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Tessa Altman
Updated on April 17, 2021

Do you have an important job interview you’re hoping to ace? Or are you just looking to update your style in the office? Some people think the workplace equals boring hairstyles, but that’s not true! Being a successful, busy woman does not mean you must sacrifice style. Read on to find professional hairstyles appropriate for your career.

Rules for Professional Hairstyles

Recently, the rules regarding workplace appearances have become less strict, meaning you no longer have to be restricted with your hairstyle. At the same time, however, you must remember to maintain a certain level of decorum. While your hairstyle should be conservative, you can still be creative! It’s a professional environment, so save the crazy styles for the weekend! Maintain formality, but keep your personality.

20 Professional Hairstyles to Try

The office doesn’t require a specific haircut. Check out these fashionable hairstyles, perfect for the workplace and beyond!

1. A-Line Haircut

Short hair is a perfect way to keep things professional. This shaggy style is cute but classy. A great choice for women without the time to put too much effort into their hair before work. You can just roll out of bed, and you’re almost ready to go!

A-Line Haircut

Instagram / @hair.roullete

2. Ombre Long Bob

Here is another easy style for the busy woman in the morning. Soft waves combined with the ombre color take an already cute long bob and give it something extra. This fun style, however, maintains professionalism. Pair it with a classic button-up, and you’re ready to tackle that job interview!

Ombre Long Bob

Instagram / @anhcotran

3. Braided Updo

Think a braided updo is only appropriate for a bride? While this style might seem like a traditional wedding look, there is no reason you shouldn’t update your work style with some braids! Get creative with your long hair and try this sleek and sophisticated updo.

Braided Updo

Instagram / @michaelgrayhair

4. Straight Bob

Tired of rocking long hair? Chop those locks in favor of this straight bob, a great choice to stay professional with an edge. The side bang adds a beautiful touch to this professional-looking style.

Straight Bob

Instagram / @hairbyjaxx

5. Twisted Updo

While not as elaborate as a braided updo, this twisting bun makes is a neat and tidy style, perfect for any career woman. All you need is a tailored suit, and you’re prepared to take the corporate world by storm!

Twisted Updo

Instagram / @michaelgrayhair

6. Shoulder-Length Blonde

Perfect for medium-length hair, this straight cut stops right at the shoulders, making it just long enough to maintain your femininity but not so long that it looks unprofessional. The color adds an additional pop to the overall look, while also taking any attention away from signs of fine hair.

Shoulder-Length Blonde

Instagram / @romeufelipe

7. French Twist

Want a way to take your long hair to the next level in the office? Pull it up into a french twist for a classic look. The graceful twists are timeless, and the side-swept bangs only add to the glamour.

8. Straight Balayage

Considering adding some color to your hair but afraid it isn’t work-appropriate? Try balayage! Balayage allows you to have highlights without worrying if it’s too much for a professional environment. With such a natural-looking color, your co-workers will never question your highlights!

Straight Balayage

Instagram / @chrisgreenehair

9. Fishtail Braid

Are you a hippie at heart, constrained to the workplace? You’re in luck! To maintain your boho style in a formal environment, try a fishtail braid. It’s breezy and free, yet still appropriate in a professional setting.

Fishtail Braid

Instagram / @sabrinadijkman

10. Wavy Bob

Experiment with the average bob and opt for some waves to add some fun to this classic style! This cut kills two birds with one stone, looking great for the workplace and the beach. These business casual waves soften the edges, and the balayage helps create a more textured look.

Wavy Bob

Instagram / @giadoeshair

11. Textured Bun

Throwing your hair up in a bun is always an easy look, but did you realize a bun can also look professional? Take some time to perfect your bun in the morning. Perfect for curly or wavy hair, let some curls frame your face for a feminine flair.

Textured Bun

Instagram / @morganhairco

12. Wavy Pixie Cut

Perhaps nothing screams “professional woman” quite like short hair. However, short does not mean boring! Add some wavy layers and highlights to have some fun with this classically professional look.

Wavy Pixie Cut

Instagram / @brittanyatboss

13. Long and Blonde

Blondes are known to have more fun, but that doesn’t stop them from looking professional! Show off those blonde locks with waves. For an extra “oomph,” embrace the side bang! It frames the face nicely, which is always suitable in the workplace.

Long and Blonde

Instagram / @romeufelipe

14. Low Twist

Tired of your long hair getting in the way but looking for something more unique than a ponytail? Try this low twist! The braids are a great way to keep your hair from flopping into your eyes at work. Elegant yet professional, you’ll wow your co-workers with this updo!

15. Reverse French Twist

Another great option for working women with long hair is this reversal of a classic French twist. The hair is twisted in a way that it remains low, emphasizing its length while preserving the femininity of the look. Its simplicity adds to its formal appearance.

Reverse French Twist

Instagram / @ellejwoods

16. Low, Twisting Bun

Buns are a great way to do your hair, but to add some elegance, try a low twist wrapped like a bun at the nape of your neck. The subtle details show you take your professional appearance quite seriously.

17. Side Ponytail

Transform your ponytail by adding some curls! The beachy waves of this ponytail, coupled with the non-traditional placement on the side are the perfect way to revamp this classic style. The waves add texture and volume without deterring from the formality of the office.

Side Ponytail

Instagram / @tanyaborisovacom

18. Kinky Curls

Curly hair can get a bad rap for being unruly, but you can keep the curls and the professionalism by staying true to your natural hair. These kinky curls are perfect for women looking to easily maintain their natural hair.

Kinky Curls

Instagram / @poupe_noire

19. Classic Updo

Make yourself look and feel like royalty with this classic updo. This style is versatile, perfect for a corporate meeting or fancy dinner after a long day of work. It’s elegant and demands respect when you walk into the office.

Classic Updo

Instagram / @alldolledupct

20. Wavy Ombre

Let your hair down in the workplace with this wavy ombre look! The side part coupled with these lengthy waves shape your face in a sophisticated way, while the color shows you aren’t afraid to have fun with your hair!

Wavy Ombre

Instagram / @chrisgreenehair

Clearly, the workplace doesn’t have to be boring. With these cute yet professional hairstyles, the office has never been so stylish! So go ahead and switch up your cut to one of these sophisticated looks!

A-Line Haircut Ombre Long Bob Braided Updo Straight Bob Twisted Updo Shoulder-Length Blonde French Twist Straight Balayage Fishtail Braid Wavy Bob Textured Bun Wavy Pixie Cut Long and Blonde Low Twist Reverse French Twist Low, Twisting Bun Side Ponytail Kinky Curls Classic Updo Wavy Ombre