Let’s be honest—life gets hectic, and sometimes washing your hair just doesn’t make it to the top of your priority list. But here’s some good news: dirty hair isn’t something to dread. In fact, it can work in your favor. “Dirty hair is perfect for messy buns, slicked-back polished buns, braids, and knots,” says celebrity hairstylist Bridget Bager. “This is because dirty hair naturally has more texture, grit, and grip, which helps hairstyles stay intact longer. It’s also more pliable, making it easier to style.”
With the right techniques, products, and tools, a dirty hair day can transform into a chic, stylish moment. To inspire you, we’ve curated 42 creative ideas for styling unwashed hair—from elegant chignons to playful glittery looks and everything in between. So, if wash day isn’t happening anytime soon, don’t worry. These styles will have you looking effortlessly fabulous.
1. Bedhead Bun
Laura Harrier rocks a messy bun that proves bedhead can be beautiful. A spritz of dry shampoo can mask any grease, while pulling out a few face-framing strands adds to the intentionally undone vibe. Celebrity stylist Gina Rivera recommends this look as a go-to for second-day (or third-day) hair.
2. Slicked-Back Snatched Bun
For a sleek and polished look, gather your dirty hair into a tight, high bun. The natural oils in unwashed hair provide extra hold, making it easier to achieve a smooth finish. Use a shine serum or gel to tame flyaways and add a glossy sheen.
3. Braided Crown
Dirty hair is ideal for braiding because the added texture helps keep braids in place. Create a braided crown by sectioning your hair into two Dutch braids and wrapping them around your head. Secure with bobby pins for a regal, bohemian-inspired style.
4. Messy Topknot
A classic messy topknot is perfect for dirty hair days. Gather your strands into a high ponytail, twist them loosely, and pin them into a bun. Pull out a few pieces around your face for a carefree, lived-in look.
5. Half-Up Space Buns
Channel your inner ’90s icon with half-up space buns. Part your hair down the middle, create two small buns at the crown, and leave the rest of your hair down. This playful style works best on textured, unwashed hair.
6. Low Chignon
For a sophisticated yet effortless look, try a low chignon. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck, twist it into a bun, and secure with pins. Dirty hair adds volume and texture, making this style even more stunning.
7. Fishtail Braid
Unwashed hair provides the perfect grip for intricate braids like a fishtail. Part your hair to one side, divide it into two sections, and begin crossing small strands from each section over to the opposite side. Secure the end with an elastic for a boho-chic vibe.
8. Double Braids
Double braids are a fun and youthful option for dirty hair. Section your hair into two equal parts and create two braids—one on each side. This style is both practical and stylish, keeping hair out of your face while showcasing your texture.
9. Textured Ponytail
A high ponytail with added texture is a quick and easy solution for dirty hair. Tease the crown for volume, smooth the sides, and secure with an elastic. Wrap a small strand of hair around the base to conceal the elastic.
10. Braided Bun
Combine two timeless styles by creating a braided bun. Start with a low ponytail, braid the length of your hair, and wrap it into a bun. Secure with pins for a look that’s both elegant and practical.
11. Cornrows with a Texas Twist
Houston native Beyoncé adds her own flair to this gorgeous style while accessorizing with an oversized hat, black sunglasses, and jewelry. Cornrows are not only protective but also versatile, making them perfect for dirty hair days.
12. Storytelling Braids
Alicia Keys has been a lover of cornrows and experimented with various braiding patterns, techniques, and styles like this one. Throughout history, there have been anecdotal claims of braiding patterns being used by those enslaved in the Americas to create road maps to freedom.
13. Seven Braids
Ella Balinska wears a seven-part bun with mid-sized braids to the 2021 British Fashion Awards. This style is both unique and glamorous, proving that dirty hair can still look red-carpet ready.
14. The Top Knot
In 1963, Cicely Tyson made television history by being the first woman to be seen with cornrows on screen, and she became the first Black woman to have a recurring role with her performance as Jane Foster on East Side, West Side. Cicely’s historical top knot continues to inspire Black women and stylists today.
15. Off the Shoulder
Actress Serayah rocks an off-the-shoulder look on the red carpet. This style is perfect for showcasing your natural texture while keeping your hair out of your face.
16. Mid-Length Braids
Rihanna’s mid-length cornrows were braided with a unique pattern to complement her 2019 British Fashion Awards look. Dirty hair adds extra texture, making this style even more striking.
17. Braided Crown
Just because cornrows are one of the oldest hairstyles to date doesn’t mean you can’t change things up. Yara Shahidi looks dazzling in her galactic braided crown.
18. Criss-Cross Braided Bun
Take your bun to the next level by adding criss-cross braids. Leave two sections of hair out when creating your bun, braid them, and pin them across the bun for a whimsical touch.
19. Glitter Roots
If you’re feeling bold, embrace your dirty roots with a sprinkle of glitter. Apply a bit of styling gel to your roots, then dust with biodegradable glitter for a glamorous, festival-ready look.
