17 Low-Maintenance Hairstyles That Will Make Your Hair Look So Much Healthier

As a beauty editor, I adore low-maintenance hairstyles. Their ability to instantly zhuzh up any look with minimal effort is unmatched, whether I'm opting for a simple yet elegant bun or if I'm adding a few accessories.

As someone who also previously got my hair cut from shoulder-length to chin-length, I mostly leave it to air dry, so I’m all over the low-effort approach. From slept-in bobs and bedhead looks to messy buns and flicked-over partings, if there's one thing I know for a fact, it is that the "undone" aesthetic isn't going anywhere anytime soon.

It's worth noting that although the finished result often gives off an "I woke up like this" look, some thought is still required to nail a low-maintenance hair trend.

"Three elements must be prioritised when it comes to low-maintenance hair," explains hair trend forecaster and stylist Tom Smith. "Growth patterns—like cowlicks or double crowns—curl or wave patterns, and the condition and health of the hair. I like to cut hair with respect to its natural characteristics so that it can be washed and fall into place rather than requiring lots of styling," he says.

"There’s nothing wrong with styles that require extra work to make them look as desired, but for low-maintenance styles, honouring your natural hair state is essential. Hair should fall into place with minimal to no blow-drying or styling. Any hair colour should be blended up into the natural hair at the root, so as not to cause an obvious regrowth, and should be a stable tone that isn't subject to rapid colour fade."

Keep reading for trending low-maintenance hairstyles and haircuts as well as top product recommendations and tips and tricks from Smith.

Best Low-Maintenance Hairstyles, According to a Beauty Editor

1. Flicked-Over Parting

Flicked-over partings give an effortless, undone feel.

2. Low Ponytail

Tie your hair back in style by investing in a fabric hair scrunchie.

3. Wavy Bob

The ultimate chin-grazing bob inspo. Elsa Hosk has naturally wavy hair, which works beautifully with this cut.

4. Half-Up Half-Down

A favourite hairstyle of Hailey Bieber, too, the half-up-half-down look is easy to achieve and works on both shorter and longer hair.

5. Tucked-In

A quiet-luxury look from top to toe. Who knew tucking your hair into your jacket could be so chic?

6. Mini Braids On Your Parting

If you're off on holiday or heading to a festival, pick up some small elastic hair bands so you can easily create mini plaits on either side of your parting.

7. Twist-Up Bun

For any easy, no-fuss up-do, twist your hair around itself and hold it in place with a large claw clip.

8. Textured Curls

If you have naturally curly hair like Kristen Cabatingan, think about adding texture around the front and lengths to create volume and bounce.

9. Top Knot

For textured hair, twists and braids styled in a top knot are a summer-approved vibe. Not only do they look amazing, but this style will keep the hair out of your face in hot weather.

10. Effortless High Bun

Curls piled on top of the head with a few sections coming down at the front always looks effortlessly cool.

11. Micro-Bob With A Fringe

This micro-bob cut and fringe combo works perfectly with the slight wave in Alyssa Coscarelli's hair.

12. Slicked-Back Bun

A slicked-back bun works just as well with baggy jeans and a jumper as it does with your best evening get up.

13. Add a Bandana

A bandana can easily add a chic touch to any outfit, making it a great accessory for every season. Just think about all the different ways you can wear it!

14. Coquette Bows

Let's be real, the coquette girl aesthetic isn't going anywhere anytime soon. And adding a bow or two to your usual hairstyle is one of the easiest ways to embrace it.

15. Undone Bun

You know the bun that says, "I'm running errands while looking effortlessly cool"?Whether you opt for a claw clip or a hair tie, simply free a few pieces of hair from the bun, and you're golden.

16. Heatless Loose Curls

One of the best low-maintenance ways to enjoy loose curls is by using heatless curl methods (rods, rollers—you name it).

17. Up-Do With Face-Framing Pieces

For those rocking curtain bangs or a face-framing haircut, trust us when we tell you that a chic low bun with a few front pieces falling out is never going to go out of style.

Best Products for Low-Maintenance Hairstyles