26 Fun First Day of School Hairstyles (Look Cute & Confident)
The first day of school is all about making a fresh start — new outfits, new supplies, and of course, a fun hairstyle that sets the tone for the year. Whether you’re going for cute, sporty, chic, or playful, the right hairstyle can boost your confidence and help you feel ready to slay the day.
Here are some easy, trendy, and fun hairstyles that are perfect for your first day back at school.
1. Sleek High Ponytail
The sleek high ponytail is a go-to hairstyle for the first day of school because it’s bold, confident, and easy to pull off. It instantly lifts your face, giving a polished look while keeping hair completely out of the way so you can focus on your classes. To elevate the style, smooth flyaways with a bit of gel or serum, and secure your pony with a statement scrunchie, silk ribbon, or claw clip. You can even wrap a strand of hair around the elastic for a more refined finish. This hairstyle works well with both casual outfits and chic first-day looks.
2. Braided Headband
The braided headband is one of those hairstyles that looks complicated but is actually super simple. By taking a small section of hair from behind your ear, braiding it, and pinning it across the crown, you create the illusion of a headband made entirely of your hair. It’s perfect for keeping your bangs or front pieces out of your eyes while still looking cute and put together. Whether you wear your hair straight, wavy, or curly, the braided headband adds an elegant touch that’s ideal for picture day or meeting new classmates. Accessorize with clips or sparkly pins to make it pop.
3. Messy Bun with Tendrils
The messy bun with face-framing tendrils is effortless yet chic, making it perfect for busy mornings before school. All you need to do is gather your hair into a loose bun — it doesn’t have to be perfect — and pull out a few wispy strands around your face. The result is soft, casual, and stylish. This hairstyle pairs beautifully with oversized sweaters, hoodies, or any laid-back back-to-school look. It’s also practical since it keeps most of your hair up and out of the way. Add a claw clip or scrunchie for extra flair, and you’ve got a hairstyle that looks trendy without trying too hard.
4. Double Dutch Braids
Double Dutch braids are the ultimate sporty-chic hairstyle for school. They not only look amazing but also keep your hair secure all day — whether you’re sitting in class, rushing between periods, or heading to P.E. To achieve this look, part your hair down the middle and braid tightly along both sides, securing the ends with elastics. The style gives you a fresh, youthful vibe while being completely functional. You can also spice it up by weaving colorful ribbons through the braids or finishing them off with scrunchies that match your outfit. It’s a hairstyle that lasts all day without losing its charm.
5. Half-Up Top Knot
If you love having your hair down but also want a little structure, the half-up top knot is the perfect compromise. You simply take the top section of your hair and twist it into a bun, leaving the rest flowing freely. This look is playful, stylish, and very on-trend with Gen Z aesthetics. It works well for both straight and wavy hair, and you can make it as polished or messy as you want. Adding a scrunchie, bow, or decorative clip can instantly turn it into a statement style. It’s ideal for first-day selfies and gives off a fun, carefree vibe.
6. Loose Waves
Loose waves are a classic hairstyle that never goes out of style. They create a soft, feminine look that’s perfect for starting the school year. You can achieve this by using a curling wand, straightener, or even braiding your hair overnight for heatless waves. The result is a relaxed, beachy vibe that works with nearly every outfit — from jeans and a tee to a cute dress. For an extra touch, you can part your hair in the middle for a trendy look or clip back one side with a barrette. This style is low-maintenance yet always looks polished and pretty.
7. Side Braid
The side braid is simple, sweet, and perfect for those mornings when you’re running late but still want to look stylish. All you need to do is sweep your hair over one shoulder and braid it loosely down the side. It works beautifully with both casual and slightly dressier outfits, making it a versatile option. A messy side braid can give you that carefree boho vibe, while a tighter braid feels neat and polished. You can also add hair accessories like bows, ribbons, or small pins to give it extra flair. It’s practical, pretty, and easy to do in under five minutes.
8. Bubble Ponytail
If you want something playful and unique, the bubble ponytail is your go-to first-day hairstyle. Start with a high or mid ponytail, then add elastics spaced evenly down the length of your hair, gently pulling each section to create “bubbles.” It’s trendy, fun, and perfect if you want to stand out in the hallways. You can even add colorful elastics for a more youthful and vibrant look, or go with clear ones for a polished finish. The bubble ponytail works best on medium to long hair and gives a playful twist to the classic ponytail without requiring much effort.
9. Space Buns
Space buns are the definition of fun and trendy — making them a bold choice for the first day of school. You simply part your hair down the middle and twist each half into a bun, either high up for a playful look or low for something subtler. You can make them messy for a carefree style or sleek for a more polished vibe. Space buns look especially cute with braids worked into them or paired with scrunchies in bright colors. This hairstyle is perfect for showing off your personality and making a memorable impression on classmates and teachers alike.
10. Classic Straight Hair
Sometimes the simplest hairstyle makes the biggest impact, and that’s where classic straight hair comes in. Straight, shiny strands never go out of style and can be worn with virtually any back-to-school outfit. To nail the look, use a straightener and finish with a shine spray or serum to keep it sleek and frizz-free. A middle part gives you a modern, trendy vibe, while a side part feels softer and more timeless. Straight hair is professional yet chic, making it perfect for your first day — especially if you want something that feels put-together without being overly complicated.
Pro Tip: Accessories like scrunchies, ribbons, butterfly clips, and hair pins can instantly upgrade any of these hairstyles and make them feel more “you.”
Final Thoughts
The first day of school is all about expressing yourself and feeling confident. Whether you go for braids, buns, waves, or sleek styles, the key is choosing a look that makes you feel comfortable and stylish.
So grab your brush, pick your vibe, and get ready to rock the hallways with confidence — because your hairstyle will be the first thing people notice when you walk in.
