6 5-Minute Hairstyles for Long Hair

If only "long hair, don't care" was so easy. Having 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 bedhead and being unwashed than their shorter counterparts.

Waist-skimming lengths take more of an effort to make presentable, requiring more product and more time to style. If you have 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 six five-minute hairstyles for long hair. See our picks below and get inspired to take on tomorrow morning, starting with your long locks.

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 ($46).

Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray $48.00

Shop

Half-Bun

If you're leaving your hair down, add an effortless-looking bun detail with this half-up look. To add a bit of whimsy, try dressing it up with a fluffy scrunchie.

Slip Large Slipsilk Scrunchies $39.00

Shop

Romantic Braid

This purposefully messy approach gives off breezy vibes and won't need any upkeep over the day, but still feels pretty and romantic. Plus, it takes practically no time at all to pull off (and you don't have to be a hairstylist to do it). 

Moroccanoil Dry Shampoo in Dark Tones $26.00

Shop

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.

Tresemmé Compressed Micro Mist Texture Hold Hairspray $6.00

Shop

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.

Teased 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.

FYI: You can actually train your hair to be less greasy—here's how.