Back to School Hairstyles for Kids and Teens: Cute, Braided, and Natural Hair Ideas 2025

Because summer has ended, we have to give up on lazy beach days and start with early mornings and getting dressed for the new school year. Another truth is that we can always use a new hairstyle as an excuse to go back to school. A new hairstyle will help teens own the school while making it easy for parents to handle kids’ hair as they return to school. Anything from simple braids to intricate cornrows and even having hair colour or colorful accessories are ideas you might like. Is it time to discover a fresh and stylish ‘do that gives you self-assurance in school? Let’s dive in!

Soft Braided Twists for Young Fashionistas

It gives you style and makes your life easier at the same time. The braids are cleanly twisted on the sides, ending in soft waves that go with a casual school look. I like how simple and flexible it is, meeting the needs of children looking for back to school hairstyles one day and easy-care at home the next.

So your locks stay styled for a whole week, my go-to product is Ouai Matte Pomade which adds control and definition. A touch of MoroccanOil Treatment fixes dryness without overburdening the hair.

I always encourage experimenting with hair accessories. Proper hair accessories, whether a headband or hairpins, will quickly give off the perfect playful hairstyle for school. Remember, it’s all about expressing your style!

Playful High Pony with Volume

This look is a classic—yet with a playful twist. Styling the high ponytail with extra volume helps it achieve the fun bounce everyone likes. It becomes a default style for back to school on busy days when you can’t spend too much time on your hair.

I keep the pony tall and straight by misting a bit of Living Proof Full Volume Dry Blast on my roots. It gives a pony the extra strength to not fall behind at school.

There is nothing I like more than seeing a hairstyle that makes someone feel strong. And, all you need is some hairspray and a couple of bobby pins to make it stay put for your wildest adventures.

Chic Side Dutch Braids for School Days

These braids down one side give an off-center yet functional and fashionable style you can try. I wish that my hair could always be calm and neat, like in this style, so I love the idea of trying it on myself.

Adding a little R+Co Motorcycle Flexible Gel before braiding gives an extra staying power to your lovely locks. It smooths the strands and stops flyaways from happening without your hair feeling stiff or hard.

It brings back memories of days when I wanted a style that was easy but looked cute. It is easy to see how Dutch braids appeal to so many kids—black kids, those with natural hair or children with straight hair—because they look amazing and are so versatile.

Elegant Side-Swept Waves with a Twist

The hair is carefully curled into waves that flow down next to the face and a little twist is hand crafted at the front. This is a great way to look formal yet practical—think of back to school hairstyles braid for high schoolers during the week.

Using Kenra Professional Volume Spray helps make the waves soft and helps them stay that way all day. Trying a medium sized curling wand will make it easier to get those ideal waves.

When I wear or talk about, this style, I remember how it always makes every look look tidy and well-put-together. A simple way to add personality is to put in a small hairpin or barrette.

Mini Braided Crown with Loose Curls

Many people enjoy the mini braided crown above long, curly hair. It’s fun to wear, stylish and has everyone noticing how fabulous you look. The idea of braiding and curling in the same style shows how back to school hairstyles can be both casual and neat.

To enhance this style, I’d recommend Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray for that tousled, carefree vibe. It keeps the curls defined but not overly stiff.

It’s well known that these hairstyles make students more confident to start the school year. They mix pretty hairstyles for the back to school period with a personal touch that sticks in your mind.

Soft Waves with a Subtle Pink Bow

There is a touching and extra appealing quality about softly curled hair collected in a low ponytail and tied with a pastel pink ribbon. The waves down the back give a comfortable and attractive feeling for anyone wearing this style for back to school. In the background I can make out the sound of laughter as this style makes its way through the school, infusing the hallways with elegance and humor.

That way your style won’t feel sticky or stiff, I like to use Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray—its light hold means you can keep your hair gentle without having to resist your flyaways all day. Spritzing on the style after breakfast will maintain it during lunch and the math you have before the final bell.

When I need to feel nicely dressed but not too fancy, this is what I usually wear. It’s such a low-maintenance look that still turns heads, perfect for those rushed school mornings.

What’s even better? It looks just as good on school days as it does for a night out which makes it a perfect style for back to school hair this season.

Effortless Half-Up Ponytail with Natural Texture

If you’re pressed for time but aim to look neat, a messy half-up ponytail really helps. Because it is simple to make and wear, this style can help you look effortlessly stylish—back for exams, working on a group project or enjoying a surprise after-school hangout.

