Beauty

5 Wash Day Hairstyles That Aren’t Just a Boring Slicked-Back Bun

Spice up your life

28.05.2025

By Redzhanna Jazmin

Image: Instagram/@sandyliang
5 Wash Day Hairstyles That Aren’t Just a Boring Slicked-Back Bun

Yes, slick-backs are easy… but aren’t you tired? Next time wash day comes around, opt for these five hairstyles instead.

In a pinch, a slick-back is the easiest thing to turn to. Not only does it make you look sleek and put together, but its associations with the clean girl movement have made it an IT girl marker. There’s just one thing—they’re so boring. Sometimes, it’s just nice to switch things up! That, and it’s probably a good idea to give your hair a little break now and then.

First of all, while slick-backs look sleek, they’re horrible for your hairline. Traction alopecia is no joke, and keeping that tight tension on your hair follicles will have you thinning in the long run. So, if you’re looking for a way to dress up your day-old (or week-old) hair, we’ve rounded up five cute washday styles that don’t involve gel or slick sticks of any kind. Find out more below:

 

Double Dutch braids

 

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If you want a style that keeps your hair out of your face and benefits from a little extra grease, we’ve got just the thing. This double Dutch braid style is great for day-old locks, keeping your hair looking presentable and in place all day long. Plus, it’s easy to dress up with clips and works for both short and long hair!

 

Laid-back bun

 

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Probably the easiest thing to do on wash day, a laid-back bun is a chic and easy way to keep your hair out of your face. All you need to do to get the look is pull your hair into a rough ponytail, twist the ends until they wrap around the base and secure with a hair tie. Bonus points if you zhush the bun up with a few face-framing strands and a cute scrunchie!

 

Headscarf

 

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The easiest way to conceal greasy roots is to cover up with a headscarf. And, if you want to add a little more intrigue to the look, take a leaf out of Rosé’s book and double down with a hoodie over top! The best part of this style is that you can pair your scarf with some plaits, low buns or leave your lengths long—either way, you’re covered! Better yet, sub out the scarf for a cap or a hat for a sportier, more casual look.

 

Tousled half-updo

 

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For us, the worst thing about slick-backs is the total lack of texture in the style. The smooth, shiny finish is part of the reason why the style looks so homogenous and flat. So, for your next wash day, instead of slicking back your roots, take advantage of the texture and volume in your greased-up tresses and use it to recreate this cute and effortless half-pony! 

 

Bold accessories

 

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If you’d prefer to rock dry shampoo and loose tresses, the best way to distract from the grease is with a bold accessory. Whether it’s a bedazzled headband, a fluffy scrunchie, or, in this case, a flower-adorned bow, the point is to divert attention from your oily tresses and onto the headwear.

READ: How these hair accessories can elevate your hair game (and where to shop them)

 

 

For more hair inspo, click here.

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