First Day Of School Hairstyles 2025: Trendy Looks For Kids, Teens & Easy Back-To-School Inspiration
The first day of school is the perfect chance to refresh your look! Whether you’re searching for cute braids, easy ponytails, or fun pops of color, first day of school hairstyles 2025 have something for every vibe. From kids to teens, these styles mix trendy details with practical charm to help you feel confident and ready to shine on day one.
Playful Braided Space Buns with Floral Touch
This braided space bun style is so fun and irresistible – it has the vibe of the first day of school. This style begins with two neat braids taken at the front hairline, and blending into high buns which perch on the head like small crowns. The buns have a smooth, yet rich texture that makes them appear full without appearing too tight and rigid. And can we discuss the adorable pink scrunchie details? They bring a perfect amount of femininity and softness to an edgy look of the double buns. The remaining hair falls freely, smooth and straight, and makes a beautiful contrast to the playful top.
To maintain, I would recommend a light smoothing serum, such as Moroccanoil Treatment Light to keep the straight lengths frizz-free and shiny. For the braids and buns, a flexible hold hairspray like L’Oréal Elnett Satin works beautifully to lock everything in place without making the hair feel crunchy.
I, personally, adore the way this style makes you feel playful and put-together at the same time. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to walk into school feeling like they’re owning the day. As celebrity stylists such as Justine Marjan have repeatedly stated, braided elements such as this one instantly make any back-to-school appearance youthful and fresh.
It’s also incredibly customizable – you can replace the scrunchies with small satin bows, or pearl pins, or even leave them scrunchie-less on the days where your outfit calls for a more minimal look.
Classic Double Buns with Sleek Center Part
Do double buns ever really come back out of style? This iteration is more on the clean and minimalistic style that would be amazing on both younger children and adolescents. The parting is dead centre to create a good symmetry and the buns themselves are twisted tight and smooth and are high, though not ridiculously so. The hair surface is straight, shiny and without flyaways – quite tidy but not too fussy. It is a look that is classic and yet age-suitable on that fateful first day.
To make this style last all day I would prepare the hair with a mist of Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray to make it humidity-resistant and add shine. When pinning the buns, use a fine-tooth comb and some Oribe Superfine Hair Spray to get that just-sleeked-it look.
The thing that I personally love about this hairstyle is that it has an effortless sophisticated look. It is just as good with a formal uniform or a more relaxed school appearance. Jen Atkin, who styles so many young celebs, usually advises simple, structured styles, like this on kids, because they last all day without touch-ups between classes.
To make it extra, you may, of course, attach some tiny accent clips or glitter pins, but really – this look is gorgeous on its own, without any additional bling.
Soft Twisted Braids into Loose Waves
This is a hairdo that seems like it was out of a back-to-school fairy tale. The hair crown is twisted into two soft braids which are then merged into the loose and natural waves falling down the back. The color, golden blonde, is warm and dimensional, and the texture is airy and light, which is ideal for late summer mornings, when the school year is starting. It’s feminine, sweet, and has that soft “princess for a day” vibe that younger girls absolutely love.
Since this style relies on healthy, hydrated waves, I’d recommend prepping the hair with Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Primer before styling to protect and nourish. On those waves, a large-barrel curling iron and a light mist of Ouai Wave Spray can help enhance the motion without making things heavy.
I have such a nostalgic feeling whenever I look at this style – I recall seeing something like this when I was a child, and I have never grown out of it. Kristin Ess, celebrity stylist, repeats that soft twists like these are a staple of her creating elegant, kid-friendly hairstyles that do not look too adult yet feel special.
This is one of those hairstyles that both moms and daughters love, especially on school pictures or first day of school pictures, it is soft, memorable and comfortable to wear.
Bubble Braids with Colorful Elastics
Now this one just screams “ready to have fun!” The bubble braid pigtails are youthful, playful, and bursting with energy — absolutely ideal for a first day of school where you’re making those all-important first impressions. The hair is separated into two parts and the space buns at the top are smaller, and both ponytails are adorned with several colorful elastics, which make the hairstyle look cheerful and bubbly. The neon elastics on purple, blue, green, and turquoise put the extra personality in it.