For effortless looking waves, a sea salt spray such as Ouai Wave Spray is excellent. It smooths natural waves without making your hair crunchy, giving your hair a soft and blown look.

Thinking about this cut makes me remember how we would get ready in the bathroom with my friends, trade jokes and pass around our hair ties. Messy pigtails are a charming choice for going back to school since they add a bit of elegance to a casual look.

A few small tendrils around the face can give you a nice and comfortable feeling during your first day on campus.

Curly Half-Up Style with a Blue Bow Accent

This half updo with a vibrant blue bow makes it easy to wear your hair’s curls. Back to school hairstyles can use it for kids eager to show their unique style with striking hues. The bow ties the look together (literally and figuratively!), giving off major preppy vibes with a dash of confidence.

The SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie can make sure your curls are well-defined and without frizz from start to finish of your day. It’s perfect for kids (or teens) with naturally curly hair who want a style that lasts from morning bell to after-school activities.

The fact that this style is both fun and neat and still lets kids have a great look, is why I always smile at it.

It also comes with extra bows that you can match to your daily style or your mood.

Textured Low Ponytail with a Statement Bow

For a traditional and eye-catching look, go for this ponytail with a huge statement bow. The short waves give a charming and uncomplicated look and the bow adds a touch of character that fits well with first back to school hairstyles, as everyone tries to look their best.

If I want my waves to have more volume and not be too heavy, I go for Batiste Dry Shampoo. It’s a lifesaver for second- (or third-) day hair, especially when school mornings get chaotic.

I appreciate that a piece like this can polish every outfit such as a pair of jeans or a new back-to-school dress. Another advantage is that you can alternate the bow for something else such as clips or scrunchies, when you feel like it.

This style is comfortable for braiding middle school girls looking for something in between simple and unusual.

Loose Half-Up Hairstyle with Natural Movement

A loose, half-up style is the best choice for back to school or for those who prefer to let their hair sit naturally without braids for black natural hair girls. With a touch of elegance, this is good for when you want your look to remain uncomplicated but look great.

I tried Mizani 25 Miracle Milk Leave-In Conditioner for frizz control and it gave my hair great luster. It’s my secret weapon for looking like I actually spent time on my hair (even when I didn’t).

The reason I love this style is because it can be adapted to any type of hair: curly, wavy or straight and you can enjoy the way your hair naturally looks.

This look gives the impression of, “I woke up like this,” but makes it look even better. Exactly the vibe I’m going for this school year.

Boho Chic Braided Crown

This half-up braided crown is always the first thought I have when thinking of boho-inspired hairstyles for school. The long, thick braid twists across the back and the romantic waves fall freely down the shoulders. It’s a look that balances laid-back vibes with a touch of class — perfect for stepping into the school year with confidence.

I make sure to comb a lightweight mousse through my hair to get fuller waves. Then I use a texturizing spray like Ouai’s Wave Spray to enhance the natural movement and hold the braids in place all day.

Honestly, I’ve worn this look on days when I needed to feel a little extra special — even when my agenda was just running errands. One of the stylists I rely on said that a braided crown flatters various hair types, straight up to wavy and I have learned that is indeed the case.

Side Braid with a Twist

With its sweet way, this side braid is giving me all the best back to school hair looks. The braid is neatly tied at your hairline, travels across your scalp and ends by blending with your regular hair. It’s that mix of classic charm and playful elegance that’s perfect for any school day, whether you’re running to homeroom or heading out for after-school fun.

A tip I swear by: use a small amount of anti-frizz cream (like Living Proof No Frizz Nourishing Cream) before braiding to keep flyaways at bay. Keep calm and take your time to get fairly and properly done lashes.

I think food prepared in this style is relatively simple to make at home. This is a style you can do quickly, but it always seems like you’ve spent a lot of time on it. Bonus points if you finish with a matching bow or clip!

Playful Double Buns with a Braided Accent

Double buns? Count me in! These twin top knots have even more fun in them when decorated with little accent braids. It is one of the carefree hairstyles you can’t miss for a great back to school look. Isn’t it true that everyone wants to start class feeling this adorable?

Before braiding, I put a light-hold gel in my hair and after braiding, I pin up the buns with hidden bobby pins to keep them in place. A small spritz of hairspray will keep your headges on even if you’re in a hurry about things.

Having this outfit on always makes me feel like my own personal pop star. It works perfectly on spirit days or whenever you want to express some of your personality. For a fresh look, change your part or look at the part from another angle.

