Okay, so back to school season is almost here! I remember feeling that mix of excitement and nerves every single year. Picking out new school supplies was always fun, but deciding what to do with my hair? That felt like a whole separate project! I’d spend ages in front of the mirror, trying to figure out a style that was cute, stayed put through classes and after-school activities, and didn’t take forever to do in the morning rush. It felt like a never-ending dilemma!
That’s exactly why I started TressNails.com. I’m Ella Kohn, and I just love sharing beauty tips, especially when it comes to hair. My mission is to help you feel amazing about yourself, and a great hairstyle is such a big part of that. I wanted to create a space where you could find easy, fun, and practical ideas.
Whether you’re heading to elementary school, middle school, high school, or even college, finding the right look can give you a little confidence boost on that first day back. And let’s be honest, having a few go-to styles makes mornings so much easier!
So, get ready! I’ve put together a list of tons of ideas to get you started on the right foot. We’re talking about everything From Messy Buns to Bubble Braids: 22 Back to School Hair options that are perfect for hitting the books in style. Let’s dive in!
22 Back to School Hair Ideas
All right, let’s get into the fun part! I’ve rounded up a list of 22 fantastic hairstyles perfect for heading back to school. We’ve got everything from super simple to a little more intricate. No matter your hair type or how much time you have, you’ll find something here. Starting with a true classic that never fails!
22. Simple Ponytail
You really can’t go wrong with a simple ponytail. It’s the go-to for a reason! It keeps hair out of your face all day long. It works for just about everyone, from the little ones to high schoolers. Want to make it feel fresh? Just add a fun scrunchie that matches your outfit!
21. Half-Up Half-Down
This style gives you the best of both worlds. It keeps the hair away from your face so you can focus in class. But you still get to have some hair down, which feels nice. It works on short hair, long hair, and everything in between. Try adding a couple of small braids or simple twists to the half-up part to make it extra cute.
20. Space Buns
Okay, these are just plain fun! Space buns are playful and look adorable. They’re super popular with younger students, but really, anyone can rock them. You can make them neat or a little messy. For a pop of sparkle, add some hair glitter or use bright, colorful hair ties.
19. Low Bun
If you want a look that feels a bit more put-together and polished, a low bun is your friend. It’s sleek and sophisticated without trying too hard. It’s great for days when you want your hair completely off your neck but still looking neat. If you want a bigger bun, a hair donut works wonders!
18. High Bun
This is another classic for keeping hair totally out of the way, especially on warmer days. A high bun sits right on top of your head. It’s practical for sports or just when you want a clean look. I like pulling out a few small pieces around my face to make it a little softer.
17. Braided Headband
This is a clever way to use your own hair as an accessory! You just take a section of hair near your ear, braid it, and then bring it across your head like a headband. It’s perfect for holding back bangs or layers. Secure it well with bobby pins that match your hair color so they disappear.
16. Side Braid
An easy, casual braid that looks lovely draped over one shoulder. Side braids are great if you have layers because it’s less fussy than trying to get them all into a back braid. After you finish braiding, gently pull on the sides of the braid to make it look thicker and softer.
15. Double Braids
Divide your hair down the middle and create two symmetrical braids. These are practical for active days like gym class or recess because they keep hair securely in place. You can do simple three-strand braids or try something different. Adding colorful ribbons woven into or tied at the ends of the braids is a sweet touch.
14. French Braid
The French braid is a timeless skill to learn! You start with three sections at the top of your head. As you braid, you keep adding small sections of hair from the sides into the braid. It keeps hair super neat and close to the head. It might take a few tries to get the hang of adding hair smoothly, but keep practicing!
13. Dutch Braid
This is like a French braid, but instead of crossing the hair sections over, you cross them under. This makes the braid stand out from your head, giving it a cool, raised effect. It’s visually striking and looks really impressive, even though it’s not much harder than a French braid. You can make them loose for a boho feel or tight for a sleek look.
12. Fishtail Braid
Fishtail braids look really intricate and beautiful, almost like a herringbone pattern. You only work with two sections of hair, taking small strands from the outside of one section and crossing it over to the inside of the other. It definitely takes a little patience and practice! Once it’s braided, gently pulling the sides apart makes it look much fuller and more dramatic.
11. Crown Braid
Imagine a braid wrapping all the way around your head, like a queen’s crown! You can create this by doing a French or Dutch braid starting near your ear and circling around your head, adding hair as you go. It’s an elegant style that keeps all your hair up and out of the way. Secure it carefully with bobby pins hidden underneath the braid.
10. Pull-Through Braid
If traditional braiding isn’t your thing, or you have layers that escape, the pull-through braid is a fantastic alternative. You create a series of small ponytails down your head, then split each ponytail in half and pull the next ponytail up through the gap. You use elastics to create the shape, which looks like a braid but is different. Using clear elastics makes the technique invisible.
