Whilst we wouldn’t usually dream of suggesting directions on a dress or hair code for a whole profession, nurses have to follow stricter guidelines than most when it comes to how they present themselves. Everything from makeup to nurse’s uniform styles is tightly controlled to prevent infection and keep patients, colleagues and the nurses themselves safe.
Should you be a medical professional or simply a curious sort, then what are the best hairstyles for nurses to wear? Here are 5 of the best hairstyles for nurses with long hair.
SAFETY FIRST
Ok, we know that ‘safety’ isn’t exactly a hairstyle, however, it’s worth bearing in mind that you have to consider safety above everything else as a nurse. While you might find a hairstyle which looks fantastic on you, it may not be suitable for your healthcare roles. Sadly, the latter takes precedence over the former in this demanding, cherished role.
In general, nurse hairstyles should either be short or, if long, tied back. While highlights, striking colours and dyed hair is permitted in some workplaces, it might be safer to ‘err on the side of caution’ by sticking to your natural colour. You should always consult your workplace guidelines before committing to a style, as every private hospital and NHS trust differs. For general advice, check out NHS England’s Guidance on uniform and workwear policies, but do bear in mind that there are some divergences on rules according to trust.
Once you’ve familiarised yourself with the guidance, these are some styles you might want to try.
FRENCH BRAID
The French braid is a classic style that works best for those who have below shoulder-length hair. This style incorporates three strands that are braided together from the head’s brow to below the neck, and is both stylish and suitable for long hours spent nursing.
French braids are the go-to style for nurses with long hair because it’s such a reliable design. A well-plaited braid will last all day without strands of hair coming loose and will remain neat throughout. When dealing with patients, the last thing you want is your plait coming undone.
The length of a French braid means it goes very well with tunic dresses; if you prefer wearing a dress instead of separates, this could be the style for you.
TOP KNOT BUN
Perhaps one of the more famous matron-style hairstyles is the top knot bun. Again, this is another style that works well for nurses with longer hair.
It involves the hair being curled into a crown and fastened on top of the head, with Rihanna and Gigi Hadid both seen wearing this style regularly. For experienced and aspiring nurses alike, this remains a popular choice.
What makes the top knot bun such a good style for nurses is that all hair remains tucked away on top of the head. With no hair dangling, there’s no chance of any straying into the wrong place and causing an infection control concern. Or, simply, being a nuisance. As the top knot bun is such a classic style, it looks great paired with one of Alexandra’s classic cut tunics or tunic dresses, available from their healthcare section.
BRAIDED BUNS
For afro and curly hair, braided buns with cornrows is an incredibly pretty and low-maintenance style. This type of style has longevity (and can be left in for weeks if you look after them properly) and is popular with nurses who don’t have much time on their hands. If you have box braids, wrapping them into a classic cinnamon bun style looks elegant and is practical, too.
Another style of braided bun ideal for curly or straight hair is the braided French Twist. This combines the textures of the French braid with the functional practicality of the top knot bun. Many nurses prefer this style to the top knot bun or the French braid because of its durability throughout a tough day and its simple elegant appearance.
A third, easy braided bun style involves tying your hair back into pigtails, plaiting them and then intertwining the plaited pigtails together and fixing them with hair grips.
FRENCH ROLL
An exquisite hairstyle that never goes out of fashion, the French Roll (nope, not a delicious breakfast option) is another popular choice with nurses. If you’ve got long hair, you can try this style out by curling your hair up and pinning it to the back of your head. Keira Knightly and Emma Stone have famously sported this hairstyle, favouring it’s sophisticated aesthetic.
What makes the French Roll so popular with nurses is its sheer practicality and elegance. Once put in place, the roll will stay in place all day, no matter how long your shift is. What’s more, it will look reliably effortless. If you want a professional look without compromising glamour, the French Roll is the style for you. Match this hairstyle with a spot tunic for a contemporary, professional look.
THE BOTTOM LINE
While nurses have many safety precautions to adhere to when considering which hairstyle to wear, that doesn’t mean they have to sacrifice style completely. There are so many classy and secure ways for a nurse to style their hair and we’re sure you’ll find one that conforms to your workplace guidelines and your own unique tastes.
If you’re looking for new nurse uniforms or accessories – such as skull caps and head scarfs – then check out Alexandra workwear. Alexandra is the UK’s #1 supplier of medical workwear for healthcare professionals, supplying private hospitals and the NHS.