First Day of School Hairstyles 2025 That Are Cute, Easy & Perfect for Teens

What’s the vibe you’re setting for that first bell? If it’s picture day, you’re meeting people for the first time or you just want to look stylish in the school hallways, the first day of school hairstyles 2025 are easy and chic with a touch of wow. But here’s the thing—no two mornings are the same. There are days when we want to look glam in no time, days when we want to try something cute and stylish and days when we need to style our short or long curly hair.

Here are five trends that will put you in the mood for back-to-school.

Soft Blonde Waves with a Claw Clip

Wearing your hair in long, wavy waves and a frosted claw clip is the simplest way to look stylish. Natural movement was created in the hair by softly curling it with a big iron and then sweeping the top half back and clipping it to keep it off the face—still very “that girl.” It’s perfect for anyone with long hair who wants to look like they tried (but didn’t try too hard).

Before curling, spray on the Gisou Propolis Infused Heat Protecting Spray and finish off with Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray to keep the volume and separation. Spraying a little anti-frizz mist at the top of your head helps you keep this style on humid days.

I wore a similar version last year, with a matte rose claw and people at the bus stop and in biology told me how much they liked it. It looks fashionable, helps keep your hair from your food and takes good pictures for those school photos.

If you want a simple first day hairstyle that looks nice, this is just what you need. Works beautifully for teens and college girls alike.

Glossy Rounded Bob with Auburn Highlights

This look is defined by a deliberate shape and a smooth finish. The bob ends just below the jawline and the auburn color is made brighter with honey and caramel highlights that reflect the light in a lovely way. The boldness is obvious and it makes a strong, confident statement from every side.

You can keep the look fresh for longer by blow-drying with a cream like IGK Good Behavior Smoothing Blowout Balm and adding a weekly gloss treatment in copper such as dpHUE Gloss+.

I’ve always been obsessed with precision cuts like this. They require only a touch of shine spray and some suitable earrings. If you’re a high school senior or junior, this is the haircut to show that you’re in charge of your life.

Ideal for girls who want a cute school hairstyle for short hair that looks grown-up.

Minimalist Slicked Bun with Colorful Barrettes

It gives off a clean and fun vibe that is very youthful. The hair is slicked back into a tight low bun with a middle part (yes, Gen Z approved) and brought to life with pastel barrettes stacked for a pop of color. It’s both fun and useful for girls who like a fast morning but want to look stylish.

Apply Eco Style Olive Oil Gel to keep your hair in place and use a boar bristle brush to make it look perfectly slick. The clips? You can match them to your clothes or mix colors to have fun.

I go for this look when I’m in a hurry on 25 May or when my roots are being stubborn. It is useful for teens, college girls and even students who are younger. And it’s especially ideal for first day school hairstyles easy or cute hairstyles first day of school curly—just slick and go!

Soft Pull-Back with a Polka Dot Claw Clip

This style is just right between being low-key and making a statement. The front sections are loosened, allowing some strands to fall and frame the face and are then held in place by a large polka dot claw clip. You’re giving off indie-cool, as if you read poetry and also like to shop at the mall.

One thing I like about this style is that it looks great after a day of wearing your hair and you can just curl the ends with a large wand to fix it. For dry hair, adding a little Ouai Leave-In Conditioner will make it softer and prevent it from becoming heavy.

This reminds me of when I was in junior year and was both artsy and easy to talk to. It works across hair types and is especially great if you’re leaning into long hair looks without being overstyled.

Add a tank and some dainty gold earrings to your outfit for a hairstyle that’s both cute and cool for the first day of school.

Wavy Half-Up Style with Volume and Texture

If you appreciate different textures, this half-up look will be perfect for you. The waves are gentle, the lift at the top adds some flair and the section on top is pulled back a bit, so your lip gloss can really shine.

I think using a Sea Salt Spray like Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray on damp hair and winding it around a wand will give you this look. Gently pull the hair at the crown and fix it in place with some hidden bobby pins. Finish with a flexible hold hairspray.

I wore the same outfit during my first week at a new school and it made me feel more confident when I needed it. Beachy curls have an old-fashioned feel but still appear fresh and modern.

It’s a favorite for girls on the first day of school and it’s also a great choice for both middle and high school students.

Double Braids with a Statement Bow

It seems like a classic look when braids are held together with a bold ribbon. This look is taken further by braiding the hair in layers and having it crown the head, with an orange bow at the back that stands out immediately. It stays neat, is secure and works well for anyone rushing down the hall or to their next class. This is a perfect choice for kids or anyone looking for a super cute hairstyle to wear on the first day of school.

Whenever I want my braids to stay smooth and tight all day, I rely on Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Twisting Soufflé which doesn’t leave my hair feeling sticky or frizzy. It works especially well on kids’ hair or on fine hair before braiding.

This reminds me of the first day of school when I was in sixth grade. Just like me, my younger cousin wore that look and it lasted all day, even through activities and the usual end-of-day photo. The bow gives a lovely touch for 25 May or any time in the fall.

If you want a look for picture day, this style gives you a sophisticated and playful look at the same time.

