Braids.

I've always, always had long hair, so I've been a fan of braids for years. They're such a simple solution to a bad hair day, and they work just as well for fancy occasions as they do for hanging around the house in your pjs.

Which is why I love the fact that they're in vogue right now -- it means tons of girls who are waaaay more creative than I am come up with fun braided hairstyles and then post how-to guides online.

Speaking of, this is my most recent favorite: The Mermaid Tail Braid. It's easy, and just different enough that it's fun. Plus, it's pretty. (Side note: Girls, if you haven't visited this lovely lady's blog yet, you absolutely should. It's great.)

Basically, you put your hair in two braids (dutch style, which is where you cross the outside strand under the middle, instead of over), loosen them up a bit, and pin them together so it looks like one crazy elaborate braid. Ta-daa! Easy.