9 5-Minute Hairstyles for Long Hair

If only “long hair don’t care” were so easy. Being the possessor of a long, flowing mane certainly has its perks, but when it comes to getting ready in the morning—especially in a rush—it turns out there’s a lot to care for. Lengthy locks are more tangle-prone and likely to show signs of bed head and being unwashed than their shorter counterparts. Waist-skimming tresses take more of an effort to make presentable, requiring more product tame and more time to style. If you’re a girl with an enviable head of long hair, mornings with few spare minutes are not your friend. To get your hair looking ready to take on the day and to get you out the door in no time, here are eight five-minute hairstyles for long hair.

See our picks below and get inspired to take on tomorrow morning, starting with your tresses.

1 – Loose Ponytail

Especially if you have naturally wavy or curly hair, this option can be a saving grace in the morning. Keeping it wrapped with strands of your own hair, and even letting your bangs fall forward for an unexpected touch perfectly balances “I woke up like this” with “I’m ready for work.” For added oomph, try Oribe’s Dry Texturizing Spray ($44).

2- Half Heidi Braid

If you’re leaving your locks down, add some effortless braided detail with this half-crown Heidi look. You still get to show off your length, but you automatically spruce up the look with the self-made hairband.

3 – Half French Braid

A half-up braid keeps your hair off your face while still enjoying the length and feel of wearing it down.This purposefully messy approach gives off breezy vibes and won’t need any upkeep over the day.

4 – Low Ponytail

You can never go wrong with a low ponytail. Elevate the look by using your own hair to cover the elastic. Brush back and set with hairspray for a sleek look, or go more natural with a slightly undone approach.

5 – French Braid Pigtails

French braid pigtails are an easy statement style that will stay put all day. Set with a flexible hairspray like R+Co Outer Space Flexible Hair Spray ($29), to prevent flyaways.

6 – Braided Ponytail

Try this fashion forward fusion of two easy styles. The braided portion is an unexpected update to the ponytail without requiring much additional effort.

7 – Teased Low Ponytail

If you want to go for a low ponytail but want it to be a head-turning look (or don’t have time to tame your mane), tease your tresses for dimension and volume before tying back.

8 – Reverse French Braid

Go timeless without looking tired with this twist on the classic French braid.

Which style will you be testing out come Monday? Head to the comments, long-haired girls, and let us know your favorite looks.

9 – Loose Braided Pigtails

This cute style is incredibly low-maintenance. Skip spending time on perfecting the perfect braid and get out the door with this intentionally undone ‘do.