Okay, deep breaths! Picture day is just around the corner, and I know that little bit of panic can start to set in. You want your child to look their absolute best, but who has hours to spend wrestling with hair on a busy school morning? Trust me, I’ve been there. Getting my own girls ready for that camera flash used to feel like a mission impossible.
That’s why I pulled together this list of Picture Day Perfect: 12+ Easy Back to School Hairstyles That Wow. I focused on looks that are simple enough to do quickly before the bus arrives, but still have that “wow” factor. We’re talking about styles that look put-together and polished without needing a cosmetology degree.
I’ve tried so many different back to school hairstyles over the years, and I’ve learned what works and what just adds unnecessary stress. This guide cuts through the complexity to give you seriously easy options. These looks are designed to hold up throughout the school day, so their picture will still look great even after recess.
Let’s get your little one picture day ready with a smile and a fantastic hairstyle!
Your Ultimate Guide to Picture Day Hairstyles
Alright, let’s dive into the good stuff! Here are my top picks for easy back to school hairstyles that are perfect for picture day. I’ve ranked them with the easiest and often most impactful ones first, but honestly, they’re all pretty simple. Get ready to find your go-to look!
13. The Classic Ponytail with a Twist
You can’t go wrong with a ponytail, but let’s make it picture-ready! Instead of just pulling the hair back, try creating a clean part, either side or middle. Secure the pony a little higher or lower than usual for a different vibe. This is super easy and works for almost anyone with shoulder-length hair or longer. A cute ribbon or a fun scrunchie instantly elevates this simple style and makes it pop in photos.
12. Simple Side Braid
A side braid is another classic that takes minimal effort. Just gather the hair to one side and do a basic three-strand braid. It gives a sweet, relaxed look. This is great for most hair types, especially those with some natural texture. Make sure to secure the end with a clear elastic so the focus stays on the braid itself.
11. Half-Up Top Knot
This style is trendy and surprisingly easy. You just take the top section of hair, twist it into a small bun on top of the head, and secure it. It keeps hair out of the face while still showing off length. It works well for medium to long hair. To add a little extra something, pull out a few small pieces around the face for a softer look.
10. Bubble Braids
Bubble braids look way harder than they are! You just make a ponytail, add elastics down the length, and gently pull the sections in between to make them “bubble.” It’s a really fun, visual style. This is awesome for medium to long hair. Play around with the spacing of the elastics to get the bubble size you like best.
9. Double Buns
Also known as space buns, this look is playful and easy. Part the hair down the middle, make two ponytails high on the head, and twist each into a bun. They’re quick to do and look super cute. This style is perfect for medium to long hair. Using a little hairspray can help keep stray hairs tucked in for a neat finish.
8. Fishtail Braid
A fishtail braid looks intricate but is actually quite simple once you get the hang of it. It involves taking small sections from the outside and crossing them over. It creates a beautiful, detailed texture. This style is best for medium to long hair. Gently pulling on the sides of the braid makes it appear fuller and more relaxed.
7. Twisted Half-Up
This is one of my go-to easy back to school hairstyles. Take two small sections of hair from the front, twist them back, and secure them together. It’s elegant and keeps hair out of the eyes without being fussy. It works on most hair lengths. Use bobby pins that match the hair color to hide them and keep the twists in place.
6. High Bun
A high bun is a classic polished look. Gather all the hair into a ponytail high on the crown of the head, then twist or wrap it into a bun. It looks neat and sophisticated. This works best for medium to long hair. If you want extra volume, a sock bun or hair donut can make it look fuller and more perfect.
5. Low Bun with Side Part
For a more mature or sleek look, try a low bun with a deep side part. Brush the hair smoothly back into a low ponytail at the nape of the neck, then twist or wrap it into a bun. It’s effortlessly chic. This is great for all hair lengths past the chin. A tiny bit of smoothing serum or gel can tame any flyaways around the part and hairline.
4. Crown Braid
A crown braid is a beautiful look that feels a bit regal. You can start a braid near the temple and wrap it around the head, or do two pigtail braids and pin them up. It looks impressive but isn’t overly complicated. This style works well for medium to long hair. Use plenty of bobby pins tucked discreetly to make sure it stays secure all day.
3. Accessorized Loose Waves
If your child has naturally wavy hair, or you can add some easy waves with a curling iron or overnight braids, this is perfect. The key is adding a fun accessory! Loose waves look effortless and natural. This works for any hair length with some wave or curl. A cute headband, some sparkly clips, or a bow adds that special picture day touch.
2. Braided Headband
This style creates the look of a headband using hair itself. Take a section of hair from behind one ear, braid it, and bring it across the top of the head like a headband, pinning it behind the other ear. It’s charming and keeps hair back. This is best for medium to long hair. Make sure the braid isn’t too tight and use pins that blend in.
1. The Effortless Beach Waves
My absolute favorite for picture day perfection because it looks amazing and is so easy! Think relaxed, natural-looking waves. You can use a curling wand loosely, or even just braid damp hair the night before. It gives a soft, beautiful look that feels very natural. This works for most hair lengths. A spritz of texturizing spray adds that perfectly undone, beachy feel.
Picture Day Prep Tips
Getting ready for picture day is easier when you plan just a little bit ahead. These simple steps can make the morning much smoother and help those easy back to school hairstyles look their best.
Prepare Hair the Night Before
Washing hair the night before is a game changer. Clean hair is easier to work with and holds styles better. If you’re planning a braid or waves, doing a loose braid on damp hair overnight can create a lovely base for the morning. It saves so much time when you’re rushing to get out the door.
Gather Supplies
Have everything you need ready to go! Make sure you have a good brush or comb, plenty of hair ties and elastics, bobby pins that match the hair color, and a light-hold hairspray or smoothing product. Having your tools organized prevents frantic searching when you’re short on time.
Picture Day Hairstyle FAQs
I get asked a lot of questions about these easy back to school hairstyles, especially when picture day is coming up. Here are some common ones I hear, with my best answers to help you out.
What is the best hair type for these styles?
Honestly, most of these styles work on a variety of hair types! Straight, wavy, or even slightly curly hair can handle these looks. Some styles, like the bubble braid or fishtail, might be easier on hair that isn’t super fine. But with a little practice and the right products, you can adapt most of these for different textures.
How long do these styles take?
This is the best part! Most of these easy back to school hairstyles take less than 10-15 minutes. The simplest ones, like the ponytail or side braid, are often done in just a few minutes. Even styles like the fishtail or bubble braid can be pretty quick once you’ve done them a couple of times. They are designed for busy mornings!
Can I do these styles on myself?
Absolutely! While these are great for doing on someone else, many of them are totally doable on your own hair. Styles like the high bun, low bun, or even the twisted half-up are easy to manage. For braids like the fishtail or crown braid, it might take a little practice in front of a mirror, but you can definitely master them!
Picture Day Confidence
More than any hairstyle, the best accessory for picture day is a big smile and feeling confident! These easy back to school hairstyles are meant to help your child feel good about how they look. When they like their hair, it shows. Remind them how wonderful they are, no matter what their hair looks like in the picture. That inner confidence shines through the most!
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