On busy working days, you’re juggling priorities – the last thing you want to worry about is your hair.
We’ve put together this guide to easy updos that anyone can achieve in a hurry. These hairstyle ideas prioritise speed, ease, and hair health, so you can look and feel your best, even when you’re rushing around.
Whether your hair is sleek and straight and hardly needs styling, curly and volume-packed, or prone to frizz, dryness, or oiliness, with these hairstyle ideas, you can be work-ready in no time.
Quick and easy updos for long hair
Long hair is glamorous and feminine, but on busy working days, it might not be practical to leave it loose.
Thankfully, these long hair-up hairstyles are quick and easy to achieve, and make looking after your long hair simple, no matter how pushed you are for time.
Try these easy up hairdos for long hair.
1. Messy high ponytail
Add instant texture with this easy up-do for long hair. Gather up your hair at the crown of
your head and secure it with a snag-free hair bobble. Add some gentle back combing for added volume if desired.
2. Bubble ponytail
A bubble ponytail adds volume and texture to long, fine hair. To achieve this look, tie your hair into a ponytail, then add another hair bobble a few centimetres away, and repeat until you reach the end of your pony. Finish by gently tugging on each segment to tease out the hair and make it look fuller.
3. Messy bun
This is a classic quick hair-up style for any type of long hair. Gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a snag-free hair bobble. Gently wrap the ponytail around the base and secure the end with another hair bobble or pins. Top off by pulling out a few strands to frame your face for a relaxed look.
4. Half-updo braided band
If you need your long hair off your face for a busy workday but you love the look of loose strands, try a half-up look. Take a small section of hair from behind your ear and braid it across your hairline. Pull the end of the braid around the back of your head
and pin it or tie it with a bobble, then leave the rest of your hair down. If you have time, use the Contouring Wide Iron to create quick, gentle waves on your remaining loose strands.
5. Low ponytail with braid
A low ponytail is an easy long hair up style that gives a sleek, neat effect – ideal for working days. Use the Luxury Paddle Brush to gently detangle your hair before styling and run through the lengths of your hair with the Original Iron for added smoothness.
6. French twist
A French twist oozes sophistication, and it’s deceptively simple to achieve. We recommend watching a video tutorial to get your twisting technique just right. This hairstyle is one of the best for working days as it’s gentle and low manipulation, but still keeps long hair secured out of your face.
Quick and easy updos for medium length hair
Next, we have some working day hairstyle ideas for mid-length hair.
Shoulder-length strands are perhaps the most versatile length. They look amazing left loose but can easily be styled into an updo if needed.
Simplify your working week hairstyles routine with these hair-up ideas for mid-length hair.
7. Half-up topknot
One of the simplest kinds of hairstyles for shoulder length hair. To create a half topknot, gather the top section of your hair and twist it gently into a small bun at the crown of your head. Secure it with a snag-free hair bobble or scrunchie. Leave the rest of your hair down for a casual yet put-together look and brush through once with the Hot Brush to smooth out any frizz and add a sleek finish.
8. Half-up ponytail
If you want an even simpler half hair up style for mid-length hair, try this. Gather the top section of your hair at the crown of your head and secure it into a mini ponytail with a snag-free hair bobble or scrunchie. Leave the rest of your hair down. If you have curls, use the Texture Wand to perfect any strays. For straight locks, run the Original Iron through for quick, gentle styling.
9. Claw clip updo
Claw clips work wonders for mid-length hair. This simple working day updo is much easier to achieve than a French twist. Simply gather your hair at the nape of your neck (as if you’re creating a low pony), then twist it upwards and secure it to the back of your head with a claw clip. The result is a high-volume look that’s partway between a messy bun and a bouncy ponytail – and super convenient for busy days.
10. Low ponytail
You can’t get simpler than a mid-length low pony. This easy updo is so convenient, you could do it as you leave the house, just after parking up at work, or even in the office bathroom just before your shift starts. All you need is the Luxury Paddle Brush for detangling, and a snag-free hair bobble or scrunchie to secure it.
Quick and easy updos for short hair
Just because your hair is shorter doesn’t mean you have to be short on hairstyle ideas for workdays.
All these looks are easy hairstyles to do on short hair – plus they’re refined and elegant enough for a workplace environment.
Try these simple updos for short hair.