9. Bubble Braid
This style is everywhere lately and it’s so fun and easy! You make a ponytail, then add elastics down the length of the ponytail, a few inches apart. Between each elastic, you gently pull and puff out the hair to create “bubbles.” It’s a playful and quick way to add interest to a simple ponytail. Experiment with colorful elastics for a bright look!
8. Twisted Ponytail
This is a quick way to make a regular ponytail look a bit more special. Instead of just gathering your hair, you can twist two sections of hair back from your temples and add them to the ponytail. Or, twist the entire ponytail itself before securing the end. It adds a nice texture. Try doing multiple twists down the ponytail for more detail.
7. Twisted Bun
Adding twists before forming your bun gives it extra texture and visual interest. You can twist two sections back from your face and add them to your bun, or twist the ponytail before wrapping it into a bun shape. It makes a simple bun look more intentional and stylish. Make sure to use enough bobby pins to keep those twists in place!
6. Accessory-Enhanced Styles
Sometimes, the simplest styles become amazing with the right accessory! A plain ponytail or bun can be totally transformed with a cute scrunchie, a sparkly clip, a decorative headband, or a colorful scarf tied around it. Accessories are an easy way to add personality and coordinate your hair with your outfit. I love how a simple clip can hold back bangs and look cute at the same time.
5. Messy Bun
Ah, the messy bun. It looks effortless, but sometimes getting it just right takes a little effort! The goal is an intentionally undone look that’s casual and cool. It’s perfect for those mornings when you’re running late or just want a relaxed vibe. Using a texturizing spray can give your hair a little grip, which helps the bun stay in place without being too neat.
4. Sleek Ponytail
On the opposite end of the spectrum from the messy bun is the sleek ponytail. This look is smooth, polished, and sophisticated. It sits high on the head and looks really clean. To get this look, you’ll want to brush your hair back smoothly and use a little gel or hairspray to tame any flyaways and keep it frizz-free all day.
3. Half-Up Buns
Combine the fun of space buns with the ease of having your hair down! This style involves taking the top section of your hair and creating two small buns on top of your head, leaving the rest of your hair down. It’s playful, trendy, and keeps some hair out of your face. Pulling out a few face-framing pieces makes it look softer.
2. Braided Pigtails
Classic pigtails get an upgrade when you braid them! You can do simple three-strand braids, French braids, or Dutch braids. This style is super cute and practical, keeping hair neatly divided and out of the way. Adding ribbons tied at the top or woven into the braids adds a sweet, school-ready touch.
1. The Ultimate Back to School Braid: The Waterfall Braid
I think the waterfall braid is just magical! It looks like strands of hair are cascading down through the braid, like a little waterfall. You braid along your head, similar to a French braid, but instead of adding the bottom section into the braid, you let it fall down and pick up a new section to continue. It’s elegant, unique, and really beautiful. It takes a bit of practice to get the technique down, but it’s so worth it for this stunning back to school look!
Frequently Asked Questions About Back to School Hairstyles
Okay, I get asked a lot of questions about keeping hairstyles looking good all day at school! Here are a few common ones I hear, and my best tips to help you out as you try these back to school hair ideas.
How can I make my hairstyle last all day at school?
This is a big one! Nobody wants their perfect braid falling out by lunch. Using a good hairspray after you style can really help hold things in place. Don’t be afraid to use bobby pins too; they are your secret weapon for securing braids and buns. Choosing styles that are meant to stay put, like tight braids or a well-secured bun, also makes a difference. Sometimes a little texturizing spray before styling helps too.
What are some good hairstyles for short hair for school?
Even with short hair, you have options! Headbands are fantastic for keeping hair back and adding a pop of color. Cute clips can hold back sections or bangs. Half-up styles work on shorter lengths too; you can do a tiny ponytail or small buns. Little braids near the face or along the hairline are also super cute and practical for short hair.
How can I protect my hair from breakage with frequent styling?
Styling often can be hard on hair, so it’s important to be gentle. Always use soft, fabric-covered elastics instead of rubber bands. Try not to pull styles too tight, especially braids and ponytails, as this can cause breakage. Deep conditioning your hair regularly helps keep it strong. And consider protective styles like braids or buns that keep your ends tucked away.
Conclusion
So there you have it! Over 20 ideas to get your back to school hair sorted. I hope this list gives you some great inspiration and makes those busy mornings a little easier. Don’t be afraid to try new styles and experiment. Your hair is a fun way to show off your personality!
Remember, the best back to school hair is one that makes you feel confident and comfortable all day long. Whether you choose a simple ponytail or master the waterfall braid, rock it with a smile. Have a fantastic school year!
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