Easy Hairstyles For When You’re Running Late

Ever played that dangerous I’m-just-going-to-close-my-eyes-for-5-minutes game and woken up in a panic half an hour later? We’ve all been there. If your instant reaction to running late to work/date/life is to scrape your hair back in a panic or leave it unkempt and wild then we’re here to save you with these super quick hairstyles. Just because you don’t have time on your hands, it doesn’t mean your messy hair has to give the game away!

The ‘I Woke Up Like This’ Hair Heroes

Hair bands
Hair brush
Hair grips
Hairspray (if time permits!)

Sorry, this product is currently out of stock.

Superdrug Superdrug Black Hair Bands 70 Pack

Superdrug Superdrug Tail Comb

Superdrug Superdrug Jumbo Pack 70 Brown Hair Grips

Superdrug Superdrug Hairspray Extra Firm Hold 450ml £2.49 2 for £4 on selected Superdrug Hair Styling

Glamorous Grecian Braids

Who me? Late? Never! These braids are so easy to pull off that you could probably get away with doing them on the train as you make your way to work – just keep a couple of grips in your handbag!

Step 1 – Separate front section

If you have time for a little brush through first, then fab, if not then just run your fingers through your hair and grab a small front section.

Step 2 – Plait

Do a classic three-strand braid (that’s the one where the outer section swaps with the middle, then repeat on the other side) until you’re three-quarters of the way down the hair. Secure with a clear elastic band.

Step 3 – Repeat on other side

Do step 2 on the other side of your hair, grabbing a similar-sized section of hair and braiding it to the same length. Finish with a tie.

Step 4 – Pin back

Take a hair grip, sweep your braid back and pin it into place. Repeat on the other side and try to position as symmetrically as possible for a polished finish.

Prettier than a Pony

A ponytail is always a giveaway that you a) haven’t had time to hit the dry shampoo and b) woke up late. So, throw a curveball with this pretty twist top knot instead.

Step 1 – Create a ponytail

Sweep your hair back into a high ponytail. Use a brush to make it look neat or fingers if you’re deliberately going for an undone vibe. Secure with a hair band and spritz hairspray for extra hold.

Step 2 – Section & twist

Split the ponytail in half and with one section twist it around the hair band until a bun starts forming. Pin into place. Repeat with the second section of hair and pin.

Half up Half Down

This one is great for when you’re running late to see your besties – a relaxed style that’s playful.

Step 1 – Section hair & twist

Using your fingertips, pull back a front section of hair. Next, twist until the hair begins to create a messy bun.

Step 2 – Secure into place

Using hair grips, pin your messy top knot into place. Pull out any uneven bits if you have time!

Fancy French Braids

If you’ve got braid tekkers, then you’ll find this one super easy. Warning: Don’t try this if you find a normal braid a challenge.

Step 1 – Create a centre parting

Woman sectioning hair into centre parting

Use the thin end of a tail comb brush or your fingers to create a centre parting.

Step 2 – Braid away

Create three smaller sections on one side and start your braid. Braid from the front to the back and secure with a hair band. Repeat on the other side.

Top Tip: For the finer deets on how to create this in seconds check out our full French braid tutorial.

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