20. French Twist
A French twist is a classic updo that works beautifully with dirty hair. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck, twist it upward, and secure with pins. The natural texture of unwashed hair helps maintain the structure of the twist.
21. Bubble Ponytail
Add some fun to your dirty hair day with a bubble ponytail. Create a high ponytail, and use small elastics to section off the length of your hair into “bubbles.” Gently tug on each section to enhance the bubble effect.
22. Cornrow Crown
Cornrows are not only protective but also stylish. Create a crown of cornrows by braiding your hair close to the scalp and wrapping it around your head. This look is perfect for keeping hair neat and out of the way.
23. Voluminous High Bun
For a dramatic look, gather your hair into a high bun and tease the base for added volume. Dirty hair naturally holds volume better, making this style both striking and easy to achieve.
24. Accessorized Topknot
Elevate a basic topknot with accessories like scrunchies, headbands, or decorative pins. These additions instantly transform a casual look into something more polished and intentional.
25. Braided Pigtails
Braided pigtails are a playful option for dirty hair. Section your hair into two parts, braid each side, and secure with elastics. This style is youthful and fun, perfect for casual outings.
26. Sleek Low Ponytail
For a minimalist look, gather your hair into a sleek low ponytail. Use a smoothing serum or gel to tame flyaways and ensure a polished finish.
27. Space Buns with Bangs
Pair space buns with bangs for a modern twist. Section your hair into two buns at the crown, and let your bangs frame your face for a cute and edgy look.
28. Knotted Bun
Create a knotted bun by twisting your ponytail into a figure-eight shape and securing it with pins. This style is unique and works well with the added texture of dirty hair.
29. Curly Top Knot
Showcase your natural curls by gathering them into a high top knot. Leave a few tendrils out to frame your face, and finish with a light-hold hairspray to maintain the look.
1920s-Inspired Bob
Storm Reid rocks a sleek and shiny bob that perfectly embodies the essence of second-day hair. This style is ideal for channeling the timeless glamour of the 1920s. To complete the vintage look, pair the hairstyle with a bold black winged liner and a classic bright red lip.
Triple Space Buns
Channel your inner Y2K icon with this playful triple space bun look. To achieve it, divide your hair into three horizontal sections and gather each section into a textured, messy bun. Loosen any tight spots to give the style a relaxed, carefree vibe.
Side Part Bob
When your hair is too short for updos or ponytails, take inspiration from Ayo Edebiri’s sleek side-part bob. Simply part your hair to the side, spritz a bit of oil onto your palms, and use them to slick back your hair while taming flyaways for a polished finish.
Braided Bun
A textured, messy bun gets a stunning upgrade with the addition of braids. Dirty hair provides the perfect grip and hold for this style, making it easier to shape and secure. Incorporate braids into your bun for a detailed, statement-making look that’s both elegant and effortless.
Casual & Cool Bun
For a chic, ballerina-off-duty vibe, embrace the messiness of this casual bun. Start by applying a texturizing spray to add body and grit. Flip your head over, gather your hair into a high ponytail, and twist it into a bun. Pull out a few strands for a mussed, undone effect that exudes cool confidence.
Low-Maintenance Chignon
Even royalty needs a break from washing—just look at Meghan Markle’s laid-back chignon. To recreate this style, gather your hair into a low ponytail, wrap it into a bun, and tuck the ends underneath. Leave a few tendrils loose for a touch of effortless elegance.
Bejeweled Bun
Elevate your unwashed hair with a dazzling bejeweled bun. Pull your hair into a high bun and accessorize it with ribbons, headbands, or jeweled hairpins. This glamorous style adds instant sparkle, making it perfect for special occasions or when you want to feel extra fancy.
Just Add Glitter
Transform unwashed hair into a shimmering masterpiece by adding glitter! In this example, a braided updo is adorned with flecks of glitter scattered along the part. To make the glitter stay put, apply a gel or hairspray as an adhesive. The result? A dazzling, eye-catching look that’s perfect for festivals or nights out.
Tie It Up
Zendaya proves that a stylish headscarf can be the ultimate solution for dirty hair days. In this look, she pairs a bright orange headscarf with a matching bow-adorned dress. The bold accessory not only masks unwashed hair but also adds a playful, fashionable touch to her ensemble.
Crown Braid
For a goddess-like vibe, try a crown braid. This style is especially great for styling silk-pressed hair that’s a few days old. As you braid, gently pull out a few pieces to add texture and a casual flair. The result is a regal yet relaxed look that’s perfect for any occasion.
Head Wrap
Like a hat, a stylish head wrap can effectively conceal greasy hair while making a bold fashion statement. Eva Marcille demonstrates how a head wrap can elevate your look, offering both functionality and flair. Whether you choose a printed or solid wrap, this style is a quick and chic solution for dirty hair days.