Milkmaid Braids for a Polished Street Look

The braided crown is perfect—it looks neat, even and doesn’t take much effort to style. The braids on the sides of the head look like a milkmaid style, but with the ruffled blouse and sunglasses, it becomes a modern back-to-school look. They are great for the first day at school because they look nice without being too noticeable.

Apply a smoothing cream such as Living Proof No Frizz Nourishing Styling Cream, before braiding and finish with a bit of shine mist. A good set of bobby pins is necessary to keep the braid looking neat as you go about your day.

I’ve done this for school days when I needed to give a presentation or join a club meeting and wanted to look different. It holds up well under pressure—literally and metaphorically—and gives the illusion you spent forever on your hair (you didn’t).

This style works well for both everyday school clothes and fancy outfits.

Blunt Bob with Center Part

There’s being bold and then there’s a short hair bob that’s so confident. With sharp edges, a center part and a blunt finish right under the chin, this cut will make you feel like a model on the catwalk. It’s chic and fresh, perfect for girls who love first day school hairstyles short hair that feel smart and grown.

Keeping this one sleek is key. I would apply a heat protectant such as Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray and then use a flat iron. The cut doesn’t need much—just shine and confidence.

During my back-to-school glow-up phase, I tried this cut out and it definitely caught people’s attention. It’s simple, clear and gets addictive once you get in the habit of the early morning. This bob should be included in every list of ideas for fall fashion updates.

If the school season is off to a hot start, this easy outfit will help you cool off.

Soft Waves with Retro Clips

The look is all about feminine curls, but it is updated with a vintage feel. With all that hair and those pink clips, it looks romantic and amazing for photo day. The middle section gives the hair a softer look and the waves appear as if they were curled with a curling iron and brushed out with the fingers.

You can create this kind of look with a 1.25-inch curling iron and Amika The Shield Style Extending Spray—great for keeping hair protected and set even if you’re switching classrooms all day. And those clips? You’ll want them in every pastel shade.

I believe this would be perfect for older teens who want to dress up like Barbie for school. To be honest, it’s perfect for any cute hairstyle you’ve saved from Pinterest for your first day back at school.

It’s soft, sweet, and unexpectedly bold—the perfect balance.

Double Braided Pigtails with Sleek Finish

This one is for all the girls who like to make an entrance and take charge. They are placed in a symmetrical way, are very sleek and have a clean and defined parting. It brings back the Y2K look perfectly and the difference between the tight crown and loose ends makes the style very lively. This is one of my favorite hairstyles for the first day of school if you have curly or thick hair.

Use Shine ’n Jam Extra Hold Conditioning Gel to secure the roots and braid your hair after that. The Mane Choice Growth Oil is a good choice to use at the end for shine and smoothness.

This reminds me of the time I saw a senior walking in on the first day and everyone looked at them. This happens and it’s quite simple to do yourself. You just need patience and a good edge brush.

This is the perfect hairstyle for black women on the first day of school or anyone who wants to show some attitude in class.

Half-Up Bangs with Tousled Texture

This style is perfect for those who want something easy and charming. The half-up look lifts the top and leaves the fringe free to show off. The bangs are placed around the eyes, creating a casual “first thing in the morning” look and the light texture in the hair gives it a youthful feel. It looks great on medium to long hair and highlights your character without taking away from your face.

If your bangs tend to get greasy or flat midday (been there), a travel-size Batiste Dry Shampoo will be your best friend. Spray the roots with water before you leave for class and your hair will stay full all day.

This one makes me think of chilly fall mornings, a cup of coffee and a backpack full of new adventures. It’s casual, but still 100% ready for photo day.

Whether you’re headed to your first day of junior year or your first year of college, this style is a comfort-zone staple that never lets you down.

Space Buns with Braided Accents

Those who prefer something different will find this double bun look to be fun, neat and detailed. Every section is carefully braided and tied into buns at the top and long strands and slim braids frame the face and fall down the back. It is organized and fashionable, but it’s also fun for teenagers who want to spice up their look for the new school year.

If you want a clean finish and strong hold while braiding, I recommend using Shine ’n Jam Magic Fingers for Braiders. It is ideal for the buns and also the parts that are very sleek.

This one gives you the confidence to act like you own the day. It’s especially fresh for first day school hairstyles curly, or black for students who want a mix of structure and creativity.

You’ll probably want to take a selfie in this style before homeroom has even begun.

Romantic Side Braid with Ribbon Detail

There’s a delicate calm to this one. The side braid flows over the crown and becomes soft waves which are gathered near the bottom and decorated with a long satin bow. It brings together old-school academia and a soft girl look which is perfect for those who want a whimsical touch on their first day. A stylish and long-lasting choice for a first-day hairstyle that’s cute.

A little Verb Ghost Oil at the ends will make your hair soft and shiny. You can avoid frizz without making your hair feel heavy or greasy.

I did something like this for picture day once and it came out nicely without being overdone. Add a soft cream-colored cardigan and you’re golden.

This is a great choice for a hairstyle on the first day of school since it’s easy and unique.

