Some mornings, your hair just decides it’s going to do its own thing, and not even your fancy $35 mousse can convince it otherwise. We’ve all been there, staring in the mirror like it betrayed us.
That’s why I put together these hairstyle style hacks—because we deserve better than a frizzy bun and a prayer. Whether you’re running late, out of dry shampoo, or just tired of the same old ponytail, I’ve got you covered with tricks that are quick, clever, and—dare I say—kinda genius.
Now, you might be wondering, What exactly are hairstyle style hacks? Basically, they’re the little shortcuts and pro tips that take your hair game from “meh” to magazine-worthy, without needing a glam squad.
As someone who’s written hundreds of blog posts (and spent way too much time in the SEO trenches), I know how important it is to create content that solves real problems—and let’s face it, bad hair days are a universal struggle.
1. Flip Your Part for Instant Volume
This one’s my go-to on lazy hair days. Just flip your part to the opposite side—it gives an instant lift at the roots without needing a single spritz of product.
It’s perfect for anyone with flat, second-day hair who wants a quick refresh.
Out of all the easy bob hairstyles, this one’s hands-down the easiest and fastest.
2. Use Dry Shampoo Before Bed
I used to apply dry shampoo in the morning—big mistake.
Applying it before bed lets it absorb oil overnight, so you wake up with fresh, voluminous hair.
It’s especially great if you have fine or oily hair like mine that gets greasy fast.
This trick pairs well with clean look hairstyles that need smooth, oil-free roots.
3. Tame Flyaways with a Toothbrush & Hairspray
Sounds weird, but it works like magic.
Spray a little hairspray on a clean toothbrush, then gently smooth down any rebellious flyaways.
I’ve done this before job interviews, weddings—you name it. If you’re prepping for a big day, wedding guest hairstyles also rely on tricks like this for a flawless finish.
4. Secure Bobby Pins with a Criss-Cross
Bobby pins slipping out all day? Been there.
I learned to criss-cross two pins (like an “X”) to lock them in place, and it’s been a game-changer.
This trick works on everything from buns to braids and actually holds all day, even if you’re dancing or running around.
5. Backcomb Only the Roots for Lift
Teasing used to scare me—hello, 80s flashbacks.
But backcombing just at the roots gives you that subtle lift without the mess.
I use this under ponytails or at my crown when my hair feels flat.
It’s one of those sneaky hairstyle style hacks that looks natural but makes a big difference.
6. Use Clear Elastics for Sleek Looks
Clear elastics are like the secret agents of hair tools—silent, invisible, and effective.
I use them when I want my style to look polished without the distraction of a big hair tie.
Whether you’re doing braids or a sleek pony, they blend right in and keep everything secure.
This is a must-know for anyone trying clean girl hairstyle ideas.
7. Create a Fuller Ponytail with the Double-Pony Trick
Want your ponytail to look longer and fuller? Just split your hair into two and stack two ponytails on top of each other.
The top one hides the bottom one, creating the illusion of thick, voluminous hair.
I’ve used this on days when my hair felt “meh,” and it always gives me a little boost.
If you love simple tricks like this, you’ll enjoy our roundup of hairstyles for long hair.
8. Cover Hair Ties with a Strand of Hair
This one’s a red carpet classic—and yes, you can totally pull it off at home.
Take a small piece of hair from your ponytail and wrap it around the base to hide the elastic, then pin it underneath.
It makes any simple pony look polished and put-together, no stylist needed.
9. Fake Bangs Using a High Bun
I was terrified of cutting bangs, so I faked them first using this trick.
Pull your hair into a high bun, then pull a small section forward and pin it across your forehead.
It’s surprisingly cute and lets you test the bang life before fully committing.
Plus, it’s one of the more playful hairstyle style hacks on this list.
10. Get Heatless Waves with a Robe Tie
Heatless curls with a bathrobe tie? I thought it was TikTok nonsense until I actually tried it.
Wrap your damp hair around the robe tie, sleep on it, and wake up to effortless waves.
It works best on medium to long hair and saves your strands from daily heat damage.
11. Use a Headband for an Effortless Updo
Whenever I’m in a rush, I throw on a headband and twist my hair into an easy updo.
Not only does it hold everything in place, but it also instantly adds a chic vibe.
I’ve used this trick for everything from casual weekends to semi-formal events.
It’s one of those simple hairstyle style hacks that feels fancy but takes 3 minutes max.
12. Keep Braids Loose for a Softer Look
I used to pull my braids so tight, I could feel my scalp saying, “Stop.”
But now I keep them loose for a more relaxed, boho vibe. This works especially well for thick or curly hair.
Plus, it gives you that effortless, soft look that makes people ask if you’ve spent hours styling.
You can find inspiration from these pretty braided hairstyles.
13. Use Lip Balm on Baby Hairs in a Rush
Okay, don’t judge me, but I’ve been in situations where I had no time for hair gel, and lip balm saved me.
I rub a little on my fingers and smooth down those pesky baby hairs.
It’s a quick and effective hack when you need sleek edges but don’t have the right product on hand.
14. Secure Layers with Hidden Bobby Pins
When I’m working with layered hair, I’ll sneak in hidden bobby pins to keep everything in place without it looking bulky.
This works especially well with loose waves or textured styles.
