Hair extensions are the MVP of every hairstyle, even up-dos
There’s no better feeling than stepping out of the salon with your fresh extensions in tow. That bounce, that volume, that Kendall Jenner-level glow. You’re walking down the street like it’s your personal runway, and honestly? The feeling is unmatched. But then reality hits. It’s day three, and the dream of letting your hair cascade in all its glory is swapped for one very real priority—getting it out of your face.
We get it. Some days, it’s all about throwing your hair back while still giving off that effortless, clean-girl energy. The kind that says, Yes, I have it together, even if you just woke up like TWO minutes ago. If you’re heading to the gym, chasing deadlines, or gearing up for a dinner date, knowing how to tie your hair extensions without them peeking through is important.
The best part? You don’t need a glam squad to make it work. From slick-back ponytails to braided goddess vibes and low buns that whisper sophistication, we’re here to spill the tea on all the tricks you need. Extensions might be your secret weapon, but faultless up-dos? That’s where the extensions really make their mark.
Grab your favorite hairbrush and let’s get into it—because tied-up hair is about to be your new main character moment.
Why hair extensions are the ultimate MVP
Let’s have a moment for hair extensions, shall we? They’re not just a beauty hack—they’re THE beauty hack. If you’re stepping out with waist-grazing waves or tossing your locks into a Pinterest-worthy bun, extensions take your hair from dull to AMAZING in a hot second. They’re basically the Beyoncé of beauty upgrades, powerful, flawless, and *always* stealing the spotlight.
But here’s the kicker—extensions aren’t just for gaze-worthy mermaid waves or those dreamy, salon-fresh curls. They’re also surprisingly versatile for tied-up hairstyles. Think ponies that scream “clean-girl chic,” or effortless low buns that give Sofia Richie a run for her money. Yep, you can do it all without sacrificing style or exposing your secrets (aka those wefts).
The trick? It’s all about the blend, of course. Because while extensions are your best-kept beauty weapon, no one needs to know just how the magic happens. You want people wondering, “How does she always look this good?” You definitely don’t want them clocking the tapes hiding under your bun. It’s easier than it sounds.
Looking to take your extension game to new heights (literally)? From ponytails to braids to buns, we’re about to show you how to tie your hair up in ways that are oh-so-flattering.
Prepping your extensions for tied-up perfection
Hold on, before you jump into your next Insta-worthy hairstyle, let’s talk prep. A little groundwork makes sure your extensions blend well and stay secure no matter the style. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Smooth it out
Gently brush through your hair and extensions using a tool designed for extensions (hello, no snagging!). Start from the ends and work your way up. Tangle-free hair isn’t just easier to style—it’s important for keeping things sleek and polished.
2. Placement is key
For clip-ins, position the wefts strategically, keeping them lower and angling them slightly upward. This guarantees that they stay hidden when your hair is up. Tape-ins and sew-ins? Double-check they’re lying flat so there are no awkward bumps or peeking wefts when you start styling.
3. Texture is your friend
If your hair is silky smooth, it can be tricky to keep it in place. Add a touch of dry shampoo or texturizing spray to create grip and hold. Bonus: it adds that effortlessly tousled, clean-girl texture we all secretly aim for.
4. Tools to keep handy
Your essentials? A trusty brush, bobby pins, hair elastics (preferably ones that match your hair color), and maybe a little hairspray for finishing touches. Having these on hand makes sure you’re ready to slay any style.
Now that your hair is primed and prepped, let’s get into the juicy part—tying up those locks in styles that are extension-friendly.
The effortless low ponytail
Let’s kick things off with the queen of understated elegance—the low ponytail. Perfect for everything from errand runs to date nights, this look says low-maintenance girlie while actually being super intentional. And yes, it’s 100% doable with extensions—no awkward wefts in sight.
Step 1—Prep the base
Start by brushing your hair and extensions into a smooth, cohesive canvas. For an undetected finish, apply a light touch of smoothing cream or serum to tame any flyaways. If you’re after more texture, spritz some dry shampoo for that “cool-girl” undone vibe.
Step 2—Position the pony
Gather your hair at the nape of your neck. Make sure to angle the hair gently downwards to keep the extensions hidden. If you’re worried about visibility, use your fingers to feel for any peeking wefts and adjust as needed.
Step 3—Secure and conceal
Once your ponytail is in place, secure it with a hair tie that blends with your hair color. Feeling fancy? Grab a small section of hair from the ponytail, wrap it around the hair tie, and pin it in place for a polished, red carpet finish.
Step 4—Final touches
Finish with a spritz of hairspray to lock it all in, or leave it soft and natural—your choice. Either way, this low ponytail is giving major chic but effortless energy.
Pro tip: Adding a slight wave to your ponytail creates movement and makes the look even more luxe. Use a curling wand on low heat to create soft bends, blending natural hair and extensions seamlessly.