On damp hair, I prefer to apply a small amount of Redken Frizz Dismiss Rebel Tame to prepare the hair to be smooth and easy to manage. You can fluff each section between the elastics to make the most perfect rounded bubbles, it takes no time at all and is so satisfying to style.
What I adore the most is that this hairstyle makes me feel as though I am celebrating my youth, creativity, and confidence. As Chris Appleton once stated, bold accessories in braids are one of the simplest tricks to make everyday hairstyles feel special – and I could not agree more.
It is also an ideal solution for younger children who would like to add a little bit of style and still have hair out of the face on a busy school day.
Half-Up Cornrow Ponytail with Pink Bow Accent
This hairstyle offers a fun combination of volume and shine which is just ideal as first day of school hairstyles for kids. Delicate cornrow braids on the top are gathered into a high half-ponytail, whereas the remaining hair is left loose and natural, which creates a good contrast between containment and volume. That large pink bow placed on the bottom of the ponytail is what gives this a cute back-to-school vibe, and the entire ensemble comes off as both cheerful and confident.
I have to remind myself to pay attention to the scalp care as well when I am working with cornrowed styles. A few days before braiding, I prefer to apply Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil to make sure the scalp is hydrated. Flyaways and hairs out of place can be tamed with a dab of edge control such as Creme of Nature Perfect Edges and make those braids stand out.
I really adore this one as it is so age-appropriate, but stylish. Mixing up textures, i.e., smooth braids with natural volume, is a wonderful way to embrace hair diversity in girls of school age, as celebrity stylist Vernon Francois has repeatedly stated. It is artistic, yet not so difficult as to make it through recess and class pictures.
Plus, the big bow is such a mood booster. That small touch of added girliness provides extreme confidence when entering a new classroom.
Curly High Ponytail with Bright Scrunchie
This look is screaming first day of school hairstyles curly -and I can not get enough. The natural curls are swept into a high ponytail, which adds a lot of bounce and movement, and a multicolored scrunchie adds a fresh, playful touch at the very crown. The curls are shaped, shimmering and with character, which is just what every girl requires to step into the first day with energy and self-assurance.
For curls like this, moisture is everything. I am obsessed with SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie – it defines the curl pattern without making the hair heavy. A few bobby pins at the base will do magic in maintaining that just-right ponytail height throughout the day.
Personally, I love the fact that this style is completely carefree yet presentable enough to pass as school photos. High ponytails are a favourite suggestion by celebrity curl expert Vernon Francois on curly girls as they display texture but keep hair out of the face, ideal on school days.
And, frankly speaking, who could resist a good scrunchie moment? It is so providing major 90s nostalgia, yet in a contemporary way that is completely back in fashion.
Elegant Bubble Ponytail with Satin Bows
To make it more adult, this bubble ponytail tied with small pink satin bows is everything. The ponytail is formed into bubble-like sections that remain well spaced and the bows provide feminine touches all over. The straight and smooth blonde hair provides the style with a polished completion, thus a beautiful choice among first day of school hairstyles that are easy and fashionable.
In order to get that smooth, polished bubble look, I would always suggest using Color Wow Dream Coat on damp hair prior to styling – it tames flyaways and gives hair mirror-like shine. To hold the bubble shapes, the small clear elastics are the best under each bow to tidy up the sections.
My favorite thing about it is that it is elegant but with just the right amount of playfulness appropriate for school. Chris Appleton bubble ponytails are a genius idea to make plain ponytails interesting without having to know how to braid, says Chris Appleton always.
This is one of those “looks harder than it is” styles that earns compliments every time — and stays put from homeroom to last bell.
Loose Romantic Waves with Butterfly Clip
This half-up style is so dreamy with the loose waves and a small butterfly clip. The bulk at the crown gives it a gentle lift and the waves slide down easily. The clear butterfly is just a touch of whimsy – ideal if you want first day of school hairstyles natural, but with a bit of magic too.
On softer waves, I prefer to prepare the hair with Ouai Wave Spray and curl with a large-barrel curling wand to add some gentle texture. A few spritzes of Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray Medium Hold provides the waves with staying power, but none of the stiffness.
