6 DIY Hairstyles That Take Second-Day Hair to the Next Level

Lilly Wallace

Whether you went to the gym, overslept, or planned an unexpected date after work, there may be days when you don't have time to wash your hair, but you still want to look put together. Here are six second-day hairstyles to try that require only a few minutes to achieve.

1. Braided Half-Up

Braided hair looks are actually easier to achieve with not-so-clean hair, as the hair has more texture and less "slip" as opposed to when it is freshly washed. Brush your hair and part it in the middle. Section your hair taking only the front area (bangs) and start to braid toward the back of your head. Do the same thing on the other side and then pin the two braids in the back with a couple of bobby pins as needed.

Lilly Wallace

2. Low Chignon

If you prefer not to leave your hair loose in the back, try this variant of the previous style. Part your hair on the side that you prefer, and braid the front section (bangs). Then bring the rest of your hair to the side of the front braid, and keep braiding your hair into a low, side braid. Secure the braid with a ponytail holder, and then spiral it into a bun near the nape of your neck. Secure with bobby pins.

Lilly Wallace

3. Messy Ponytail

This is a very casual style that works well if your hair has still some texturizing product residue in it, or if it is naturally wavy and frizzy. If your hair is looking oily, you may want to use some dry shampoo to freshen it up and add some texture and volume. Take the center section of your front hair and secure it with a bobby pin. If you like, you may tease the section before securing it for a more lifted effect. Pull the rest of your hair in a high ponytail and secure it with a hair band. For a more "messy" look let any short hair and side bangs loose on the side of your face.

Lilly Wallace

For more messy ponytail variations, check out 3 Fresh Ways to Style a Messy Ponytail.

4. Top Knot

If you tried the messy ponytail, but prefer having your hair tucked away, twist the hair around the hair band and secure it with hair pins to create a top knot.

Lilly Wallace

5. Sleek Low Ponytail

This is a style that works well for most hair textures. Part your hair in the center and comb it until you have a smooth ponytail in the back. Secure the ponytail with a hair band. If necessary, use a little hairspray to tame short hairs. For a more formal look, use a small section of the ponytail (about 1 cm) to cover the hair band by wrapping the hair around the band and securing it with a bobby pin.

Lilly Wallace

6. Backcombed, "Wet" Looking Hair

This easy hair style is perfect for an evening out, or any other occasion that requires a more sophisticated look. The only product needed is a hair gel (or a light hair oil) and a tail comb. Brush your hair throughly until it's smooth and then add gel only to the front part of your hair and comb backwards. Leave the rest of your hair gel-free.

Lilly Wallace

For more easy hairstyles, don't miss 10 Insanely Easy Hairstyles You Should Master.