5 Last-Minute (& Celebrity-Approved) Holiday Hairstyles

As you're undoubtedly well aware, the holidays take some planning. Researching recipes, scheduling family gatherings, buying gifts ahead of time... and strategically avoiding the mall anytime after mid-December unless absolutely necessary. Nevertheless, even the best, most well-thought-out planner can be foiled by last-minute holiday party invites — which, of course, call for last-minute holiday hairstyles. But rather than skip the party altogether (or stress over potential styles), simply set your eyes on the endless style inspiration that is Hollywood.

Because your favorite stars have you covered. Whether you received a Facebook invite to a friend's get-together the day of, or realized your family holiday dinner is actually tonight instead of next week, continue scrolling. Below are five celebrity-inspired hairstyles that look incredibly polished and won't have you battling styling tools and juggling hairspray for an hour.

Better yet, each hairstyle on this list goes with virtually any outfit you have on hand — so you can get dressed first, and contemplate which hairstyle you're going to rock after. Beauty fans with long and short hair will find inspiration here, too; just take a look at Kaia Gerber's slicked-back 'do, aka the first style anyone with a pixie cut needs to try this season.

Ahead, five last-minute hairstyles that look like they took so much more time.

1. Softest Waves

There's a reason why celebs and shoppers alike have flocked to soft, beachy waves for the last decade: They only require a touch of curling iron magic (or a flat iron, depending on your preference), and yet leave you looking so polished — à la Laura Dern.

2. Mod Flip

Or, turn on your curling iron and add one bend to your tresses. The '60s mod hairstyle, complete with its flipped-up ends (or "bubble flip"), is back in a big way. Take a page from Ella Balinska's style book and modernize the retro look by keeping your hair subtly volumized, finishing with a smaller flip.

3. Slicked Back

Kaia Gerber's hairstyle borrows from the boys — of the '40s — and can be perfected in a flash. Just slick back your hair with a wide-toothed comb, apply product for that "wet-hair" look, and finish up with your favorite hairspray.

4. Sleek Braids

OK, you probably don't have time to spring for Rihanna's Fulani braids — but you can achieve an inspired look if you need to step out the door in the next 10 minutes. Just keep your style sleek on top, with a few braids pulled away from your face (diamond choker/earring/shawl combo optional).

5. Piecey Bun

Elevate your standard going-out bun into a certified updo by mimicking Emma Watson's red-carpet look — which kept longer, face-framing strands free, yet glossy and styled. Add accessories, like a thin metallic headband, if you want to up the look even more.