7 Beginner-Friendly Hairstyles to Save Time

In fact, according to a recent survey, 65% of women say they wish they had more simple hairstyle options that save time in the morning. The good news? You don’t need to be a pro hairstylist—or even own a drawer full of products—to look great. These beginner-friendly hairstyles are perfect for busy mornings and will leave you looking effortlessly polished in minutes.

Ready to transform your hair routine without stress or fuss? Here are seven easy hairstyles that even total beginners can master, all while staying on budget and on time!

1. The Classic Low Ponytail with a Twist

• Great for all hair lengths
• Adds sophistication without extra effort
• Requires only a hair tie and bobby pins

The low ponytail is a classic that never goes out of style—but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. By adding a small twist or braid before tying your hair back, you can elevate this basic look into something that feels more polished and intentional.

Start by parting your hair where it naturally falls. Take a small section from each side of your head, twist them, and pin them together at the back. Then gather the rest of your hair into a low ponytail and secure it with a hair tie. You can also wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to conceal the elastic and secure it with a bobby pin.

This hairstyle works wonders for fine, straight hair and helps reduce frizz for those with wavy or curly textures. Plus, it’s perfect for second-day hair when you want to skip the wash.

To make it more polished, use a little dry shampoo for volume and a spritz of light hairspray for hold. This style transitions well from casual daywear to a more professional or even evening-ready look.

2. The Effortless Top Knot

• Ideal for second or third-day hair
• Keeps hair off your face and neck
• Stylish and functional

A top knot is every busy woman’s best friend. It’s a quick way to look stylish while getting your hair completely out of the way. The best part? It works whether your hair is clean or not-so-fresh, making it a great go-to for rushed mornings.

Flip your head upside down and gather your hair at the crown. Secure it with a hair tie into a high ponytail. Then, twist the ponytail around itself into a bun and use another tie or a few pins to secure it. Don’t worry about perfection—this look embraces a little messiness.

For an upgraded version, pull out a few strands around your face for a soft, romantic feel. You can also use texturizing spray to give your top knot more grip and volume. This helps especially if your hair tends to be slippery or fine.

The top knot is not only trendy but practical—perfect for everything from errands to Zoom meetings. It also pairs well with accessories like hoop earrings or a chunky headband.

3. The Half-Up, Half-Down Hairdo

• Combines the best of both worlds
• Easy for all hair types
• Can be dressed up or down

This style offers the elegance of wearing your hair down while keeping strands out of your face. It’s incredibly versatile and can be achieved in under five minutes, making it a favorite among busy women and beginner stylists alike.

Start by sectioning the top half of your hair, from your temples upward, and secure it with a small elastic or clip. You can keep it sleek for a polished look or gently tease the crown for added volume. For a fun twist, try braiding or twisting the top section before pinning it back.

This hairstyle flatters round and oval face shapes and works beautifully with natural texture or soft curls. It’s also great for showcasing your hair’s natural shine and length without committing to a full blowout.

Enhance the look with a pretty hair clip, small scrunchie, or even a silk ribbon for an extra touch of charm. It’s an ideal style for school runs, office days, or brunch with friends.

4. The Braided Headband Look

• Looks intricate but is beginner-friendly
• Keeps hair out of your face
• Great for layered or medium-length hair

Don’t be fooled by how elaborate this hairstyle looks—it’s surprisingly simple once you get the hang of it. The braided headband adds a boho flair and works especially well on days when your hair just won’t cooperate.

Part your hair to one side and take a small section near your temple. Create a basic three-strand braid and secure the end with a mini elastic. Pull the braid across the top of your head like a headband and pin it behind your opposite ear.

You can also create two braids from either side and cross them over the top of your head for a more symmetrical look. Gently tug at the braid to give it more volume and a lived-in, effortless vibe.

This style suits everything from beach waves to pin-straight locks and adds a whimsical touch to your look. Pair it with a cozy sweater for casual days or dress it up with statement earrings.

5. The Quick Messy Bun

• Minimal effort with maximum charm
• Ideal for curly or wavy hair
• Only takes 2–3 minutes

The messy bun is an everyday go-to that’s hard to mess up. It works on all hair types, especially when your texture is slightly tousled or you’re dealing with bedhead. It’s perfect for when you’re running late but still want to look like you made some effort.

Gather your hair into a high or mid-level ponytail and secure it loosely. Twist the ponytail and coil it into a bun shape, then pin it with bobby pins or another elastic. Pull a few strands loose to frame your face.

You can also use a donut bun maker if you want a fuller look with more volume. For a beachy touch, spray some sea salt mist before pulling it up.

This relaxed style is incredibly forgiving. Whether you’re heading to the grocery store or hopping on a quick video call, a messy bun adds instant cool-girl vibes with zero stress.

6. The Sleek Low Bun

• Polished and office-friendly
• Requires just a brush and hair tie
• Great for all hair types

The sleek low bun is your best bet when you need to look put-together but only have a few minutes. It’s clean, simple, and ultra-elegant. Plus, it works for everything from job interviews to dinner dates.

Brush your hair straight back or part it in the middle for a more sophisticated edge. Gather it at the nape of your neck and twist it into a bun. Secure it with a hair tie or pins and smooth out flyaways with a dab of hair serum or styling cream.

This style can be made extra sleek with a flat iron before styling, especially if your hair is prone to frizz or puffiness. It pairs beautifully with bold lipstick or a sleek outfit for maximum impact.

For those with curly or thick hair, use a leave-in conditioner or smoothing gel to help tame texture before creating your bun.

7. The Lazy-Day Claw Clip Updo

• Trendy and practical
• Easiest of all to master
• Perfect for casual days

If you haven’t jumped on the claw clip bandwagon yet, now is the time. This ’90s throwback style has made a huge comeback and is perfect for beginners who want something stylish and effortless.

Simply gather your hair at the back of your head, twist it upward, and secure it with a claw clip. Let the ends cascade down or tuck them in for a cleaner look. The best part? There’s no need to be precise.

This look works well with medium to long hair and gives off a relaxed, easygoing vibe. Choose a neutral or pastel claw clip for everyday wear or a jeweled one for something a bit fancier.

The claw clip updo is not only budget-friendly but also kind to your hair since it avoids pulling or breakage caused by tight elastics. It’s a style you’ll come back to again and again.

Conclusion

Busy mornings don’t mean you have to sacrifice looking and feeling your best. These seven beginner-friendly hairstyles are not just quick and easy—they’re also stylish, affordable, and doable even if you’re not a hair expert.