Long hair is undeniably gorgeous, but let’s be honest—styling it every day can feel like a daunting task. Between busy mornings, work commitments, and social outings, finding easy yet stunning hairstyles can make all the difference. Whether you’re looking for a sleek and polished look, a casual messy bun, or an elegant updo for a special occasion, we’ve got you covered. The best part? You don’t need to be a professional hairstylist to achieve these looks! With just a few simple techniques and the right hair accessories, you can transform your long locks into a head-turning masterpiece. Plus, we’ll recommend a few must-have hairstyling tools and products from Amazon to help you achieve salon-worthy results from the comfort of your home. So, if you’re tired of the same old ponytail or just need a little inspiration, keep reading—these 21 easy hairstyles for long hair will change the way you style your mane forever!
1. Sleek High Ponytail – A Chic, Polished Look
source@smhaircraftt
The sleek high ponytail is a timeless classic that works for any occasion, from casual outings to formal events. This look instantly lifts your face and gives you an elegant, put-together appearance. To achieve this style, brush your hair upward and secure it tightly with a strong elastic band. For an ultra-polished finish, smooth down flyaways using a lightweight hairspray or styling gel. If you want to elevate the look further, wrap a small section of hair around the hair tie to conceal it. A high-quality elastic hair tie is essential to keep your ponytail in place all day without slipping.
2. Messy Bun – Effortless and Stylish
source@stylist_yuri.h
The messy bun is a go-to hairstyle for those days when you want to look effortlessly stylish without spending too much time on your hair. This look is perfect for both casual wear and semi-formal occasions. To create the perfect messy bun, start by gathering your hair into a loose ponytail, twist it around itself, and secure it with bobby pins. Pull out a few strands for a relaxed, undone effect. For added texture and volume, use a texturizing spray—this will prevent your bun from looking too flat or tight.
3. Half-Up, Half-Down Twist – Cute and Feminine
source@houseofbellaroselocs
If you love the idea of wearing your hair down but still want to keep it out of your face, the half-up, half-down twist is a perfect choice. This look strikes the perfect balance between casual and elegant. To achieve this style, take two small sections of hair from either side of your face, twist them back, and pin them at the crown of your head. You can leave the twists as they are or add a stylish clip for a decorative touch. If your hair tends to slip out of place, a set of decorative hair clips will keep everything secure while adding charm to your look.
4. Braided Crown – A Romantic Touch
source@dianna_elizabeth_beauty
A braided crown is one of the most elegant yet easy hairstyles you can create with long hair. It’s an excellent option for weddings, date nights, or special events. Simply part your hair in the middle, create two braids on each side, and pin them around your head to form a crown-like shape. This hairstyle looks particularly stunning when paired with lightweight hairspray to keep everything in place while maintaining a soft, touchable texture.
5. Bubble Ponytail – Playful and Trendy
source@doris.hairstyles
For a unique and trendy twist on the classic ponytail, try the bubble ponytail. This hairstyle adds volume and visual interest without requiring complex braiding or curling techniques. Start by securing your hair into a high or mid-level ponytail. Then, place clear elastic bands every two inches down the length of your ponytail, gently pulling apart each section to create the “bubble” effect. This playful hairstyle works well for both casual and dressy occasions, giving your ponytail a fresh, modern look.
6. Low Chignon – Classy and Sophisticated
source@marissagraceartistry
A low chignon is the epitome of effortless elegance. Whether you’re heading to a wedding, an office meeting, or a formal event, this hairstyle never fails to impress. To achieve this look, start by gathering your hair at the nape of your neck. Twist it loosely into a bun and secure it with bobby pins. The trick to keeping this hairstyle looking sophisticated rather than messy is to ensure the bun sits smoothly without any stray hairs sticking out. If you want to add a romantic touch, pull out a few face-framing strands and curl them lightly. For a more polished effect, apply a smoothing serum to your hair before styling. A strong-hold hairspray is a must-have to keep everything in place throughout the day.
7. Loose Waves – Beachy and Effortless
source@carlie_pmthesalon
Loose waves are a universally flattering style that adds a touch of effortless beauty to any look. Perfect for casual days, date nights, or even special events, this hairstyle gives your long locks movement and volume. The best way to achieve this style is by using a curling wand or flat iron. Simply wrap sections of hair around the barrel, hold for a few seconds, and release. For a more relaxed, beachy feel, run your fingers through the waves instead of using a brush. If you want your waves to last all day, apply a heat protectant spray before curling and finish with a lightweight texturizing spray for added hold.
8. Fishtail Braid – Elegant Yet Simple
source@braidsbycharu
The fishtail braid looks intricate but is surprisingly easy to do. This hairstyle is perfect for casual wear, workdays, or even weddings. To create a fishtail braid, split your hair into two equal sections. Take a small strand from the outer edge of one section and cross it over to the other side. Repeat this process, alternating sides, until you reach the end of your hair, then secure it with an elastic. For a softer, more voluminous braid, gently pull apart each section to loosen it. A small, clear elastic band is ideal for keeping the braid looking seamless and natural.
9. Top Knot – Instant Lift and Elegance
source@hairchulture
A top knot is a fantastic way to get your hair off your face while still looking chic. This style works for both casual and professional settings, and it only takes a few minutes to create. To achieve the perfect top knot, start by pulling your hair into a high ponytail. Twist the ponytail around itself and secure it with bobby pins or a hair tie. For extra volume, backcomb your ponytail before twisting it into a bun. To keep the look sleek, apply a small amount of hair pomade or gel to smooth out flyaways.
