Oh, the smell of fresh pencils and new notebooks! Back to school season always brings a little buzz of excitement, doesn’t it? It’s a time for fresh starts, seeing friends, and, of course, planning those perfect first-day outfits. And what completes any great outfit? A cute hairstyle! As a beauty editor, I know how important it is to feel confident and ready to take on the day, and a fun hairdo can make all the difference.
That’s why I’ve put together this ultimate guide: 26 cute & easy back to school hairstyles for girls. You might know me, Ella Kohn, from TressNails.com. I absolutely love helping women feel beautiful and stylish, and sharing easy ways to achieve great looks is my passion. My goal is to make beauty fun and accessible for everyone.
Here at TressNails.com, we believe that everyone deserves to feel their best. When it comes to back to school looks, I’ve got you covered. I’ve handpicked a mix of styles that are not only adorable but also super simple to create, even on those rushed mornings. Whether you have long, short, curly, or straight hair, you’ll find plenty of inspiration here. We’re talking braids, buns, ponytails, and twists – all designed to keep hair neat and stylish throughout the school day. Get ready to find your new go-to looks!
26 Cute Back to School Hairstyles
Alright, let’s dive into the fun part! I’ve rounded up 26 adorable back to school hairstyles that are perfect for girls of all ages. We have everything from simple ponytails to more intricate braids, but don’t worry, they’re all easy to do. My absolute top pick is coming up at the end of the list, but trust me, you’ll find a new favorite (or two!) as we go through these.
26. Simple Ponytail with Ribbon
You really can’t go wrong with a classic ponytail. It’s timeless and keeps hair neatly pulled back. To make it extra cute for back to school, I love adding a colorful ribbon. It’s such a simple touch but adds a pop of personality. This style works on pretty much any hair type and length that can be pulled into a ponytail.
How to Achieve This Look
Gather hair into a ponytail at your desired height. Secure with an elastic. Tie a ribbon around the elastic or weave it through the base.
25. Half-Up Half-Down with a Twist
This style is a great compromise. It keeps hair out of the face for learning and playing, but still lets some hang down. I like to add a little twist to the top section for some extra detail. This looks especially sweet on medium to long hair.
Styling Tip
Once you’ve twisted the section, secure it with a cute clip or a small, decorative scrunchie.
24. Space Buns
Space buns are just so fun and trendy! They’re a playful way to keep hair up and secure. You can make them sleek or a little messy, depending on the look you’re going for. They work for various hair lengths and textures. For extra sparkle, try adding some hair glitter or tiny braids around the base of the buns.
Variations
You can also do half-up space buns, leaving the bottom section of hair down.
23. Bubble Braids
Bubble braids are a fantastic alternative if traditional braiding feels tricky. They look really cool and are super easy to create. It’s all about creating little “bubbles” of hair down the length. This style looks best on straight or wavy hair to really show off the bubble effect.
Adding Accessories
Use colorful elastics between each bubble for a bright, fun look.
22. Low Bun with Side Part
For a simple yet polished look, a low bun with a side part is perfect. It’s practical for active school days because it stays put. This versatile style works beautifully for all hair types, keeping hair tidy and out of the way.
For a Polished Look
Apply a small amount of smoothing serum to the hair before gathering it into the bun for extra sleekness.
21. High Ponytail with Voluminous Crown
A high ponytail is always a winner, and adding a little volume at the crown gives it extra style. This is a great way to keep hair completely off the neck on warmer days. It works best if you have medium to thick hair to create that lift.
Adding Volume
Before securing the ponytail, gently backcomb a small section of hair at the crown for a little extra height.
20. Boxer Braids
Boxer braids are incredibly secure and can last for a couple of days, which is great for busy mornings. They’re a popular style that’s perfect for sports or any day with lots of activity. This style works well on various hair types but is especially good for keeping thicker hair under control.
Keeping Them Neat
A light hold gel can help keep flyaways in place and the braids looking neat all day.
19. Double French Braids
Double French braids are a classic for a reason. They create a neat, put-together look that keeps hair completely off the face and neck. This style is ideal for medium to long hair, giving you plenty of length to work with for the braids.
Practice Makes Perfect
French braiding can take a little practice, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a quick and reliable style.
18. Messy Bun
The messy bun is the epitome of effortless cool. It looks casual and is super easy to whip up, even if you’re running late. It works for a wide range of hair lengths, from medium to very long. The beauty is that it doesn’t have to be perfect!
For a Truly Messy Look
Pull out a few small strands around the face after securing the bun for that perfectly undone vibe.
17. Side Braid
A simple side braid is a quick and easy option when you need to get out the door fast. It pulls hair to one side, keeping it out of the way while still looking cute. This style works for most hair types and lengths.
Adding Texture
After braiding, gently tug on the sides of the braid to loosen it slightly for a softer, more textured look.
16. Twisted Crown
Creating a twisted effect around the head is a pretty and secure way to style hair. It looks like a mini crown and keeps the front sections pulled back. This works best on medium to long hair where you have enough length to twist around.
Securing the Twist
Use bobby pins that match hair color to discreetly secure the twisted sections in place.
15. Pigtails
Good old pigtails! They’re classic, cute, and have a fun, youthful appeal. You can place them high or low, depending on what you like. Pigtails work for various hair lengths, from shoulder length to very long.
Adding Flair
Make them extra special with colorful hair ties, ribbons, or fun bows at the base of each pigtail.
14. Braided Headband
A braided headband is a lovely way to keep hair out of the face while adding a bit of detail. You create a braid from a section of hair and bring it across the top of the head like a headband. This style works well on medium to long hair.
Blending In
Take the section of hair for the braid from near the front hairline so it blends naturally across the head.
