10 Easy Long Hairstyles You Can Achieve Under a Minute

Having long hair is a dream, but styling it every day can feel like a time-consuming chore. The good news? You don’t need an hour or a glam squad to make your hair look amazing. Whether you’re rushing to work, heading to brunch, or just want to look effortlessly put together, here are some easy long hairstyles you can do in 10 minutes or less. No stress, no heat tools required.

Half-Up Braids

This style is a beautiful blend of casual and polished. Simply take the top half of your hair, usually from around your temples, and braid it back, leaving the rest of your hair loose. You can choose a classic three-strand braid, a fishtail, or even a twist braid, depending on your mood. The best part is that it keeps your hair out of your face while still showing off your length. Great for school, work, or casual days when you want a touch of boho beauty.

Steps to achieve it

1. Brush your hair to remove any tangles.
2. Section off the top half of your hair from temple to temple.
3. Choose your braid style: three-strand, fishtail, or twist.
4. Braid the section back toward the crown of your head.
5. Secure with a small elastic or clip.
6. Loosen a few pieces around your face to create a softer look.

Half-Up Knot

If you only have a couple of minutes, the half-up knot is a lifesaver. Just grab two sections of hair from each side of your head, tie them into a loose knot at the back, and secure with a bobby pin or small elastic. It’s incredibly quick, requires zero skills, and gives you a trendy, minimalist vibe. Pair it with waves or natural texture for an effortlessly cool finish.

Steps to achieve it

1. Take a section of hair from each side of your head.
2. Pull both sections to the back and tie them into a knot.
3. Tie the knot again if desired for a more secure hold.
4. Use a bobby pin or clear elastic to secure the knot in place.
5. Tug gently for volume or leave it sleek.

Messy Bun or Top Knot

The messy bun is a classic for a reason. It’s the quickest way to tame your long hair and still look cute. Gather all your hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it with a scrunchie or elastic. Let a few strands fall loose to soften the look. You can place it high on your head for a top knot or lower for a more relaxed feel. It’s perfect for errands, lazy days, or quick Zoom calls.

Steps to achieve it

1. Gather all your hair into a high ponytail.
2. Twist the ponytail loosely.
3. Wrap the twist around the base to form a bun.
4. Secure with a hair tie, scrunchie, or pins.
5. Pull out a few face-framing strands for a relaxed look.
6. Optional: Add texture spray for grip.

Low Twisted Bun

Looking for something a little more elegant? The low twisted bun is a simple style that looks far more polished than it actually is. Part your hair down the middle, twist sections from both sides toward the nape of your neck, and wrap them into a bun. Pin it in place and you’re done. It’s sleek, timeless, and perfect for work meetings, date nights, or formal events.

Steps to achieve it

1. Part your hair down the center.
2. Twist each side toward the back of your head.
3. Combine the two twists at the nape of your neck.
4. Twist the gathered hair into a low bun.
5. Secure with bobby pins or a small elastic.
6. Apply a small amount of styling cream to smooth flyaways.

Twisted Bun

This one adds a touch of a romantic twist. Take two front sections of hair, twist them back toward the center of your head, and gather them into a bun with the rest of your hair. This creates a soft, feminine look that gives the impression you put in much more effort than you actually did. Ideal for both casual days and special occasions.

Steps to achieve it

1. Take one section of hair from each side of your face.
2. Twist both sections back toward the center of your head.
3. Combine them at the back and gather the rest of your hair.
4. Twist all of it together into a bun.
5. Secure with bobby pins or a hair tie.
6. Adjust the bun to add volume and bring out shape.

Fishtail Braid

The fishtail braid looks intricate, but once you get the hang of it, it’s super simple. Divide your hair into two sections and alternate crossing small pieces from the outer edge of one section over to the other. Keep going until you reach the end and tie it off. It’s a gorgeous, boho-inspired look that turns heads and works especially well with long hair.

Steps to achieve it

1. Divide your hair into two equal sections.
2. Take a small strand from the outer edge of the right section.
3. Cross it over and add it to the left section.
4. Repeat by taking a small strand from the outer left side and crossing it over to the right.
5. Continue alternating sides until you reach the end.
6. Tie with a hair elastic.
7. Gently tug at sections to loosen the braid and add texture.

Loose Side Braid

For an easy, romantic style, sweep your hair to one side and braid it loosely down over your shoulder. This look is perfect for relaxed weekends, outdoor events, or when you want something sweet and effortless. Pancake the braid by gently tugging on the strands to add volume, thus giving it that soft, undone look.

Steps to achieve it

1. Sweep all your hair to one side.
2. Divide it into three sections.
3. Loosely braid the hair down your shoulder.
4. Secure the end with a soft elastic.
5. Tug gently at the braid to pancake it and add volume.
6. Optional: Pull out a few strands for a more undone finish.

Dutch or French Braids

Dutch and French braids are both effective for keeping long hair in place while presenting a stylish look. The French braid lies flat and starts at the scalp by braiding overhand. The Dutch braid is its inside-out counterpart, sitting on top. Once you master the technique, these braids can be completed in minutes. They’re secure, timeless, and ideal for long days when you don’t want to deal with flyaways.

Steps to achieve a French Braid

1. Take a small section of hair at the crown of your head.
2. Split it into three strands.
3. Cross the right strand over the middle, then the left over the new middle.
4. Add a bit of hair to each side as you go down.
5. Continue until all hair is incorporated, then complete the braid.
6. Secure with an elastic.

Steps to achieve a Dutch Braid

1. Follow the same steps as above, but cross the strands under the middle instead of over.
2. This will create a braid that pops outward.

Side-Swept Hair

This style is as simple as brushing your hair to one side and pinning it behind your ear or at the nape with bobby pins or a cute clip. It’s incredibly quick and gives off a romantic, feminine vibe. Great for both everyday wear and evening looks. Add a bit of wave or texture for an extra elegant touch.

Steps to achieve it

1. Brush your hair thoroughly.
2. Sweep all your hair to one side.
3. Secure with bobby pins behind the ear or at the nape of your neck.
4. Add a decorative clip or barrette for extra flair.
5. Optional: Use a curling wand or texturizing spray for added wave.

Curly Low Ponytail

Want something sleek with a little flair? Curl your hair loosely or leave your natural waves, then gather it into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to conceal it, then secure it with a pin beneath the ponytail. You’ll end up with a polished yet effortless style that’s perfect for both casual and professional settings.

Steps to achieve it

1. Lightly curl your hair or enhance your natural wave.
2. Brush hair gently to blend curls.
3. Gather all your hair at the nape of your neck into a ponytail.
4. Take a small piece of hair from the ponytail.
5. Wrap it around the hair tie to conceal it.
6. Pin the wrapped section underneath with a bobby pin.
7. Optional: Add light hairspray for hold and shine.

If you’re someone who loves long hair but hates complicated styling routines, these quick hairstyles are your go-to solutions. You don’t need salon skills, just a few minutes, a couple of hair ties, and maybe a bobby pin or two.