35 School Hairstyles That Are Cute, Easy, and Perfect for Kids with Short, Medium, or Long Hair
The start of a new school year calls for hairstyles that are equal parts practical and polished. These creative styles work just as well on your daughter before school starts as they do on your teen during spirit week activities because they combine ease of application with beautiful results. The following article features adaptable and fun styles, including braids with buns and playful accessories that work well for hectic mornings and relaxed Sundays and photo shoots. Each look is tailored with everyday moms in mind – especially those who love keeping up with cute trends while keeping their mornings stress-free.
1. Bubble braid combo with plaid bow
This unique combination of braids and bubble sections is a charming twist on traditional school styles. The gold accents and intricate sections of the bubble braid provide both fancifulness and a clean arrangement of the mini braids. The checkered ribbon makes the hairstyle aesthetically pleasing and suitable for medium to long hair types. The sophisticated look of this hairstyle requires little practice, so kids can easily maintain their look throughout the day. For moms looking for school hairstyle ideas that are both stylish and safe, this is a winner.
2. Twin braids with daisy clips
Few looks scream easy and cute like this playful double-bun updo. A clean French braid leads to messy buns that are held in place with daisy barrettes. Medium length along with short hair types can benefit from this braid style as it provides light comfort while maintaining shape. The bun style is found on top of the head, making it ideal for times when you need a quick, yet stylish look, but don’t have enough time to spend on your hair. Think of it as the modern upgrade to the braids we wore in the early 2000s, only with more texture and edge.
3. Sparkling braids with glitter roots
Glittery roots and shiny twin braids make this hairstyle a showstopper for school dances or birthday parties. The hairstyle features tiny braids that start at the crown and merge into chic braids that glitter for a sparkly finish. The easy-to-make hair transformation provides an elevated look beyond regular school hairstyles without the use of heat styling tools or thick products. Ideal for long hair, this look balances fun and functionality and is sure to become a favorite for creative kids-or moms who want to channel their inner festival stylist.
4. Leopard Scrunchie Bubble Ponytail
If you’re looking for ponytail styles that are both structured and vivacious, this high bun pony with twist braid and leopard scrunchie hits all the right notes. Teenagers as well as younger people use this bold style solution to add flair to their look. The design of this simple updo along with the support of the bubble shape manages to stay in place throughout the day without causing any damage to your hair. Long-haired individuals should choose this style because it both pulls hair away from the face and provides fun personality features. Not to mention, it’s super photogenic-hello, spirit week and school pictures!
5. Soft double buns with face-framing waves
This elevated take on the double bun features loose front strands that frame the face with a soft, romantic curl. The style both accentuates natural curls and uses wisps to create waves, making it suitable for private school occasions and everyday wear that wants a feminine touch without going overboard. Placed higher on the crown, the buns create a balanced shape that works on medium- and short-length hair. Pair it with a collared shirt or pastel top for a preppy, fashion-forward look.
6. Double plaited buns with white ribbons
This cute style combines the best of both worlds-cute braids and polished buns-making it an ideal option for any private or formal school setting. The French braids maintain their formal appearance by creating two compact buns that are finished off with white satin bows that add both shine and preppy appeal. The style has enough structure for classroom activities and enough flexibility beyond classroom requirements. This style is suitable for medium-length hair types and is easy to maintain by using styling gel on the styled parts. If you’re looking for a style that’s ready for school photo day, this is it.
7. Twisted galaxy buns with back braids
There’s something wonderfully cosmic about this twist on a classic updo. Two smooth buns emerge from thick spiral twists that start at the neckline, creating an avant-garde style with refined elegance. The braid is ideal for young girls with long or thick hair because it stays in place throughout the day. Women with curly hair in the family should consider this style because it provides maximum volume and long-lasting hold when working with natural waves. Plus, it’s a great option when you need a quick fix but still want something Pinterest-worthy.