13. Top Knot
The top knot is a high bun that’s both practical and stylish. It’s perfect for keeping hair completely off the neck and shoulders, especially on warm days or for active classes. This style works for various hair types, though it’s easier with longer hair.
For a Sleek Look
Use a brush to smooth all the hair back before gathering it into the high ponytail for the knot.
12. Fishtail Braid
A fishtail braid looks intricate but is surprisingly easy once you get the technique. It creates a beautiful, detailed texture. This style works best on medium to long hair to really see the pattern of the braid.
Loosening the Braid
After you’ve finished braiding, gently pull on the sides of the braid to make it wider and give it a fuller look.
11. Half-Up Bun
This style combines the best of both worlds – a bun to keep the top section tidy and hair down for a softer look. It’s versatile and works for various hair lengths, making it a popular choice. You can make the bun neat or messy.
Adding Volume
Tease the section of hair slightly before twisting it into the bun for a little extra lift and volume.
10. Braided Pigtails
Combine the cuteness of pigtails with the security of braids! Braided pigtails are super secure and look adorable. They keep hair neatly divided and contained throughout the day. This style works for various hair lengths that can be put into pigtails and braided.
Starting the Braid
Start the braid near the top of the head and continue down the length of the pigtail for a consistent look.
9. Crown Braid
A crown braid wraps all the way around the head, creating a beautiful, elegant look. It’s perfect for keeping all hair up and off the neck. This style is ideal for longer hair to have enough length to go around the head.
Securing the End
Tuck the end of the braid under the beginning of the braid and secure it well with bobby pins that match your hair color.
8. Accessorized Ponytail
Take a simple ponytail from basic to beautiful with the right accessories. Adding a scarf, decorative clips, or a fun scrunchie can totally change the look. This works for all hair types and is a quick way to add personality.
Choosing Accessories
Let her pick accessories that match her outfit or show off her favorite colors or characters.
7. Twisted Pigtails
Instead of braiding, try twisting sections of hair for pigtails. It’s even easier than braiding and creates a lovely textured look. This works for various hair lengths, just twist the sections tightly before securing.
Keeping Twists Tight
Twist the sections of hair firmly as you go down to help the twists stay put throughout the day.
6. Side-Swept Hair with Clips
This is a super quick and easy style that still looks put together. Simply sweep hair to one side and secure it behind the ear with decorative clips. It works for various hair types and lengths.
Choosing Clips
Look for clips with fun shapes, pearls, or sparkles to add a little sparkle to the style.
5. High Pigtails with Curls
For girls with beautiful curly hair, high pigtails are a fantastic option. They keep curls contained and bouncy, showing them off while keeping them out of the face. This style is perfect for embracing natural curls.
Defining Curls
Use a good curl-defining product before creating the pigtails to help the curls stay defined and frizz-free.
4. Half-Up Braided Ponytail
Adding a braid to a half-up ponytail gives it a little something extra. It’s a nice detail that elevates the simple half-up style. This works well on medium to long hair.
Where to Braid
You can braid the half-up ponytail itself, or braid sections of hair from the front before gathering them into the ponytail.
3. Double Buns with Braids
Combine the fun of space buns with the neatness of braids! Braid sections of hair from the hairline leading up to where the buns will be. It’s playful, secure, and looks super cute. This works for various hair lengths.
Braid Placement
Start the braids near the forehead and continue braiding until you reach the spot where you want to create the buns.
2. Braided Headband with Loose Waves
This style has a lovely, romantic feel. Create a braided headband across the top and leave the rest of the hair down in loose waves. It keeps hair off the face while letting the length flow. This suits medium to long wavy hair beautifully.
Creating Waves
You can use a curling iron for quick waves or braid damp hair overnight for heatless waves.
1. The Top Pick: The Easy Braided Half-Up
Okay, drumroll please! My absolute favorite back to school hairstyle is the easy braided half-up. Why? Because it’s incredibly simple, looks adorable, and effectively keeps hair out of the face for focus in class. It works like a charm on various hair types and lengths. It’s my go-to for its blend of practicality and cuteness.
Why This is the Best
It’s fast, keeps hair tidy, and looks sweet without being complicated. It’s perfect for any school day.
Step-by-Step Guide
Take a section of hair from each temple. Braid each section. Bring the braids to the back of the head. Secure them together with an elastic or clip.
FAQs
I get a lot of questions about managing hair, especially for busy school days. Here are some common ones I hear about back to school hairstyles.
What are the easiest back to school hairstyles for short hair?
For shorter hair, clips and headbands are your best friends! A simple side part with a pretty clip is quick. You can also do mini pigtails or small twists at the front to keep hair out of eyes. A cute headband adds instant style too.
How can I make these hairstyles last all day?
To help hairstyles stay put, start with clean, dry hair. Use good quality elastics that don’t slip. Bobby pins that match hair color are great for securing braids or twists. A light mist of child-friendly hairspray can also help tame flyaways and keep everything in place.
What are some quick hairstyles for busy mornings?
When you’re really short on time, a simple ponytail or a quick messy bun are lifesavers. A braided headband (like number 14 on our list) can be surprisingly fast once you practice. Adding a cute scrunchie or bow to any basic style also takes seconds but makes a big difference.
Conclusion
So there you have it, 26 cute & easy back to school hairstyles to get you inspired! I hope this guide gives you lots of fun ideas to try. Remember, the goal is to find styles that make you feel confident and ready to learn and play. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own touch with accessories.
These looks are all designed to be simple enough for busy school mornings, because I know every minute counts! Whether you’re braiding, twisting, or just adding a fun ribbon, these back to school hairstyles are perfect for starting the year off right. Come back to TressNails.com anytime for more beauty tips and inspiration!
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