Okay parents, and kids too! I know that back to school rush can feel like a whirlwind, right? Between picking out outfits and packing lunches, figuring out hair that looks cute but takes zero time is a must. As Ella Kohn here at TressNails.com, I’ve spent years playing with hair, finding those go-to looks that actually work on busy mornings. My mission is always to help you feel your best, and that includes making those school days a little less hectic, starting with great hair.
That’s why I put together this list! I wanted to share some of my absolute favorite cute and quick back to school hairstyles that kids will truly love wearing. We’re talking styles that are simple enough to pull off even when you’re running late, but still look polished and put-together for that first day fresh feeling and beyond. Get ready to find your new favorites!
22 Cute and Quick Back to School Hairstyles for Kids
Alright, let’s dive into the good stuff! Here are my top picks for cute and quick back to school hairstyles. These are the styles I turn to when time is tight but I still want hair to look great. You’ll find options for all hair types and lengths, and they really don’t take long. We’ll start with one of the simplest classics that always works.
22. Simple Ponytail with Ribbon
You can’t go wrong with a simple ponytail. It’s a classic for a reason! Just gather all the hair at the back or side and secure it with an elastic. This style works on almost any hair length and texture. For an extra touch of fun, tie a colorful ribbon around the base of the ponytail. It’s an instant upgrade and takes seconds. My daughter loves picking out her ribbon color each morning.
21. Low Bun with Hair Clip
A low bun is another go-to for keeping hair neat. Just twist the hair into a bun at the nape of the neck and secure it. It’s perfect for keeping hair out of the way during class or recess. Add a pretty hair clip or barrette on the side of the bun. It makes the style look a little more special without adding much time at all.
20. Half-Up Top Knot
This style is super popular right now and so easy to do. Grab the top section of hair, like you’re making a half-up ponytail. Twist it into a small messy or neat bun on top of the head. Secure it with an elastic or bobby pins. It keeps hair out of the face while leaving the rest down. It’s a cool, effortless vibe that older kids especially like.
19. Bubble Braids
Bubble braids are a fun twist on a regular braid. Make a ponytail, then place elastics down the length of the ponytail a few inches apart. Gently pull on the sections between the elastics to make them “bubble” out. You can do this on pigtails too! It looks really cool and is surprisingly fast once you get the hang of it.
18. Twisted Pigtails
If braiding feels tricky, try twisting! Part the hair down the middle for pigtails. Take a small section near the face on one side and twist it back, adding more hair as you go. Secure the twisted sections into pigtails. It keeps the front pieces back and looks neat. This is a great option for shorter hair that might not braid easily.
17. Space Buns
Space buns are all about being playful. Part the hair down the middle and make two high ponytails. Twist each ponytail into a bun on either side of the head and secure. You can make them tight and neat or loose and messy. It’s a really fun look for showing off personality and keeping hair up and out of the way.
16. French Braid Headband
This style is both practical and pretty. Start a French braid along the hairline on one side, and continue braiding across the top of the head like a headband. Secure the end behind the ear with bobby pins. It’s great for keeping bangs or shorter layers out of the eyes. It adds a touch of elegance that still works for school.
15. Accessorized High Ponytail
A high ponytail is always quick. The trick here is the accessory! Put the hair in a high ponytail and then add a fun scrunchie, a decorative elastic, or even wrap a piece of hair around the elastic and pin it. It takes a basic ponytail from simple to stylish in seconds. I love how a bright scrunchie can match an outfit.
14. Pigtails with Braided Accents
Start with regular pigtails. Then, take a small section of hair from each pigtail and braid it. You can leave the small braid hanging or wrap it around the ponytail elastic. It’s a small detail that makes the pigtails look a little more finished. It’s an easy way to practice braiding too.
13. Side Swept Braid
Sweep all the hair over to one side. Create a braid on that side, either a simple three-strand braid or a French braid starting from the temple. Secure the end with an elastic. This keeps hair away from one side of the face and has a cool, asymmetrical look. It’s a bit more grown-up but still quick.
12. Mini Twists
Mini twists are fantastic, especially for managing different hair textures. Section the hair into small squares. Take two strands from a section and twist them together from root to tip. Repeat all over the head. This style can stay in for several days and keeps hair tidy. It’s also a great protective style.