On a personal level, I adore the way that this style feels classic -this is the sort of appearance that you can sport throughout middle school, into college and you will always feel put together without ever appearing overdressed. As celebrity hairstylist Justine Marjan frequently posts, a little accessory, such as this butterfly clip, instantly becomes a focal point, but does not overburden the hairstyle.
And, come on, butterflies are simply appropriate in the back-to-school time. New beginnings, fresh starts — it fits.
Heart-Shaped Braided Ponytail
This is just an adorable braided ponytail design that is pure artistry and certainly one of my favorite first day of school hairstyles braids ideas on younger girls. The hair is parted into sections and carefully braided to form a heart shape, meeting at the back where it’s secured into a playful curled ponytail. There is attention to detail with the smooth foundation and complex braiding, and a final touch of curled ponytail that is soft and bouncy.
To ensure the braids remained smooth and nice, I would prepare the hair by applying Mizani 25 Miracle Milk Leave-In Conditioner that provides slip and moisture to make the hair easy to braid. A small amount of Eco Styler Gel on the part lines will also give it that nice clean edge that makes the heart shape stand out.
What I love here is that this design is so creative without being too complicated to deal with on school mornings. Celebrity braid expert Nai’vasha often suggests incorporating shapes into braids for younger girls as a fun way to personalize their back-to-school look.
It is simply one of those styles that will almost ensure compliments – and what better way to start the school year?
Classic Fishtail Braid with Sleek Finish
A fishtail braid is just the thing that can make first day of school hairstyles a bit more special. The hair is gathered together at the back of the head in a tight, central fishtail plait that displays the gorgeous mix of blonde shades running through. The braid is clean and tight, so it will last through long days when you do not have time to think about redoing your hair. It’s polished, but still totally school-appropriate.
When I want to use fishtails, I always prepare the hair using a smoothing serum, such as Olaplex No. 9 Bond Protector Nourishing Hair Serum, first – this will assist in avoiding flyaways and it is much easier to split those small pieces. A little bit of Kenra Professional Finishing Spray 26 will make the braid hold without making it rigid.
The best thing about this look is that it is so adult, yet not lacking in youthful appeal. Celebrity hairstylist Jen Atkin would always suggest fishtail braids to school as they are elegant and yet so simple once you have mastered the trick of the technique.
It is also ridiculously adjustable – add some little clips and go glam or leave it plain and simple, depending on how you feel on the approach of that first school bell.
Sleek Low Twists with Black Ribbon Bows
This double twist style is giving serious back-to-school chic. The hair has been separated in the middle and twisted into two low ponytails and the shiny strands of the hair give it a silky completion. Larger and smaller twists are incorporated into each ponytail to give it movement and a little dimension. The black satin ribbon bows at the bottom make it look sophisticated and a bit vintage, which is ideal as first day of school hairstyles easy yet unforgettable.
To achieve this smooth finish, I would always suggest using Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray on the hair first – this makes the hair shiny and humidity free. To define the twists, a little bit of Ouidad Mongongo Oil Multi-Use Curl Treatment makes the twists soft and easy to work with.
On a personal level, I love how this look gives me the feeling of a wink to old-school prep, yet it is completely current. Celebrity hairstylist Chris Appleton is fond of discussing how a few simple accessories, such as ribbons, can instantly dress up an otherwise casual look and make it purposeful.
And the low-maintenance aspect is enormous, this one remains perfect all day long, even during lunch and recess.
Bow-Inspired Half-Up Hairstyle
This half-up bow style is such a perfect first day of school hair style for those kids who wish to make a sweet yet modest statement. The upper part of the hair is curled into two round loops to make a bow shape and the remaining hair is kept smooth and straight. It appears to be a complicated design, yet it is actually quite doable with the proper method and provides that additional element of fun on special school days.
I would apply Oribe Superfine Hair Spray when styling to get that crisp bow shape and then tie the loops together with small clear elastics. To keep the lengths smooth, Redken Frizz Dismiss Rebel Tame is fabulous.
What I personally adore is the fact that it provides a more polished picture-ready effect, which does not feel too adult. These creative half-updos are recommended by Justine Marjan most often on younger kids – they look fantastic in photos and last all day at school.
This is one of those styles that’ll have classmates (and teachers) giving instant compliments.
