The returning day is always a bit nervous and full of selfies. It could be that you are just about to enter the 7 th grade short hair territory or you are preparing to enter your senior year, the proper hairstyle is not only about looking good but rather about feeling prepared. Then how do you make yourself stand out without losing your vibe? What can you effortlessly do before the school bus, but is adorable enough to demonstrate during lunch?
This year, I have assembled a selection that would not leave anything out: braids, curls, hair down, and adorable little details that can turn the entire hallway around. Let’s get into it.
High Volume Pony with Loose Waves
A high pony will always feel fresh, but this one has a bit of soft glamour with the volume of natural hair waves falling down the back. I love how the base is wrapped with a lock of hair to hide the elastic—it’s subtle but makes all the difference. Perfect for teens medium hair or even a relaxed first day of school hairstyles for teens look that says, “I didn’t try too hard,” even if you definitely did.
To keep the waves looking sleek but soft, I’d use the Amika “The Shield” anti-humidity spray—especially if you’re living somewhere humid. To achieve that smooth root, brush through with a boar bristle paddle brush and then set the pony.
Frankly speaking, this fashion is a reminiscence of high school proms and coffee trips in the morning to Starbucks. It works for everything from 10th grade confidence boosters to “this is my year” senior energy. Just throw on hoops and you’re unstoppable.
Only thing I would change is perhaps trying a small accent braid at the root before catching it in the pony to give it a little more grit. Or tuck in a satin ribbon for something coquette-coded.
Chunky Bubble Braid with Scrunchie Drama
Okay, this one’s pure magic—especially if you love a little flair. A thick bubble braid secured at the top with a large scrunchie will give you the bold vibes without taking an entire hour in front of the mirror. The appearance is gorgeous on both kids curly hair and kids straight hair, and it can definitely be transformed into first day of school hairstyles easy territory.
To keep the volume soft but defined, I use a bit of the Ouai Matte Pomade on my fingers before tugging each “bubble” into shape. Also, those soft front pieces? Essential for that cool-not-crunchy vibe.
I spotted something like this on a celeb entering NYFW last fall and it was like such a power move. It is contemporary, flirtatious, and frankly ideal for first day of school hairstyles curly moments.
It’d be even cuter with velvet or satin scrunchies that match your outfit—or your nails (yes, I said it). Details like that don’t go unnoticed.
Classic Braids with Sunshine Ribbon
Sweet and simple wins every single time. These retro braids children wore with wide yellow ribbons are too good to pass up. This is such a darling pick for little kids, especially if you’re heading into black 6th grade or 8th grade braids territory. It’s neat, practical, and beyond photogenic.
What I adore here is that it lasts so well through a long day, playground, recess, gym class, bring it on. Simply apply SheaMoisture Kids Coconut & Hibiscus Curling Butter Cream on the strands prior to braiding, and it will remain soft and touchable.
I recall braiding ribbons into my cousin hair the evening before 5 th grade. She felt like a Disney princess. That memory? Still makes me smile.
The only thing I would adjust is perhaps changing the ribbon colors to school themes or events. Purple for spirit week? Yes please.
Glossy High Pigtails with Middle Part
I get why high pigtails keep coming back. They’re just…fun. And bold. This shiny one with a razor-sharp middle part is a cry of confidence and TikTok-core. This is the first day of school hairstyles black, wig friendly, and even first day of school hairstyles for teens.
I would then prepare the roots by applying a shine serum such as Paul Mitchell Super Skinny and then flat-iron the hair strands. Apply some edge control to the front, if you are going for that just outta salon look.
This look takes me back to school pep rallies and first day meetings where your hair and what you wear identifies you to people as to what you are. This hair style is on brand if you are starting 11 th grade with main character energy.
You can even alternate one pigtail with a side braid or fasten them together with coordinating barrettes, just have some fun with it.
