Ready to get your hair up and out of the way without spending hours in front of the mirror? I know I am! Sometimes you just need a quick fix that looks polished and put-together, even on busy mornings. That’s where the magic of easy updos comes in. Today, I’m sharing my absolute favorite 21+ easy hairstyles up, including some super chic claw clip looks and my go-to messy bun secrets.
Growing up in my mom’s salon, I saw firsthand how a simple twist or pin could totally transform someone’s mood. I wasn’t just sweeping floors; I was soaking up every trick of the trade. My mom always said beauty should feel good, not like a chore. That idea stuck with me. Now, through Glam Hair Nails, I want to make beautiful hair feel totally doable for everyone.
Whether you’re running errands, heading to work, or just want your hair off your neck, these styles are for you. I promise, you don’t need to be a pro stylist to nail these looks. My goal is to educate, inspire, and empower you to feel amazing with minimal effort. Let’s get started!
Our Top Easy Updo Pick: The Elevated Messy Bun
Okay, so out of all the easy hairstyles up I’m going to share, there’s one that holds a special place in my heart (and on my head!). It’s the elevated messy bun. Why is it my top pick? Because it’s the ultimate combination of effortless cool and surprising polish. You can wear it anywhere, and it always looks just right.
From quick twists to clever uses of claw clips, I’ve rounded up 22 ways to get your hair up in no time. We’ll count down from number 22 to my number one favorite, the elevated messy bun. Get ready to find your new go-to look!
22. The Simple Twist and Pin
This is your absolute fastest updo. Just twist a section of hair from each side and pin them together at the back. It takes maybe thirty seconds. This works great for all hair lengths, even bobs. If you have layers, let a few pieces fall for a softer look.
21. The Low Ponytail Wrap
Gather your hair into a low ponytail. Take a small strand, wrap it around the hair tie, and secure it with a bobby pin. It instantly makes a basic ponytail look more intentional. This is perfect for medium to long hair.
20. The Half-Up Claw Clip
Grab the top half of your hair, twist it slightly, and secure with a cute claw clip. It’s a classic for a reason – it’s so easy! This style suits most hair types and lengths, especially those with some natural wave.
19. The Double Bun
Part your hair down the middle and create two high pigtails. Twist each pigtail into a small bun and secure with mini hair ties or pins. It’s playful and keeps your hair totally off your neck. This is fun for medium to long hair.
18. The French Twist (Easy Version)
Sweep your hair to one side, then twist it upwards along the back of your head. Tuck the ends in and secure with bobby pins. Don’t worry about it being perfect; a little messiness is okay! This works best on medium to long hair.
17. The Bubble Ponytail Updo
Start with a high ponytail. Place small elastics down the ponytail, creating sections that you gently pull apart to make “bubbles.” Then, tuck the ponytail up towards your head and pin it. This is a fun twist on a basic updo.
16. The Knotted Low Bun
Divide your low ponytail into two sections. Tie them in a simple knot, then tie another knot. Secure the ends underneath with pins. It looks more complicated than it is! This is good for medium to long, thicker hair.
15. The Scarf-Wrapped Bun
Put your hair in a bun. Tie a pretty scarf around the base of the bun. It adds color and hides any messy bits. This works with any bun style and adds a pop of personality.
14. The Side Braid Updo
Braid a section of hair on one side of your head. Bring the braid across the back and pin it into your bun or ponytail. It adds a touch of detail without much extra effort. Good for adding interest to simple updos.
13. The Pulled-Through Ponytail Updo
Make a low ponytail. Create a gap above the hair tie and flip the ponytail up and through the hole. You can do this multiple times. Then, twist the end into a bun and pin. It creates a lovely twisted effect.
12. The High Ponytail with a Twist Base
Pull your hair into a high ponytail. Take a small section from underneath the ponytail and twist it tightly. Wrap this twisted section around the base of the ponytail and pin it. Simple, but effective.
11. The Bobby Pin Art
Put your hair in a bun or twist. Use decorative bobby pins to create a cool pattern on the outside. This is a great way to use those pretty pins you have! It adds a modern touch to any updo.
10. The Low Side Bun
Sweep your hair to one side and create a low bun near your ear. It’s relaxed and a little romantic. This works well with hair that has some texture. Let face-framing pieces fall out.
