Long hair can be both a beautiful asset and a challenge in a professional work environment. It’s important to have a hairstyle that looks neat, presentable, and complies with your workplace’s dress code. There are numerous ways to style long hair for work that are both stylish and practical. In this article, we will explore different options based on various hair types and work settings.
Simple Ponytail Styles
The Classic High Ponytail
Start by gathering all your long hair at the crown of your head. Use a smooth hair tie to secure it. Make sure the hair is pulled tightly to create a sleek look. This style keeps the hair out of your face and gives a clean, professional appearance.
To add a touch of elegance, you can take a small section of hair from the ponytail, wrap it around the hair tie, and secure it with a bobby pin. This hides the hair tie and makes the ponytail look more polished.
For an extra sleek effect, you can use a boar – bristle brush to smooth the hair before tying it up. If you have any flyaways, you can use a small amount of hairspray to tame them.
The Low Ponytail
Gather your long hair at the nape of your neck. This creates a more relaxed and understated look compared to the high ponytail.
The low ponytail is great for a more conservative work environment.
You can add some volume to the ponytail by gently back – combing the hair at the crown before pulling it back. This gives a bit of lift and makes the style more interesting.
To make the low ponytail more refined, you can use a silk or satin hair tie. These materials are less likely to cause breakage and give a more luxurious feel. You can also add a decorative clip or a ribbon to the hair tie for a touch of style.
The Side Ponytail
Sweep all your long hair to one side and create a ponytail at the side of your head. This style is both feminine and professional. The side ponytail can be positioned either high or low on the side, depending on your preference.
When creating a side ponytail, make sure to smooth the hair as you gather it. You can use a comb to create a part on the opposite side of where the ponytail will be. This adds a nice detail to the style.
For a more modern look, you can add a loose braid to the ponytail. Braid a small section of the ponytail and secure the end with a clear elastic.
Braided Hairstyles
The French Braid
Start at the top of your head and begin a French braid. Incorporate small sections of hair as you braid downwards. The French braid keeps the hair neat and close to the scalp.
For a professional look, make the braid tight and smooth. You can use a small amount of hair gel or styling cream to keep any loose hairs in place.
If you have thick long hair, you can make two French braids, one on each side of your head, and either leave them as they are or gather them at the back into a ponytail or a bun.
The Fishtail Braid
Divide your long hair into two sections. Take a small strand from the outside of one section and cross it over to the other section. Repeat this process, alternating sides. This creates a beautiful fishtail braid.
The fishtail braid can be done in the center of your head, starting from the forehead and going all the way down, or it can be a side fishtail braid.
To make the fishtail braid look more polished for work, you can pull it slightly to make it look fuller and more textured.
Secure the end with a small elastic.
The Dutch Braid
Similar to the French braid, but instead of crossing the strands under, you cross them over. This creates a raised, more voluminous look.
Start the Dutch braid at the front of your head and work your way back. You can make one large Dutch braid or two smaller ones on either side.
For a professional finish, tuck the end of the braid under or use bobby pins to secure it if you’re wearing the braid as an updo.
Bun Styles
The Classic Bun
Gather all your long hair at the crown or the nape of your neck. Twist the hair around itself to form a bun. Use bobby pins to secure it in place.
For a smooth bun, brush your hair thoroughly before twisting it. You can also use a hair donut or a bun – making tool to create a more perfect shape.
If you want a more relaxed look, you can leave a few strands of hair loose around your face. This softens the style and gives it a more natural feel.
The Messy Bun
This is a great option for a more creative or casual work environment. Gather your long hair into a high or low ponytail. Then, twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base, securing it with bobby pins.
Pull out a few strands of hair around your face and at the nape of your neck to create a messy, effortless look. You can also use your fingers to loosen the bun slightly for more volume.
For an added touch, you can add a decorative hairpin or a scarf to the bun.
The Braided Bun
Create a braid or multiple braids with your long hair. Then, twist the braids together to form a bun. This style combines the elegance of a bun with the texture of a braid.
You can make a simple three – strand braid or a more intricate fishtail or French braid. Secure the bun with bobby pins and add any desired accessories.
Half – Up, Half – Down Styles
The Simple Half – Up
Take the top half of your long hair and gather it at the crown of your head. Use a hair tie or a clip to secure it. This style keeps the hair out of your face while still showing off the length of your hair.
You can add a small braid to the half – up section for some extra style. For example, make a thin French braid along the hairline and incorporate it into the half – up ponytail.
To make the style more refined, use a decorative hair tie or a clip with some embellishment.
The Twisted Half – Up
Take two sections of hair from the front of your head and twist them towards the back. Secure them with a bobby pin or a small clip. This creates a simple yet elegant look.
You can repeat this process with more sections of hair for a more elaborate style. The twisted half – up look is great for adding a touch of sophistication to your long hair.
For a more finished look, you can use hairspray to keep the twists in place and smooth any flyaways.
Using Hair Accessories
Headbands
A simple, thin headband can be a great addition to long hair for work. It can keep the hair out of your face and add a touch of style.
Choose a headband that matches your work attire, such as a black or neutral – colored one for a more professional look.
You can also use a wide, fabric headband. These can be used to cover the hairline and add a pop of color or pattern. Make sure the headband is not too flashy for your workplace environment.
Barrettes and Clips
Use small, elegant barrettes to hold sections of hair back. For example, you can use a barrette to hold one side of your hair behind your ear. This is a simple way to keep the hair in place and add a decorative element.
Larger clips can be used to create half – up styles. Choose clips that are made of quality materials and have a simple design.
Avoid clips with too much bling or bright colors if your workplace has a more conservative dress code.
Hairpins
Bobby pins are essential for securing buns, braids, and other hairstyles. Use them to keep your style in place throughout the workday. You can also use decorative hairpins with small jewels or pearls to add a touch of glamour to your hairstyle.
Conclusion
Fixing long hair for work requires a combination of practicality and style. By choosing the right hairstyle based on your hair type, workplace environment, and personal preference, you can ensure that your long hair looks great and professional throughout the workday. Experiment with different styles and accessories to find the perfect look that makes you feel confident and ready to take on the challenges of your job.