Low Twintails with Black Ribbons
Lighter, more romantic, and softly stylish- low twintails with black ribbon ties are the thing. It would suit a person who is looking to get something light and sweet yet expressive. Imagine short hair children with growing out layers or ones entering 9th grade and not quite ready to make a statement quite yet.
To Straighten the hair I would apply a few drops of Moroccanoil Treatment Light before styling it- this really helps keep the hair soft and smooth- especially when dealing with finer hair that has a tendency to frizz.
There’s a quiet confidence to this look. It whispers “I care” without saying it loud. It also looks great with a knit cardigan or a school uniform, in case you have one.
Want to go bolder? Replace the black ribbons with a patterned one, gingham or checkered prints will do the trick and not overdo it.
Boho Braids with White Ribbon Ties
These pretty little side braids fastened with satin ribbons are somehow tender and a bit nostalgic. It is exuding slow summer mornings before homeroom and I am not mad about it. It is the perfect first day of school hairstyles kids or first day of school hairstyles 8th grade, it is just that balance between whimsical and down to earth. It is also a silent hero on kids curly hair that has been brushed out or slightly stretched.
To add some softness and avoid the frizz with the braid texture, I would suggest pre-washing with Briogeo Farewell Frizz Milk. It is light, yet provides enough moisture to define braids.
This style makes me think of the first year I didn’t cry before school (yes, that happened). There is something about purposefully tying your hair back that feels like protection to start over.
You could, of course, make it fancier still by twisting little flowers into the ribbons or tying the ribbon the same color as your backpack or your nails, yes, we match everything here.
Soft Waves on Short Hair
This is a short, slightly dishevelled wave cut that is modern, polished and, frankly, low-maintenance in the most flattering sense. Want first day of school hairstyles short or something laid back for 7 th grade short hair, then this is it. The slight wave on the straight hair makes it have a carefree, effortless appearance yet looks deliberate.
I always mist on Bumble and Bumble Heat Shield Thermal Protection Mist before using a heat tool- it gives a sheen without any heaviness. And when you do not wish to apply heat, braid wet hair before going to bed and release in the morning.
I had something very similar on when I had my own 9th grade orientation- I wore it with clear gloss and a swipe of mascara. Still one of my top “I felt pretty” memories.
A quirky hairpin or mini claw clip at the temple would be an extra pizazz, but really, this one is a stunner by itself.
Half-Up Bow Crown
The definition of soft glam is this half up half style. The upper layer is gathered together and tied with a blush pink bow, the rest of the hair down is left to fall in soft texture. Such a great style on the first day of school hairstyles natural, wig wearers, or even black braids curly as long as it has been blown out.
In case you want to add volume to the crown, I live by the Drybar Southern Belle mousse. Upside down, blow-dry roots, and pinch while chilling- chef kiss.
This one is giving me major prep school flashbacks- as in you would wear it with loafers and a collared blouse. It’s giving classic, clean, and a little bit Pinterest-core.
For an added touch of uniqueness, do a velvet or embroidered bow. Or be daring and make it the same as your backpack charm.
Big Texture with Side Clips
Let’s talk drama—in the best way. These full bodied curls with coordinated side clips are main character vibes. The style is beautiful on thick textures and would be ideal on the first day of school hairstyles black or 11 th grade girls who are ready to slay homeroom to after-school club.
To shape the waves, I would suggest the Pattern Beauty Styling Cream- it provides hold and softness. Shape with a wide-tooth comb or fingers only and those clips will remain in place all day.
This makes me recollect how girls used to walk in the courtyard in slow motion. The type of hair that causes neck turns without you even having to make an effort.
Mix and match the clips with your outfit or mood- chrome metallics, neon acrylics or pearl-embellished ones all work together with this look.
Playful Pigtails with Red Checkered Bows
How cute is this? There is an immediate cheer brought by the casual cuteness of these mini pigtails with gingham bows. It is saying first day of school updos simple on little kids, and it is also saying surprisingly cool for 8th grade or below teens medium hair who adore something sweet yet wearable. Plus, the piecey fringe adds a trendy twist.