11. Short pigtails
Short pigtails are a cute hairstyle idea for all occasions, including a working day. Brush your hair with the Luxury Paddle Brush, then part it down the middle with a tail comb. Gently fasten each section into a pigtail behind each ear with a snag-free hair tie.
12. Mini space buns
Almost as simple as short pigtails and just as playful, mini space buns are a neat but cute updo for short hair. Follow the same method as above, but with one extra step – twist the pigtails around themselves and secure with another snag-free hair bobble.
13. Half-updo with claw clip
The claw clip is the perfect working day hair accessory for every hair length and type. For a simple short hair updo, sweep the top half of your hair off your face, and secure it at the back of your head with the claw clip. This look is ideal for bob haircuts. If you have a fringe, leave it loose and touch it up with the Slim Iron for an ultra-fast morning routine.
14. Sculpted waves with hair slides
If your hair is cut into a super short crop or pixie style, but you still want to keep it swept
off your face, this easy updo is for you. With the help of a little hair gel and some hair slides, you can create a classy, vintage-inspired look that’s ultra-office appropriate.
Quick and easy braided updos
Hair-up ideas don’t get more creative than braids and plaits. But don’t worry, it doesn’t have to take hours of intricate work to achieve a beautiful braid.
Choose one of these simple and quick hair-up styles and you’ll be out the door in a flash.
15. Classic single braid
This one's a timeless favourite, even when you’re squeezed for time. Start by gathering yourhair at the nape of your neck, split it into three sections, and braid away. Fix the end with a hair bobble. For a little extra flair, gently tug on the braid to make it look fuller and more relaxed.
16. Messy fishtail braid
Fishtail braids look intricate but are surprisingly easy. Kick off by splitting your
hair into two sections. Take a small piece from the outer edge of one section and cross it over to the other section. Repeat on the other side and keep alternating until you reach the end. Secure with a hair bobble.
17. Twisted side braid
This simple twisted side braid is achievable in just a few minutes. Bring all your hair to
one side and split it into two sections. Twist each section tightly in the same direction, then cross them over each other in the opposite direction. Continue twisting and crossing until you reach the end, then tie with a hair bobble.
18. Braided ponytail
For a twist on the classic ponytail that looks like far more effort than it is, start with a low ponytail at the nape of your neck, then braid it and secure the end with a snag-free hair bobble. Gently tease sections of the braid to make it fuller and more voluminous.
19. Dutch braids
Once you know how to plait hair, Dutch braids are quick and easy. For a thicker look, braid your hair first, then tease small sections to pull out some strands to add a beachy vibe and extra texture. This look may take a few longer stints in front of the mirror to perfect your technique, but once you’ve mastered it, you’ll be braiding every day. For a full tutorial, check out How to Dutch Braid Hair.
Quick and easy updos for type 4 hair
If you have type 4 coily hair and have it styled in braids already, these three quick and easy hair-up ideas will be a massive help when you’re pushed for time.
Try incorporating them into your next working week routine.
20. Jumbo braid ponytail
This look works well if you have super long braids. Start by gathering all your braids into a high ponytail at the crown of your head. Secure with a snag-free hair bobble. Take a couple of braids from the ponytail and wrap them around the hair tie to conceal it, securing it with hairpins underneath. Next, divide the ponytail into three equal sections of braids and plait them together, ensuring they're not too tight to maintain volume. Tie the end with another hair bobble.
21. Box braids bun
If you’re starting with box braids but need your hair out of your face, a bun is the ideal easy updo. Begin by gathering all your box braids into a high ponytail and tying with a bobble. Twist the ponytail around its base to form a bun and keep in place with hairpins. Accessorise with hair jewellery or a silk scarf for added personality.
22. Bubble ponytail
This look can work with braided or unbraided type 4 hair. Simply tie your coily hair into a ponytail, then add equally spaced hair bands down the length of your ponytail. Gently tug each section apart to boost volume for that ‘bubble’ look. Add a silk scrunchie for a final touch.
Quick and easy updos for curly hair
Curls come in different sizes and shapes, but these quick and easy hairstyle ideas should suit all, and are perfect for looking work-ready, even when you’re pushed for time.
Give these curly hair-up ideas a go.
23. Messy bun with curly fringe
The best part about a messy bun is that you don’t have to spend ages making sure it’s neat. Apply a leave-in conditioner like our Magical Remedy to define your curls, then allow them to air dry or use the Airshot Pro with its Magnetic Diffuser Attachment. Once dry, gather your hair into a loose bun at the crown of your head, leaving out a few curly tendrils to frame your face.