11. Crown Braid
A crown braid goes all the way around the head. Start a French or Dutch braid near one ear and braid it around the hairline, adding sections as you go. Secure the end where it meets the beginning of the braid. It keeps all the hair up and looks really elegant. It might take a little practice, but it’s worth it!
10. Double Buns with Braids
Combine two fun styles! Make two high or low buns. Before securing the buns, braid a small section of hair near the face on each side and incorporate the braid into the bun. Or, braid a small piece from the ponytail before twisting it into a bun. It adds a cool detail to the buns.
9. Criss-Cross Ponytail
This adds a little something extra to a basic ponytail. Part the hair down the middle at the front. Take a section from the left side and cross it over to the right. Take a section from the right and cross it over to the left, just above the first section. Gather these crossed sections and the rest of the hair into a ponytail.
8. Fishtail Braid
A fishtail braid looks complicated but isn’t! Divide the hair into two sections. Take a small piece from the outside of one section and cross it over to the inside of the other section. Repeat, alternating sides. It creates a unique, intricate texture. You can do this on a ponytail or as a single braid down the back.
7. Half-Up Braided Pigtails
Section the top half of the hair as if for a half-up ponytail. Divide this section into two. Create a braid on each side. Let the two braids hang down with the rest of the hair. It keeps the top section neat and adds a cute braided detail. It’s a sweet and simple look.
6. Pulled Through Ponytail
This is a quick trick to make a ponytail look fancy. Put the hair in a low or mid-height ponytail. Make a small opening in the hair just above the elastic. Flip the ponytail up and through the hole. Pull it tight. It creates a cool twisted effect at the base. Super fast, super chic.
5. Multiple Mini Ponytails
This style is great for keeping everything secure. Part the hair into several sections, either in a row across the head or in a pattern. Secure each section with a small elastic to create mini ponytails. You can leave them as they are or connect them. It’s a fun way to use lots of colorful elastics and keeps hair very tidy.
4. Waterfall Braid
A waterfall braid is beautiful and looks like hair is flowing through it. Start a braid near the temple. When you cross a piece down, drop it and pick up a new piece from above to continue the braid. It creates a cascading effect. This one takes a little practice, but the result is stunning and perfect for longer hair.
3. Box Braids
Box braids are a protective style made by dividing hair into square (box) sections and braiding each section. While they take time to install initially, they can last for weeks. This means very little styling needed each morning! They are incredibly versatile and can be worn up, down, or in many other styles.
2. Cornrows
Cornrows are braids that lie flat against the scalp. Hair is braided by adding small sections as you go, creating raised rows. Like box braids, cornrows are a protective style that can last for a while. They keep hair completely secure and neat, which is perfect for active school days. Patterns can be simple or intricate.
1. Classic French Braid
The French braid is a timeless favourite for back to school. Start with three strands at the crown and begin braiding. With each cross-over, add a small section of hair from the side into the strand before you braid. It keeps hair securely in place from the top of the head down. It’s practical, neat, and great for all hair types.
Frequently Asked Questions About Back to School Hairstyles
I get asked a lot of questions about getting hair ready for school! Here are some common ones and my best tips to help you out with these cute and quick back to school hairstyles.
How can I make hairstyles last all day at school?
To help styles stay put, use strong, good-quality elastics that won’t slip. Bobby pins are your friend for securing braids or buns, just make sure they’re comfortable. For styles that tend to frizz or loosen, a light mist of hairspray can make a big difference. Choosing a style that’s already secure, like a tight braid or bun, helps too.
What are the best hairstyles for sports or physical activity?
When kids are running around, you need hair completely out of the way! Tight braids like French braids or cornrows are excellent. High, secure buns or multiple mini ponytails also work great because they keep hair from bouncing around. The goal is to keep hair off the face and neck so they can focus on playing.
How can I make styling quicker in the morning?
My biggest tip? Prep the night before if you can! Lay out elastics and brushes. For some styles, like braids, you can even start the night before. Practice makes perfect, so the more you do a style, the faster you’ll get. Having everything ready to go saves precious minutes in that morning rush.
Conclusion
Getting ready for the school year should be exciting, not stressful, especially when it comes to hair! I hope these cute and quick back to school hairstyles give you lots of ideas to try. Remember, the best style is one that makes your child feel happy and confident. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works for you and your family’s morning routine.
These styles prove you don’t need hours to create something fun and functional. With a little practice and the right accessories, you can send your kids off looking and feeling great every single day. Wishing you a wonderful and stylish school year ahead!
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