Side Braid with Half-Up Ponytail
Here is an adorable idea of first day of school hairstyles short hair. Parted to one side, the hair has a clean side braid that sweeps across the crown and is caught together in a half-up ponytail at the back. The remaining hair is left natural and loose to provide both shape and texture. Its short length is actually quite appropriate in this case, as the braid is meant to be the primary point of focus.
To control short hair during braiding I recommend using Bumble and Bumble Thickening Go Big Treatment – this provides grip and helps to avoid loose flyaways. Kenra Volume Spray 25 is a few spritzes that will hold everything in place throughout the day.
And, frankly, this is one of my personal favorites, since it looks gorgeous on younger girls who are in the process of growing out their hair, yet want to have a fun, put-together look. Front-braiding is an immediate way to dress up any look, as celebrity stylist Kristin Ess suggests trying on shorter styles.
And bonus — it keeps hair out of the face for better focus in class!
French Braids into Ponytail Hybrid
Such a quick and easy one to do on those mornings you just can not get it together — classic French braids along the hairline down into a low pony. It is one of those back to school hair styles that kids will adore since it is both comfortable and has a touch of style. The braids are neat, straight, and not very tight, and the ponytail makes the back of the head light and easy to handle.
I would always suggest a leave-in conditioner such as It s A 10 Miracle Leave-In Conditioner to detangle and add shine. A small amount of Edge Booster Strong Hold Water-Based Pomade will assist in setting the part lines and making those French braids nice and crisp.
What I love here is the feeling of being so practical and at the same time polished, suitable for classrooms, PE, and after-school activities. Nai’vasha has often said that French braids are one of the best styles for active kids who still want to look cute and stay photo-ready all day.
It is certainly one of those classic schooltime favorites that can never go wrong.
Low Ponytail with Micro Braids
If you are a fan of minimalist style with only a slight twist, then this low ponytail with micro braids is an ideal choice among first day of school hairstyles that are both easy to do and highly practical. The hair is collected sleekly at the nape, however small personal braids are inserted into the ponytail, making pretty details that reflect the light and bring some silent character to an otherwise plain look.
To prep for braiding, I always reach for It’s A 10 Miracle Leave-In Product — it gives great slip, reduces breakage, and helps with that silky finish. To keep the micro braids neater throughout the day, apply a small amount of Mizani Edge Taming Gel on the parting.
My personal favorite thing about this look is how casual-athletic it is. It would be ideal for any girls that are looking to have something that is low-key, yet still want to feel like they have that extra bit of effort on the first day.
It is an excellent illustration of how plain textures can totally dress up a ponytail and make it back to school stylish without being too fussy.
Casual Half-Up Pony with Chunky Scrunchie
This loose half-up ponytail using a thick navy scrunchie is so casual and back-to-school appropriate for teens. The loose waves and the high positioning of the ponytail add bounce to it, and the thick scrunchie adds a retro 90s throwback that is everywhere at the moment as far as first day of school hairstyles for teens are concerned.
To obtain the waves, I suggest a soft curl with a 1.5-inch barrel curling wand and Ouai Wave Spray to keep the natural movement. The scrunchie itself provides volume at the crown without additional teasing.
The best thing about this one is that it is so wearable. Celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons frequently suggests oversized scrunchies to include a touch of playfulness but still feel grown-up enough to be at school.
The whole aesthetic is giving me effortless, yet purposeful, which is literally the first day hair goals.
Soft Shoulder-Length Waves with Face-Framing Layers
A beautiful idea on older students – soft, natural shoulder-length waves with face-framing layers. It is that cool-girl length that is flattering on all ages and seems to be made to showcase first day of school hairstyles 8th grade. The layers give it natural movement and airiness, and the waves give it that lived-in softness that is trending absolutely everywhere at the moment.
To keep this look I would suggest applying Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray to create texture and Moroccanoil Mending Infusion to keep the ends sealed and healthy.
On me, I adore the way this turned out sophisticated and effortless at the same time, as though you have just left a coffee shop but are fully prepared to go to school. This mid-length cut is one of the most recommended cuts by celebrity stylist Anh Co Tran because of its versatility, and it would be a good choice especially among students who are looking to have a low-maintenance yet stylish haircut.
