[Death by Mirrors]

Maybe not exactly what you're looking for, but the thing that springs to my mind first when talking about 5 minute styling tips is accessories. A hairpin can look anywhere from funky to elegant and only takes a minute to place. You could show off your favorite fandom with a geeky bobby pin, or draw inspiration for a headband from a different era or travel destination.

Another quick tip for short hair is water based styling gel (low number, not the extra strong stuff). Apply just a little bit to your fingers and ruffle through your hair. Works even with fine hair, but it tends to look greasy and weird on longer strands. So once you have more than five inches, the results may be less than satisfying.

[Kaderin Triste]

I'll have to practice with hairpins. I've never had much luck getting them to stay in place. Not too sure about headbands. They tend to not fit well and make me look 10. XD

Oh, that reminds me. I should try to track down the hair creme my sister had me try a few years ago. Most gels tend to make my hair look greasy, regardless, but she had a great creme that worked amazingly. But I don't think she told me the right name for it because I couldn't find it online even.

(Ah, I think I need my hair trimmed up soon. Normally I just let it grow out all year, but I kind of liked it shorter this summer.)

[Witchchylde]

Look for sculpting clay-based hair product. It will add body, maintain hold, and absorb oils. Also a good way to sneak extra colors into your 'do depending on the product you end up using.
This should be easy to find in stores. LOreal-Paris-Studio-Overworked-Putty

[Kaderin Triste]

I wish that more companies offered like little 2-3 use trial size containers. My hair is weird and it would be nice to know if a product would work before shelling out for a full sized container and only using it once.
XP

Will have to spend some time staring helplessly at styling products one of these days and see if anyone in the store can help. XD