One of the worst feelings a girl can have is waking up in the morning with messy, unmanageable hair and limited time. You also know that you still need time for makeup, selecting an outfit and grabbing some breakfast on the go.
But what about hair? You must find a solution before leaving the room and actually facing society. It may seem stressful, and you might want to quit and throw your bedhead hastily into a messy ponytail. But think again. All you need is a bottle of hairspray, a set of clips and a bottomless box of bobby pins to create effortless, unique looks that will leave everyone thinking you have a team of hairstylists helping you.
School Braid
Creativity spices up your life, and this unique side braid certainly will make your morning, and rest of the day, much more exciting. The long, messy side braid has been a staple look at Fashion Week for many years. The look is updated with loose sections of hair framing the face and an imperfect braid. Steinhardt freshman Ilana Faibish said, “This look makes going to class so much more exciting.” Whether you’re wearing a casual sweatshirt, eccentric sweater or flouncy dress, you can never go wrong with a simple yet elegant side braid. Pieces of hair still frame your face while the unfussy braid keeps hair out of your way. Just loosely braid your hair and insert one hair tie of medium thickness at the end. Gently loosen the braid and pull some framing pieces out for an undone look.
Laid-Back Waves
Nothing says casual and easy like a Tommy Hilfiger-inspired, all-American center part style. Wearing this style the day after you wear a braid is recommended since hair will have the perfect amount of cascading waves. The look is simple to achieve. First, part your hair down the middle for a sultry ’70s vibe. However, a perfectly straight part is not necessary – keep the carefree look going by leaving the part a little jagged. Apply a lightweight product to your hair, and gently scrunch your locks with your fingers to awaken the natural waves. With this natural look, you’ll be out the door in seconds.
Messy Up-do
As the week progresses, try something a bit more exotic but still just as easy. This look was tried and recommended by CAS freshman Alison Collins. First, Collins loosely curled her hair with a curling iron and then grabbed a lot of bobby pins. Spray a lightweight hairspray all over your hair so the style will hold. Part your hair in a deep side part for a romantic look. Then, take small sections of hair and twist them toward the nape of the neck to create a loose bun, sticking bobby pins in as you gather a bundle of hair. For even more texture, braid some pieces and tuck them into the messy bun.
A version of this article appeared in the Wednesday Oct. 3 print edition. Kimberly Schu is a contributing writer. Email her at [email protected].