When the air begins to have a bite and the leaves turn a golden hue, it might be the perfect time to rethink our hairstyles. The fall season has always marked the time for warmer, cozier clothes, earthy autumn colors, and a pre-holiday season polish. What about hairstyles that are cute yet fall-friendly? How can we achieve the balance between effortless hairstyles and trends for fall 2025? That’s what we will be focusing on: practical styling options that are easily achievable and versatile for school, work, and everything in between.
Double Braid Bun Elegance
Our first hairstyle incorporates a classic braided bun—elegant medium braids are gathered into a polished low bun that feels both free and controlled. This style is perfect for medium to long hair and keeps the strands out of the face while showing off the hair’s texture. It is a perfect blend of beauty and practicality— effortless and appealing, and works wonders for morning coffee or evening dates.
In taking care of hair, I always keep in mind that the hair braiding holds best when the hair is not squeaky clean. If you are dealing with greasy hair, lightly spraying dry shampoo Batiste or Amika Perk Up will provide the dry shampoo needed grip. The gentle soft-hold hairspray will keep everything in place without stiffening the hair.
For me, braids bring back a little nostalgic memories. I wore braids through out my school, and did not realize how versatile braids are until I grew older. Celebrity stylist Gregory Patterson braids are “the foundation of so many chic looks,” which I completely agree. Adding a bun modernizes and elevates the appearance.
Soft Waves with Half-Up Braided Crown
Flowing and wavy hair with a soft braid crown perfectly epitomizes romantic fall evenings. The half-up style soft braided crowns frames the face with loose braids while the remainder of the long hair flows in waves. I believe that it is among the cutest hairstyles that add detail while not being overly complicated. It feels a bit fairy-tale while being realistic and effortless, which is great if you are looking for polished looks.
To keep this look nice, I use larger barrel curling wands for the softer waves to “loosen up”- think “not pageant.” I also love using Redken’s Frizz Dismiss serum to fend off the frizz. It works like magic in the fall air.
Something about this style gives me the ‘ready to go’ vibe for fam get together Thanksgiving or a quick date. A while ago, I believe Jen Atkin mentioned half-up styles as perfect for people trying to have “the best of both worlds.” I for one, fully support this.
Playful short length braids
Short hair lovers can have fun with the style by braiding at the crown. Rather than leaving the bob plain, tiny braids can add interest and edge transforming the simple look into something fresh for fall. It is one of my favorite easy fall hairstyles 2025 for shorter styles.
On those days when I want the style to last, I apply a volumizing mousse, like Moroccanoil, while blow-drying to add texture to my hair and help hold the braids. This is especially helpful to those with fine hair.
Whoever said that braids were only for long hair was wrong. With short hair, a few sections at the front go a long way.
Curly Updo: A Look with Vintage Inspiration
As it gets colder, everyone knows curls come back into style. Autumn often brings with it soft curls, and this season, I love the look of hair styled into a soft, vintage-inspired, elegant updo. This style works well for formal occasions, but it is also great for anyone who is simply in a dress-up mood. The tendrils that fall gently in front of the face are soft and add a touch ease to a look while still feeling dressed up.
To maintain the defined curls, I suggest using advanced climate control gel by Ouidad, especially works well for thick hair. The gel maintains the shape without leaving the hair crunchy. A light application of spay will give soft fall light curls shimmer and highlight the curls.
This captivating style enhances my love for texture in a way that feels empowering. Bold, and yet and always in style. Celebrity stylist Chris Appleton once said, “curls are a statement all on their own.” This updo clearly embodies that sentiment.
Sleek High Ponytail
For me, nothing is more contemporary than a polished and taut ponytail with sleek straight hair. This is sharp, confident, and yes, effortless with practice. This is one of my go-to effortless polish looks that requires no thought.
The key is to set a good foundation. I like to work my way up by applying a smoothing serum like Kerastase Elixir Ultime after a straightening session. If you’re working with greasy hair, a light tease at the roots helps anchor a ponytail to counter greasy strands.
This style is ageless and attractive. I appreciate that it looks effortlessly polished and feels equally at home in the office, and at the bar.
Romantic Ribbon Braid
A satin ribbon wrapped around a thick and textured braid that is set to one side evokes feelings of romance and is perfect for the autumn season. This style works well for long hair braids since this hairstyle requires room for details and volume. It is soft and feminine, ideal for a gentle yet sophisticated look. It captures the old and the new at the same time, perfect as fall days give way to cozier nights.
If you have fine hair, braids like this can be hard to maintain without special care. To keep the style in place, I recommend applying a mist of texturizing spray like Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray to the individual sections beforehand. This braid works best when it is soft and touchable and Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray adds grip and structure to the strands. For smoother braids, applying a few drops of smoothing serum along the braids can help, especially in cooler weather.