The Sofia Richie-inspired low bun
Hands up if we were all collectively manifesting Sofia Richie vibes this summer. The wedding, the baby, the *everything*. She’s minimal, ultra-luxe, and honestly, we’re obsessed.
And the low bun? That’s her trademark. It’s like the “cool girl” of hairstyles—the one that effortlessly says, “I’m not trying, but I still look perfect.” Picture Sofia Richie strolling through the streets of Paris, her hair pulled into a chic, messy low bun, and boom, you’re the vibe. With extensions? Even better.
Step 1—Start with textured hair
The ticket to this style is texture, babe. You want a little movement—nothing too stiff or polished. So, start by giving your hair a quick refresh with some dry shampoo or texture spray. This will add grip and volume to your extensions, making them easier to twist into the perfect bun.
Step 2—Gather & twist
Gather your hair (and extensions) into a loose ponytail at the nape of your neck. Don’t stress about it being too neat—this look is meant to be slightly undone. Once your ponytail is in place, twist it loosely and start wrapping it around the base, creating a bun.
Step 3—Pin & secure
Now here’s where the magic happens. Secure the bun with bobby pins, tucking in any stray ends as you go. For that extra Sofia effect, leave a few pieces of hair out around your face for that effortless, Chanel-esque feeling.
Step 4—Final touches
Finish with a mist of light hairspray to set everything in place (but keep it soft—remember, this is about effortlessness, not helmet hair). You can also pull a few pieces out around your temples for that “lived-in” feel that makes this look so iconic.
Pro tip: To get that just right messy bun, gently tug at the sides after you’ve pinned it to give it a little volume and softness. It’s the Insta-girlie secret sauce to looking effortlessly fabulous.
Feeling like the cool, calm, collected IT girl yet? Next up, we’re finishing off the list with everyone’s favorite sleep style. The braid.
The effortless braid
If we’re already being told to sleep in braids to protect our extensions, why not step out looking effortlessly chic while we’re at it? Braids are the ultimate multitasker—they keep your hair safe and give you that boho goddess meets cool-girl brunch energy. Think carefree, stunning, and just the right amount of undone, like you casually wandered off a sunlit terrace. Perfect, right?
Step 1—Prep your extensions
Start by brushing through your hair and extensions, making sure they’re smooth and tangle-free. If you’re feeling extra (aren’t we always?), add a little sea salt spray or light mousse into your strands to give it texture. This will give your braid that perfectly lived-in look we’re going for, and it’ll also help your extensions blend seamlessly with your natural hair. Remember, this style is about being effortless, not perfection. So, a little texture is your true hero.
Step 2—Choose your braid style
When it comes to braids, we’re not here for anything too complicated—this is about keeping it simple and chic. Start by sectioning your hair (and extensions) into three equal parts at the nape of your neck.
Now, take a deep breath and don’t stress about making everything too polished. The best part of this style is that it’s all about relaxed beauty, not precision. Grab each section of hair and begin braiding loosely—if you want to, start from the top of your head for a crown braid or from the nape of your neck for a low-maintenance option. But whatever you do, keep it loose—tight braids? Not the vibe.
As you braid, gently pull the sides of the hair to add volume, giving it that textured, bohemian feel. This will make your extensions look like they naturally belong in your hair and not like you just added them in. When it comes to this style, we’re embracing the art of controlled chaos.
Step 3—Secure the ends
Once you’ve braided your hair down to the tips, secure it with a clear elastic or a small hair tie. Now, this is where you can really make it your own. Forget the perfectly neat and tidy ends—we want this braid to look like it just “happened.” Don’t overthink it.
When you pull the braid tight, keep it a little loose at the base and the ends. This will give your braid that natural look. And if you want to make it even more undone, wrap a tiny ribbon or a cute hair cuff around the base for that FYP aesthetic.
Step 4—Add the finishing touches
Here’s the secret to this braid: mess it up (in the best way, of course). Loosen it up a bit with your fingers, gently tugging at the sides to add more volume and texture. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect. The more relaxed the braid looks, the better.
Pro tip: If you want to give it a bit of extra flair, lightly tease the braid at the crown of your head before you finish off with a light-hold hairspray. This will add just the right amount of volume to keep it chic without looking too stiff. You want that effortless feel, and this little trick will totally deliver.
This style is perfect for any day when you want to look like you just stepped off a beach in Bali or an open-air music festival. It’s fun, free-spirited, and, let’s be honest, it’s the perfect way to rock those extensions without worrying about them being in your face.
As long as you hide those bonds, tapes, or glue—you’re golden!
And just like that, you’re ready to tie your hair extensions up like they’re your real hair. The main rule to making it work is keeping things natural and, of course, making sure your bonds, tapes, or glue are tucked away neatly. As long as you hide those little secrets, you’re good to go.
Tying up hair extensions is as easy as pie, and it’s all about playing with texture, volume, and that effortless, barely-tried style. So, the next time you’re running out the door, trying to keep your hair out of your face but still want to look GOOD. You’ve got this.
