Long hair is a canvas for creativity, offering endless possibilities for beautiful and charming styles. For girls, having long locks can be a source of pride, but styling them can sometimes feel like a challenge for parents and even the girls themselves. The good news is that you don’t need to be a professional stylist to create stunning, easy long hairstyles that look fantastic and stay put all day. This guide will walk you through several delightful and simple long hairstyles, complete with step-by-step instructions, product recommendations, and expert tips to ensure your little one always looks her best.
Whether you’re getting ready for school, a special occasion, or just a fun day out, these easy-to-follow styles are perfect for adding a touch of elegance and playfulness to long hair. Let’s dive in and transform those beautiful long tresses!
The Classic Three-Strand Braid
The classic three-strand braid is a timeless and versatile hairstyle that’s perfect for keeping long hair neat and out of the way. It’s simple, elegant, and works for almost any occasion.
Suitable Hair Length and Texture
This braid is ideal for medium to very long hair. It works beautifully on most hair textures, including straight, wavy, and lightly curly hair. For very curly or coily hair, you might want to detangle thoroughly and apply a leave-in conditioner first.
Face Shape Suitability
A classic braid is universally flattering, suiting all face shapes as it pulls hair away from the face without altering its natural contours.
Styling Method and Technique
- Prepare the Hair Gently brush through the hair to remove any tangles. For a smoother finish, you can apply a small amount of styling cream or detangling spray.
- Divide into Three Sections Gather all the hair at the back or side of the head, depending on where you want the braid to sit. Divide the hair into three equal sections.
- Begin Braiding Take the right section and cross it over the middle section. The right section is now the new middle.
- Continue Braiding Take the left section and cross it over the new middle section. The left section is now the new middle.
- Repeat Continue alternating crossing the right section over the middle, then the left section over the middle, working your way down the length of the hair.
- Secure the Braid Once you reach the desired length, secure the end of the braid with a hair elastic.
- Optional Finishing Touch Gently tug at the loops of the braid to make it appear fuller and softer, if desired.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products
- Paddle brush or wide-tooth comb
- Hair elastics (clear or color-matching)
- Light hold styling cream or detangling spray
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer
- Start with slightly damp hair and apply a light styling cream for better grip.
- For active girls, a spritz of flexible-hold hairspray can help keep flyaways in check.
- If braiding before bed, a satin pillowcase can reduce frizz and keep the braid intact.
The Playful High Ponytail
A high ponytail is a classic for a reason—it’s energetic, keeps hair completely off the face, and is incredibly simple to create. It’s perfect for school, sports, or just a casual day out.
Suitable Hair Length and Texture
This style works best on medium to long hair. It’s suitable for all hair textures, though very slippery, straight hair might need a stronger elastic or a double tie.
Face Shape Suitability
High ponytails tend to lift the face and can be particularly flattering for round or heart-shaped faces, giving a more elongated appearance. However, it truly suits everyone.
Styling Method and Technique
- Prepare the Hair Brush all the hair thoroughly to remove tangles.
- Gather the Hair Tilt the girl’s head back slightly. Using both hands or a brush, gather all the hair up to the desired height for the ponytail (usually at the crown or just above it). Ensure all bumps are smoothed out.
- Secure with Elastic Hold the gathered hair firmly with one hand. With the other hand, wrap a hair elastic around the base of the ponytail multiple times until it feels secure.
- Check for Tightness and Smoothness Gently tug at the ponytail to ensure it’s secure but not too tight. Use a fine-tooth comb or your fingers to smooth down any flyaways around the hairline.
- Optional Accessories Add a colorful ribbon, scrunchie, or bow around the elastic for a fun touch.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products
- Paddle brush or boar bristle brush for smoothing
- Strong, snag-free hair elastics
- Small amount of gel or hairspray for flyaways (optional)
- Decorative scrunchies or ribbons
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer
- Use a good quality, strong elastic that won’t stretch out easily.
- For extra hold, especially for very active girls, apply a bit of non-sticky hairspray around the hairline.
- If the hair is very fine, try tying two elastics for added security.
The Elegant Half-Up Twist
The half-up twist is a charming and easy way to keep hair out of the face while still showcasing its length. It’s perfect for a slightly more dressed-up look, like a party or family gathering, but simple enough for everyday wear.
Suitable Hair Length and Texture
This style shines on medium to long hair, especially those with some natural wave or texture, as it adds dimension. It works on straight, wavy, and lightly curly hair.
Face Shape Suitability
This versatile style complements all face shapes, framing the face softly while drawing attention upwards.
Styling Method and Technique
- Prepare the Hair Start with brushed, dry hair. You can add a little texturizing spray if the hair is very fine or slippery.
- Section the First Side Take a small section of hair from the front, just above the ear, on one side of the head.
- Twist the Section Gently twist this section of hair backwards, away from the face, creating a rope-like strand.
- Secure the First Twist Use a small bobby pin to secure this twisted section at the back of the head, aiming towards the center.
- Section the Second Side Repeat steps 2 and 3 on the opposite side of the head, taking a similar section of hair and twisting it backwards.
- Join and Secure Bring the second twisted section to meet the first at the back of the head. Overlap them slightly and secure them together with another bobby pin, or criss-cross two pins for extra hold.