A braid can change everything but for me, the ribbon adds a new style with a fresh touch. Kristin Ess, a popular hairstylist in the U.S, uses the phrase “elevate simple hairstyles” by accessories and I couldn’t agree more with this example.
Winter-Season Oversized Braid
For those interested in effortless fall hairstyles 2025, an oversized braid is the perfect solution. This beautiful hairstyle complements medium to long hair, especially if the hair is to some degree puffed to create the illusion of volume. This is such an easy hairstyle to achieve. oversized braid can be worn to school, brunch, or even to an evening dinner, if styled accordingly.
The hair care routine would consist of a volume mousse, such as Bumble and bumble Thickening Full Form Mousse, which I apply before blowdrying. This works especially well if you have long hair prone to falling flat. For thicker hair, the oversized braid becomes even more full and beautiful when you pull the separate pieces outward.
This reminds me of braided winter style. The oversized braided hairstyle puts me in the mood for cold weather, reminiscent of fresh mountain air and chunky knit sweaters. The Beachwaver founder, Sarah Potempa, once said that during the winter, “the coziest of styles” are winter braids. Do you agree with me that it is a cozy hairstyle for winter months?
Edgy Loose Waves with a Braided Crown
For those who prefer a bit of an edge, the combination of a braid incorporated into a crown and wavy hair is the perfect blend. It maintains sleekness and playfulness at the top, allowing the ends to remain loose and texturized. This style is particularly flattering on medium length hair, and is great creative hairstyle when short on time.
Achieving the perfect wave is simple when using a curling wand, and finishing with a salt spray like Ouai Wave Spray gives an effortless yet styled finish. If greasy hair is an issue, dry shampoo applied at the roots can conceal the crown area and braid the hair without detection.
This hairstyle is playful yet elegant, with a fun contrasting sleek silhouette and playful loose strands. It has the energy of a fall music festival or a relaxed walk around the city.
Fall Side-Swept Loose Braid
Dreamy and relaxed, a thick, side-swept braid is one of my go-to cute hairstyles for long hair this fall. This braid works well with straight hair or a bit of natural wave. For me, this style works best for hair that looks effortless but still polished enough for a dinner date.
If your hair is thin or medium, adding extensions or teasing the crown a bit can give a fuller appearance. To secure the braid without looking too polished, I like to use clear elastics and wrap a strand around to hide the tie. It’s a casual style that still feels carefree and fresh.
Reminds me of cool fall mornings with a cute and cozy scarf thrown on. Celebrity hairstylist Harry Josh once said, “braids are a timeless way to look styled without heat tools,” and this braid is the perfect example.
Textured Bob Accompanied by Side Braids
For those with short hair or a short bob, a side braid with a tousled wave gives a modern chic vibe. It falls under the easy to do hairstyles for fall 2025 that look good, but are not too difficult to do. Braids add contrast against curly or wavy hair look breathtaking, instantly adding depth.
To get this look, I like to use a heat protectant, followed by a one-inch curling iron to create a bendy medium wave, and then braid the styled hair with a light hold pomade like Aveda Control Paste. It is perfect for adding volume and interest to thin hair.
This look has a lot of commotion, which I like personally. Edgy but also chill. I imagine this in a chic street style photograph taken during fashion week, and it proves that short hair can be just as intricate and adorned as long hair when styled in braids, straightened, or otherwise.
Fun Twin Ponytails
Fun, high, and voluminous, twin ponytails have a unique vibe to them. They’re especially stunning when paired with long, straight hair or medium length hair that’s smooth and sleek. The look remains youthful, embodying confidence and playfulness, which is perfect for a blustery fall afternoon and a cozy, oversized hoodie.
Teasing the base and lightly applying volumizing powder, like SexyHair Big Powder Play, can add much needed volume to fine hair. While avoiding the oily, strap look is a common goal, a quick blast of dry shampoo at the roots will do the trick.
This hairstyle evokes nostalgia for me; it reminds me of school days, with a dash of adulthood. Justine Marjan, a celebrity hairstylist, once stated, “ponytails are like accessories—they change with your mood,” and I think twin ponytails are a perfect example.
Fun and Witty Half-up Space Buns
The half-up space buns hairstyle is one of the cutest hairstyles that can be done in an effortless manner. The hairstyle merges the elegance of long hair that is flowing freely with the positioning of hair into fun half-up buns. Space buns. This hairstyle is great for any occasion, even for casual school days and weekend late-night outings. Space buns serve as a great reminder that hairstyles for fall do not have to be serious and can be fun and lighthearted.
The bottom half of hair can be loose for those with natural waves or curly hair. The bottom half can also be left loose for those with natural curls or wavy hair. To keep everything in place, I usually recommend a light mousse like Living Proof Curl Enhancer which is a great option. The buns can be neatly secured with small elastics and a few concealed hair pins which will not be visible.