24. Half-up twist
Start by parting your hair down the middle. Take a small section of hair from each side
of your head near the front and twist them towards the back. Fix the twists together at the back of your head with hairpins, leaving the rest of your curls floating down at the sides and front. Define any misbehaving strands with the Texture Wand.
25. Curly ponytail
Perhaps the simplest curly hair up style of them all, the curly ponytail is a speedy way to tame your curls for a busy day of work. Simply smooth your hair way into a high, mid, or low pony, and secure with a snag free hair tie.
Quick and easy updos for frizzy hair
If your hair is naturally prone to dryness, frizz can feel like an endless battle, especially on busy days when you don’t have much styling time. Finding hairstyle ideas that work can seem impossible.
Now you can wave goodbye to unruly flyaways in no time with these three simple hairstyle updo ideas.
26. Sleek high ponytail
When frizz strikes, a sleek high ponytail is your best friend. Start by smoothing down your frizz with a bit of serum or hair oil. Then, gather your hair at the back of your head and secure it with a hair bobble. To add extra polish, wrap a small section of hair around the hair tie and fix it with a pin. Tame any leftover flyaways with the Hot Brush.
27. Messy twist bun
Embrace the frizz with a stylish messy bun. Gather your hair into a high ponytail and twist it loosely into a bun. Don't worry about perfection – a few flyaways add to the charm. To tame any unruly frizz around your face, use a smoothing cream like our Magical Remedy, a quick-fix solution that works wonders on dry hair.
28. Textured half-up ponytail
Turn frizz into fabulous with a textured half-up hairstyle. Simply gather the top section of your hair and twist it loosely before securing it with a hairband or clip. Let the rest of your hair cascade down in soft waves or curls – touch up with the Contouring Original Iron if you’ve got a few spare moments.
Quick and easy updos for thin hair
Adding volume to fine hair can sometimes feel like it takes forever – but there are some styles that give you an instant boost.
These work-approved updos for thin hair types are designed to inject texture and body without taking all day to achieve.
29. Textured high pony
Start by applying a volumising mousse or spray to your roots. Gently backcomb your hair at the crown, then gather it into a high ponytail and secure it with a hairband. Next, gently tease the ponytail with a comb or your fingers to create extra volume and texture. Wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to conceal the hair bobble and pin in place.
30. Messy low bun
Twists and braids are a surefire way to add the illusion of more hair, especially when teased out. To achieve this messy, relaxed look, bring your hair into a low ponytail and twist it into a bun, leaving out a few strands for a relaxed look. Pull out some strands around your face to frame it and add to the messy vibe.
31. Half-up pigtails
Raising the height of half of your hair while leaving the rest loose crafts the perfect illusion of thicker and more voluminous strands. Secure the bottom of your hair with a bobble or clip to keep it out of the way while you style. Next, divide the top section of your hair into two equal parts. Brush each into a neat pigtails, securing them with snag free hair bobbles. Release the bottom of your hair from its bobble or clip for the finished look.
Quick and easy updos for greasy hair
Whether you need to push back washday to free up some time or just need to refresh your locks between washes, these hairstyles are perfect for camouflaging greasy roots and keeping you looking your best.
Try an easy updo for oily roots.
32. Braided headband
Braids are the best way to hide excess oils and keep your hair going one more day before washing. Start by taking a section from the front of your hair and doing a French or Dutch plait next to your hairline. Tuck the ends of the braid behind your ear and pin or tie it in place. Spritz the rest of your hair with dry shampoo at the roots, and a little texturising salt spray throughout the lengths.
33. Textured high pony
In a rush and suffering from a greasy scalp? Use dry shampoo to combat excess oil while also heightening your hair’s volume. Use a teasing comb or your fingers to gently tease the hair at the top of your head, working back towards the crown. Keep a small section of hair smooth at your hairline. Brush this over the teased section and secure all hair back into a high ponytail with a hair bobble. Next, finish by spritzing with hairspray to hold.