Sleek Shoulder-Length Cut with Headband

This hairstyle wins on both elegance and ease. A straight blunt-cut short hair is made even neater when held back with a matte headband. It’s all about looking cool as an art student or being the teacher’s favorite—smart, trendy and not bothered by anything. If you’ve ever looked for quick hairstyles for the first day of school on Pinterest late at night, this could have appeared.

It’s perfect for those with straight hair because you don’t have to use heat. Just spray IGK Good Behavior Spirulina Smoothing Spray on your hair and brush it with a wide paddle brush.

I wore this style when there was a heatwave in early fall and it was simple and comfortable. It goes well with bold earrings and stylish sunglasses.

If you want to look stylish and relaxed, this is the first day of school hairstyle for you in 2025.

Double Buns with Polished Parting

With two tight and high buns on either side, this hairstyle is all about the future and fun. The middle is crunchy, the buns are neat and the rest is pulled so smoothly that you can almost see your face in it. An eye-catching style that’s actually simple to care for and great for those who need a fast, fashionable hairstyle.

With this style, Eco Style Black Castor & Flaxseed Oil Gel does an amazing job, providing a slick finish, lots of moisture and strong hold. Comb your hair with a tail comb and a flat brush to get perfectly smooth results.

When I first discovered this place on campus last year, I was really into it. It’s a mix of being fashionable and cute, so it’s great for teens or younger students who like to express themselves.

Want something that stands out without falling apart mid-day? This might just be your back-to-school hero.

Twin Braids with Rainbow Bows

Few styles shout “ready for school!” I rather like these double braids that are parted in the middle and tied with colorful rainbow bows. The hair is cut neatly, the braids are even and the colorful ribbons at the end make the hairstyle fun and perfect for younger students or those who like cute hairstyles on the first day of school. This hairstyle is perfect for kids because it looks neat and is easy to do.

Cantu Care for Kids Conditioning Detangler is a great way to keep the hair looking neat all day, especially if you often struggle with tangles in the morning. After that, use a little SheaMoisture Curling Gel Soufflé to secure the part and make braiding easier without frizz.

That’s exactly what comes to mind for me when I imagine 6th-grade first day hairstyles. A place that is cheerful, neat and not too hard to take care of, but still enjoyable.

A great choice for the early mornings in September, when you grab your sweater, backpack and lunchbox.

Wavy Half-Up Top Knot

With this long hair, you get a cozy feel and a casual style. The upper part is gathered into a knot and the lower part falls in soft, full waves. It’s influenced by beach living, has a bohemian touch and is all about being comfortable and stylish. If you’re aiming for quick ponytail styles curly but want something a little more elevated, this is your go-to.

After spraying Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Soft Waves Spray on damp hair, use a diffuser to dry your hair and enjoy soft waves. I sometimes spray a little flexible hold hairspray to stop the knot from coming undone while I’m in class.

It’s easy to make and stylish enough for any first day of school. This is what I call the “I didn’t overthink it but still look amazing” vibe.

This is a great option for teens who like their hair to look full and easy to do.

Tight Dutch Braids with Tiny Bows

These Dutch braids are done in a way that requires a lot of skill and attention to detail. The sections are very close together and well-maintained and the little bows at the ends add a touch of sweetness without making the style less athletic. It’s a nice combination of easy, fashionable and durable—perfect for PE or when you want your hair to stay in place.

Begin with Mizani 25 Miracle Milk Leave-In Conditioner and then use edge control around the part to keep the edges in place. Finish off by spritzing the hair with a soft-hold product.

I like that it gives you confidence, so you appear ready to handle any topic, including algebra and art. Besides, they are a traditional choice for the first day of school braids for everyone.

Ideal for anyone who wants to keep their hair out of their face until they have their snack.

Chunky Cornrows with Volume

Should you wish for your school hairstyles black women lineup to be both neat and relaxed, try this chunky braid style. The rows are well defined and close together which makes the wood strong and unique. It looks nice, reflects the culture and is easy to use for a busy school day.

Before styling, put on TGIN Butter Cream Daily Moisturizer and finish by applying Blue Magic Coconut Oil Hair Conditioner to seal the moisture.

This one’s for the girls who want a no-fuss, powerful look with edge. A great contender for picture day and beyond.

It’s also ideal if you’re heading into a packed week and want your style to hold up without constant refreshing.

Elegant French Twist for Picture Day

When you want to make a statement, this is the updo for you. The style is sleek, sculpted and the twist at the nape makes it look even more beautiful. The front strands being left loose gives this style a nice balance between structure and softness. This style is great for photo day, when you’re making a presentation or any time you want a more grown-up version of the first day school hairstyles.

For a strong and flexible hold, use Kenra Volume Spray 25 and backcomb your hair a bit at the crown before you pin it up. A serum with a high shine such as Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum, can help straighten your hair.

This one brings serious “honor roll meets editor-in-chief” energy. The style is polished but not too much, as if it were on a teenager preparing for her first job interview.

If you’re someone who wants to be taken seriously from the first bell, this is your hairstyle.