| Photography by Sandra Semburg |
Some days my hair wakes up and chooses chaos. Maybe it’s flat, maybe it’s frizzy, maybe it’s a little questionable because I definitely stretched wash day one day too far. Either way, those are the days I lean into low-effort hairstyles that take a few minutes but still make me feel put together.
Here are a few of my favorite quick hairstyles, accessories, and go-to products for those “my hair is not cooperating” mornings.
1. The Effortless Claw Clip Twist
If there’s one accessory that instantly saves a bad hair day, it’s a claw clip.
The trick is to twist your hair loosely at the back of your head and secure it with a clip so a few pieces fall out naturally. It looks intentional but takes about 30 seconds. Why I love it: hides greasy roots, works with messy texture, and feels casual but still styled.
My top 3 favorite claw clips:
2. The Low “French Girl” Bun
When my hair feels extra unmanageable, I go straight to a low, slicked back, messy bun.
Instead of pulling everything tight, leave some softness around your face and let a few strands fall out. It’s one of those styles that somehow looks better when it’s imperfect.
Quick tip:
Add a drop of hair oil to your ends before twisting your bun so it looks glossy instead of frizzy.
3. Perfectly Imperfect Half-Up Style
On days when your hair isn’t fully cooperating but you still want it down, a half-up style is the easiest fix.
Just grab the top section of your hair and secure it with: a claw clip, a small clip or barrette, a ribbon or scrunchie
It adds shape without needing to fully style your hair.
4. Headbands & Hair Scarves
When nothing else is working, accessories are the solution.
Headbands and scarves are perfect for hiding oily roots or flattening weird sections of hair.
A scarf tied loosely at the crown or a simple headband can instantly make your hair look styled, even if you did almost nothing.
My Low Effort Hair Product Staples
Dry Shampoo
Dry shampoo is basically the hero of every bad hair day.
A quick spray at the roots adds volume and absorbs oil so your hair looks fresher instantly.
My favorite dry shampoo
Hair Oil
A small amount of hair oil on the ends helps smooth frizz and adds shine, especially when your hair is feeling dry or dull.
Just a drop or two is enough.
Texture Spray
If your hair is falling flat, texture spray gives it a little grip and volume so styles like buns, braids, and clips actually hold.
No matter what your hair decides to do, having a few easy tricks up your sleeve can make all the difference. These quick styles and go-to favorites help you look polished without the stress, even on the most unpredictable mornings.