If your hairbrush has more strands than your head right now, and your go-to look is a messy bun held up by sheer willpower… you are so not alone.
But there’s a secret weapon for looking put-together with minimal effort: straight up hairstyles. These sleek, sculpted styles are trending hard and are perfect for days when you want to look snatched without wrestling with a curling wand.
So what exactly are straight up hairstyles? Think buns, twists, braids, and ponytails that lift your hair up—literally and stylistically.
Whether you’ve got a boardroom meeting, brunch plans, or a last-minute wedding invite, these looks have you covered.
I’ve tried most of them myself (some with success, others with more hairspray than dignity), and they’ve saved my hair game more times than I can count.
1. Sleek High Bun
When I want to fake 8 hours of sleep and inner peace, this is my go-to. It’s clean, professional, and gives instant face-lift energy.
Straight hair makes it easier to pull off that smooth finish—just slick it back and twist into a high knot.
For more chic styles, check out our baddie hairstyles for straight hair.
2. Polished Low Chignon
Classy, timeless, and perfect for wedding season. I usually wear this when I want to look like I made an effort (without actually making much).
It’s ideal for people with fine, straight hair because it stays put with just a few pins.
If you’re prepping for a wedding, explore our wedding updos for long hair for more options.
3. Straight Hair Top Knot
This is my lazy day savior. Just flip your head, gather your straight hair into a top knot, and secure with a strong elastic.
It looks intentionally chic and keeps your neck cool during heatwaves or mental breakdowns.
Check out our easy hairstyles for long hair for more effortless looks.
4. Twisted Updo
This one gives off romantic, “I write poetry in cafes” energy.
Great for medium to long hair, and easier than it looks—just twist sections and pin them at the back.
Works beautifully on straight hair because the twists lie flat and stay secure.
5. Side-Swept Updo
The moment you need a touch of drama, this one steps in.
Sweeping your straight hair to one side adds instant elegance, especially when paired with bold earrings.
I wear this for evening events or date nights—it’s got that “movie heroine” vibe.
For other dramatic looks, browse our romantic wedding hairstyles.
6. Sleek French Twist
If straight up hairstyles had a queen, this would be her. The French twist is polished, powerful, and screams sophistication.
I use a fine-tooth comb, bobby pins, and a LOT of hair spray.
It’s ideal for straight, medium-to-long hair types that like a clean finish.
For more polished styles, check out our wedding updos for medium hair.
7. High Ponytail Updo
Want cheekbones without contour? Try this. A sleek, high ponytail pulls your face up and gives major “I’m the boss” energy.
I straighten my hair first to keep it ultra-smooth, then wrap a strand around the base to hide the elastic.
So simple, so powerful.
8. Braided Crown Updo
Yes, this makes me feel like a Disney princess, and no, I’m not ashamed.
Braiding straight hair around the crown is easier than it sounds and stays put all day.
I pancake the braid a little for that fuller look. It’s great for weddings or garden parties (or grocery runs—I don’t judge).
9. Textured Messy Bun
This one’s all about pretending you don’t care (even though you do).
I spritz a little texturizing spray and tease my straight hair before wrapping it into a loose bun.
Leave a few strands hanging out for that “I woke up like this” energy. It’s effortless chic, and always on trend.
10. Double Bun Updo
When I’m feeling fun (or indecisive), I go double. Two sleek buns, one on each side, give off playful, Y2K vibes.
It’s great for straight hair since it creates symmetry and stays neat longer.
I usually add a little glitter or fun clips to spice it up.
11. Slicked-Back Updo
Nothing screams power move like a slicked-back bun.
I wear this to meetings, interviews, or on days when my outfit is already loud and my hair needs to chill.
Straight up hairstyles like this thrive on smooth textures—gel, wax, or even conditioner helps get that glassy finish.
12. Low Braided Updo
Think “romantic dinner in Paris”—that’s the vibe. A loose braid wrapped into a low bun looks soft, stylish, and sophisticated.
Works wonders for medium to long straight hair.
I like to pull out a few face-framing pieces for a casual, undone finish.
13. Half-Up High Bun
The perfect mix of up and down. This is great for when you want your hair off your face but still want some length in the back.
I usually tease the top for volume and then wrap it into a baby bun. It’s quick, cute, and never fails.
14. Pin-Secured Updo
This one’s for the girls who love hair accessories. All you need is some twisting, a few bobby pins, and maybe a sparkly barrette.
Straight up hairstyles like this are versatile because you can pin them in any pattern or shape.
Plus, it works for both casual and dressy occasions.
15. Minimalist Updo with Clips
Some days, less is more. I twist my hair back and secure it with a sleek claw clip or minimal metal barrette.
It takes 30 seconds and looks like you tried. It’s the poster child for low-effort, high-impact hair styling.
Amazon Finds That Changed My Hair Game
INFINITIPRO BY CONAIR Hair Dryer with Diffuser | AC Motor Pro Hair Drye
Shark FlexStyle Hair Dryer & Powerful Styling System with 6-Piece Hair Styling Tools