10. Low Ponytail with a Twist – Simple but Sophisticated
source@yesherstudio
A low ponytail is a classic style, but adding a simple twist can elevate it to something truly elegant. Start by pulling your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Before securing it with an elastic, separate a small section of hair and twist it around the base of the ponytail to conceal the hair tie. If you want a sleeker look, apply a shine serum for a glossy finish. This hairstyle is perfect for work, dinner dates, or even casual outings when you want a polished yet effortless look.
11. Side-Swept Curls – Glamorous and Romantic
source@lovelybylindsey
Side-swept curls bring a vintage-inspired elegance to your overall look. This style works beautifully for formal events, weddings, or a night out. To create this hairstyle, start by curling your hair with a large-barrel curling iron. Once curled, sweep all of your hair to one side and secure it with bobby pins if necessary. For a long-lasting hold, spritz a flexible-hold hairspray to keep the curls intact without making them feel stiff.
12. French Braid – Classic and Timeless
source@alexgaboury
The French braid is one of the most versatile and timeless hairstyles for long hair. Not only is it elegant, but it also keeps your hair secure and out of your face, making it perfect for work, school, or even workouts. To create a French braid, divide your hair into three sections and begin braiding by incorporating small strands as you move downward. Secure the end with an elastic band. For a looser, more romantic feel, gently pull apart the braid to add volume.
13. Boho Twisted Braid – Relaxed and Trendy
source@naturallycurly
The boho twisted braid is an easy and stylish option for those who love a carefree, bohemian vibe. Instead of a traditional three-strand braid, this hairstyle involves twisting two sections of hair around each other and securing them with an elastic. It looks best when paired with a boho-style hair accessory like decorative clips or hair rings for an extra touch of charm.
14. Claw Clip Updo – Quick and Trendy
source@alexgaboury
Claw clips have made a major comeback, and they’re a lifesaver for long-haired individuals who need a quick yet stylish updo. Simply gather your hair into a loose twist at the back of your head and secure it with a large claw clip. This effortless style is great for errands, casual outings, or even work-from-home days.
15. Waterfall Braid – Soft and Elegant
source@braiding_by_hannah
The waterfall braid is a romantic and intricate-looking style that’s easier to create than it seems. This half-up, half-down hairstyle involves weaving strands in a way that they “cascade” down like a waterfall. It’s perfect for weddings, dates, or any special event. To enhance the look, curl the loose strands for added softness.
16. Twisted Half-Updo – Elegant Yet Simple
source@stellachiohair
The twisted half-updo is the epitome of elegance with minimal effort. It’s perfect for those who want to keep their hair out of their face but still want to show off their length. To achieve this look, start by parting your hair down the middle or slightly off-center, depending on your preference. Take two sections from the front, twist each one towards the back, and then pin them together at the crown of your head with bobby pins. For extra volume, gently pull the twists apart for a softer, more relaxed feel. This style works wonderfully for both casual and formal occasions, and you can even dress it up with decorative pins or a hair accessory to add a personal touch.
17. Headband Braid – Cute and Practical
source@braidersteph
A headband braid is a charming yet functional hairstyle that blends practicality with beauty. It’s perfect for those days when you want to keep your hair out of your face but still have a bit of intricate styling. To create this look, take a small section of hair near your temples and braid it loosely. Once braided, wrap it across your forehead like a headband and secure it behind your ear with bobby pins. This style is ideal for keeping your hair back during a busy day or for a more laid-back evening look. For added flair, you can choose a colorful braid or add some beads for a fun twist.
18. Slicked-Back Bun – Minimalist and Trendy
source@iamdeborah__king
For a modern, clean look, the slicked-back bun is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for those days when you want to look sharp and sophisticated, but still want to keep things low maintenance. Start by applying a generous amount of hair gel or styling cream to smooth your hair back into a tight, low ponytail. Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it with bobby pins or a strong elastic band. The key to achieving this look is to keep everything sleek and tight, with no flyaways. If you want to add a bit of shine, use a shine serum to finish off the look. The slicked-back bun works wonderfully for professional settings or formal events where you need a polished, minimalist style.
19. Twisted Low Bun – Elegant and Graceful
source@candice_stylecreations
For a sophisticated yet easy-to-do updo, the twisted low bun is an ideal choice. To achieve this look, gather your hair at the nape of your neck and divide it into two sections. Twist each section tightly, then wrap them around each other and secure the bun with bobby pins. This style is incredibly versatile—ideal for office days, evening events, or even date nights. For added dimension, pull out a few face-framing strands to soften the look and make it more romantic. This twist on the classic low bun adds a touch of elegance while remaining chic and modern.
20. Double Dutch Braids – Sporty and Fun
source@janaghanem7
Double Dutch braids are not only practical but also fun and stylish. They’re perfect for keeping your hair out of your face during a workout, or if you’re going for a laid-back, sporty look. To achieve this look, divide your hair into two sections, then start braiding from the roots down using the Dutch braid method (braiding under instead of over). Once you reach the ends of the braids, secure them with small elastic bands. This style gives off a youthful and carefree vibe, and the best part is it keeps your hair neat and secure for hours. You can even add a pop of color by weaving a ribbon or colored thread into the braids for a more playful touch.
21. Rope Braid Ponytail – Unique and Trendy
source@polished.n.pretty
The rope braid ponytail is a fun, unique twist on the classic ponytail that adds a bit of texture and depth. This hairstyle is perfect for when you want something that stands out without too much effort. To create this look, pull your hair into a ponytail, then divide it into two sections. Twist each section in the same direction, then twist both sections together in the opposite direction to create the rope braid effect. Secure the end with a hair tie, and you’ve got yourself a chic, textured ponytail! This style is great for casual days or to add a touch of sophistication to a simple ponytail. For extra flair, finish with a small section of hair wrapped around the base of the ponytail to conceal the hair tie.
