The first day of school will soon be here and you should already be looking for the best hairstyle to start off the year confidently. Going to grade 7 in short hairstyle, starting high school with curls or braid-wearing children, the right style can affect everyone’s mood all semester. In this guide, you will find suggestions for ponytails that are not too messy, naturally styled hair, beautiful black braids with curls, different half up and half down looks and last-minute solutions. Feeling ready to stand out when your child walks to school or picks up the baggage at drop-off? It’s time to find the right back-to-school look for each grade, hair type and personality.
Playful Pigtail Buns with Ribbons
I adore hairdos that look cheerful yet childlike and this style shows exactly that. Her hair is formed into two pigtails, which are tied with bright pink ribbons to give a hint of sweetness but not too much. The structure is tidy yet spirited—perfect for those mornings when you’re running late but still want to turn heads with minimal effort. This style makes a nice starting point for your child’s school look, especially for little girls who prefer a style that fits their style.
Abby wears a pastel bow to make this style fit for a special outing, and the fun double bun makes the time in class or when reading pleasant and relaxed. Grab a pastel dress and some tops with lovely flutter sleeves to create an ideal outfit to wear when it’s still warm outside.
If you’re looking for first day of school hairstyles easy enough to do before coffee but still photo-worthy, this is the one. Whenever I wear this look on my niece ahead of school pictures, it makes her look good for hours and she always gets compliments.
If you want, choose a ribbon to coordinate with the items students usually wear. Magic could be sparked by a soft shade of yellow or blue too. Just don’t forget the hairspray—it’s your invisible best friend.
Half-Up Curls with Black Ribbon
There’s a timeless elegance in this half up half look that makes it perfect for a slightly older child or even first day of school hairstyles for teens. The bottom hair falls freely over the shoulders, but the top part is smoothly secured with a black ribbon, letting the style remain understated and polished. It’s not overly fussy, but it shows a level of intention that sets the tone for the new school year.
This fits extremely well with school outfits for the fall season, whether it’s a cardigan, a skirt with pleats, or a soft knit sweater. This hairdo goes well with natural colors or black ribbons for those who want black first day of school hairstyles with curls.
I adore this look because it’s “low-key elegant.” In ten minutes or less, curl your hair using a great curling wand and scrunch it with a satin hair tie, then leave it in overnight, and it will look great. Try curling only the lower part of your hair if you want a wavy look that’s easy to go with.
A deep navy or burgundy velvet ribbon can be used when wreaths are made for fall. It’s a simple update that completely shifts the vibe.
Double Dutch Braids into Flowing Ponytails
It steals the whole show and is a perfect style for kids starting school who want something wild with their braids. The braids are tied tightly at the scalp, then the ponytails are loose for a noticeable change in how the hair lies. It’s got an energetic attitude that mixes exercise and fashion together.
Hair stays in great condition during any school day situation, thanks to the smooth finish under the scalp. I’d pick it for anyone in middle school or 8th grade as it gives a good mix of interesting and entertaining designs.
Personally, I find this one empowering. Its appearance makes it look thoughtful, but it offers plenty of opportunities for dancing and having fun. It’s easy to decorate your hair with scrunchies, clips, or hair ties that match your daily attire.
For children with curly hair styled in black braids, one can choose from adding more texture or leaving in long box braids with beads at the bottom. You can enjoy it throughout the semester because it works for many occasions.
Loose Side Braids to Cascading Curls
This one is all about softness. The hair from the sides is braided and brought to the back in a low ponytail, making it flow smoothly into lovely curls. The calm charm of this look is very romantic, soft and ready to take on the day with understated elegance.
Although this braid style looks best on longer hair, it can also be done with tight braids on your daughter’s 7th grade short hair. Along with holding everything together, wood preserves the sense of being light and fluid in the house.
Using braids before curves makes it possible to shape the hair without making it look too tight. To give inspiring talks for education and big days, this tip is always my favorite.
A little gloss spray adds just enough shine. You can be playful by including a few pearl hair pins or delicate floral patterns.
Polished Waves with a Bold Outfit Twist
A shampooed, styled, and full-looking hairstyle is like starting your new year on a hopeful note. No one can doubt the first-day-of-school vibe coming from straight and full hairstyles. A side part gives the hair a classic touch and still looks easygoing.
The standout? The red blouse is a great fit with the waves pattern. It’s a style move that says: “I’m showing up.” Senior girls and 10th grade students can use this style for the first day of school to look polished and beautiful.
If you do your hair properly, it can improve your weekly routine. A large round brush and a gentle hairspray go well with this hairstyle.
If your location is humid or it might rain, set a light mist to make your waves last forward without needing you to handle them so often. The cleaner the fall, the longer the shine.
Space Buns with Face-Framing Tendrils
I love how this look combines playful flair with polish—two mini buns balanced perfectly atop a sleek straight center part. It’s a twist on the classic first day of school hairstyles easy that says confidence without screaming for attention.
