First things first:
Remember that bobby pins are meant to be used with the wavy side facing your scalp — the ridges are there to grip your hair and lock everything in place.
1. For no-show pins, point the bobby pin in the opposite direction of the hair you're pinning back.
Twist the pulled back section slightly, so that the pin has something to weave into. Find instructions for this quick tuck at Cosmo.
2. This works for pinning back braids too:
Watch the step-by-step video here.
3. Or, you can ditch the no-show look entirely:
Wear 'em loud and proud. More here.
4. Shorter locks? Sweep everything to one side:
And to prevent pins from sliding, prep them before use:
5. For a no-fuss way to tuck your bangs back, braid your crown and secure with two quick pins:
7. Or criss-cross your locks for a different take on half-up, half-down:
It's easier than you think, and each pin tucks neatly under the layer above it. More here.
8. Master the art of the twist-and-tuck:
9. Use bobby pins to prop up your ponytail:
All about that base. Learn how.
10. Get creative with a chevron-inspired design:
11. Or a geometric one:
More ideas at Marie Claire.
Also? Bonus points if you can work this into your hair: ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
12. Channel old Hollywood in three steps: pin, roll, and tuck:
So romantic. Instructions here.
14. Double up with two:
15. Or three:
Illuminati chic. More ideas here.
16. Start your day with a sunrise ponytail:
Fair to say that this one might take more than a few minutes — but you can't just ~rush a sunrise~, OK? Get the instructions.
17. Chop your locks (temporarily!):
Total pins needed: 8. See how she did it.
18. Go minimalist with an easy waterfall braid + a single pin:
19. Or stack a dozen on top of each other for a beautifully bold look:
Amped up contrast FTW. More ideas at Refinery29.
20. Rock a rainbow-inspired 'do with colorful pins:
More photos here.
21. Or better yet, DIY your own custom set:
Bonus: A quick fix for all of those stretched out bobby pins you've got lying around? Pliers.
