When you’re swamped with countless deadlines, prepping for tonight’s dinner party just seems impossible. But we know you wouldn’t want to get photographed at that party with blah, flat hair either. The solution? These pretty braided hairstyles you can wear to work and straight to your night out. While both the side braid and half-up braided updo give your locks a look of romantic refinement, they go well with both a casual and more dressed up outfit, too. Plus, both are totally doable—no extreme, acrobatic skills needed. Check out our braid tutorials below.

(Produced by Ira Nopuente; Photography by Mike Dee; Hairstyling by G Mande; Makeup by Elaine Ganuelas; Model: Patch Magtanong)