What caught my eye here is how it’s both stylish and functional—your hair stays out of your face during lessons or lunch. The loose strands help soften the hairstyle and add some drama to it. Back in high school, if I were to gather something fun for school, I would have picked this for sure. Another choice is a pretty clip or a light spray with shimmer for more charm when you want teen first day of school hairstyles to be just right.
Casual Top Knot with Soft Layers
This adorable messy top knot has me in love—it feels comfy and creative, just right for first day of school hairstyles kids or even a teen who wants low-effort glam. The soft layers around the face keep it youthful and easygoing.
It’s so much more thoughtful than a simple bun—by leaving pieces loose, it frames the face and hides the elastic up top for a clean finish. When I used to go to school in 8th grade, I’d hope to find something fast and still stylish, and this perfect! If I were tweaking it, I’d add a thin ribbon to match the school colors for a cute, back-to-school vibe.
Pigtail Bows for Sweet Simplicity
What joy this hairstyle brings—two neat, sleek pigtails tied with oversized soft bows wrap the look in instant charm. It’s a picture-perfect first day of school hairstyles for kids hairstyle that’s fun, fuss-free, and school-friendly.
I’d pair it with a denim jacket and favorite dress—classic combo that keeps everything in place during morning drop-off and recess. According to coaches, adding some color to your hair can help this style become a little more special—I totally agree with this advice. An idea I’d like to share is spraying on light-hold to smooth down any flyaways that may appear after PE.
Classic High Pony with Colorful Elastic
This clean, high ponytail is timelessly chic—it’s a flexible pick for kids in any grade, especially first day of school hairstyles short or long hair doesn’t matter here. The colorful elastic adds personality without overdoing it.
I’d choose a rainbow elastic that matches lunchbox colors or even sport initials—practical and fun. Hair should usually be pulled up high by stylists to ensure students are not bothered by the fluorescent lights at school. Going for a braid or wavy hairstyle gives the hairstyle a higher grade, ideal if the teen likes something more adult.
Playful Messy Bun with Wispy Bangs
There’s something effortlessly fun about a half-bun gone full-bun, with those free strands and wispy bangs softening the look. It feels like first day of school hairstyles curly hair adapted into a straight-haired version—polished with character.
I’d pair it with a light mousse for hold and a splash of shine serum, so the bun lasts through morning bell and homeroom group selfie. Remember senior year? This kind of messy bun gives an effortless look that appeals to teens, without any difficulties. If I wanted to add more fun, I would tie a tiny ribbon or a silk scarf around the bun to keep it special and energizing for the first time at work.
Modern French Braid with Loose Waves
This hairstyle, incorporating both structure and flow, truly captures my attention. The tight French braid juxtaposed with the crown of the head, tapering into relaxed waves, gives an effortless but polished appearance. This is one of those first day of school hairstyles that looks intentional yet relaxed which is ideal for middle and high school teens.
This braid works well for the exact time you want to control the crown while keeping the rest of the hair loose. The hairstyle appears neat and with soft waves, adds to the silhouette. The look is surprisingly versatile, pairing well with jeans, dresses, or even school uniforms.
Variations of this style have been suggested by stylists from Seventeen and Allure as the go-to hairstyle to represent that effortless cool girl vibe. I personally agree — this hairstyle is quick to achieve and can be even easier if you prep the night prior with braiding spray or dry shampoo.
If I could modify one thing, I could either add a pop of color ribbon or school spirit at the elastic. Easy and fun to personalize.
Double Dutch Braids With Loose Strands Framing The Face
The double Dutch braids are ageless, yet the loose strands framing the face add a modern twist. It is a confidence booster and comfortable which makes it one of my favorite first day of school hairstyles for teens. With hairstyle braids of this nature, you can say “I arrived prepared.”
What I love most is this works so well with natural hair textures. You just need to adjust the braid size and tightness. The top is pulled back which makes it functional, but the front strands soften the vibe which makes it completely wearable.
If you are dealing with awkward layers or growing out bangs, it also works great. And hey, isn’t that half the 8th grade struggle? Remember to use light wax or edge control to keep the hair roots tidy.
Braided With Volume, the Classic 3 Strand Braid
A single, tidy braid cascading down the back is very nostalgic and grounding. While this hairstyle can seem simple, it is far from boring if you incorporate clean volume and sleek texture. It gives me Little Women meets 2025 vibes. 
To achieve this look, I like using a light smoothing cream. The braid appears neater and more full which is a plus. This look is great for younger middle schoolers since it does not require heat tools, clips, or any complicated styling.
Starting a new year with a timeless braid is relaxing and serves as a small calming ritual to help you settle your nerves while offering a positive first impression.