8. Colorful braids with ombre extensions
When it comes to making a back-to-school statement, this look will turn heads. The chunky texture braids are given vibrant purple and blue extensions that are combined with bold high buns to create an eye-catching unicorn look. The eye-catching braid pattern is perfect for energetic students who enjoy themed activities, as it will look attractive during spirit days and regular academic sessions. The best part? The intricate visual presentation of this style can be easily replicated by anyone using only pre-colored elastic braid extensions and elastic bands. It’s also a fabulous idea for those with short or medium hair, thanks to the added volume from the braided hair.
9. Smooth braided rosette buns
Precision parting and woven braids come together in this intricate floral-inspired hairstyle. The hair rests in two formal rosette buns, both of which receive braids that are tightly woven to create their textures. The elaborate appearance of this hairstyle allows it to stay beautiful from morning to night, even with long hair. This elegant design can easily be worn to lectures, parties, and photo shoots. What makes this style especially appealing is how well it balances organization with artistry – something any busy mom with a love of aesthetic detail can appreciate.
10. Cornrow ponytail with blue ribbon
For girls who want all-day hold without constant readjustment, this braided ponytail delivers. The ponytail style features parallel cornrows that are secured tightly in the back before gathering into a long braided tail that finishes with a cheerful polka dot bow. On our list, this is an excellent functional style because it works well during physical activities or all-day school use. The style works perfectly for people with curly hair because it both keeps things tidy and looks attractive even though it is positioned away from the neck. This idea also serves as a solid base for accessorizing, and it works great for kids who need both form and function in one hairstyle.
11. Braided crown with curled ponytails
This graceful style combines classic braids with soft curls, making it perfect for special school events or just days when a little extra polish is in order. White fabric flowers serve as accessories to hold up the ponytails that grow out of the braided crown design. Active kids will enjoy this style for medium-length or longer hair, as it offers a secure fit that stays photo-ready. Moms will appreciate how this look stays intact while offering a soft, feminine shape-perfect for young girls who love a little glamour with their school clothes.
12. Jumbo loop braids with ribbon thread
This style creates visual impact with its oversized, bubbly loop braids, enhanced by a white ribbon that runs seamlessly through one side. Everyday braiding techniques are transformed into artistic creations with this method, creating a formatted yet unconventional result. This style is great for girls with long hair because it creates detailed styles that stay together throughout the school day. It’s also a simple idea to add some personality to a uniform – just change the color of the ribbon to match the school color scheme or special theme days.
13. Sleek braided ponytail with gingham bow
There’s beauty in simplicity, and this school-friendly ponytail proves it. The sleek sides of the hair lead to a single, neat braid that the user secures with a navy gingham bow. Short hair and curly types will find this style ideal as it provides both functionality and a neat appearance during school hours. Time management works best here, so you can create it quickly and still maintain its appearance during special school events. This look appeals to moms who love a cute, minimalist approach to school hairstyles with a simple back setup.
14. Side braided ponytail with sequin bow
This middle part ponytail brings subtle elegance to the school scene. The side braid begins at the hairline and forms a curly ponytail that is secured with a shimmering bow. Youthful charm meets teenage elegance in this pony hairstyle. The sequin bow adds a special visual appeal that keeps the style from becoming too formal. This is a simple style for mornings when you need something quick but polished – and it works well with both dress codes and casual outfits.
15. Braided bun with glitter accent and twisted braid
This vibrant look is a favorite for lazy hair days when you want the illusion of effort. Two twisted buns secure the front of the style above the crown, while paisley accents adorn them and a loose braid creates the rest of the hair structure. The playful style is suitable for young children and works well for school themes as well as creative Friday activities when applied to long hair. The glitter gel in the parting adds a festive touch and makes it feel extra special – without requiring any advanced skills.
16. Twisted top ponytail with pearls
This playful style is a fantastic option for children with medium hair. The ponytail is created from braided, clean hair that is pulled up, while purple beads add a touch of charm. The playful look is finished off with two matching beads that secure the face-framing braids that create this cute hairstyle. It’s a simple and easy protective look that stays secure all day and adds flair to any school outfit.
