How to Style Long Hair (Think Beyond The Ponytail)
You have long hair. This is great, right? Sometimes, it feels more like a lot of hair. You get caught on things, it takes forever to dry, and some days, a ponytail seems like your only real option. But, my friend, it does not need to be this way! Your long hair offers so many styling possibilities.
Everyday Long Hair Hairstyles: Think Beyond the Ponytail
You probably default to a ponytail or a bun many days. I get it. These styles are easy and they keep your hair out of the way. However, you can add a little something extra to those trusty basics.
The Elevated Ponytail
A simple ponytail can look more polished with just a few small changes. I learned this trick years ago from a stylist who said, “Honey, even a ponytail needs a little effort.”
- Try a low ponytail at the nape of your neck instead of a high one. It feels a bit more sophisticated.
- Wrap a small section of hair around the hair tie to conceal it. You just secure it with a bobby pin underneath. This step takes literally ten seconds but makes a big difference.
- Add a cute scrunchie or a simple hair scarf. These accessories can really change the vibe of your whole look.
The Messy Bun, But Better
The “messy bun” often just looks messy. We want controlled chaos, not actual chaos. You can achieve volume and structure in your messy bun.
- Start with a high ponytail, but do not pull the end all the way through on the last loop. This creates a loop of hair.
- Wrap the ends of your hair around the base of this loop. You can secure these pieces with bobby pins.
- Gently tug on sections of the bun to create more volume and a softer appearance. You want it to look effortless, not like you wrestled with it for an hour.
Braids: Your Long Hair’s Best Friend
Braids are fantastic for long hair. They can be elegant, casual, or even a little bit wild. Do not tell me you cannot braid. You can. We all just learned by doing it poorly many times first.
The Classic Three-Strand Braid
This is where everyone starts. You probably learned this one in kindergarten. It still works!
- Braid your hair off to one side. It feels a little more casual and modern than a straight down-the-back braid.
- Gently pull on the outer loops of the braid to make it appear thicker and softer. This is called “pancaking” the braid. It really works to add volume, especially if your hair is thin.
- You can secure the end with a small elastic, then wrap a piece of hair around it, just like the ponytail trick, to hide the elastic.
The French Braid: Mastering the Art
Okay, this one takes a little practice. But once you get it, you get it. My cousin, who has hair down to her waist, says this style is her go-to for keeping her hair out of her face. She has two small children, so she needs functional styles.
| Step | Description | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Start at the top of your head with three small sections. | Use a mirror, or get a friend to help the first few times. |
| 2 | As you braid, add small sections of hair from the sides into each strand before crossing it over. | Keep your sections even for a neat braid. |
| 3 | Continue until you reach the nape of your neck, then finish with a regular three-strand braid. | You can secure it as a ponytail, or continue braiding all the way down. |
The Fishtail Braid: For a Bohemian Vibe
This braid looks complicated, but it is surprisingly simple once you grasp the technique. It gives a really pretty, intricate look.
You only work with two sections of hair, not three, which is why it is different from other braids.
- Divide your hair into two large sections down the middle.
- Take a small piece of hair from the outer edge of one section and cross it over to join the inside of the other section.
- Repeat, consistently taking small pieces from the outside and crossing them to the inside of the opposite section.
- Continue until you reach the end of your hair. You will see the distinctive fishtail pattern emerge.
Half-Up, Half-Down: The Best of Both Worlds
This style is a great compromize when you want your hair down but need some pieces out of your face. It offers a nice balance.
The Simple Half-Up
You just gather the top section of your hair and secure it at the back of your head. It is straightforward.
- You can use a small clip, a hair tie, or even a fancy barrette.
- Try twisting the top sections of hair before securing them for a little detail.
- Leave some face-framing pieces out to soften the look. This is a trick many people use to avoid that “pulled back severe” look.
The Half-Up Bun or Braid
Instead of just securing the top section, you can put it into a small bun or weave it into a braid.