Soft Volume Hair Buns With a Beach Wave Finish
Space buns are always fun and stylish. They combine soft waves with voluminous curls into a loose and bouncy ponytail that has a care-free vibe. This is a perfect look to rock for the school year, particularly during the first week when you want to make a statement without putting in too much effort. This is great for teen school hairstyles hightened with some drama and flair.
The look is also ideal for those with a naturally voluminous texture as the space buns help lift your hair at the crown and give shape to your face. Personally, I think this is a great “I want to look effortless but still noticed” vibe to rock on a first day. The outfit idea would be cute boho chic meets science class.
Hair Tip: For face framing tendrils or glitter gel accents, effortless art add some sparkle.
Boosting Your Confidence with Micro Braids for Short Hair
Finally, a braided hairstyle that works well with short hair! These micro braids styled into a crown are perfect for girls with shoulder length or shorter hairstyles. They add definition and edge to any hair look and are one of my most recommended and first day of school hairstyles short hair.
This style always caught my attention because it is cute and practical at the same time. Whether your child is in 6th grade or 8th grade, it proves that you can create first day of school hairstyles for kids without the need for long hair or extensions.
Low Pigtails with Double Dutch Braids
In my opinion, the first day of school hairstyles have really changed for the better recently. For the 7th or 8th grade girl looking for something active, I love how these sturdy double Dutch braids blend into more relaxed pigtails.
Besides looking nice, these braids keep hair in place, and adds ease and low maintenance. It achieves a soft, fuss-free look. This hairstyle perfectly captures the braided hairstyle trend we’ve been seeing while remaining school appropriate. Sometimes, I like to use small elastic cuffs to tie off the braids or match them to the colors of backpack accents. It adds just a hint of charm without too much attention.
Soft Waves with a Messy Half-Up Bun
This is a hairstyle that perfectly blends casual and cute. The Teased Half Bun with flowy waves works for a school’s first day hairstyle for the teens and can be considered sophisticated.
The top half styled into a loose knot helps keeping some hair out of the face while the rest is free, maintaining approachable first day of school hairstyles for teens. I have read stylists in magazines think this is suitable for 10th and 11th graders because it is classy yet casual. This style can be enhanced by using a small charm or a narrow ribbon which would add sophistication to the overall look.
Romantic Volume Side Braid
It seems both voluminous and relaxed all in one. This side braid encapsulates the first day of school hairstyles curly inspiration, even on straight hair.
The braid styled with movement appears pretty effortless, and I would say it looks nice for the medium length hair of teens. Proving once again that details do not have to be difficult. For best results, a light texturizing spray to keep the hair secure but allow for volume is a must. This kind of hair advice is crucial from editorial hair professionals. A small barrette would keep things understated while adding twinkle to the hair without creating a wig style effect which most people try to avoid.
Half-Twists with Ribbon Accent
The first day of school hairstyles to turn heads always has that “effortless to do” vibe. This sophisticated hairstyle where two side-twists meet and are held with a ribbon reminds me of that — elegant and bold enough to be picture-ready.
What’s not to love about radiating confidence while looking relaxed and put together, like in this school hairstyle ideas moment? It truly never goes out of style. This is a classic all over school hairstyle inspiration for kids and tweens. I would use a satin ribbon matching the school colors which would bring everything together effortlessly.
Ponytail with a Braid Wrapped in Ribbon
This creatively functional style is perfect for the first day of school hairstyles and natural looks while also being effortless.
I find this look amazing for kids who wish for just a splash of pizazz and no discomfort, particularly during the active school day. Many influencers have said that adding small details such as ribbons allows for the hairstyle to be tailored to the wearer, serving as confidence boosters for juniors and seniors. Tip: for a polished look, avoid clear elastics and end the braid with matching wraps instead.
Two-Sided Braided Halo with Bow
This hairstyle is beautiful and charming at the same time. It works well with straight and natural hair and embodies ‘first day of school hairstyles’ in a feminine, graceful way.
School hairstyles for girls, including this one, can be used by younger girls and tweens and offer an expression of sophistication. For some time, beauty blogs have described this hairstyle as one of the best for braid days in school because it lasts all day and during the day, it forms delicate curls which add to the charm. “Done” hairstyles for school do not require elaborate styles. A mist adds shine to waves and enhances “finished” looks while keeping braids neat and tidy.
Soft Loose Braids With Framing Strands
This braid portrays timeless beauty, making it perfect for the first day of school hairstyles. She showcased her long hair and looked stunning in soft, effortless, loose strands that spilled shoulder.
Overstyling can dampen your glow, so taking it easy pays off a lot with effortless freshness. All day loveliness is especially true after a fragrance of texture spray mist. Balanced and confident describes natural hair stylists advised looks for 10th and 11th-grade style routines that just work. Colorful ropes or retro clips at the ends bring subtle styles as personalized touches.
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