Long hair can be a blessing, yet its styling can sometimes be daunting. Luckily, numerous quick and straightforward everyday styles that take little time to achieve. No matter your hair texture, an easy look is always waiting for you. Check out some of our favorite quick, long hairstyles to try now.
Ladder Braids
If you have mastered a waterfall braid or want to spice up your ponytail style, try switching things up with a ladder braid – it’s simple yet fantastic. To achieve the look, begin with a thin fishtail braid on one side of your head and switch when you reach about an inch down into double feather braiding by adding “ladder strands” created along the way. Repeat this process until you reach the bottom of your hair. Your ability to French braid should already be in your repertoire, but if not, this video provides a helpful tutorial. It offers an easy method for holding down and organizing the strands of your braid to avoid sliding off, along with tips and tricks for improved braiding techniques. Consider playing at half speed for maximum impact!
Twisted Halo
If you want something different from the messy braid or boho style but need more structure in your hair, try this easy twisted halo braided updo. Although it looks complex at first glance, with proper tutorial and practice, achieving this look can become quite simple. To achieve this look, begin with a middle part and French braid one side of your head. As you go along, gently tug each strand to thicken them and fill them out as you braid. Cross both braids over each other at your nape and pin them into place; once complete, spritz hairspray to keep it all in place. Mae OBmerga makes the perfect example of this look by sporting her long, curly locks in an exquisite textured halo style. It is ideal for both formal events and casual outings alike. To elevate this style further, add an elegant clip or hair comb with decorative elements around the face for added dimension or pull out some hairs for a natural, undone appearance.
Fishtail Braid
Make an impactful statement at date night or casual dinner with this chic fishtail style that will turn heads! Perfect for date night or casual dinner dates alike. Start this look by parting your hair down the center, using a loose clip to separate into two even sections (Section 1 and Section 2). Add one medium-sized piece from Section 1 into Section 2, continually switching sides as you go until reaching the end of your tail, and secure with clear elastic such as BLAX Clear Snag-Free hair Elastics ($6). Though this look may initially appear intimidating, it becomes much simpler and much more straightforward once you understand its elements. Use products specifically tailored for straighter locks if yours are naturally straighter; otherwise, skip these steps and have fun!
Loose Waves
Soft, wavy styles are unique yet simple to achieve! Tousle your locks using some styling product for definition, and you’re ready! This style works best for optimal results on chin-length or longer hair length; for shorter locks, use something like Unite’s Expanda Dust to boost volume. Justin Marjan, celebrity hairstylist to Kerry Washington, the Kardashians, and Olivia Culpo, shares his foolproof method for creating perfectly imperfect loose waves. To do so, begin by blowing out and sectioning out your hair into three parts using your curling wand or iron – taking care not to overdo it – followed by gently combing each curl out for more beachy waves before finishing it with a light misting of hairspray and shine spray to lock in your style.
