From braids to buns to loose waves, there’s a back-to-school hairstyle for every personality.
Explore 35 cute and creative looks that will help your teen express her individuality and rock her first day back.
#1: Classic French Braid
The classic French braid is a timeless hairstyle that’s perfect for back-to-school. Start at the crown of your head, gathering small sections of hair as you braid down to the nape of your neck. Secure with an elastic band and gently tug on the braid to loosen it for a more relaxed look. This style keeps hair neat and tidy all day long.
#2: Messy Top Knot
For a quick and effortless look, try the messy top knot. Gather your hair into a high ponytail, twist it around itself, and secure with bobby pins. Pull out a few face-framing tendrils for a softer appearance. This style works great for second-day hair and can be dressed up or down depending on your outfit choice.
#3: Sleek Low Ponytail
A sleek low ponytail exudes sophistication and simplicity. Part your hair down the middle or to the side, smooth it back with a brush and some hair gel, then secure it at the nape of your neck with an elastic. For added polish, wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to conceal it.
#4: Half-Up Half-Down with Bow
This cute and girly style is perfect for those who want to keep their hair out of their face while still showing off their length. Gather the top half of your hair into a ponytail or small bun, and secure it with an elastic. Finish by tying a pretty bow around the elastic for a charming touch.
#5: Twisted Crown Braid
Create a bohemian vibe with a twisted crown braid. Part your hair down the middle and create two Dutch braids on either side of your head. Wrap the braids around your head, pinning them in place to form a crown. This intricate-looking style is surprisingly easy to achieve and keeps hair secure all day.
#6: Space Buns
Channel your inner Princess Leia with space buns. Part your hair down the middle and create two high ponytails. Twist each ponytail and wrap it around itself to form a bun, securing with bobby pins. Leave a few strands loose around your face for a softer look. This fun and playful style is sure to turn heads in the hallways.
#7: Side-Swept Bangs with Waves
For a romantic and feminine look, try side-swept bangs paired with loose waves. Use a curling iron or wand to create soft waves throughout your hair, then sweep your bangs to one side and secure with a bobby pin if needed. This versatile style works well for various hair lengths and textures.
#8: Braided Headband
Create a natural headband look using your own hair. Start with a deep side part, then French braid a section of hair along your hairline, continuing around your head. Secure the end of the braid behind your ear with bobby pins. This style keeps hair off your face while adding a touch of elegance to your look.
#9: Slicked Back Bun
For a sleek and polished appearance, try a slicked-back bun. Apply some hair gel to dampen hair, then brush it back tightly. Gather your hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure with bobby pins. This chic style works well for formal occasions or when you want to look extra put-together.
#10: Bubble Ponytail
Add some fun to a classic ponytail with the bubble effect. Create a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Then, every inch or so down the length of your ponytail, add another elastic, gently tugging at the hair between each one to create “bubbles.” This playful style is sure to stand out in the classroom.
#11: Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid offers a unique twist on the classic braid. Divide your hair into two sections, then take small pieces from the outside of each section and cross them over to the opposite side. Continue this pattern down the length of your hair for a intricate, mermaid-like braid that’s perfect for long school days.
#12: Twisted Side Pony
Elevate a simple side ponytail with some twisting action. Gather your hair to one side and divide it into two sections. Twist each section, then twist them around each other before securing with an elastic. This style adds texture and interest to your look while keeping hair neatly contained.
#13: Double Dutch Braids
Channel your inner boxer with double Dutch braids. Part your hair down the middle and create an inverted French braid on each side, braiding downwards towards the nape of your neck. Secure each braid with an elastic. This sporty yet feminine style is perfect for active school days or gym class.
#14: Messy Low Bun
For a effortlessly chic look, try a messy low bun. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a bun, securing with bobby pins. Pull out a few face-framing pieces and gently tug at the bun to create a perfectly undone appearance. This style works great for all hair textures and lengths.
#15: Retro High Ponytail
Add some vintage flair to your look with a retro high ponytail. Tease the crown of your hair for volume, then smooth the top layer back into a high ponytail. Secure with an elastic and wrap a section of hair around it to conceal. Finish with a spritz of hairspray for a sleek, 1960s-inspired style.
#16: Braided Pigtails
Give classic pigtails a stylish upgrade by braiding them. Part your hair down the middle and create two low ponytails. Braid each ponytail and secure with small elastics. This youthful yet trendy style is perfect for keeping long hair manageable during busy school days.
#17: Faux Hawk Updo
Create an edgy look with a faux hawk updo. Section off the middle strip of your hair from forehead to nape. Braid or twist this section upwards, securing with bobby pins as you go. Smooth the sides of your hair back and pin in place for a bold, rockstar-inspired style.