For a half-up bun, just follow the “messy bun” steps for the top section of your hair. It looks cute and keeps your hair from getting in your way while still showing off your length.
A half-up braid could be a small French braid starting at your temples and meeting at the back, or two small braids on either side that then meet in the middle.
Styling Tools and Products: Your Helpful Companions
You do not need an arsenal of products or tools to style long hair, but a few can definitely make life easier. I have learned to invest in decent tools, because the cheap ones usually just cause frizz or actually break my hair.
Heat Tools: Use with Care
Flat irons and curling irons can create many different looks. You should always use a heat protectant spray first. Your hair will thank you later.
- Curling Wands/Irons: Create waves or curls. Larger barrels give looser waves; smaller barrels give tighter curls. Experiment to see what you like.
- Flat Irons: Straighten your hair, yes, but you can also use them to create sleek waves by bending the hair as you pull the iron down.
- Hair Dryers: A good quality dryer with various heat and speed settings can reduce drying time and frizz.
Products to Consider
These are not “must-haves,” but they can help achieve or maintain certain styles.
- Heat Protectant Spray: This is a non-negotiable if you use heat. It shields your hair from potential damage.
- Hair Spray: A light hold spray can keep your styles in place without making your hair stiff. Nobody likes helmet hair.
- Dry Shampoo: Excellent for refreshing roots and adding volume on non-wash days. It also gives your hair some grip, which is helpful for braids and updos.
- Texturizing Spray: This can add volume and a bit of “grip” to fine or slippery hair, making it easier to hold styles like braids or updos.
- Hair Oil/Serum: A small amount on your ends can combat frizz and add shine, making your long hair look healthy.
Accessorizing Your Long Hair
Accessories are like jewelry for your hair. They can elevate a simple style instantly. You do not need to spend a lot of money either.
- Scrunchies: They are back, and they are gentler on your hair than traditional elastic hair ties. Plus, they come in so many fun fabrics and colors.
- Hair Scarves: Tie them around a ponytail, weave them into a braid, or use them as a headband. A scarf adds a pop of color or pattern.
- Claw Clips: Perfect for a quick, elegant updo or half-up style. They come in varying sizes and cool designs.
- Barrettes and Decorative Pins: Use these to secure sections of hair, or just as a decorative element. A simple side part with a pretty barrette can look very chic.
Some Last Thoughts on Long Hair
The main thing with long hair is patience. It takes longer to style, yes. It also takes longer to grow. You have many options for styling, so you do not need to stick to just one or two boring looks. Experiment a little. Watch some videos. Do not be afraid to try something new, even if it looks a bit odd at first. We all have bad hair days, even with the best intentions and products.
Remember to treat your hair well. Good hair care, like regular trims and conditioning treatments, will make styling much easier and your hair look much better. Healthy hair holds a style much better than dry, damaged hair. You know this already, right?
So, go forth and embrace your long hair. It is a fantastic asset, even if it sometimes gets caught in your car door. Happens to the best of us.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some easy everyday styles for thick, long hair?
For thick hair, braids like a French braid or a fishtail braid work very well to keep your hair contained and stylish. A high, messy bun with volume is also a great option, as your thickness naturally lends itself to a substantial bun. You can also try a low ponytail and wrap a section around the elastic for a polished look that manages your volume.
How can I make my long hair look fuller?
To make long hair look fuller, you can try using volumizing mousse at the roots before blow-drying. Texturizing spray or dry shampoo applied to the roots also adds significant volume and grip. When styling, gently pulling apart sections of braids or buns after securing them, a technique called “pancaking,” creates a softer and more voluminous appearance.
What are the best ways to protect long hair from damage when styling?
Always use a heat protectant spray before applying any heat tools like flat irons or curling irons. You should also ensure your hair is completely dry before using heat to avoid steam damage. Using gentle hair ties, like silk scrunchies, and avoiding very tight styles can prevent breakage. Regular trims also help remove split ends, which can travel up the hair shaft and cause more damage.
