Quick hairstyles to keep you looking as great as you are, with minimal time wasted

Time isn’t always on our side. Let’s be honest, when you’re running late, the last thing you have time for is to create a beautiful, complicated hairstyle. But you still want to look your best if you’re stepping out. So, you need quick hairstyles to keep you looking great and not make you late.

So of course, we had to step in to help out. We’ve put together a list of quick hairstyles that will suit most occasions, and even better, they’re sorted into the amount of time they take to create. Keep scrolling to our top 15 quick hairstyles.

Quick hairstyles under 1 minute

If you’re in a hurry with zero time to spare, these quick hairstyles are for you. They’re super simple and only take 1 minute or less to perfect. Even better, there’s a look for every occasion.

Classic ponytail

Name a more universal hairstyle… we’ll wait. The ponytail is a worldwide favourite for a reason: the classic ponytail is sure to be a good fit for most occasions.

Headband hairstyles

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: accessories are our best friend. For these quick hairstyles, all you have to do is pop on a headband that complements your outfit, and you’re done.

Looped ponytail

A take on the classic ponytail, this quick hairstyle is great for those who want to put up their long hair without having to create a bun.

Side braid

Another classic, the basic side braid is a versatile and quick-to-do look. Give it a romantic touch by fluffing out the braid and pulling out a few strands to frame your face.

Add texture to your braided ‘do with a quick spritz of the TONI&GUY Sea Salt Texturising Spray. This will take a basic braid to the next level. And, if you love the messy look, using a texturising spray is the perfect way to get the look.

Oversized clips

As with headbands, oversized accessories are life savers! These will help level up any basic hairdo, giving quick hairstyles a modern and trendy vibe in seconds.

Editor’s tip: If you have really smooth hair, you might find that clips slip out easily. Keep your clips in place all day and night with by spraying a bit of hairspray directly onto the accessory before clipping it in. We love using strong hold hairsprays for this, like the VO5 Extra Hold Hairspray.

Quick hairstyles under 5 minutes

If you have a few minutes to spend on your hair, you should consider one of these quick hairstyles. They’re simple and versatile, and only take a little more effort than the previous looks. These styles are perfect do in the mornings before work, or when you’re rushing to join the Zoom call.

Messy bun

There’s no two ways about it, the messy bun simply screams girl-next-door-slash-off-duty-model. If this is the vibe you’re aiming for, then this is the look for you.

Polished high ponytail

A bit different from the classic ponytail, this quick hairstyle is defined by its sleekness and polished vibe. It’s the perfect hairstyle for business meetings and corporate events, to a night out with the girls.

Sleek bun

Want to keep things super simple but still look chic? Slick your hair down into this sleek bun. It’s a great option for any hair type and most hair lengths. Best of all, it works for literally any occasion. Whether it’s a braai, a day in the office, date night… you’re guaranteed to slay in this quick hairstyle.

To get this hairstyle right, your hair needs to be slicked down to perfection. We love the VO5 Wet Look Styling Gel for this. This gel will also gives that gorgeous wet look effect that pairs so well with a sleek bun.

Accent braids

Perfect for parties or festivals, accent braids have a cute boho feel that we adore. This can be a regular three-strand braid or a fancier Dutch or waterfall braid, or you could jazz it up with some accessories.

Headscarf

There are so many quick hairstyles you could achieve with a simple scarf. Weave it into your plait, wrap it around your bun, wear it as a headband or head wrap.

Quick hairstyles under 10 minutes

Have an event to attend but you’re short on time? These quick hairstyles are great options for everything from a dinner date to your best friend’s engagement party (or wedding)! And best of all, they only take 10 minutes or less to get right — and nobody will ever know.

Dutch braid / French braid

If you’re a pro at these braids, you could probably get these done in way under 10 minutes! But for the rest of us, these are looks that we’ll probably need the full 10 minutes to get right. But it’s worth it — these are up there with the most versatile and practical looks out there.

Classic chignon

Chignons are great for fancy events, like weddings and end-of-year work parties, but we bet you never thought it could be classified as a “quick” hairstyle. Well, we’re here to tell you that you can actually get this look in 10 minutes or less! In fact, here’s a quick tutorial.

Loose waves

This is yet another look that usually takes forever and a day to achieve, but you can get some pretty great loose waves in no time. Here’s how.

Keep your waves looking amazing all day long with a lightweight hairspray. Try the TONI&GUY Tousled Texture Creation Hairspray for this — it will keep your waves in place without any crunchiness.

Ballerina bun

Keep your hair securely out of your face with one of our personal favourite quick hairstyles, the simple ballerina bun. Hairspray is your best friend with this sophisticated look — keep flyaways far away with a strong hold hairspray.

Pineapple

A staple for many natural queens out there, we had include the pineapple on our list of quick hairstyles. This is a surprisingly customisable and versatile look — wear it plain, or add some clips or a scarf for added flavour.

Keep your curls looking amazing with the Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie. Say “hello” to defined, hydrated curls.