As a beauty editor (and someone who has always had long hair), I often find myself lacking hair inspiration. It seems silly given that I speak to top hairstylists and have tried countless hairstyling tools over the years. But the truth is I'm guilty of wearing my hair down most days and occasionally tonging my hair with loose curls if I'm heading somewhere special. But realistically, I'll probably spend five to 10 minutes max on my hair in the mornings, and I like no-fuss hairstyles that get me out of the door on time.
I was feeling in a bit of a hair rut, so I wanted to seek some easy hairstyles for long hair that I can turn to on the days when I want to look more pulled together without spending 40 minutes curling my hair. So I took to Instagram to scroll through the fashion set for some hairstyle inspiration.
I learned that long hair is so versatile when it comes to quick and easy hairstyles. Whether it's updating your hairstyle with a couple of well-placed hair accessories or simply adding a plait to your everyday ponytail, there are so many great go-to hairstyles to experiment with. I've saved my favourite looks below if you're in need of some seriously easy hairstyles for long hair. Here are 30 of the best looks that I've found that anyone can do.
1. Undone Waves
Undone waves both require little effort and look effortless, making them a win-win. Tong a couple of pieces around your face, and flip your parting over to one side for extra volume.
2. Curly Updo
Pile curls on top of your head, leaving a couple of face-framing curls free, for an instant hairstyle update.
3. Scrunchie Bun
Low-maintenance hairstyles don't get much better than a low bun secured with a silky scrunchie.
4. Sleek Hairgrips
Make pinning your hair back more of a statement with some coloured kirby grips. Go bright or choose silver or gold to match your jewellery preference for a coordinated look.
5. Half Up, Half Down
Can't decide whether to wear your hair up or down? Meet halfway and tie with ribbon for a low-key look. This looks particularly great with a curtain fringe.
6. Second-Day Waves
Curled your hair the day before? Embrace the looser, brushed-out waves the following day. Curl your hair all in the same direction (and mirroring on the other side) to get a rippling effect through the lengths of your hair.
7. Half-Up Braids
Tie braids high up on the crown, and let the lengths cascade down on either side. This looks really pretty secured with hair clips.
8. Sleek Bun
Pushed back hair-wash day again? A sleek, middle-parted bun will work in favour of greasy roots and will hold in place more easily than freshly washed hair.
9. Low Ponytail Plait
A low ponytail tied into a plait looks chic paired with gold hoops and an oversized blazer.
10. Straight and Sleek
A great option if you have naturally straight hair or have your hair relaxed. Add a glossy hair oil or serum for a liquid hair finish.
11. Middle-Parted Half Up
This middle-parted, half-up, half-down style gives you the look of having your hair down while keeping it out of your face.
12. Headbands
A headband will instantly elevate any style and make you look like you've spent 10 times more effort.
13. Low Ponytail With Scrunchie
Great for off-duty days, a low pony secured with a scrunchie is practical yet cool.
14. Half-up Plait
This half up, half down look is instantly elevated with a plait through the upper lengths.
15. Bubble Ponytail
A bubble ponytail gives an unexpected twist to your look. Simply tie into a ponytail and divide it into sections with clear elastics. Gently pull each bubble section outwards to create volume.
16. High Ponytail Plait
So easy to do yet so chic. This is a great look for any occasion, but it's particularly great as a workout hairstyle. It keeps hair out of the way and won't stick to your neck.
17. Claw Clip Ponytail
If you have particularly long and thick hair, you might find most claw clips won't hold your hair in a bun securely. An alternative is to simply secure it at the base of your ponytail instead.
18. Claw-Clip Bun
If you have medium to fine hair, then a claw clip is an easy winner for everyday hair.
19. The Ear Tuck
Follow in Rosie Huntington-Whiteley's suit and do the ear tuck. It's great for when you want a minimalistic look or for showcasing statement earrings.
20. Tendrils
Pulling out a couple of face-framing tendrils on either side of your face looks so chic while giving a nod to the '90s.
21. Curly Claw-Clip Bun
Curly hair looks cool pulled back into a larger claw clip.
22. Braided Low Ponytail
Braids, plush ribbon and a low ponytail are a chic combo in this look.
23. Low Ponytail Plait
For a casual look, try tying your plait at the nape of the neck and securing to one side.
24. Classic Ponytail
Whether in braids, with extensions or worn naturally, hair always looks polished in a ponytail.
25. Top Knot
A top-knot hairstyle is ideal for beating the heat or for keeping your lengths out of the way.
26. Brushed-Back Bun
While many claw-clip buns feature a middle part, I'm here for this brushed-back, claw-clip bun.
27. Cool-Girl Texture
A soft bend in the hair is enough to tap into the French-girl hair mood. Try sleeping with your hair in loose plaits, or twist your hair straightener through your hair to create a soft S-bend through the lengths.
28. Glossy Bun
For nights out, a super-glossy bun is a must.
29. Side-parted Bun
Updating your look can be as easy as switching your parting over from the middle to one side, especially in this sleek bun look.
30. Wavy Ponytail
No need style your whole hair with this look. Simply tie your hair into a ponytail and use a deep-wave hairstyler or curling wand to add movement and texture.
Shop Long Hair Styling Essentials:
Smooth a few drops of this through the mid-lengths and ends of long hair to boost shine while adding a subtle floral scent.
Prevent damage to long hair by brushing post-shower with a specialist wet brush. This one has been designed for longer, thicker hair to minimise snagging and split ends.
This biotin-enriched shampoo nourishes and fortifies long hair for stronger strands.
Reduce drying time with this protective blow-dry spray that dramatically reduces the amount of minutes you'll need to spend under the hairdryer.
Tame flyaways and lend long hair a sleek, glossy finish with this finishing cream.
Up Next: The 23 Best Volumising Hair Products for Thin Hair
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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