Cute Hairstyles for Long Hair Girls & Teens

Long hair is both a blessing and a tangled, time-consuming workout. One minute, you’re channeling your inner Rapunzel, and the next, your strands have formed a bird’s nest worthy of its own zip code.

But the truth is, when it’s styled right? Long hair can go from “just rolled out of bed” to Pinterest board royalty in minutes. That’s where cute hairstyles for long hair come in—simple, stylish, and guaranteed to make your selfies pop (no filter needed).

Now, I’ve been in the hair-blogging and SEO trenches for years—yep, writing Google-friendly content and perfecting heatless curls are both on my résumé.

And whether you’re rushing to class, prepping for date night, or simply vibing in your bedroom mirror (don’t lie, we all do it), this post has 12 easy, trending, and totally doable hairstyles to turn your long locks into a look.

We’ll cover everything from casual messy buns to TikTok-famous braids—plus a few personal tricks I swear by to keep it all together without 17 bobby pins falling out mid-day.

1. Bubble Braid for Long Hair

I tried this look on a lazy Sunday, and let me tell you—it turned “I didn’t wash my hair” into “Whoa, did you just walk off a fashion shoot?”

It’s playful, chic, and ridiculously easy with a few clear elastics.

This style works best on thick or medium-textured hair and is one of my favorite cute hairstyles for long hair.

When I want volume without heat—especially if you also love styles like these braided pigtails half-up half-down.

2. Half-Up Bow Hairstyle

This one is pure magic if you’re going for sweet-meets-sassy. I wore it to brunch once and got more compliments than I did on my waffles (which says a lot).

It’s perfect for those with silky, long locks and adds a fun twist to the typical half-up style.

Bonus tip: a bit of hairspray helps the “bow” keep its shape all day—just like these fun braided pigtail styles for kids that stay in place for hours.

3. Soft Beach Waves

Nothing screams effortless beauty like soft beach waves.

I use a large-barrel curling iron and finish with texturizing spray—it gives that windswept, I-woke-up-like-this vibe.

Great for everyday wear or casual outings, this is one of the most versatile cute hairstyles for long hair that flatters every face shape.

If you love relaxed textures, you might also enjoy these medium-length wavy hairstyles.

4. Double Dutch Braids

Okay, this one gives serious sporty spice energy, and I love it for gym days or running errands.

Once you get the hang of Dutch braiding (under, not over!), it’s surprisingly fast.

Works best on long hair with some grip—so skip the conditioner that day for better hold.

5. Messy High Bun

A classic for a reason! This is my go-to for “I have 3 minutes and zero patience” days.

Just flip, twist, pin, and go—messier is better. Among cute hairstyles for long hair, this one wins for ease, comfort, and the ability to fake being put together.

6. Side Fishtail Braid

I fell in love with this one at a summer wedding—it’s elegant but not overly formal.

Works beautifully on long, layered hair, and a little texturizing powder adds fullness.

It’s also one of those styles that looks even better as it loosens throughout the day—similar to these beautifully detailed braided pigtails for black women.

7. Ribbon-Tied Ponytail

When I want to add a romantic, girly touch to a basic ponytail, I just grab a ribbon and voilà—instant glow-up.

Choose silk or velvet for a luxe finish. This is one of my favorite cute hairstyles for long hair on date nights or garden parties (or pretending I’m in one).

8. Loose Curl Half-Up Style

I rock this look when I can’t decide between having my hair up or down—it’s the best of both worlds.

Great for long hair with natural body, and perfect for softening strong features—especially when paired with face-framing layers like the butterfly haircut for long hair.