1. High Ponytail with a Twist:
* How:
* Flip your head over and gather your hair into a high ponytail at the crown.
* Secure tightly with a strong elastic.
* Take a small section of hair from the ponytail, wrap it around the elastic to hide it, and secure with a bobby pin underneath.
* Why it Works: High ponytails are quick and show off your hair's thickness. The wrapped elastic adds a polished touch.
* Staying Power: Use a hairspray with a strong hold to tame flyaways. Also consider using a bungee elastic.
2. Messy Bun (Top Knot or Low Bun):
* How:
* Flip your head over.
* Gather your hair into a ponytail at the desired height (high for a top knot, low for a nape-of-the-neck bun). Don't worry about making it perfect.
* Twist the ponytail loosely.
* Wrap the twisted ponytail around the base to form a bun.
* Secure with bobby pins, focusing on holding the bun in place. Don't be afraid to leave some ends sticking out for a messy vibe.
* Why it Works: Embraces natural texture and is effortlessly chic.
* Staying Power: Use plenty of bobby pins! Crisscross them to secure the bun firmly. Use a texture spray or dry shampoo before creating the bun for added grip.
3. Half-Up Top Knot:
* How:
* Section off the top half of your hair, from temple to temple.
* Gather this section into a ponytail.
* Twist the ponytail loosely.
* Wrap the twisted ponytail around the base to form a small bun.
* Secure with a small elastic or bobby pins.
* Why it Works: Keeps hair out of your face while still showing off length and thickness.
* Staying Power: Make sure the bun is secure at the base. A little hairspray can help.
4. Braided Headband (or Faux Braid):
* How (Real Braid):
* Take a section of hair near your hairline on one side of your head.
* Braid this section (French, Dutch, or regular braid) along your hairline towards the other side of your head.
* Secure the end of the braid with a small elastic and tuck it behind your ear or secure with bobby pins.
* How (Faux Braid Twist):
*Take a section of hair near your hairline on one side of your head.
*Divide into 2 sections twist the sections until reach the other side secure with bobby pins.
* Why it Works: A cute and stylish way to keep hair out of your face.
* Staying Power: Use bobby pins strategically to hold the braid in place. Hairspray will help tame flyaways.
5. Low Side Braid:
* How:
* Sweep your hair to one side.
* Braid your hair into a regular or fishtail braid.
* Secure with an elastic.
* Gently pull at the sections of the braid to loosen it and make it look fuller.
* Why it Works: Easy, romantic, and great for showing off length and volume.
* Staying Power: Use a texturizing spray before braiding for grip. A little hairspray after braiding will prevent frizz.
General Tips for Thick Hair:
* Practice Makes Perfect: Try these styles a few times on the weekend when you have more time.
* Dry Shampoo is Your Friend: Use dry shampoo at the roots to add volume and absorb oil, especially on days when you don't have time to wash your hair. This also helps with grip.
* Texture Products: Use mousse, texture spray, or sea salt spray on damp hair before styling for added texture and hold.
* Good Elastics: Invest in strong elastics that won't snap or stretch out easily. Bungee elastics can also be very helpful for thick hair.
* Bobby Pins: Buy good quality bobby pins that have a rubber coating for better grip.
* Don't Overthink It: The beauty of these styles is that they don't need to be perfect! A little messiness is part of the charm.
* Pre-Prep: Consider washing your hair the night before and braiding it loosely to create waves overnight, or simply air drying.
Let me know if you'd like more ideas! Good luck!