#18: Twisted Rope Braid
The twisted rope braid offers a unique take on traditional braiding. Divide your hair into two sections, twist each section individually, then twist them around each other. Secure the end with an elastic. This eye-catching style looks more complex than it is and works well for medium to long hair.
#19: Boho Waves with Flower Crown
Channel your inner flower child with boho waves and a flower crown. Use a curling iron to create loose, beachy waves throughout your hair. Place a store-bought or DIY flower crown on top for a whimsical, free-spirited look that’s perfect for the first day of school or special events.
#20: Sleek Center Part
Sometimes, simplicity is key. A sleek center part offers a clean, polished look that’s perfect for any school day. Use a comb to create a precise middle part, then smooth your hair down with a brush and some hair oil or serum. This minimalist style works well for all hair types and face shapes.
#21: Cornrows
Cornrows are a protective style that keeps hair neat and tidy for days or even weeks. Create multiple tight braids close to the scalp, running from the front of your head to the back. This versatile style can be customized with different patterns and can be left loose at the ends or gathered into a ponytail or bun.
#22: Braided Top Knot
Combine two popular styles with a braided top knot. Start by creating a high ponytail, then braid it all the way down and secure with an elastic. Wrap the braid around itself to form a bun and pin in place. This elegant yet playful style keeps hair securely in place all day long.
#23: Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid creates a romantic, cascading effect that’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to feel extra fancy. Start a French braid at your temple, but instead of adding all three sections to the braid, let one section “fall” and replace it with a new section of hair. Continue around your head for a stunning result.
#24: Zigzag Part with Low Pigtails
Add some fun to low pigtails with a zigzag part. Use the pointed end of a comb to create a zigzag pattern from your forehead to the nape of your neck. Divide your hair into two sections and secure each side into a low ponytail or braid. This playful style is sure to stand out in the hallways.
#25: Side Braid with Scrunchie
Bring back the ’90s with a side braid adorned with a scrunchie. Sweep all your hair to one side and create a loose braid. Secure the end with a colorful scrunchie for a fun pop of color. This nostalgic style is both practical and trendy, perfect for a casual school day look.
#26: Pineapple Updo
The pineapple updo is a great protective style for curly and coily hair textures. Gather all your hair at the very top of your head and secure with a large scrunchie or elastic, allowing your curls to fall naturally around your face. This style protects your curls overnight and can be quickly refreshed in the morning.
#27: Milkmaid Braids
Milkmaid braids offer a sweet and feminine look that’s perfect for school. Create two braids on either side of your head, then wrap them around the crown of your head, pinning in place. This style keeps hair completely off your face and neck, making it ideal for hot days or gym class.
#28: Curly High Puff
Embrace your natural texture with a curly high puff. Gather your curls at the top of your head and secure with a large elastic or hair tie. Use a scarf or headband to smooth down the edges if desired. This style showcases your curls while keeping them contained and manageable throughout the school day.
#29: Braided Bantu Knots
Bantu knots are a protective style that doubles as a stylish look. Section your hair and create small, tight knots all over your head. For added interest, try braiding each section before twisting it into a knot. This style can last for several days, making it perfect for busy school weeks.
#30: Twisted Side Bun
For a quick and easy updo, try a twisted side bun. Sweep all your hair to one side and twist it tightly. Wrap the twist around itself to form a bun and secure with bobby pins. This asymmetrical style looks more complex than it is and works well for both casual and dressy school events.
#31: Voluminous Curly Ponytail
Show off your natural curls with a voluminous curly ponytail. Use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle your curls, then gather them into a high ponytail. Don’t pull too tight – allow your curls to maintain their volume and shape. This style celebrates your natural texture while keeping hair manageable for school.
#32: Braided Crown with Loose Waves
Combine two beautiful styles with a braided crown and loose waves. Create a French braid along your hairline, continuing it around your head to form a crown. Secure the end with bobby pins, then use a curling iron to add loose waves to the rest of your hair. This romantic style is perfect for school dances or picture day.
#33: Sleek Bob with Barrettes
If you have short hair, try a sleek bob adorned with barrettes. Straighten your hair for a smooth finish, then add colorful or decorative barrettes along one side. This chic style allows you to express your personality through your choice of hair accessories while maintaining a polished look.
#34: Textured Pixie Cut
For those with very short hair, embrace your pixie cut by adding texture. Use a small amount of pomade or texturizing spray to piece out sections of your hair for a tousled, effortless look. This low-maintenance style is perfect for busy school mornings and can be easily refreshed throughout the day.
#35: Halo Braid
The halo braid is a beautiful and intricate-looking style that’s surprisingly easy to achieve. Start a Dutch braid at your temple and continue it around your head, incorporating all your hair as you go. Secure the end of the braid with bobby pins, tucking it under the start of the braid. This angelic style keeps all your hair neatly contained for a full day of classes.