9. The Top Knot (Truly Messy)
Flip your head over, gather your hair on top, and twist it into a bun. Secure with a hair tie. Don’t overthink it – the messier, the better! This is a classic for a reason and works on most hair types.
8. The Mini Claw Clip Accents
Instead of one big clip, use several mini claw clips to secure sections of a half-up style or to decorate a bun. It’s a cute trend right now. This is fun for adding little pops of color or sparkle.
7. The Pin-Curl Updo (Cheat)
Twist small sections of hair and pin them flat against your head, creating a pattern of flat coils. It looks like pin curls but takes way less time. This can work on a variety of hair lengths.
6. The Braided Bun
Braid your ponytail (or just the ends) and then wrap the braid into a bun. It adds texture and keeps the bun very secure. This is a good option if your hair tends to slip out of buns.
5. The Half-Up Top Knot
Take the top half of your hair and create a small, messy top knot. Leave the rest of your hair down. It’s the perfect mix of up and down. Great for showing off your length while keeping hair off your face.
4. The Low Twisted Updo with Claw Clip
Gather your hair at the nape of your neck. Twist it upwards like you’re doing a French twist, but stop halfway. Secure the twist with a medium to large claw clip. It’s elegant and super fast.
3. The High Ponytail into a Loop
Make a high ponytail. On the last wrap of the hair tie, pull the ponytail only halfway through, creating a loop. Leave the ends sticking out. This is a quick and casual look.
2. The Multiple Mini Buns
Part your hair into several sections and create small buns all over your head. You can do two, three, or even more! It’s a playful and edgy style. Fun for festivals or just a different look.
1. Elevated Messy Bun
This is it, my favorite! The key to an elevated messy bun is adding a little volume at the crown before you start. Gather your hair into a ponytail where you want the bun to sit. Twist the ponytail loosely and wrap it around the base, securing with pins. Gently pull pieces from the bun and around your face to create that perfectly imperfect look. It works for almost everyone and transitions seamlessly from day to night.
Quick Tips for Making Any Updo Easy
Want to make these easy hairstyles up even easier? I’ve got a few simple tricks I always use. These little things make a big difference when you’re trying to get your hair looking good in a hurry.
Using the Right Tools
Having the right tools on hand is half the battle. Stock up on good quality hair ties that don’t snag. Bobby pins are your best friend – I like to use ones that match my hair color so they disappear. And of course, a few different sizes of claw clips are a must for quick styles.
Prep Your Hair
Starting with hair that has a little grip makes updos much easier. If your hair is too clean and slippery, try spraying some dry shampoo or texturizing spray through it first. It adds hold and makes pins and clips stay put better.
Don’t Strive for Perfection
Seriously, let go of trying to make it look like a salon updo. The charm of easy hairstyles up is that they are a little undone. Embrace the flyaways and the pieces that fall out. It gives the style character and makes it look effortless, not messy in a bad way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Updos
I get asked a lot of questions about making updos work, especially for different hair types and lengths. Here are some of the most common ones people ask me. Hopefully, these answers help you feel more confident trying out these easy hairstyles up!
What’s the easiest updo for short hair?
For short hair, I love a half-up style with a small clip or even just pins. You can also do mini buns if your hair is just long enough to gather. Focusing on the top section keeps the rest down while still getting hair out of your face. A few well-placed pins can work wonders too.
How can I make my messy bun stay all day?
The key here is texture! Use a texturizing spray before you start. When you twist and wrap the hair, don’t make it too tight initially. Secure with good quality bobby pins, pushing them into the base of the bun. A light mist of hairspray helps, but don’t go overboard or it loses the “messy” part.
Are claw clips good for all hair types?
Yes, mostly! You just need the right size clip for your hair. If you have thick, long hair, you’ll need a large, strong clip. For fine or short hair, smaller or medium clips work best. There are so many styles now, you can find one that grips your specific hair type well.
Conclusion
See? Getting your hair up doesn’t have to be a huge production. These 21+ easy hairstyles up are proof that you can look chic and feel comfortable with minimal effort. Whether you’re grabbing a claw clip or twisting up a messy bun, there’s a quick style here for every day and every mood.
Don’t be afraid to play around and find what works best for your hair. The goal is to feel good and confident. Try out a few of these looks this week and see how easy it is to elevate your everyday style!
