As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, fall brings a perfect opportunity to refresh your look with some stunning hairstyles for long locks. This season, embrace versatile styles that combine warmth, elegance, and a touch of playful sophistication. Whether you want to keep your hair flowing freely or prefer intricate updos, there’s a fall hairstyle for every mood and occasion. From cozy braids inspired by autumn’s earthy tones to sleek, polished looks perfect for chilly evenings, these 13 must-try fall hairstyles will keep your long hair stylishly season-ready. Each style is designed to complement the textures and hues of fall while offering practical ways to manage longer tresses as the temperature dips. Dive in and discover how to transform your long hair into a statement of autumnal beauty and effortless grace.
1. Classic Loose Waves with a Twist
Loose waves never go out of style, especially in fall when they echo the natural movement of falling leaves. To elevate this look, add a subtle twist by incorporating a deep side part and tucking one side behind your ear, revealing a delicate earring or your neckline. The texture of the waves captures the soft breeze and gives your hair body and volume without looking overdone. Use a heat protectant before styling and finish with a light-hold spray to keep the waves intact all day. This style pairs beautifully with chunky scarves and leather jackets, making it a go-to for casual autumn outings or even cozy indoor gatherings. The understated elegance of loose waves with a slight twist highlights the natural beauty of long hair while keeping it effortlessly chic for fall’s transitional weather.
2. Messy Low Bun with Face-Framing Strands
This relaxed yet sophisticated hairstyle is perfect for long hair during fall. The messy low bun sits gently at the nape of your neck, allowing for a casual vibe that’s still polished. What makes this style special are the face-framing strands left out intentionally to soften the look and add dimension. These strands can be curled slightly for a romantic effect or left straight for a modern edge. This hairstyle works great for days when you want your hair out of your face but still crave a bit of flair. It’s perfect for work meetings, weekend brunches, or evening events paired with a cozy sweater or chic blazer. Plus, it’s an excellent way to showcase your favorite earrings or scarves. This messy bun is forgiving and adaptable, ideal for the unpredictable weather and layered clothing typical of fall.
3. Fishtail Braid Draped Over One Shoulder
The fishtail braid is a timeless style that brings texture and complexity to long hair, especially when draped over one shoulder for a laid-back yet elegant look. For fall, think about adding subtle highlights or lowlights to enhance the braid’s intricate pattern, mimicking the season’s natural palette. Start by gently pulling apart sections to give the braid a fuller, more voluminous appearance. This style works wonderfully with cozy knitwear and complements everything from casual jeans to dressier ensembles. It’s perfect for outdoor fall activities, like pumpkin picking or walks in the park, as it keeps hair secure but stylish. The fishtail braid also lends itself well to accessorizing—consider adding small metallic pins or autumn-inspired charms to personalize your look and celebrate the season.
4. Sleek Straight Hair with a Middle Part
For those who love a clean, polished look, sleek straight hair parted in the middle is a fantastic fall hairstyle that emphasizes length and shine. This style accentuates healthy hair and works best when your locks are smooth and glossy, reflecting the muted light of fall days. To achieve this, use a flat iron and finishing serum to eliminate frizz and enhance shine. The simplicity of this hairstyle makes it incredibly versatile — perfect for both daytime wear and more formal occasions. It pairs beautifully with structured coats, turtlenecks, and statement earrings, offering a modern, minimalist edge to your fall wardrobe. This hairstyle demands a bit of maintenance to keep strands smooth against fall’s sometimes harsh wind and dryness but rewards you with a chic, timeless look that feels effortlessly sophisticated.
5. Half-Up Braided Crown
The half-up braided crown hairstyle combines the regal vibe of a crown braid with the freedom of leaving your hair down, making it ideal for long hair in autumn. The braids wrap gently around the top of your head, creating a halo effect that can be thick or delicate depending on your preference. This look adds a bohemian flair that pairs wonderfully with autumn florals and layered textures. It’s great for outdoor festivals, casual meetups, or even more formal events where you want to show off intricate styling without fully committing to an updo. The style holds well through the day, especially if you secure the braids with discreet pins and a flexible hold hairspray. The half-up braided crown is a romantic nod to fall’s natural beauty and adds a touch of elegance and whimsy to your long locks.
6. Low Ponytail with a Wrapped Hair Tie
Elevate the simple ponytail this fall by creating a sleek, low ponytail secured with a wrapped section of your own hair instead of a traditional elastic. This look is understated yet refined, perfect for those days when you want to keep your hair neat without losing style points. The wrapped hair tie adds a polished finish and keeps the ponytail looking seamless and chic. This style suits long hair especially well, allowing the length to cascade down the back smoothly. It’s ideal for both office environments and casual weekend outings, pairing effortlessly with fall’s structured jackets and soft knits. Add subtle waves or keep it pin-straight for different vibes. The low ponytail with a wrapped hair tie is a simple trick to upgrade your everyday look during the fall season.