Make bangs light and swoopy by applying a small pump of Verb Ghost Oil and a round brush. I would also suggest using the invisible elastic to set the pigtails and then tie the bow around the elastic in two pieces.
One of my favorite parts about this look? It feels like a mood. When you are nervous about the first day, sometimes you just want to be a little more yourself with playful hair.
See if you can replace the bows with holiday themes or special events- red for Valentines day, green for spirit week, even rainbow for field trips. Customizable and always fun.
Blunt Blonde Bob with Side Part
A well-trimmed straight hair bob has a silent luxury- sharp ends, volume in the center, and clean lines. The style is perfectly usable as first day of school hairstyles when the teen in question likes structure over frills. Whether you’re 10th grade or heading into your senior year, a chin-to-shoulder bob makes everything feel tailored.
To maintain this style sharp, I continuously grab the GHD Platinum+ flat iron. It straightens but does not fry, and a little Oribe Supershine Moisturizing Cream on the ends locks it all in.
This is the outfit I had when I received my first locker. Combined it with a striped shirt, new gloss, and a completely new sense of self.
It would also be an assassin as a base of clip-in extensions or a half-up look on Day Two. Chic never gets old.
Half-Up with a Soft Claw Clip
This half up half down look is so easily modern with the long cascading waves and a pastel claw clip is perfect on medium length hair or anyone who wants first day of school hairstyles that are easy but doesn t sacrifice style. I adore how it embraces the crown, not too tight, though, to add some form but allowing the rest of the hair down to do its own thing.
To achieve that bounce, apply a flexible mousse such as the Kenra Volume Mousse Extra 17 before blow drying. Once you have curled, gently run a wide-tooth comb through to loosen the wave to that fluffy, fluffier ending.
It is that type of aesthetic that goes, “art lesson at 9, iced matcha at 3.” Completely adorable, easily cute, and allows you to leave your hair out of your face to take notes or flirt during group projects.
To add some extra dimension, add a mini braid on the side before clipping, it only takes 60 seconds but feels like an entire story.
Jet-Black Volume Bob with Side Swoop
Attitude in a few inches- this choppy bob is short, bold and edgy with side-swept bangs. It is an amazing first day of school hairstyles short choice 9 th grade or 7 th grade short hair girls who need to feel noticed on the first day. The texture of this straight hair adds a touch of polish, but not too much polish, to a shorter cut that still has that raw confidence.
I would apply a round brush and the Dyson Airwrap to volumize the roots. Finish by spraying Living Proof Dry Volume Blast all over to make it all lifted, but not stiff.
I knew someone who pulled off this look in 8th grade and totally killed it, her style was sort of academic prep mixed with grunge and this hairstyle really tied the whole thing together.
Want more edge? Experiment with a silver clip-in, or dye one side temporary tint so it acts as a peekaboo surprise.
Polished Pony with Volume Crown
This high ponytail contrasts a smooth shape with voluminous top. Great first day of school hairstyles natural girls that need something with structure, but not tight. The crown bump provides a slight elevation and the tail is clean. This style is suitable with black braids short, people who wear wigs and girls who simply want a style that will hold.
Apply IGK Good Behavior Blowout Balm prior to styling to achieve this glassy finish and all-day hold. Back-comb the crown and brush down using a dense brush.
It takes me back to those days when you want to appear as though you have your life together- even when your backpack is a mess.
Add a scrunchie or an elastic cuff in a hidden layer in case you wish to fancy it up but not too extra. It is that kind of look which suits every vibe.
Ballerina Bun with a Satin Bow
A ballerina bun held together with a satin ribbon is nothing short of saying, I am ready to start over. It’s soft, secure, and beautifully classic. This is good as a first day of school hairstyle for kids, teens, or even 11 th grade students who are fond of a vintage look. And it is an option number one when it comes to black braids curly updos in case you need a protective style that will also add some romance.
