Omg, first day of school hair is literally my Super Bowl.
I’ve been stalking Pinterest boards, saving TikToks at 2 a.m., and basically mapping out my vibe for weeks now.
The back to school outfit? Already locked in.
The first day of school nails? Of course.
But the hair? That’s where the main character energy happens.
I want that perfect balance of “she woke up like this” with just enough effort so everyone knows I actually didn’t.
Last year, I had back to school hairstyles that were fire. But this year? I need more.
I’m talking slick braids, cute claw clips, bows that match my fit—maybe even a fun hair scarf if I’m feeling bold.
Honestly, I might change my mind last minute (because indecisive queen), but the goal is to walk in serving effortless, confident, and totally ready to own the day.
And because I’m not gatekeeping, I’m sharing all my fave fun first day of school hairstyles so you can get that same “wow, she looks amazing” moment when you walk through the door.
Let’s go!
Cute & Popular School Hairstyles to Try
You know that feeling when your hair just hits and suddenly the whole day feels better?
These cute and popular school hairstyles will give you that exact vibe the second you walk into class.
1. Chunky Bubble Braids
I’m obsessed with chunky bubble braids. I’ve been practicing all summer and can’t wait to try this school braided hairstyle. Pair it with your fav scrunchie and your fit is complete.
2. Wolf Cut for Teens
Okay but the wolf cut is seriously having a moment.
This one’s giving edgy and cool with those choppy layers and shaggy-meets-mullet vibes.
It’s the go-to for teens who want something low-key but high impact.
Works best on medium to thick hair and looks 🔥 on oval or heart-shaped faces.
Just scrunch in some texturizing spray and boom, effortless, messy-chic.
If you’re trying to stand out this school year, this is the one.
3. Chunky Double Dutch Braids
For the first day of school hairstyles braids why not try these easy chunky double dutch braids?
They are soo cute and easy for your first day of school.
4. Cute High Pigtails with Middle Part
High pigtails with a middle part are giving total baddie vibes.
It’s playful but still super chic, and honestly the perfect go-to if you wanna look cute without trying too hard.
Kinda that mix of fun + trendy that just hits right.
5. Soft Wavy Hair
Such a look for fall!
Soft wavy hair is effortless, chill, and totally pretty without looking like you tried forever in the mirror.
It’s that “I woke up cute” kinda look that works for literally any fit or mood.
6. Side Clips Styling
Side clips styling is lowkey the cutest hack ever.
Just pop a couple clips on one side and boom, instant aesthetic.
It’s giving soft girl vibes, keeps your hair in place, and adds that lil’ touch of sparkle or color to your whole look.
You can switch them up to match your outfit, so it always feels fresh.
7. Half Up with a Claw Clip
Half up with a claw clip is my fave, it’s quick, cute, and instantly makes you look like you put effort in (even if you didn’t).
Just grab the top half of your hair, twist it back, and clip, it’s giving effortless chic every time.
And if you’re not sure how to nail the twist or want inspo, TikTok’s packed with tutorials showing different ways to style it, so you can scroll for ideas that match your vibe.
8. High Ponytail
A high ponytail is straight-up iconic, slick it back for a fierce vibe or keep it a little loose for that casual cute look.
It lifts your whole face, shows off your features, and honestly works for any fit, whether sporty, dressy, or just chill.
9. Quick & Cute Low Bun
A quick & cute low bun with curtain bangs is so easy to do, it’s sleek in the back but soft in the front, giving you that effortless balance.
The bun keeps it easy and polished, while the bangs frame your face for a flirty, laid-back look.
Perfect for days you want simple but still serving major cute energy.
10. Cute Dutch Braids
If you don’t know how to do Dutch braids, then learn before school starts. It’s such an easy and cute look.
They pop out in the best way and give your hair that cool, 3D vibe.
They’re great for school, gym days, or just when you wanna switch things up while still keeping it stylish and fun.
11. Wispy Bangs + Braid
Wispy bangs with a braid are giving soft girl energy, delicate in the front, playful in the back.
The bangs frame your face so effortlessly, while the braid keeps it cute and casual. It’s the kind of style that looks chill but still totally aesthetic.
More Cute and Easy First Day of School Hairstyles
First day back and you gotta come in looking cute, duh.
These easy hairstyles are perfect for serving looks without stressing before the bus shows up.
12. Side Braid with Bangs
Clean, cute, and classroom-ready. This style keeps hair outta your face and the bangs make it aesthetic.
13. High Bubble Ponytail
Give major energy with this bouncy bubble pony. Use hair ties down the length and fluff each section for a fun, playful vibe.
14. Half Up Space Buns
Lowkey obsessed with how cute space buns are. Whether high or low, they’re giving fun and fresh.
15. Curly Puff with a Headband
Let those curls live their best life in a high puff and toss on a cute headband. It’s giving volume and style.
16. Half-Up Heart Braids
If you’re feeling extra cute, try two small braids shaped into a heart at the back. So fun for day one photos.
17. Sleek High Pony with Middle Part
Serving clean girl aesthetic. Slick it down, part it in the middle, and boom — you’re ready.
18. Messy Bun with Scrunchie
Running late? No worries. For this back to school hair idea, throw it in a messy bun with a cute scrunchie and call it intentional.
19. Half-Up Top Knot
Business in the front, party on top. It’s giving cool girl, and it works with basically any hair length.
20. Braided Headband Look
Braid a small section near the front and pin it like a headband. Cute little upgrade to your regular look.
21. Fishtail Braid
Fancier than your average braid but still totally doable. Perfect if you wanna show off some hair skills.
22. Double Bubble Braids Half Up
Tiny bubble braids half side = instant cuteness. Works best with medium-length hair.
23. Loose Curls with Butterfly Clips
Curl it up and add some butterfly clips for ✨main character✨ energy. A little 2000s, a lot iconic.
24. Twisted Crown
Love this hairstyle for school. Twist small sections on both sides and pin them back. Gives princess-core without trying too hard.
25. Cute Bow with Braided Ribbon
A side pony is already adorable, but add a bow or ribbon and it’s giving full Pinterest board.
26. Slicked Back Headband Style
Push it all back with a stretchy headband and let your natural texture shine. Simple, but cute-cute.
Back to School Hairstyles for Your First Day
I hope you found some cute hairstyles for school!
These are great if you’re in high school or collage!
