10 Fun Hairstyles for Long Hair

According to a recent survey, over 70% of women with long hair say they want more “quick but cute” options. That’s where this article comes in. We’ve rounded up ten fun, beginner-friendly hairstyles for long hair that don’t require a glam squad. No need to break the bank on products or tools—you’ll likely have everything you need right at home.

Ready to fall back in love with your long locks? Let’s dive into these fun, stylish looks that will turn heads without turning your morning routine upside down.

1. Bubble Ponytail

• Adds volume and dimension with a playful twist.
• Works great for school, gym days, or casual weekends.
• Requires only hair ties and a bit of teasing.

The bubble ponytail is like the cool cousin of your everyday ponytail. It gives off trendy, TikTok-approved vibes while being super easy to execute. Start by brushing your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a tie. Then, every few inches down the ponytail, add another elastic and gently tug at the hair between each section to puff it out—creating that “bubble” look.

This style is ideal for keeping hair out of your face during active days but still looking like you put in effort. It works best with longer lengths since it really shows off the structure, and you can even accessorize it with colored bands or scrunchies.

Want a sleeker version? Use a bit of serum or leave-in conditioner to tame flyaways and give your bubbles a shiny finish. It’s a style that looks complicated but takes less than five minutes—win-win!

2. Side-Swept Dutch Braid

• Great for layering texture into long hair.
• Stays secure throughout the day.
• Ideal for humid weather or second-day hair.

Dutch braids are essentially inside-out French braids, which makes them pop visually. To achieve this style, part your hair on one side and start braiding from your hairline, moving diagonally across your head. Secure the end with a clear elastic and let the rest hang loose or curl it for extra polish.

This braid not only adds a bit of edge to your look but is also super functional. It keeps hair tucked in and controlled without looking too tight or flat. The raised braid stands out beautifully in photos, making it a great choice for events.

If you want it to look more relaxed, gently pull at each loop of the braid to pancake it—giving it a fuller, softer appearance. You can even weave in a ribbon for a touch of color.

3. Messy Low Bun

• The ultimate effortless-chic look.
• Perfect for casual days or Zoom calls.
• No heat or brush required—just texture.

The messy low bun has earned its reputation as a universal go-to. It’s quick, stylish, and doesn’t demand perfection. Gather your hair loosely at the nape of your neck, twist it into a bun, and pin it in place with bobby pins or a scrunchie. Don’t worry about flyaways—those actually make the look more relaxed and appealing.

What makes this style shine is its adaptability. You can pull some strands out to frame your face or slick everything back with styling gel for a more polished vibe. It works beautifully on wavy or curly hair, too.

To add volume, backcomb your roots a little before twisting. Finish with a texturizing spray or sea salt spray for that beachy, lived-in look.

4. Half-Up Space Buns

• Trendy, youthful, and full of personality.
• Keeps hair out of your face while still showing length.
• Looks awesome with waves or curls.

Half-up space buns are like a party on your head. They’re fun, a little quirky, and perfect for long hair because the buns sit high while your length still flows down. Split the top half of your hair into two sections, twist each into a bun, and secure with elastics or pins.

This style suits festivals, casual dates, or just days when you want to shake up your routine. It works well on freshly washed or slightly dirty hair, making it great for in-between wash days.

Want to dial it up? Add glitter roots, colorful scrunchies, or even a few face-framing braids to elevate the look further. There’s no wrong way to wear space buns—just your way.

5. Sleek High Ponytail

• Classic and clean with a polished edge.
• Perfect for workouts or formal settings.
• Sleek finish gives a model-off-duty vibe.

A high ponytail never goes out of style. When done right, it looks fierce and sophisticated. Brush your hair up to the crown of your head and secure with a strong elastic. Wrap a small strand of hair around the base to hide the band for that professional finish.

Use a smoothing serum or flat iron to ensure your strands are sleek and shiny. If you want volume, tease the crown slightly before pulling your hair up. This creates a ponytail with height, bounce, and presence.

This look can be worn with gym gear, office outfits, or even formalwear. Add a bold lip or statement earrings to complete the vibe.

6. Braided Crown

• Romantic and elegant with boho charm.
• Ideal for weddings, brunches, or springtime strolls.
• Keeps hair off your neck while looking detailed.

The braided crown is essentially two braids that wrap around your head like a halo. Part your hair down the middle and braid each section into pigtails. Then wrap each braid over the top of your head and pin in place to form the crown.

It’s a style that seems elaborate but is actually very achievable. Bonus: it’s great for hiding oily roots and works best on long hair, giving you plenty of braid to work with.

Add some floral pins or fresh flowers for a whimsical touch. Whether you’re headed to a tea party or just out and about, this look will make you feel like a queen.

7. Twisted Rope Braid

• Quick and unique alternative to regular braids.
• Looks impressive but takes minimal effort.
• Keeps hair secure and stylish all day.

A rope braid gives your hair a spiraled look that’s eye-catching and different. Split your hair into two sections, twist both in the same direction, then wrap them around each other in the opposite direction. Secure with an elastic.

It’s ideal for busy mornings when you want something cute without fuss. Plus, it holds up really well on long hair and doesn’t require any special products.

Make it your own by adding ribbons, beads, or turning it into a ponytail. It’s the kind of look that always earns compliments.

8. Fishtail Braid

• Intricate and elegant with a bohemian vibe.
• Works beautifully on thick, long hair.
• Great for dressy or relaxed occasions.

Fishtail braids may look complex, but they’re actually easier than French braids. Start with a low ponytail, divide into two sections, and take a small piece from one side and cross it over to the other. Repeat until you reach the end.

The tighter you braid, the more detailed the look. If you want a softer, fuller vibe, gently pull the braid apart after tying it off. It’s perfect for long hair because it gives that cascading, mermaid-like effect.

Wear it to brunch, a wedding, or even the office. It’s an all-around winner.

9. Scarf-Wrapped Ponytail

• Adds instant flair to a basic style.
• Protects hair while being fashion-forward.
• Easy way to match your outfit or mood.

Sometimes all you need is an accessory to elevate your hair game. A scarf-wrapped ponytail is one of the easiest ways to do that. Just tie a colorful scarf around your ponytail base or weave it through a braid.

This look brings personality and versatility—match your scarf to your mood, outfit, or the season. It also helps protect your strands from sun and wind, making it great for outdoor events.

Long hair makes this look especially dynamic as the scarf flows with your locks. Plus, it hides frizz and flyaways like a dream.

10. Waterfall Braid

• Elegant, cascading effect that’s perfect for long layers.
• Ideal for weddings, date nights, or photoshoots.
• Adds texture and flow without needing full updos.

The waterfall braid is a beautiful way to show off the length of your hair while adding intricate detailing. Start by braiding near the crown, and each time you pass a strand over, let it drop and pick up a new one below it.

The result? A cascading pattern that looks like your hair is tumbling down in waves. It’s delicate, romantic, and easier than it looks with a little practice.

Pair it with loose curls for a soft, enchanting finish or keep it sleek and straight for a more refined version. Either way, it’s a showstopper.

Conclusion

Long hair offers a world of possibilities, and with just a few tweaks, tools, and techniques, you can turn ordinary into extraordinary. From playful space buns to polished ponytails, these ten fun hairstyles prove you don’t need a salon visit to feel fabulous.