Picture this: you’re fresh out of the salon, you just got the most incredible layers, and touched up your highlights. The wind is blowing – you are the main character. We all know and love that fresh-out-of-the-hairdresser’s-chair feeling but as fun as it is, we also know that it never lasts. If you’re someone who stretches the time in between your hair appointments, you should familiarize yourself with the art of the hold-over hairstyle.
If you’re wondering exactly what that is, it’s the list of go-to styles that you opt for when your hair isn’t as fresh as it was post-salon run, but you know they’ll come through for you in a pinch.
A good holdover style is multifaceted. For starters, it’s cute. If you go run into people you know when wearing one, you’ll won’t want to hide your face. The looks are also functional. Whether you want your hair up and out of your face or just want to go for comfort, a good holdover style will make sure you aren’t inconvenienced by your hair in any way. Lastly, they’re easy to do. While some holdover hairstyles may require basic knowledge of braiding or twisting, most of them just require a brush and a hair tie. Most importantly, these styles look undeniably good, and allow you to hold off on spending another few hundred dollars at the hair salon – at least for a few more weeks.
If you’re a lover of extensions like sew-ins and braids like I am, then you probably have a few hold-over hairstyles of your own (and maybe you don’t even know it). Still, if you’re looking for a few to add to your repertoire, I’ve gone ahead and revealed my absolute favorites. From buns to twists, there’s something here for everyone, ahead.
POPSUGAR Photography / Ariel Baker
For When You Can’t Be Bothered: Afros
Letting your hair down is one of the best feelings in the world and afros will simply never go out of style. I don’t do it often because I’m slightly claustrophobic and having my hair constantly in my face is not my idea of a fun time, but there’s nothing like having your hair down and unencumbered.
POPSUGAR Photography / Ariel Baker
For When You Want to Feel Playful: Puffs
Afro puffs are one of my favorite hairstyles. They’re a step above traditional ponytails, and they are undeniably adorable. They can even be jazzed up using charms and hair jewelry for concerts and special occasions.
POPSUGAR Photography / Ariel Baker
For When You Take Down Your Braids: Pineapples
When the braid-out is fresh, there’s an extra two to three days of hairstyling that you can get out of it. To preserve the curls, keep your hair styled in a pineapple, which is essentially a high ponytail or bun at the top of your head. You can wear the style during the day or to bed (wrapped in a bonnet, of course) to stretch your curls for even longer.
POPSUGAR Photography / Ariel Baker
For When You're In a Rush: Wigs
Wigs remain one of the easiest hold-over hairstyles. They make it look like you put much more effort into getting ready than you actually have. Whether you do a full wig like the one seen here or a partial U-part that leaves out some of your natural hair, wigs are hands down one of the best holdover styles to keep in your back pocket.
POPSUGAR Photography / Ariel Baker
For When You Need Something a Novice Can Do: Twists
Whether you use extensions or not, twists are a really simple hairstyle that are just a versatile as braids (and are really easy to do.) From mini twists to the larger variations, they’re also a wonderful protective style to encourage low manipulation and heat-free styling.
POPSUGAR Photography / Ariel Baker
For When You Want Something Chic But Versatile: Low Bun
Low buns are a staple hairstyle for a reason. They’re chic, can be worn in virtually any setting, and any hair type can get the look.
Ariel Baker is the associate editor for PS Beauty. Her areas of expertise include celebrity news, beauty trends, and product reviews. She has additional bylines with Essence and Forbes Vetted.