7. Twisted Side Bun
This hairstyle combines a twist with a bun, creating a charming yet practical style for fall. The hair is gathered to one side, twisted intricately, and pinned into a loose bun that sits near the ear or just below the jawline. It’s a perfect way to show off earrings or the neckline of your favorite autumn sweaters and coats. The twisted side bun is casual enough for daily wear but can be dressed up with accessories for a night out. It’s especially great for managing long hair in windy or rainy fall weather without sacrificing style. The texture and volume from the twists make the bun appear fuller, giving your look a soft, feminine appeal. Finish with a light hairspray to hold everything in place while maintaining the style’s relaxed charm.
8. Boho Braids with Loose Curls
Embrace the laid-back spirit of fall with boho braids paired with loose curls. This style involves creating several small braids throughout the hair that blend naturally with cascading curls. The look is playful, carefree, and perfect for autumn’s outdoor vibes, like hikes or casual get-togethers around a fire pit. The braids add texture and dimension, making the curls appear more voluminous and dynamic. It also allows for fun experimentation with accessories such as small flowers, beads, or autumn-themed pins. Achieve the curls with a large barrel curling iron and use a texturizing spray to enhance the bohemian feel. This style suits a variety of outfits, from chunky sweaters to flowy dresses layered with leather or suede jackets, embodying the perfect balance of relaxed and stylish for fall.
9. High Ponytail with Voluminous Roots
A high ponytail is a classic hairstyle, but adding volume at the roots gives it a fresh, modern twist perfect for fall. Start by teasing the crown area before pulling your hair up to create height and fullness. Secure with a strong elastic and wrap a small section of hair around it for a polished finish. This hairstyle keeps long hair out of your face while making a bold statement, perfect for both active days and social outings. The volume at the roots contrasts beautifully with the sleekness of the ponytail, adding texture and dimension. It pairs well with high collars and scarves, complementing the layered looks typical of fall fashion. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to maintain and can be dressed up with accessories or kept simple for a sporty-chic vibe.
10. Side-Swept Curls with a Decorative Clip
Side-swept curls evoke a romantic, vintage feel that’s ideal for fall’s softer, more intimate moments. Curl your long hair in large sections to create loose, flowing waves, then sweep them to one side and secure with a decorative clip or barrette. This style highlights your hair’s length and shine while adding a touch of glamour. It’s perfect for date nights, family gatherings, or any occasion where you want to look effortlessly elegant. The clip can reflect autumnal themes, such as leaves, gold tones, or pearls, making it a seasonal accessory that enhances your look. Pair with warm makeup tones and cozy clothing textures for a harmonious fall ensemble. The side-swept curls are an excellent choice for showcasing your hair’s natural movement with a refined finish.
11. French Braid into a Bun
This hairstyle starts with a classic French braid that runs along the back of your head and transitions into a bun at the nape of your neck. It’s a sophisticated look that works especially well for long hair, keeping it secure and stylish throughout the day. The braid adds detail and texture, while the bun brings a neat, polished finish. It’s versatile enough for work, formal events, or casual outings and pairs well with everything from chunky scarves to elegant coats. The French braid into a bun balances practicality with chic styling, making it a favorite for fall when managing long hair can be a challenge amid changing weather. Use a strong hold hairspray to maintain the braid’s crispness and prevent flyaways.
12. Half-Up Twisted Knot
The half-up twisted knot is an effortless way to add interest to your long hair while keeping some strands free and flowing. To create it, twist two sections from either side of your head and knot them together at the back, securing with pins. This style combines casual ease with a touch of boho chic, perfect for fall’s relaxed yet fashionable vibe. It works well with straight, wavy, or curly hair and can be accessorized with subtle clips or leaves-inspired pins. This hairstyle is great for showcasing layered clothing and necklines and is comfortable enough for day-long wear. The half-up twisted knot brings a charming, youthful energy to your autumn hairstyle repertoire, balancing simplicity with a creative twist.
13. Voluminous Blowout with Side Part
Nothing says polished fall glam like a voluminous blowout with a deep side part. This style emphasizes the natural volume of your long locks, creating a luxurious, bouncy effect that feels both classic and contemporary. Use a round brush during blow-drying to lift the roots and curl the ends slightly for a smooth, full-bodied finish. The side part adds drama and frames the face beautifully, making it perfect for special occasions or when you want to make an impression. Pair with fall’s rich makeup tones and structured outerwear for a complete seasonal look. Maintaining the volume may require occasional touch-ups throughout the day, but the overall impact is worth the effort. This hairstyle exudes confidence and glamour, making it a standout choice for autumn.
No matter your style preference or daily routine, these 13 fall hairstyles for long hair offer endless possibilities to refresh your look with seasonal flair. From intricate braids and elegant buns to effortless waves and sleek finishes, each style has been curated to highlight the beauty and versatility of long locks as the season changes. Incorporating these hairstyles into your autumn wardrobe will not only enhance your appearance but also help you embrace the cozy, warm, and stylish spirit of fall. So grab your favorite hair tools, accessories, and a bit of inspiration, and let your long hair shine this fall with these must-try looks that blend fashion, function, and the timeless charm of the season.