It’s one of those hairstyle style hacks that make your hair look effortlessly put-together, even if you didn’t spend an hour on it.
15. Add a Clip-in Ponytail for Drama
I’ll admit it—sometimes, I want that big, dramatic ponytail without the hassle of growing my hair out.
Clip-in ponytails are a game-changer! Whether I’m heading to an event or just feeling extra, this hack gives me volume and length in seconds.
It’s the perfect solution when you want to turn heads with minimal effort.
16. Twist Hair Instead of Curling for Quick Texture
Curled hair can take forever to perfect, but I’ve found that twisting my hair around my fingers creates quick texture with way less effort.
It works for all hair types and looks super natural, like you just stepped off a beach.
Just twist and go for a low-maintenance, yet styled look.
17. Use Eyeshadow to Fill in a Sparse Hairline
Confession time: I have a bit of a sparse hairline, and eyeshadow has become my secret weapon.
I use a soft, matte brown eyeshadow to fill in areas and make my hairline look fuller.
It’s one of those hairstyle style hacks I never thought would work, but now I swear by it for every special occasion.
18. Smooth Hair with a Silk Scarf Overnight
If you’ve ever woken up to wild, tangled hair, you need to try this.
I wrap my hair in a silk scarf before bed, and it keeps my hair smooth and frizz-free all night.
It works especially well if you have curly or textured hair. You’ll wake up looking like you just walked out of a salon.
For more tips on keeping frizz at bay, check out these hairstyles for frizzy hair.
19. Use a Claw Clip for Instant Chic
The claw clip is my ultimate low-maintenance hero. It’s the easiest way to throw your hair up in a style that looks effortlessly chic.
I use it when I want a polished, “I have my life together” vibe, but I don’t want to spend more than 5 minutes on it.
Whether you’re working from home or going out, it’s the easiest way to look fabulous with minimal effort.
20. French Braid Wet Hair for Overnight Texture
I love this one because it’s heatless and works wonders on second-day hair.
French braiding your wet hair before bed gives you soft waves in the morning without any hot tools.
Plus, you can wake up, take out the braids, and look like you just stepped off the runway.
It’s a great hack for those lazy mornings when you need texture but don’t want to do a thing.
21. Wrap Ponytails with a Scrunchie for Volume
A scrunchie isn’t just a 90s comeback—it’s a legit volume booster.
When I want my ponytail to look fuller without teasing, I wrap it in a soft scrunchie.
It adds lift at the base and gives off a playful, retro vibe.
Honestly, it’s one of the coziest hairstyle style hacks I’ve ever used.
22. Add Texture Spray Before Braiding
If your braids are always slipping out or looking flat, texture spray is your best friend.
I spray it in before braiding to give my strands some grip and fullness. It’s especially helpful for fine or freshly washed hair.
Your braid will hold better and look way more Instagram-worthy.
23. Use Baby Powder in Place of Dry Shampoo
Real talk: I’ve been out of dry shampoo more times than I care to admit.
Baby powder works in a pinch—just dab a tiny amount at your roots and brush it through.
It soaks up oil just like the real stuff and even gives a bit of volume.
Just be careful not to overdo it—you don’t want ghost roots.
24. Do a Low Twist Instead of a Bun
When I want a more elegant look than a messy bun, I go for a low twist.
Just gather your hair at the nape, twist it inward, and pin it in place. It’s sleek, classy, and surprisingly easy to pull off.
This one’s a favorite among my go-to hairstyle style hacks for weddings or date nights.
25. Tuck Hair into a Scarf for a Faux Bob
This trick is pure magic if you’ve ever wondered what you’d look like with short hair.
I tuck the ends of my hair into a scarf tied at my neck, and boom—instant faux bob.
It’s a fun way to switch up your look without any commitment (or scissors). Great for themed parties or bold fashion days.
26. Use a Small Elastic to Tighten Loose Ponytails
You know that moment when your ponytail starts slipping and looking sad?
I sneak a small elastic under the main tie to boost it back up. It instantly lifts the ponytail and keeps it snug all day.
It’s one of those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it hairstyle style hacks, but it makes a huge difference.
27. Create a Fake Undercut with Braids
When I want to feel edgy without the buzz cut regret, I braid one side of my head tightly and pin it underneath.
It gives that undercut illusion while keeping the rest of my hair flowing.
It’s bold, fun, and perfect for festivals, concerts, or just a mood switch-up.
28. Use Curling Iron Vertically for Softer Curls
I used to curl my hair horizontally and always ended up with Shirley Temple spirals.
Switching to vertical sections gave me those soft, modern waves that look effortless.
This hack works for long or medium hair and gives that beachy, undone texture. It’s a small change with major results.
29. Apply Mousse Before Braiding for Definition
Want your braid to pop with clean, defined texture? I learned to apply mousse to damp hair before braiding it makes a huge difference.
Once it dries, the braid holds better, and the waves you get after taking it out are chef’s kiss.
One of the most underrated hairstyle style hacks, in my opinion.
30. Layer Hair Accessories to Dress Up Any Style
When in doubt, accessorize. I like to stack clips, mix in a scarf, or throw in a bold barrette to make even a basic style stand out.
It’s the easiest way to turn your everyday look into something eye-catching.
Plus, it lets your personality shine through with zero extra styling time.