It’s one of those looks that can easily transition from the classroom to after-school hangouts.
Sleek Straight Hair with Pink Peekaboo Highlights
And one more to the daring fashionistas: the long and smooth straight hair with peekaboo pink highlights around the face. It is catchy, shiny, and just what the doctor ordered in first day of school hairstyles kids who are looking to add a little color to the equation without completely dyeing the whole head.
To maintain the hair this smooth and shiny, I would always recommend CHI Silk Infusion Serum prior to flat ironing and then GHD Platinum+ Styler to give that glass-like straight finish. The colored streaks could be applied using temporary color chalks or semi-permanent dye, which is flexible according to the school regulations.
What I love here is the fun confidence this look gives — you’re stepping into the school year with color, literally. Colorist to the stars (and especially Kim Kardashian), Chris Appleton frequently posts about face-framing color panels being a massive trend in adding dimension without a significant commitment.
This style says: “I’m here, I’m creative, and I’m ready for a new year.”
Double Dutch Braids Down the Back
Double Dutch braids are forever a back-to-school staple. The braids are placed in the middle of the scalp and fall as long braids in the front – so practical and yet makes a full-on statement energy first day of school hairstyles braids. They hold hair in place and tidy throughout the day, be it PE, recess or lecture attendance.
To make my braids last long without frizz, I spritz Pattern Beauty Hydrating Mist on my hair before braiding, and finish the braids off with a small amount of Amika Supernova Moisture & Shine Cream to add Hydration and hold.
I am so obsessed with the fact that this style can be worn by kids, by teens, and even by older students who prefer something clean and athletic yet so Instagram-worthy at the same time. As braiding icon Nai -vasha likes to say, Dutch braids are the simplest method to add drama and structure with no fuss.
You truly can’t go wrong with this classic — it’s practically a school year ritual.
Thick Braided Ponytail with Sleek Crown
This thick, voluminous braided ponytail is a bold statement for first day of school hairstyles for teens. The hair is gathered high with absolute sleekness at the crown, while the braid itself is full, rounded, and flawless, cascading down with a structured rope-like appearance. It’s clean, elegant, and dramatic in the best way.
To get that slick base, I recommend prepping damp hair with Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray for frizz control, and then smoothing with Moroccanoil Mending Infusion. The braid stays defined with a touch of Mizani Styling Foam Wrap applied before braiding.
I personally love this one because it’s one of those styles that demands attention the moment you walk into class. Celebrity stylist Chris Appleton often praises these elevated braids for combining runway energy with everyday wearability.
It’s powerful, but still totally school-appropriate — perfect for feeling confident on that first day back.
High Braided Ponytail with Blue Bow
This high ponytail braid is a sweet, classic option for younger girls stepping into school with a fresh start. The braid itself is simple and smooth, tied off with a charming pale blue bow that adds a soft, girly touch — ideal for first day of school hairstyles for kids.
Before braiding, I’d use Redken Frizz Dismiss Rebel Tame Leave-In Cream to help control any flyaways and give the hair a silky texture that makes braiding easier. Finishing with a little Kenra Volume Spray 25 helps the braid hold its shape all day.
What I love about this is how timeless it feels — this kind of style never goes out of fashion, no matter how many trends come and go. Justine Marjan often recommends adding bows or ribbons to classic braids for kids because it instantly elevates a simple look into something special.
It’s that perfect blend of comfort, practicality, and style for busy school days.
Single Side Dutch Braid with Low Tail
Here’s a beautiful first day of school hairstyles black inspired braid style that works for all hair textures. The braid is built thickly across the scalp from the front, flowing into a low side tail. The Dutch braid adds gorgeous dimension and depth while keeping hair neat, controlled, and picture-perfect.
For prep, I’d use Camille Rose Curl Maker for moisture and definition if styling textured hair, or Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum for sleek finishes on straighter textures. A light mist of Oribe Superfine Strong Hair Spray seals everything.
I love how this braid can work across so many hair types while still feeling polished and intentional. Celebrity stylist Vernon François often talks about the versatility of Dutch braids, especially for protecting and managing natural hair textures for school.
It’s simple enough for everyday wear, but special enough for those important first-day photos.