This hairstyle is playful and inviting and reminds me of warm apple cider, cozy sweaters, and crisp fall festivals. Celebrity stylist, Jen Atkin, once said that hair accessories and playful buns are “the gateway to effortless styling”. I also find that to be true, alongside numerous other individuals.
Chic Messy Bun with Loose Strands
The classic messy bun has evolved into a chic version with loose strands framing the face, adding a touch of elegance for the year 2025. This hairstyle works wonderfully for those with medium to long hair. It is balanced, effortless, and gives off a polished vibe while feeling wonderfully undone. It is a stylish, effortless fix that works with any and every outfit and gives a sophisticated touch.
To keep the hairstyle soft and manageable, I like to prep my strands with a leave-in conditioner, like It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In, before twisting the bun. For those with strands that often slip, a texturizing spray will provide the perfect balance between movement and grip.
This bun has a timeless nature that I appreciate the most. It works for the office, brunch with friends, or a quiet Sunday at home. It is one of those hairstyles that can be worn anywhere and at any time. As Chris Appleton once said, “the right bun can frame the face better than any haircut.” This hairstyle is a perfect example of that quote.
Pearl Bubble Ponytail
The bubble ponytail is one of the statement hairstyles of the season. The separated pieces of hair provide a rounded soft shape which gives the illusion of styling long hair. This hairstyle is flattering for thick hair since it enhances the volume. It is a more sophisticated version of the simple ponytail, and while it is practical, it is also stylish.
While perfecting the hairstyle, I create the ponytail and use small hair elastics to form mini ponytails along the length. After, I tug gently to add dimension. For a polished finish, I use a light shine spray such as Kenra Shine spray, perfect for outings.
The hairstyle defined fall sophistication and pairs beautifully with blazers, layered coats, or high-neck sweaters. This is one of the easy fall hairstyles 2025 that looks sophisticated for effortless styling.
Elegant Double Buns
Never the least, one of the latest hairstyle trends to go mainstream is the double bun hairstyle. Elegant and sculpted, the double buns positioned high on the head offer a structural and almost sculpted look with soft tendrils of hair curling around the sides. It’s ideal for both long and short hair, sleek yet playful, a perfect pick-me-up change.
In my experience, the double buns stay perfectly secured when prepped with mousse and bobby pins. Additionally, for straight hair, curling the front tendrils of hair first softens the overall look and feel, creating an elegant and flattering face frame.
Most double bun hairstyles make me feel bold, full of personality, and super trendy. Hairstylist Ursula Stephen once said that “hair is the ultimate form of self-expression.” And that is the epitome of double buns: bold, modern, and unapologetically chic.
Low Bangs and Elegant Buns
This hairstyle is and will always be a classic and elegant accessory to any outfit. The soft and subtle bangs paired with a neat low bun provides a Parisian “I don’t care” but effortlessly put together look. It is distinctively sheek and is ideal for medium and long hair. It is perfect for office hours and a cozy dinner date during autumn. The polished look is complimented by soft bangs which prevents the style from feeling too harsh.
For a polished look, I recommend a light smoothing serum to tame any flyaways. Oribe’s Supershine Moisturizing Cream is a great example. It provides moisture, prevents grease and works on thin hair. Strands that are weak and flat will benefit from a spray of texturizing spray before the bun is pinned.
This is one of my preferred quick and classy hairstyles. Effortless styles that make me feel elevated and refined without any extra effort are a plus. I have worn a version of this style to fall weddings, and it has always gotten compliments. In my experience, this look can easily be pulled off without any professional help, and only take a few minutes to put together. Even celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton often talks about how effortless a sleek bun is and how it can instantly transform one’s look.
Half-Up Top Knot
There’s an effortless elegance about the small top knot that forms the half-up style. It is quite versatile and flatters both medium-length and long hair. It can be worn via straightened or slightly wavy hair. It is both casual yet chic: perfectly suited for school and brunch, but stylish enough for a night out with friends.
The addition of a lightweight mousse—like Bumble and Bumble Thickening Full Form—helps to maintain the knot and keeps it from slipping. It provides both thick and fine hair with effortless volume, so works beautifully for thick hair, helping to balance the volume.
When it comes to hairstyles, the effortless top knot is my favorite. I wore it on a lazy Sunday and no one could tell I had greasy hair. A friend of mine once told me that it was a five minute confidence booster, and I could not have agreed more.
Romantic Braided Ponytail with Bow
With fall comes the always fashionable v braided ponytail with a bow. This style is mid-length and gives off the fairy tale aesthetic. This style is perfect for warmer fall days and looks wonderful with straight hair and slightly wavy hair.
To maintain the shine of the braid, keeping it smooth and manageable, I like to use Redken’s One United. I also like to use a soft velvet ribbon or bow to elevate the look to something truly wonderful and feminine.
