Running late is the perfect excuse for some bad behavior: eating those fast (and totally yummy) Pop-Tarts for breakfast, taking the carpool lane on the freeway (when it's just you in the car), forgetting to water your roommate's plant, etc. That being said, running behind does not justify bad hair. Yes, we realize that's a strong statement, but we're sticking to our guns on this one. In fact, we've got three hairstyles that will make running late look good on you!

By now you've probably come to realize that the messy bun is our go-to for any and all hair emergencies. Can you blame us? Between its versatility and overall chicness, there's really nothing that this 'do isn't capable of handling. Don't forget to apply a little texturizing powder or spray (we love Shu Uemura Texture Wave Dry Finishing Spray) prior to pulling up your hair, as it helps give the bun that messy look and makes for easier styling. For a little added "effortless perfection," try pulling out a few strands in the front and letting them hang free. It gives the style a pretty, feminine touch!

OK, we know we already mentioned a bun, but we have to add another one to the mix, because it's just oh-so-fabulous. Messy half-up buns have been all the rage for the past year and we can definitely see why. They allow you to look like you actually made an effort, when you really didn't ... heck, you didn't even spend two minutes on it! All you have to do to achieve this on-trend 'do is:

Step 1: Pull the hair up into a half-up pony and secure with an elastic band.

Step 2: Wrap the pony into a bun and pin it down with bobby pins. The fullness of the bun is totally up to you. If you want a more voluminous knot, pull gently at the bun until you reach the shape you want.

Step 3: Take some dry shampoo (try Garnier Fructis Volume Extend Instant Bodified Dry Shampoo) and lightly spray you loose hair. Fluff the hair to give it some body.

The classic pony will always hold a special place in our hearts, but lately it's been overshadowed by a cooler, upgraded version: the looped pony. We love the bounce and shape of this look and the fact that it takes little-to-no added effort to make it happen. Here are the simple steps to getting your loop on:

Step 1: Apply a little smoothing lotion or oil to your hair prior to pulling it back.

Step 2: Pull your hair back at the base of your neck as if you were doing a low pony and start wrapping an elastic band around it. Instead of pulling the pony all the way through the final time, create a "looped bun." Pull at the excess hair, if needed, to make sure the loop is neat and even. Finish the look with a little hairspray and you're good to go!