I prefer to work with slightly dirty hair and put some Ouai Texturizing Hair Spray on it to have a grip. Take it all, curl into a tight coil, and pin, and then carefully tie the bow.
I once wore this on the first day in a new school- I felt good because I knew that at least I was in charge of something that day. And sometimes that’s all you need.
To dress it up, use a printed ribbon or even a scarf. And do spray it with perfume–it is your unseen accompaniment.
Layered Volume Bob with Flip
The rounded bob has returned, however this time with an uplifted crown and that slight, graceful under-flip that can be described as a breath of retro chic. This style falls right into the first day of school hairstyles for teens category and could be easily worn by a 10 th grader who needs polished energy but not too done-up.
To achieve that graspable grip and glass-like shine, I would apply a large round brush and blow dry using a smoothing serum such as the Amika Glass Action. Set and finish with a blast of cool air to set the bounce in.
I love this haircut on her, it reminds me of librarian/early aughts-Rachel, but in a good way. It is also fantastic on short hair kids or teens who are transitioning out of a pixie.
Honestly? When you want to strut into class with the attitude that you already have the best project partner- this is the energy.
Relaxed Low Bun with Curtain Bangs
Simple, sculpted, and a little dreamy—this tucked up style is that go-to “I’m not trying too hard but still want to look really good” pick. It is amazing on first day of school hairstyles and even girls with straight hair but prefer a more minimalistic look. And the front has enough texture provided by the soft curtain bangs.
I would prepare it by using the Ouai Wave Spray and then twist the hair loosely into a knot at the nape and pin it with bobby pins and some texture spray. This lets it hold without stiffening.
This one is like that relaxing sigh before the bell goes. It’s quiet confidence. And it completely matches with everything starting with a halter top to a hoodie.
On special days, attempt to insert a pearl pin or thin scarf beneath to add a soft touch of upgrading.
Puffy Braids with Playful Accessories
These are the kind of thick and bubbly braids hairstyles that dreams are made of when it comes to first day of school hairstyles kids. I mean, those flower clips? I live. It is that sort of look that announces, “I am ready to go to class, recess, and all the classroom pictures in between.” Perfect on small children and black 6th grade students who are fond of bold-yet-cute look.
To style, I would apply a detangling cream, such as Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner, and braid and lightly pancake each section to add volume. Top off with stretchy hair ties and clip-ins.
This particular one takes me back to the Sunday night braiding parties with my niece- one loop bigger than the other and lots of laughs.
To make a remix, replace the clips with ribbons, beads or bows in colors or schools uniforms or class colors.
Golden Hour Half-Up with Statement Clip
This one is all grace with only a pinch of fairytale. Loosely waved hair caught together in a gentle half up half style, held by a large golden clip. It is the ultimate first day of school wig choice as well: it is sleek, safe, and effortlessly glam. Awesome finale girl or even fancy 8th grade look.
To create that wave formation, I would recommend sleeping in jumbo soft curlers or a large barrel wand. Lock it in with Moroccanoil Luminous Hairspray.
This appearance reminds me of open windows, new sharpened pencils and a white sundress. You don’t have to be loud to shine.
It is so versatile that you can even replace the barrette with a gemstone or vintage-looking barrette depending on your mood.
Curled Ponytail with Navy Scrunchie
It is a classic ponytail elevated by some soft waves and a plush navy-colored scrunchie, nothing simple about it being boring. This is a classic first day of school hairstyles 8th grade, braids 9th grade undone, or simply kids curly hair brushed out into something soft. Honestly, this one’s forever.
To get this look, I’d curl the hair with a 1.5″ iron, brush it out for that soft bend, then gather and tie mid-high. Finish with a scrunchie that matches your outfit or your shoes (trust me, it’s a vibe).
This gives me major “clean girl” energy—like you’ve got your planner color-coded and your lip balm is always within reach.
Switch up the scrunchie weekly to coordinate with your mood, it is the quickest method to give an outfit a second life.
