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Long hair opens up endless styling possibilities. From effortless waves and voluminous blowouts to sleek updos and intricate braids, having extra length gives you the freedom to experiment with a new look for practically every occasion. Read on as Chloe Whittle, Senior Digital and In-Salon Educator at Neäl & Wølf, rounds up our favourite hairstyles for long hair.
1. Beach waves
Beach waves are a great way to add movement and texture to long hair. They’re made up of soft, loose curls rather than perfectly defined ringlets, to create a relaxed finish that works beautifully with longer lengths. Alternate the direction of each wave for a more natural effect, then allow your hair to cool before gently loosening the curls with your fingers.
For a polished finish, smooth a small amount of VELVET Nourishing Hair Oil through your mid-lengths and ends. Blended with Argan, Avocado and Jojoba Oils, VELVET helps to soften hair, reduce frizz and enhance shine without taking away from the movement of your waves.
Video Credit: Instagram @amyspencehair
2. Slickback
The slickback is ideal when you want long hair to look instantly sleek and sophisticated. Hair is brushed or swept away from the face to create a smooth, controlled finish, while your lengths can be left down, secured into a ponytail or twisted into a bun. It’s a versatile look that can be styled with high shine and precision or kept slightly softer for a more relaxed effect.
Creating a beautifully smooth base is key. Work SILK Smoothing Blow Dry Balm through towel-dried hair before blow-drying to help control frizz, smooth flyaways and leave your lengths looking glossy. Once dry, brush your hair back smoothly before securing it into your chosen slickback style.
Video Credit: Instagram @sashadippolito.hair
3. Glass hair
If shine is your priority, glass hair is the ultimate long hairstyle. This high-gloss trend is all about smooth, straight strands with a mirror-like finish and minimal frizz or flyaways. While it works across different lengths, long hair provides plenty of surface area for that signature reflective shine to really stand out.
Once your hair is sleek and smooth, finish with GLOW Super Shine Micro Mist. Its ultra-fine mist is designed to enhance shine and give hair a radiant, polished finish, making it the perfect final step for glass-like locks.
4. Bouncy blowout
Long hair and a bouncy blowout are the perfect pairing. Think lifted roots, full-bodied lengths and softly curved ends that give your hair plenty of movement. Working section by section with a round brush helps create that signature bounce, while directing your hairdryer down the hair can encourage a smoother-looking finish.
Prep damp hair with MIRACLE Rapid Blow-Dry Mist, then style using the HERØ Ionic Technology Hair Dryer. Pair your dryer with a HERØ Ceramic Round Brush to create lift, shape and movement as you work through each section. A larger barrel is particularly suited to long hair when you want sweeping movement rather than tighter curls.
Model Styled With: HERO Ceramic Round Brush 44mm
5. Half-up, half-down
Can’t decide between wearing your long hair up or down? The half-up, half-down style gives you the best of both. Simply take the upper sections of your hair away from your face and secure them at the back, leaving the remaining lengths loose. Keep it simple with a ponytail, add a bow or clip, or twist and braid the top sections for something more detailed. For special occasions, adding soft waves through the loose lengths creates an elegant, romantic finish.
Long hair can be more prone to tangles, particularly when you’re sectioning and restyling it, so begin with a smooth, manageable base. HYDRATE Leave-In Conditioning Spray is the perfect prep step, helping to condition and detangle your lengths before styling.
6. Hollywood waves
For maximum glamour, turn to Hollywood waves. Inspired by classic red-carpet styling, this look combines large, smooth waves with plenty of volume and a glossy finish. Long hair gives the waves room to flow through the lengths, making this an especially striking choice for weddings, parties and other special occasions.
Volume starts before you pick up your styling tools. Wash and condition with the AMPLIFY Volumising Shampoo & Conditioner Duo to create a foundation for body and bounce. Once dry, style your lengths into large, uniform curls and allow them to cool before gently brushing them together. A HERØ Paddle Brush is ideal here for bringing the individual curls together into soft, flowing waves.
7. Messy bun
The messy bun proves that long hair doesn’t need complicated styling to make an impact. The aim is to create a bun that feels intentionally undone, combining texture, volume and softness rather than striving for a perfectly neat finish. Longer hair is particularly suited to this look because the extra length can create a naturally fuller bun. Leave a few pieces loose around your face or gently loosen sections at the crown to personalise your style.
The secret to a great messy bun is grip. Spray TEXTURE Dry Shampoo & Finishing Spray through your hair before styling to add texture and make your lengths easier to work with. This can be especially helpful for long hair, where the weight of your locks can otherwise encourage the bun to slip throughout the day.
Video Credit: Instagram @robynwatson.uk
8. French twist
Few updos feel quite as timeless as the French twist. Hair is gathered towards the back of the head before being rolled vertically and secured into place, creating a beautifully sculpted silhouette. Longer hair gives you plenty to work with, allowing you to create a full, elegant twist that’s ideal for weddings, evenings out or whenever you want to elevate your everyday look.
Once you’re happy with your twist, finish with CONTROL Flexible Styling Hairspray. A light mist helps secure your finished style while maintaining a flexible finish, so your updo looks polished rather than overly stiff.
9. Dutch braids
Dutch braids are perfect for showcasing the length of your hair while keeping it securely styled. Sometimes described as reverse French braids, they’re created by crossing sections of hair underneath rather than over one another. This makes the braid sit above the rest of your hair, creating a raised, three-dimensional effect with plenty of visible texture. Wear one statement braid or create two Dutch braids for a practical yet polished look. Find more plaited inspiration in our guide to the best types of braids.
For greater control while braiding, work a small amount of FORM Sculpting Lotion through your hair before you begin. This helps make your lengths more manageable as you work, so you can concentrate on creating an even, defined braid from the crown right through to the ends.
10. Chignon
Elegant and endlessly wearable, the chignon hairstyle is a classic updo that works beautifully with long hair. Unlike a traditional bun that can be positioned at different points on the head, a chignon is typically worn low at the nape of the neck. Keep the finish smooth and structured for a formal event, or gently loosen a few pieces around the face for something softer and more romantic. Discover everything you need to know in our complete chignon hairstyle guide.
If you’re straightening or heat-styling your hair before creating your chignon, begin with GUARD Heat Protection Spray. Apply before using your heated styling tools to help protect your locks, then smooth the hair back before gathering it at the nape and twisting and pinning your chignon into position.
Video Credit: Instagram @oliviaarmitagehair
Long hair gives you the freedom to transform your look whenever the mood strikes. Whether you love relaxed beach waves, glossy glass hair, intricate Dutch braids or an elegant chignon, having the right preparation, styling products and tools can make recreating your favourite looks at home that little bit easier. View our full range: All Products
