20 Quick Updos for When You’ve Slept Through Your Alarm

Good news: All of these hairstyles take less than 5 minutes to do (yes, really).

Whether you’re having a bad hair day and you’re looking for an easy style to fall back on or are in search of an easy and quick updo to learn for fun, this is the collection for you. These quick updos are fashionable, easy to create and will instantly make you feel more put-together if you haven’t styled your hair in days. Keep reading to check out our fave quick updos you can create in under 5 minutes.

Curly Updo

Woman with medium brown curly hair in a low chignon updo
Credit: Rupert Laycock

When creating this easy updo, add an extra level of fanciness to your low bun by first teasing the hair at the crown of your head for added volume.

Editor’s tip: No time to wash your hair? Revive your curls in a flash with the TRESemmé Day 2 Curl Boosting Foam. This foaming dry shampoo helps shape and define curly hair between washes without having to use any water, making it a great time-saver in the mornings!

’90s Updo

Blonde with her hair in a '90s inspired updo with loose tendrils of hair around her face
Credit: Rupert Laycock

Nineties fashion and beauty looks are everywhere at the moment, so why not get on board? Give any updo an instant ’90s throwback twist by leaving two strands loose at the front.

Loose Updo

Quick updos: close shot of woman with medium brown wavy hair styled in a loose undone updo wearing white shirt
Take this look from the boardroom to the bar. Credit: indigitalimages.com

For a speedy, yet professional-looking updo for work, try this Meghan Markle-approved loose bun. To complete the look, pull a few wavy strands free to help add a romantic flair to your overall look.

Messy Bun

Woman with platinum blonde hair in a messy bun
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

This classic go-to is a go-to for a reason. Throw your hair up into an easy messy bun for an instant and cute way to get your strands off your face.

Twisted Sides

Brunette woman with her hair in an updo with twisted sides

Twist your hair back into a chic and easy updo. Start the style off with a deep side part for an even more unique style.

Messy Top Knot

quick updos: model backstage with medium brown hair styled in a messy high bun at DVF show
Because who doesn’t love a messy bun! Credit: indigitalimages.com

When it comes to quick hair updos, you really can’t go wrong with every lazy girl’s favourite: the messy top knot. Trust us, it’ll allow you to effortlessly emit tonnes of off-duty vibes.

Fishtail Bun

Brunette with a sleek high fishtail bun hairstyle
Credit: Verity Jane Smith

Did you know that fishtail braids are super quick and easy to create? Pairing them with your go-to bun will earn you some serious style points.

If you’re not sure how to create a fishtail braid, just follow our step-by-step tutorial.

Editor’s tip: Finish off your perfectly undone ‘do with a spritz of the TRESemmé Firm Hold Hairsprayto help keep this pretty style in place for longer.

Low Knot

Brunette with a low messy knot updo

If you’re looking for an upgraded version of a messy bun that’s just as easy to create but is a bit chicer then this is the style for you. Separate your hair into a middle part and pull all of your hair back into a low messy bun. Pull a few strands out in the front to make the look just a little messier.

Accessorised Updo

back view of woman with a large chanel hair accessory
This street style snap is giving us serious hair envy. Credit: indigitalimages.com

Even the most basic of buns can be transformed with a hair accessory or two.

Dutch Braid

Brunette with a Dutch braid hairstyle
Credit: Rupert Laycock

A Dutch braid is one of our go-to quick updos for any bad hair day. Plus, with all of the extra time we have, you’ll perfect this style in no time. To do a Dutch braid, braid your hair just like you would for a French braid, but instead of crossing your hair over the middle section, cross it underneath so your braid pops!

Bubble Ponytail

quick updos: street style image of woman with dark brown hair styled in a low bubble ponytail with full blunt bangs wearing a white jacket and round sunglasses
Live in your own beautiful bubble with this easy updo. Credit: indigitalimages.com

Bubble ponytails are the latest craze sweeping over Instagram right now, and they just so happen to be the perfect way to upgrade your ponytail.

Rope Braided Ponytail

Brunette with a side low twisted ponytail
Credit: Rupert Laycock

Can’t braid? Don’t worry – rope braids are a great substitute for more complicated braided hairstyles, but best of all, they’re one of the quickest updos to pull together when you’re in a rush.

Undone Ponytail

quick updos: street style image of woman with light brown blonde highlighted shoulder length hair styled in a undone ponytail with a fringe carrying a large burberry check bag
Quick easy updos, like this one, won’t let you down. Credit: indigitaliamges.com

As far as quick hair updos go, we’re loving undone ponytails, and once you’ve taken a look at this example, you’re sure to feel the same. Just think how cute this textured hairstyle would look with a beret!

Simple Side Braid

brunette model with three strand side braid under a tree with flowers
In a hurry? You can’t beat a side braid. Credit: Verity Jane Smith

Never underestimate the power of a good side braid!

This traditional 3-strand side plait is a classic look for a reason, but you can make it extra special by tying it with a ribbon or cute scrunchie.

Sleek Updo

quick updos: close shot of woman with brown hair styled in side-parting smooth updo wearing a beige fluffy jacket
Take to the streets with a smooth and sleek style. Credit: indigitalimages.com

Quick, easy updos like this sleek side-parted bun, will give your mane a new lease of life. Whether you’re heading off to an interview or spending a night out with your best friends, this ‘do will ensure you look the part.

Editor’s tip: Cheat your way to glossy tresses with VO5 Tame & Shine Spray. This will help give your quick updos a brilliant shine and polish, while helping to control static.

Half-Up, Half-Down Bun

Brunette with wavy mid-length hair in a half-up bun
Credit: Rupert Laycock

Twist half of your hair up into a top knot. This style works for a range of occasions and can be done on practically any length of hair. This top knot will easily take you from the office to an evening out.

Updo With Headband Wrap

runway model with striped top and a colourful bandana
That’s a wrap, everybody! Credit: indigitalimages.com

Love retro-inspired, quick hair updos? Then you’ll be pleased to know that it’s totally possible to take your favourite bun to vintage-worthy heights.

All you need to do is tie a colourful silk scarf around your head and ensure that the large bow sits slightly to one side to exude major pin-up vibes.

Space Buns

Back view of dark and colourful hair in zig zag space buns
Make these space buns your festival look. Credit: Instagram.com/hugosalon

Are you ready to embrace your inner Spice GirlThese sweet and colourful space buns, complete with a playful zig-zag parting, will allow you to live out your mane fantasy. Credit: @hugosalon

Rolled Updo

back view of blonde model with hair swept into a chignon
This elegant chignon is perfect for any special occasion. Credit: Verity Jane Smith

While you may think this romantic hairstyle is difficult to achieve, it really isn’t! Not convinced? Our step-by-step tutorial on this lovely look, will make you think again.

Low Ponytail

quick updos: street style image of woman with straight long blonde hair styled in a low ponytail worn with a clear plastic rim hat and dark sunglasses
Oh hey stylista! Credit: indigitalimages.com

Calling all fashionistas: this low ponytail and hat combo is the perfect way for you to get in on the quick updos trend.

But the best thing? If your hair is on the shorter side, this lush low pony will also work for your strands, too.

 

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