This year I’ve been focused on restoring balance and taking better care of myself. To make mornings less stressful, I created a simple routine that keeps decision fatigue to a minimum—especially when it comes to hair. The result feels a bit like a capsule wardrobe, but for hairstyles: a small set of reliable looks I can recreate in minutes.
To share what’s worked for me, I partnered with Aveeno to present two quick hair tutorials that have nearly halved my getting-ready time. With just two go-to styles I rotate through on weekdays, I limit choices, speed up my routine, and have more time for the rest of my day.
My weekday approach is intentionally simple: I keep two quick hairstyles on rotation and pick one based on my mood or schedule. After styling, I put on my “work uniform,” add a bit of makeup, and head out. Since adopting these streamlined habits, my mornings have become much calmer.
Below you’ll find my product-free 5-minute bun tutorial and a 10-minute wavy hairstyle that are easy to reproduce and fit into a busy morning.
Before sharing the tutorials, I tested Aveeno’s new Pure Renewal Shampoo and Conditioner to see how it would perform on my dry, often product-stressed hair. The formula features ACTIVE NATURALS® Seaweed Extract and naturally derived cleansers designed to lift impurities and help rebalance moisture. After a single use, my hair felt noticeably silkier, looked shinier, and seemed cleaner and less oily—all without changing my styling routine.
I was pleasantly surprised by the difference after just one wash. That’s what convinced me to include this step in my streamlined routine.
Here are the two tutorials I rely on:
5-Minute Bun
I use two variations of a bun: a messy version and a neater, polished version. The polished bun is the one I get asked about most, so here’s how I do it.
1. Gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a hair tie.
2. Twist the ponytail all the way to the ends.
3. Wrap the twisted length around the base of the ponytail to form a bun.
4. Secure the bun with bobby pins—usually one on each side. If your hair is thick, add a few more pins as needed.
This creates a clean, quick updo that holds well throughout the day.
10-Minute Wavy Hair
On the days I wear my hair down, I do an easy, relaxed wavy look with a curling wand. This usually takes about ten minutes if you work efficiently.
1. Section your hair and start with the underside.
2. Take a small section, wrap it around the wand away from your face, and hold for 5–10 seconds.
3. Release and move to the next section, working up to the top layers.
4. Once everything is loosely curled, run your fingers through your hair to break up the curls and create a soft, beachy wave rather than defined ringlets.
This method gives an effortless, everyday wave that’s polished but not overdone.
Photography by Rachel Brewer
These two quick styles have helped me start each day with less stress and more consistency. If you have your own tips for keeping daily life balanced and sane, I’d love to hear them—please share any suggestions you have.
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This post is in partnership with Aveeno. Thank you for supporting the brands that help keep Paper & Stitch running.