34. Slicked back bun
This ballerina-inspired updo is perfect for embracing greasy roots. Treat this as a hair mask day – apply a small amount of Magical Remedy from roots to tips, using it to smooth your hair into a neat centre parting. Comb your hair back to the nape of your neck and fasten with a snag-free hair tie. Twist the ponytail around itself and fasten with a scrunchie for the finished look. While this look keeps oily roots going a little longer, we recommend washing your hair at the end of your busy day to get it back to its refreshed self.
35. Slicked back ponytail
The slicked back pony is even simpler to create than the slicked back bun – and it looks just as sleek and stylish. Follow the same instructions as above, but create a mid-height ponytail and leave it loose. Smooth the ends of your ponytail to perfection with the Hot Brush.
Workday hair hacks
When time is against you and the pressure’s on, it can be challenging to get the look you want – but our quick and easy hacks for drying, curling and straightening will have you ready to go in no time.
How to dry hair quickly
Efficient hair drying techniques are a lifesaver for those moments when time is of the essence. Check out these fun and effective ways to dry your hair in a flash, leaving you feeling fabulous and ready to tackle whatever the day throws your way.
· Wrap your hair up in a soft, absorbent towel and let it work its magic while you do other things.
· Gently squeeze excess water from your hair using a microfiber towel or an old cotton t-shirt.
· Use our Magical Quick Dry Potion to speed up the drying process. Doubling up as a heat protectant, it contains a mixture of nourishing ingredients designed to help your hair dry more quickly.
· Blast your hair with the hairdryer on a cool setting while using your fingers to tousle and lift the roots for instant volume. Our Airshot and Airshot Pro hairdryers have a Cool Shot button that allows you to give your hair a cool blast for optimum shine.
· Use a diffuser on wavy or curly hair to define curls. Our Airshot Pro comes with a Magnetic Diffuser Attachment, so just click it for more defined waves or curls. Check out our comprehensive guide on how to use a diffuser for more tips.
How to straighten hair quickly
Whether you're a seasoned straightening pro or just starting out with your first pair of straighteners, it’s super quick and easy to achieve straight hair. Check out our hacks for making sure your hair is happy and healthy, while also cutting down on styling time.
· Section your hair before switching on your straightener. Our Croc Clips are perfect for the job, helping you to straighten each section properly the first time, minimising the need to go back over your hair to pick up any missed kinks.
· Use your straighteners at the lowest possible temperature. If you’re in a rush, it can be tempting to turn up the heat on your straighteners and hope for the best. But this can create more time-consuming hair issues like dryness or split ends. Here at Cloud Nine, we’re passionate about keeping your hair safe and healthy, which is why we developed our innovative Temperature Calculator. Use it to work out the safest temperature for your hair type and adjust the temperature of your straighteners to match.
· For second day straightening, try a hot brush like our Hot Brush. When you're short on time and need a quick touch-up, this handy tool straightens and smooths your hair in minutes. Its gentle heat is kind to your hair, helping to keep it healthy and frizz-free.
· Choose the right straightener for your hair type and length. Save time and energy by choosing a pair of straighteners. For example, if you have long, thick hair, our Wide Iron is the perfect option, whereas the Slim Iron is great for short hair. If you switch between straight and wavy looks, go for the Contouring Original Iron. It also comes with a detangle comb and a Wet Hairbrush as a bonus. For more info, head to our guide on how to choose the right straighteners for your hair type.
How to curl hair quickly
If you’re looking for easy methods to curl hair in a hurry or want to achieve gorgeous waves without spending hours in front of the mirror, look no further than your Curling Wand. We’ve rounded up our
top techniques for how to curl hair quickly.
· Apply a heat protectant like Magical Potion to shield your hair from heat damage.
· Divide your hair into small sections using our Croc Clips for easier styling.
· Use a wand with a ceramic barrel like our Curling Wand. Infused with sericite, the heat distributes evenly, meaning you only have to style each curl once, saving those precious minutes.
· Hold the curled hair in your hand for a few seconds, allowing it to cool down before releasing. This can help set the curls faster and reduce the overall styling time. Make sure you wear a protective glove when using a curling wand.
Whether you’re in a hurry to start your morning commute or need a last-minute hair fix for a special occasion, mastering quick and easy hair-up styles doesn't have to be a daunting task. With the right tools, techniques, and a little bit of practice, these tricks are sure to save precious minutes, leaving more time to do the things you want – and love – to do.
We’d love to hear about your go-to quick and easy hairdos on our socials – head to TikTok, Instagram or Facebook to get involved.
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