- Adjust and Finish Gently loosen the twists slightly for a softer look. Ensure all pins are hidden.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products
- Paddle brush
- Small bobby pins (color-matching hair)
- Light hold hairspray or texturizing spray (optional)
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer
- Use enough bobby pins, criss-crossing them for a stronger hold.
- A light mist of flexible hairspray can help keep the twists neat and prevent strands from escaping.
- Ensure the twists are not too loose to begin with, as they will naturally relax slightly throughout the day.
The Quick and Easy Top Knot Bun
When you need hair completely out of the way, or for a fun, casual look, the top knot bun is a savior. It’s surprisingly chic and incredibly easy to achieve, perfect for busy mornings or playdates.
Suitable Hair Length and Texture
This style is best for medium to long hair. It works well on all hair textures, though wavy or curly hair can add beautiful natural volume to the bun.
Face Shape Suitability
Top knot buns create vertical height, which can be particularly flattering for round or square face shapes. It also suits oval and heart shapes beautifully.
Styling Method and Technique
- Prepare the Hair Brush out any tangles. For a slightly messier look, you don’t need to be too precise.
- Gather into a High Ponytail Tilt the girl’s head back. Gather all the hair into a very high ponytail, positioning it right on top of the head or slightly towards the front. Secure it with a hair elastic.
- Twist the Ponytail Take the secured ponytail and twist it into a rope-like section.
- Wrap the Twist Begin to wrap the twisted ponytail around the base of the elastic, forming a bun shape.
- Secure the Bun Once all the hair is wrapped, tuck the ends underneath the bun and secure it with another hair elastic, or use several bobby pins around the perimeter of the bun to hold it in place.
- Adjust for Volume Gently pull at sections of the bun to create more volume or a desired messy look.
Recommended Hair Tools and Products
- Brush or comb
- 2-3 hair elastics (one for the ponytail, one or two for the bun)
- Bobby pins (optional, for extra security or shaping)
- Light hold hairspray (optional, for flyaways)
Tips to Make the Hairstyle Last Longer
- Start with a very secure high ponytail.
- Use a second elastic around the bun for a firmer hold.
- For active girls, a few bobby pins strategically placed around the bun will prevent it from unraveling.
- Slightly ‘dirty’ hair (day-old hair) often holds buns better than freshly washed, super-slippery hair.
Key Takeaways for Easy Long Hairstyles
Mastering easy long hairstyles for girls is all about practice and having the right tools. Remember these key points:
- Preparation is Key Always start with detangled hair to prevent knots and make styling smoother.
- Gentle Hands Be gentle when brushing, twisting, and securing hair to avoid breakage and discomfort.
- Quality Tools Invest in good brushes, snag-free elastics, and gentle hair products.
- Accessorize Hair accessories like ribbons, bows, and scrunchies can instantly elevate a simple style.
- Practice Makes Perfect Don’t get discouraged if a style isn’t perfect the first time. Keep practicing, and it will become second nature.
Hair Care and Maintenance Tips for Long Hair
Long hair needs extra care to stay healthy, shiny, and manageable for styling. Here are some essential tips:
- Gentle Washing Use a mild shampoo and conditioner specifically designed for children or for long hair. Focus shampoo on the scalp and conditioner on the ends.
- Regular Detangling Brush hair gently daily, starting from the ends and working your way up to avoid pulling. A wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush works best.
- Moisturize Long hair can get dry, especially at the ends. Use a leave-in conditioner or a light hair oil on the tips to prevent split ends.
- Trim Regularly Schedule regular trims (every 8-12 weeks) to remove split ends and keep hair looking healthy, even if you want to maintain length.
- Protect at Night Braid hair loosely or tie it in a loose bun before bed to prevent tangles and breakage while sleeping. A satin pillowcase can also help.
Styling Dos and Don’ts
Do’s
- Do use heat protectant if using heat tools (though these styles are mostly heat-free).
- Do experiment with different partings (side, middle, zigzag) to change the look of a simple style.
- Do involve your child in choosing her hairstyle—it makes her feel more invested and excited.
- Do use a spray bottle with water to dampen hair slightly for easier styling, especially for braids.
Don’ts
- Don’t pull hair too tightly, as this can cause discomfort and damage to the scalp and hair follicles.
- Don’t use adult-strength hair products that might be too harsh or heavy for a child’s hair.
- Don’t brush wet hair forcefully; use a wide-tooth comb and be extra gentle.
- Don’t leave hair elastics in for extended periods without moving or replacing them, as they can cause breakage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-tightening Styles This can lead to headaches, hair breakage, and even traction alopecia over time. Always ensure the style is comfortable.
- Using the Wrong Tools A brush meant for detangling curly hair won’t work well on straight hair for smoothing, and vice-versa. Choose tools appropriate for the hair type.
- Skipping Detangling Trying to style tangled hair is a recipe for tears and frizz. Always detangle first.
- Ignoring Hair Health Styling on unhealthy, dry, or damaged hair will never look as good and can exacerbate problems. Prioritize hair care.
- Being Impatient Rushing through a hairstyle often leads to a messy or uneven result. Take your time, especially when learning a new style.
Creating beautiful hairstyles for girls with long hair doesn’t have to be complicated. With these step-by-step guides and helpful tips, you’re well-equipped to create a variety of stunning looks that are both easy to achieve and long-lasting. Embrace the joy of styling and let your girl’s personality shine through her gorgeous locks!