Finding time for elaborate hairstyles is tricky in today’s fast-paced world. However, looking put together doesn’t have to mean spending hours in front of the mirror. Whether you’re rushing to work, heading to class or running errands, these effortless chic hairstyles will help you look polished in no time. From classic messy bun hairstyles to more structured hairstyles for school, we’ve got you covered with practical and fashionable styles. And with the right professional hair styling products and techniques, you can create salon-worthy looks in minutes.
Table of Contents
1. The Classic Messy Bun
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The messy bun is a favorite for a reason. It’s quick, easy and suitable for various occasions. To achieve the perfect messy bun:
- Gather your hair into a high ponytail.
- Twist your pony and wrap it around the base.
- Secure with bobby pins, allowing some strands to fall loose for that effortless look.
- Gently tug at the bun to create messiness and volume.
For added hold, use a texturizing spray before styling. This look works great for casual outings and more formal events when paired with the right outfit.
2. Sleek Low Ponytail
A sleek low ponytail is the epitome of effortless chic. It’s a versatile hairstyle for school that’s equally appropriate for professional settings. Here’s how to achieve this look:
- Brush your hair to remove tangles.
- Apply a bit of smoothing serum to tame flyaways.
- Secure your hair in a low pony at the nape of your neck.
- Wrap a bit of hair from the ponytail around the elastic to conceal it.
- Secure with a bobby pin.
- For extra shine and hold, finish with a light mist of hairspray.
3. Twisted Side Braid
This romantic yet casual style is perfect for keeping your hair out of your face. To create a twisted side braid:
- Part your hair deeply to one side.
- Take a section of hair from the front and twist it back, adding hair as you go (similar to a French braid).
- Once you reach your ear, continue with a regular three-strand braid.
- Secure the end with a small elastic.
- Loosen the braid for a more relaxed look.
A texturizing spray adds grip and hold to your braid, making it last longer.
4. Half-Up Top Knot
The half-up top knot is a practical style that works for various hair lengths. Here’s how to do it:
- Section off the top half of your hair and gather it into a high pony.
- Twist and wrap the ponytail around its base to create a bun.
- Secure with bobby pins.
- Pull at the bun to create a messier, more voluminous look.
This style is great for second-day hair and can be dressed up or down.
5. Textured Low Bun
A textured low bun is a sophisticated yet easy-to-achieve style. Perfect for both office days and evening events, here’s how to create it:
- Apply a texturizing spray to dry hair for added grip.
- Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist upward.
- Pin the twist in place, creating a loose bun shape.
- Pull out a few face-framing pieces for a softer look.
- Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep everything in place.
This style works particularly well for those with naturally wavy or curly hair, as it embraces and enhances natural texture.
6. Twisted Headband Updo
This style looks intricate but is surprisingly simple to create. It’s perfect for those growing out bangs or wanting to keep hair off their face. Here’s how:
- Place a stretchy headband around your head like a crown.
- Starting from one side, twist small sections of hair over the headband.
- Continue around your head until all hair is tucked in.
- Adjust and pin any loose pieces as needed.
- Finish with a light mist of hairspray for hold.
7. Faux Hawk Ponytail
For a more edgy yet still professional look, try this faux hawk ponytail:
- Section your hair into three parts from front to back.
- Secure the back section in a low ponytail.
- Take the middle section, tease it slightly and pin it back, connecting it to the ponytail.
- Repeat with the front section, creating a mohawk-like shape.
- Finish by wrapping a small piece of hair around the ponytail elastic.
This style adds height and drama while still being office-appropriate.
8. Braided Crown
A braided crown looks intricate but can be achieved quickly with some practice:
- Part your hair down the middle.
- Dutch braid each side, starting from the front and working your way back.
- Secure each braid with a small elastic at the nape of your neck.
- Cross the braids over each other and pin them in place.
- Tuck any loose ends under the braids and secure with bobby pins.
Use a texturizing powder at your roots before braiding to add grip and volume.
9. Sleek Side Part with Twist
This elegant style works well for both straight and curly hair:
- Create a deep side part.
- Take a small section of hair from the fuller side near your face.
- Twist this section back, securing it behind your ear with a bobby pin.
- Repeat on the other side if desired.
- Finish with a shine serum.
This style is particularly great for showcasing statement earrings or necklines!
10. Bubble Ponytail
The bubble ponytail is a fun twist on the classic ponytail that looks more complex than it is:
- Secure your hair in a high ponytail.
- About an inch down from the first elastic, secure another hair tie.
- Tug at the hair between the two elastics to create a “bubble” effect.
- Repeat this process down the length of your ponytail.
- Finish by pulling out some face-framing strands.
Conclusion
These effortlessly chic hairstyles prove that you don’t need hours of styling time to look put together. With a bit of practice and the right professional hair styling products, you’ll be able to create these looks in no time.