17. Multi-braid ponytail with pink flower
Ideal for children, this lovely hairstyle combines three different braids that sweep across the scalp into a soft ponytail. The protective ponytail is adorably accented with a large pink flower for a themed school day or class event. The style works best on medium hair and offers a polished, easy way to keep strands tidy throughout the day.
18. Heart Braided Ponytail with Navy Bow
Here’s a heart-shaped braided look that’s both cute and practical for kids. The crown plaits create a heart design that transforms into a sleek ponytail that is held in place with a navy ribbon. Medium hair gets a creative touch for school parties with this special style that stays perfectly neat. Despite its intricate look, it remains easy and fun to wear.
19. Pull-Through Braids in a Low Ponytail
This voluminous style features pull-through braids that end in a slightly messy ponytail, giving it a soft and youthful feel. This style works beautifully for kids with medium-length hair as it transforms a standard, simple ponytail. The textured finish adds dimension, while the sleek sides keep it simple enough for school routines.
20. Soft waves with side braids and fringe
A cute and natural style that’s perfect for kids with medium or even short hair, this look combines loose waves and a side braid with a full fringe. This stylish hairstyle works for everyday school needs as well as formal events because it’s easy to achieve and has an adorable finish. The texture and balance of this hairstyle make it a go-to for anyone looking for soft elegance.
21. Braided ponytail with patterned bow
This sleek ponytail is elevated with a creative bubble sectioning technique that makes it both easy and cute for school days. Each section is held in place with a small rubber band, while a black and white checkered bow adds a playful, polished vibe-perfect for medium-haired kids who want to keep things tidy with style.
22. Twisted Bow Braid Half-Up Style
A unique take on braids, this style features a thick braid down the center of the head, punctuated by a decorative bow made from the girl’s own hair. It’s simple yet artistic, making it a wonderful option for kids looking for a charming half-up style that works well on medium hair.
23. Smooth braided pony with pink ribbons
Ideal for active school days, this tightly pulled ponytail is accented by a high braid wrapped in pastel pink rubber bands. The polished structure holds everything in place, making it a top choice for easy, simple styles for kids with short hair or long locks tied back neatly.
24. Bubble braids with colored rubber bands
Bright and cute, this look is a cascade of bubble braids formed with small colored rubber bands down the center of the head. This style allows kids to show off their personality through simple braids that keep things neat and make the morning routine easier. Ideal for medium hair, this style is practical and fun for kids.
25. Voluminous side ponytail with gingham scrunchie
This fluffy, cute side ponytail is a standout style thanks to the voluminous curls and bold red gingham scrunchy. The braiding technique blends sophisticated sophistication through the side braid before transitioning into an energetic look. A beautiful option for children with medium to longer hair.
26. Chic crown braid ponytail
This cute hairstyle combines elegance and practicality, ideal for medium or long hair worn to private or nursing schools. A braid that starts at the crown works its way back to create a ponytail that presents a smart and happy vibe. This special braid design meets perfectly at the center to create neat, symmetrical lines that are perfect for teens and children who need to keep their hair neat throughout the school day. The style stands out as a valuable style choice that gives kids a quick and functional look each day before school starts. This look especially complements school uniforms or any minimalist outfit where hair can take center stage.
27. Triple braid mixture
This bold fusion of three braids into one textured braid is a great option for kids with thick, medium hair. The style starts with smaller braids in the front that connect to a strong middle braid that ends in the back with a soft rubber band. The back look provides a simple yet attractive hairstyle protection that hides hair from the face with quick application. This helpful braiding technique allows parents to create neatness with playful designs suitable for young children. Moms love it because it stays intact through recess, after-school activities, and even lazy afternoons.
28. Double Dutch braids with bows
For those looking for braids that work well with long hair, this double Dutch braid with playful white bows is a top contender. Young students who prefer modest school attire with hair significant enough for daily activities will find this option perfect. The vertical braid sections create a balanced volume that will appeal to teachers, while the sleek straight lines enhance its formal appearance. The white bows on this hairstyle create a delightfully girlish charm, making it an essential choice for photos and school events. Despite the detailed look, it is surprisingly easy to recreate with a little practice, making it one of those go-to ideas when you want something special without the fuss.