Just like that lady in the braids story, I wore a simple ponytail with the accent of a bow when I visited a farmer’s market. This was done for simplicity, but the addition of a bow gave my ponytail a simple twist that made it stand out to others.
Messy Textured Bun
Not every bun has to like with a gym, this one embraces a softer style. With curls left out, it has that “cozy-season” appeal. It is perfect if you have curls, waves, or medium-length hair with a natural curl. This is ideal for chilly days when you want to want a bare neck but dressed down.
Here the aim is to work with the messy finish. I like to use Ouai’s Wave Spray; I use it on wet hair and style it into a bun, and it makes the hair soft while keeping the waves. To help, gentle teasing at the back and bun style can help thin hair look fuller without the weight.
This style takes my mind to cozy evenings wearing oversized sweaters while sipping on a chai latte. I remember celebrity stylist Jen Atkin say that the messy bun is often more captivating than a polished one. It feels more modern and approachable.
Polished Ponytail with a Satin Bow
The addition of a sleek black satin bow instantly elevates the classic ponytail. This look is so clean and refined for long straight hair and medium length hair. It is minimalist in nature, but the bow adds a touch charm to the ponytail. This makes the look suitable for both casual and formal occasions.
For a polished ponytail, I run a flat iron through the hair and finish with a shine spray like Kenra Shine Spray. It helps improve the look for the polished bun, and is a great solution for a straight medium to long hair.
I love the “back-to-school but elevated” feeling I get from these outfits. The bow makes me feel like I’m in a modern-day Austen novel, and the best part is, it’s so simple and quick to recreate.
Chic High Ponytail with a Satin Bow
High ponytails are always a great option, and adding a satin champagne bow takes the look up a notch by adding softness and romance. This look is best for long hair and medium length hair that is wavy or curly. This is because the ponytail accentuates natural movement and texture. The positioning creates an illusion of elongation which gives the wearer a lifted look without the use of extensions or layers. This hairstyle is ideal for an evening look or for sprucing up an outfit for a stroll the long stroll outdoors in the chilly fall weather.
To ensure the ponytail looks neat and polished, I suggest beginning with a smoothing blow-dry or adding definition by running a curling wand through the hair. Using Flex Hairspray by Living Proof is great because while the style is long lasting, the hair remains soft to the touch. It is a great choice for thick hair that gets heavy when styled up.
I really like how this style instantly lifts my spirits. Bows, for instance, to me are both playful and sophisticated. I remember wearing a similar ponytail with a chunky knit sweater, and it was an unexpectedly elegant ensemble. As Kristin Ess, a known hairstylist, has said a number of times, a bow or even ribbon are the best additions to an everyday style to make it appear thoughtful and purposeful.
Sleek Chignon with Embellished Clip
The simplest looks are sometimes the most powerful. The jeweled clip adds sparkle to a low, sleek chignon bun which looks both modern and classic. It works best with medium to long straight hair. While the style looks polished and professional, it still maintains a soft, feminine touch. The bun’s clean lines, paired with sparkle, are universally flattering for evening attire, or even a polished, professional look for the office.
Moroccanoil Treatment Light works great for pulling hair back because it smooths and protects against flyaways. With thin hair that tends to look flat, it’s also a great bonus that the bun stays glossy instead of weighed down. As a standard bun, the embellished clip transforms it to a higher level by adding a cute detail.
Statement earrings and fall’s structured blazers pair beautifully with hairstyles like these. Cosy layers and soft makeup look striking with the neatness of the bun, which enhances the look. Celebrity stylist Guido Palau often talks about balance in hairstyling, and this is a style that captures his concept perfectly. It is balance clean yet expressive.
Carefree Bun with Framed Strands
For anyone who loves the charm of undone hairstyles, the effortless vibe of the relaxed bun is easy to love. As one of the easy hairstyles for fall 2025, relaxed buns will remain slightly loose, giving that gentle, effortless energy that everyone desires. The hairstyle is ideal for medium to long hair, and even shorter hair that can be twisted out of the face. The loose strands at the front soften the face and the bun is relaxed, yet polished.
For the look to have that undone charm, R+Co Trophy texturizing spray works wonders, giving the hair a “lived-in” look. The product works especially well for wavy and curly hair, keeping frizz to a minimum and enhancing the natural texture. On days that hair is a little grease at the roots, the relaxed bun is the ideal effortless hairstyle to cover the roots and look elegant at the same time.
What really caught my eye about this hairstyle is its versatility. I remember wearing something similar to a restaurant on a cool autumn night with my friends, and I was wearing a black blazer that matched the style of this hairstyle. It proves that ‘messy’ does not equate to untidy. In fact, hairstylist Jen Atkin says it best when she said that the best styles are the ones that tend to be a bit messy.