Natural Long Layers with Soft Center Part
Sometimes, simplicity wins. These long, naturally layered locks with a center part are ideal for first day of school hairstyles natural. The healthy shine and smooth layering frame the face softly, while keeping the look age-appropriate and versatile for any outfit or mood.
To maintain that glossy, healthy finish, I like to use Ouai Hair Oil and follow up with Living Proof Restore Smooth Blowout Concentrate for sleekness without weighing down the strands.
Personally, I adore this effortless style. Celebrity stylist Anh Co Tran frequently recommends face-framing layers like these because they’re flattering for every age and require very little upkeep between trims.
It’s an everyday style that still feels special — because great hair doesn’t always need extras to make a statement.
Golden Blunt Bob with Side Part
This golden-toned blunt bob is one of my favorite first day of school hairstyles short options this year. The cut is sharp, sitting right above the shoulders with a clean side part that frames the face perfectly. The sun-kissed color brings light and vibrancy, making it ideal for sunny September mornings.
For shine and frizz control, I’d prep with Kérastase Elixir Ultime L’Huile Original Hair Oil and finish with a few passes of the GHD Platinum+ Styler to keep the lines razor-sharp and glossy.
I love how this style feels both polished and youthful — a little bit grown-up, but still totally school-appropriate. Chris Appleton always says a blunt bob is “instant confidence,” and I fully agree — it’s empowering without being overdone.
Perfect for the first day when you want to walk in and own the room.
Soft Waves with Pink Face-Framing Highlights
For a playful and trendy start to the year, this wavy medium-length style with bright pink face-framing highlights is such a vibe for first day of school hairstyles curly. The waves give it softness, while the bold pink streaks up front make it fun, creative, and full of personality — perfect for kids who love to express themselves through color.
To maintain the vibrancy of these highlights, I always recommend Olaplex No. 4P Blonde Enhancer Toning Shampoo (which works great for fashion colors, too) and using Joico Color Balance Conditioner for moisture. Light curls can be set with Amika The Shield Anti-Humidity Spray for frizz-free definition.
I really love how this type of color instantly gives any cut that extra pop. Celebrity colorist Guy Tang often emphasizes how face-framing color panels add dimension without full commitment — which is perfect for school-aged kids who might want to experiment.
This look screams: “I’m ready to start the year with my own personal twist!”
Blunt Bob with Waterfall Braid Accent
Short hair can absolutely shine on the first day, and this blunt bob with a waterfall braid proves it. The braid gently falls across the crown, while the rest of the hair stays sleek, straight, and ultra-shiny. It’s a sophisticated yet totally age-appropriate option for first day of school hairstyles short.
For prep, I’d suggest smoothing hair with Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Heat Styling Spray, followed by straightening with a T3 SinglePass Flat Iron. The waterfall braid holds better when hair is silky smooth and lightly misted with Kenra Dry Oil Control Spray 14.
I personally adore the contrast between the geometric precision of the bob and the soft, romantic touch of the braid. Hairstylist Sarah Potempa often suggests these types of accent braids to bring something extra to a basic haircut for school.
It’s neat, creative, and keeps hair perfectly out of the face for class time.
Half-Up Twists with Butterfly Clips
There’s something so whimsical about this half-up twisted style with delicate butterfly clips. Tiny front sections are twisted backward and secured with butterfly barrettes, giving a playful nod to early 2000s nostalgia — and making it a charming choice for first day of school hairstyles easy.
For soft, smooth twists, I like to work in a small amount of Bumble and Bumble Brilliantine Styling Cream, which keeps the hair glossy and manageable. The butterfly clips can easily be switched out for different colors depending on mood or outfit.
What I love here is the innocence and fun this style brings. Celebrity hairstylist Justine Marjan always reminds us that accessories can completely transform even the simplest hairstyle into something special for school photos or first impressions.
It’s sweet, trendy, and feels perfectly light for those late-summer first days.
Conclusion
From cute braids to colorful highlights and easy ponytails, first day of school hairstyles 2025 offer endless ways to start the year in style. Whether it’s for kids, teens, or any grade, these trendy looks combine fun, confidence, and practicality. The right hairstyle sets the tone for a fresh, exciting school year ahead!