29. Side Sweep Braid with Velvet Bow
This romantic style adds a soft twist to the standard braid. The combination of a side braid with loose waves from the end of the braid and an elaborate velvet bow creates an effortlessly elegant look that is perfect for casual mornings. The butterfly style complements curly hair that has been styled or dried overnight and works beautifully on medium-length to long hair. The combination of a soft parting with the embellished bow creates a sweet look that is suitable for children attending either private institutions or public schools. It’s one of those simple yet striking hairstyles that combines everyday wearability with a special touch.
30. Braided Half-Up with Cascading Curls
This aesthetic hairstyle features two thick side braids secured in the back, leaving the rest of the long hair to fall in elegant curls. The finishing touch? Two bows hold the braid together at the end, but still make it look adorable. Children who need easy care hairstyles will love this style as it provides fairy tale elegance during school hours. School parties and dress-down themes will be enchantingly enhanced with this hairstyle choice. This complex-looking style turns out to be easy to construct once you master basic curling and braiding skills. This style really shows how a thoughtful combination of braids and updos can be both fun and functional.
31. Diagonal braid with bubble detail
This style plays with direction and dimension. The diagonal braid runs across the crown before contrasting with a bubble ponytail section that uses purple elastic to hold it in place at the nape. The braided design works well with both formal and casual styles, making it ideal for medium-length hair. The gingham ribbon secures the strands and gives the hairstyle a school-ready look. This hairstyle gives kids both security and a fashionable look that matches their uniform requirements. The look is easy for kids to wear all day without fuss, yet chic enough to turn heads.
32. Criss-crossed pink bow style
For a clean, polished look with a playful charm, this crisscrossed ponytail design is an excellent choice. The style features braided sections of hair that are neatly rolled into a ponytail for an elegant yet simple look. Extended curls with a multicolored glittery pink bow create a brilliant look that suits long hair especially for children who enjoy shimmering accessories. The crisscross pattern adds a sophisticated look to the style and provides daily wearability throughout the day. Whether it’s a regular school day or a special classroom event, this option strikes the perfect balance between structure and fun.
33. Braided crown with air bubbles
This style is a creative mix of two small braids on the crown and a bold bubble braid in the back, tied with bright red rubber bands. This style works well on medium-length and longer hair as it adds volume and texture without damaging the hair. The smooth separation of the hair at the top balances a neat appearance that works well for formal occasions and photo days. Children can easily put these braids on because they stay in place without the need for frequent repositioning. This is one of those lazy morning ideas that looks more time-consuming than it really is-perfect for parents on the go.
34. Space buns with plaits
This is the style to choose when your child wants to be the center of attention – in a good way. Different sections of hair on the top receive clean partings before two braids are created into space buns. This style retains its cheerful charm and works on short to mid-length hair, especially when used on natural curls or textured hair types. Active kids and energetic teens love this style because the structured braids keep things organized along with the playful buns. It’s one of the funniest school styles that still passes the test for cleanliness and comfort, and it’s perfect for theme days or school spirit weeks.
35. Twisted rope braids in pigtails
For something both sophisticated and unexpected, this twisted rope braid design leads into two low plaits and showcases expert parting work. The blue elastic rope braids hold their shape without the weight of regular braids, making them a good choice for fine to medium hair types. The finished style looks modern and attractive without requiring too much effort. The style works best for kids who dislike tight braids or have sensitive scalps. It’s easy, quick, and holds up to a full school day of movement-plus, it has a modern flair that fashion-conscious moms will love.
Creating school hairstyles that are both functional and fashionable doesn’t have to be a morning struggle. With a variety of braids and weaves and simple and complex styling options, kids can find exactly what suits their personality and time constraints. The hairstyle collection offers adaptable and attractive options that work for young students with different hair lengths. Each hairstyle combination works according to your preference. Does your child have a favorite hairstyle from their collection that serves as their regular school look? Share your go-to in the comments – we love to see how other moms stay stylish under pressure!