twisted bun. Start by parting your hair down the middle, then begin twisting each side tightly as you pull it back. Once you reach the nape of your neck, wrap the twists around each other to form a bun and secure with bobby pins.
This style is perfect for hiding any day-old grease or styling imperfections, making it an excellent choice for those mornings when you're running late. Add a sophisticated element by wrapping a thin leather or fabric cord around the base of your bun.
There you have it - our favorite easy updos for long hair that you can perfect in the time it takes for your coffee to brew. By mastering these simple styles, you'll be ready for anything the workday throws at you. So go ahead, hit snooze one more time - your hair's got this!