Micro-Braided Headband with Soft Waves

When you want something a little fancy for back to school, try combining micro braids in a headband with soft waves. The braids on the hairline have a whimsical effect and are balanced by the waves which move gently around the hair.

Before braiding, I always smooth the hair with a heat protectant serum (I’m currently loving Moroccanoil Treatment Light) to minimize frizz and keep everything silky. Gentle waves are easy to get when you use a curling wand at a lower temperature.

I often remember this style being linked to happy moments and unexpected fun. This is a good way for girls to show their playful side without being too much. Also, ribbons or beads can be added to the micro-braids to give your hairstyle a more creative look.

Loose Curls with a Bohemian Touch

Long, loose curls with a bohemian twist? Yes, please. Blending casual movement with volume, this style looks relaxed and dressed up at the same time. It is a perfect back to school style that can be worn during the whole day, for any occasion.

To keep the curls bouncy and defined, I recommend using a moisturizing curl cream (Bumble and Bumble Curl Defining Cream is my go-to) and a diffuser on low heat. That way, you get the volume without the frizz.

The style somehow makes me feel like I am waking up to a fairytale, every Monday morning.

High Puff Ponytail with a Colorful Scrunchie

I’m in love with this back to school look that has a high ponytail and a vibrant scrunchie. Because the hair has its natural texture, the look stands out with body and texture. Natural hair no braids for black teen girls suits this technique, since it makes their curls and coils the main attraction.

An example of a leave-in conditioner is Mielle Organics White Peony Leave-In which nourishes and softens the hair. Adding a bit of gel to the edges helps the style stay neat and lasts all through the day.

Whenever I put on this style, friends tell me how comfortable and cheerful I appear. When things are rushed in the morning and when the school day is long, it becomes very handy.

Defined Curls with Half-Up Top Knot

For adorable back to school hair, a half-up top knot plus shaped curls is an amazing choice. The curls are styled to highlight the face and the top knot creates a trendy, fresh look in 2025.

Using Camille Rose Curl Maker always gives my hair great-looking curls without feeling stiff. Fluffing your curls for volume works best with a wide-tooth comb.

What I really like about this style is that it looks both laid-back and neat. This one can be done quickly which is good if you’re in a rush to your morning class.

Sleek Ponytail with Twisted Sides

Twisting the sides of a ponytail makes any back to school hairstyle look more stylish. Each twist pulls the hair through and creates a stylish border for the ponytail, giving a nice touch to black teens braids cornrows or any other style.

A smoothing gel such as Eco Style Olive Oil Gel can help style your edges and twists so they stay neater. Any flyaways can be kept in place with a soft bristle brush.

I like this style because it’s mature and also fun; it shows off braids and twists, but instead of long cornrows it takes less effort.

Loose Twists with Natural Texture

Black kids whose hair is natural often wear loose twists as a great alternative to braids. They bring out the natural wave in your hair and make the style look well organised. Back to school is a great time for black kids natural hair kids to go for this look, as it’s easy to manage and still quite interesting.

Using Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream makes the hair soft and well-defined. I wear this style every day I’m looking for durability.

It helps me stay authentic and light and a few sprays of water or leave-in conditioner always make it look good again.

Low Braid with Sleek Edges

A delicate and even quite elegant braid sits along the nape of the neck for this back to school hairstyle. Perfectly aligned edges create a put-together appearance that works well for rushed mornings. The style is flexible enough for middle and high school teens who want their hair to look neat and low-maintenance.

Having a tool like Creme of Nature Perfect Edges ensures your hairline is nice and sleek. Light oil applied to the braid can help it stay shiny and well-kept for the whole day.

Whenever I just need to dash out the door but still be cute, this style is a huge help.

Playful Double Buns with Natural Edges

The way these double buns are made with their natural edges is both fun and really convenient. Since it holds hair away from your face, it is great for back to school looks and gives off a fun, cheerful spirit.

Applying Aunt Jackie’s Curl La La Defining Curl Custard makes your hair stay set and smooth which keeps frizz away. A toothbrush (yes, really!) is great for taming baby hairs along the hairline.

Twisted Crown Braid with a Curly Bun

You can say someone is a queen when they have a twisted crown braid ending in a curly bun. It is a great choice for braided back to school hairstyles for black teens because it brings together the refinement of a braid and the movement of curls.

To me, Design Essentials Honey Curl Forming Custard helps my curls stay bouncy and the braid stay smooth. Using this keeps my clothes from wearing out too quickly.

I always feel that this style reveals a bit of sunshine wherever I am. Choosing this can make you feel both pretty and confident at any back-to-school celebration.