14 Everyday Hairstyles That Can Be Done in Under 5 Minutes
Hey there! Ever had one of those mornings where you hit the snooze button a few too many times and suddenly find yourself in a mad dash to get out the door?
You’re not alone! We’ve all been there. Thankfully, looking fabulous doesn’t have to take all morning. Below, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite go-to hairstyles that you can whip up in under five minutes. Let’s get styling!
1. Messy Bun
The messy bun is my default setting. It’s what I do when my hair and I aren’t getting along—but I still want to look like I tried. I just scoop it all up, twist it, pin it, and let a few strands do their rebellious thing. Somehow, it always looks like intentional chaos, which is my favorite kind of chic.
It’s my go-to when I oversleep or when dry shampoo just isn’t cutting it.
2. Low Ponytail
This one’s the definition of quietly confident. It’s low-maintenance but still says “I’ve got my life together,” even if I don’t. I pull my hair back at the nape, wrap a strand around the elastic like I know what I’m doing, and walk out the door like a minimalist queen.
Works for Zoom calls, errands, awkward elevator rides—you name it. I sometimes add a pair of gold hoops and immediately feel like I’m starring in a French film. It’s low fuss, high impact—my kind of beauty math.
3. Sleek High Ponytail
Nothing flips my mood faster than a snatched ponytail. I comb it tight at the crown, slick the edges, and boom—cheekbones for days. It’s like an instant facelift without the drama. I add bold hoops and pretend I’m heading to an award show instead of the grocery store.
If I’m feeling a little extra, I’ll wrap a piece of hair around the base and secure it with a bobby pin—it looks way fancier than it is. Pro tip: a little hair oil goes a long way in keeping it frizz-free and fierce.
4. Half-Up Half-Down
Can’t commit? This style gets it. Half of me wants a ponytail, the other half wants to let it flow—and this meets in the middle like a hair peace treaty. I just grab the top section, clip or tie it, and suddenly I look polished and effortless.
It’s the perfect “I might run into my ex today” look. It’s one of those styles that somehow looks great with curls, waves, or even next-day straight hair. Honestly, it’s my lazy girl glam trick on repeat.
5. Classic Braid
This one’s my go-to when my hair refuses to cooperate. A three-strand braid is timeless, tidy, and won’t budge even on windy days (or chaotic commutes). I do it from the nape down, and sometimes tug the sides for that Pinterest-worthy looseness.
Feels nostalgic but still chic—like your childhood braid grew up and got a glow-up. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll pancake the braid (aka gently tug it apart) to make it look thicker and a little more boho. And if I’m running late? This still looks intentional, even when it’s just functional.
6. Low Bun with Center Part
When I need to look classy but have exactly three minutes, this is my secret weapon. I part my hair down the middle, sweep it into a low bun, and suddenly I’m giving “quiet luxury” with zero effort. It’s clean, put-together, and doesn’t budge—perfect for those “I need to look like I tried” days.
Sometimes I add a bold lip with it, and the combo is pure quiet confidence. It’s also perfect for second-day hair that needs to stay out of everyone’s business—including mine.
7. Top Knot
This is the hairstyle equivalent of “let’s just get it done.” I pile everything on top of my head, twist, pin, and somehow—it works. Even if I’m still in sweatpants, the top knot makes me look semi-functional (a miracle before 9 AM). Add sunglasses and you’re officially incognito chic.
It’s honestly one of the only styles that makes me look awake when I feel anything but. A little volume at the crown and a messy twist? Instant upgrade.
8. Twisted Sides into Ponytail
If I’m feeling a little fancy but still in a hurry, this is my move. I twist two front sections and pull them back into a ponytail—it’s like my hair is accessorizing itself. It adds volume, shape, and just the right amount of “oh hey, I tried today.”
Works wonders for fine hair days or when you’re one wash away from a meltdown. On busy days, I love how this keeps my hair off my face without looking too tight or fussy. It also gives just enough “I tried” energy for meetings or last-minute plans.
9. Hair Claw Updo
This style brings me right back to the ‘90s—in the best way. I twist my hair, clip it with a claw, let a few face-framing pieces fall, and voilà—I look like a cool girl who journals and always has oat milk. It’s no-fuss but somehow feels super on-trend again.
Bonus: I can redo it in 10 seconds if it starts slipping by lunch. It’s also a scalp-saver when you don’t want the tension of a ponytail all day. And let’s be honest—hair claws make any outfit look like you have your life semi-together.
10. Braided Ponytail
This one’s my sporty-chic go-to. I start with a ponytail, braid it down, and suddenly my errands feel like an athleisure editorial. It stays out of my face, holds up at the gym, and still manages to look cute for a smoothie stop after. The braid adds a little drama without any drama.
I sometimes braid just halfway down for a playful, undone vibe. Add a scrunchie or ribbon, and suddenly it’s giving “casual cool with a twist.”
11. Side Braid
There’s something romantic about a side braid. I swing mine over one shoulder, and suddenly I’m giving cottagecore energy—even if I’m just headed to the corner store. It’s a tiny twist on the classic braid, but it makes such a difference.
Bonus points if you add a scrunchie or ribbon for that Pinterest-perfect finish. This one’s perfect for those in-between hair wash days—it hides everything. Plus, it looks great under beanies or paired with a denim jacket.
12. Low Space Buns
Okay, hear me out: double buns aren’t just for festivals. I part my hair, twist two low buns at the nape, and boom—I’m instantly 10% cooler. It’s playful, a little rebellious, and way easier than it looks. Whenever I wear this, someone always says “you look fun”—and honestly, that’s the vibe I’m going for.
They’re especially fun when you pull out a few face-framing strands for softness. I’ve even worn them to dinner with a blazer and felt stylish without trying too hard.
13. Headband Tuck
On days when my hair is just not cooperating, this is my low-effort, high-impact fix. I pop on a headband, tuck the ends in, and somehow look like I’m off to a garden party. It’s sweet, clean, and keeps the frizz in check without needing heat or a brush.
Perfect for second-day hair (or third, no judgment). It’s also great when you want to protect your ends without wearing a full bun or braid. I love pairing it with a cozy sweater for that “I read books and drink tea” energy.
14. Slicked-Back Bun
Ah, yes, the emergency boardroom look. I slick everything back with a bit of gel, twist it into a bun, and just like that, I’m giving the CEO who drinks green juice and takes no nonsense. It’s sleek, powerful, and surprisingly calming to do.
I swear, it’s the hairstyle version of getting your life together. I keep a mini gel and comb in my bag just in case I need to refresh the slickness during the day.
It’s seriously my best last-minute trick for surprise Zoom calls or unplanned plans.