It’s back-to-school season again and you know what’s coming. New clothes, fresh foods and a great hairstyle to welcome the new year.
I’m going to share the most popular and cute first day of school hairstyles for 2025. You can use these ideas for braids kids enjoy or quick styles for busy mornings to feel confident and trendy at the start of the school year.
Double Dutch Braids With a Twist
Thick, well-made Dutch braids always look timeless. The style is gentle and storybook-like which makes it ideal for young children starting school. The hair is divided into neat sections, the braids are full and shiny and the crown has a touch of loose hair that makes it look young and elegant. It instantly feels neat and fun which is ideal for when students enter class for the first time, excitedly holding their new backpacks.
If you use a bit of leave-in conditioner or a smoothing cream before styling, this style is very easy to maintain. To refresh this look for the next morning? Spray a bit of water and re-braid the front parts.
I am always attracted to this braid style because it looks both simple and elegant. It’s quick and easy, yet never boring. Adding a couple of floral clips or colorful ties at the ends can make the hairstyle more special to your child.
This style is perfect for young students in Kindergarten or 3rd grade and it can be updated with a bit of edge for middle school. A clean braid can really influence your whole day’s look.
Cornrow Confidence With a Cool Finish
These crisp cornrow braids deliver straight-up confidence. This style is perfect for Black 6th graders who want to start the year with their hair looking sleek, safe and sharp. The hair is neatly separated, the braids are long and layered and everything looks simple and stylish. There is a confident and assured feeling in this outfit. You can wear it to the gym or to class and it will always look great.
For a neat look, I suggest using a silk bonnet or a satin pillowcase to prevent your hair from getting frizzy and breaking. Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Oil applied to the roots helps keep your hair healthy and encourages growth.
Personally and as I’ve heard from other moms, cornrows are great for Black hair, no matter if it’s straight or curly. They are among the few that let you look good without having to worry about styling every day.
This style is also a great choice for 7th grade hair, simply change the length or style to fit their style. It’s fresh, functional, and full of identity.
Color-Banded Braid Trio
The triple braid wrapped with colorful hair elastics is a great idea for school hairstyles in 2025. It’s the definition of structured playfulness. The center braid holds everything together and the two side ponytails, tied with colorful ribbons, add a playful touch. And that yellow bow? Totally iconic. It pulls the whole look together and gives major “ready-for-recess” energy.
Here’s the trick: sectioning and symmetry are key. I use a rat tail comb and some styling gel to make the division between my parts very sharp. If you’re running short on time that morning (aren’t we all?), pre-section the night before and braid in the morning for that bouncy effect.
This is a favorite for 3rd grade or 8th grade students who are looking for something new. You can also try this on the weekend and it will still look nice for your school photo.
This style’s beauty lies in its color play—so don’t be afraid to experiment with elastics that match school colors or their fave outfit for the day. It’s cheerful, it’s expressive, and it’s kid-approved.
Diagonal Braid Into Sleek Pony
This outfit shows off a bit of edge, but still looks very elegant. The way this braid goes around the head and ends in a silky ponytail is a truly impressive hairstyle. It’s stylish, it surprises you and it appears much more difficult than it truly is. I think this style would really catch attention in the hallway, especially for girls with straight hair or those with medium length hair.
Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil is great for the ends because it makes your hair shine without weighing it down. After you finish the braid, go over the ponytail with the flat iron to keep it looking neat.
This style is very popular with 10th grade girls and 11th grade students who want to look nice but not have to worry about their hair during the day. It’s also one of those looks that feels grown-up but still age-appropriate.
The special thing about this style is the braid’s shape which is different from usual and adds a touch of architectural style. Total win for day-one impressions.
Double Buns With Soft Waves
The style is about contrasting fun and flirty hair on top with structured curls on the bottom. If you want to look great without much effort, go for the half up half bun with soft, beachy waves. It has a cool-girl-on-the-first-day feel which is just what we want for Senior girls who want something fun but put-together.
You’ll need a 1-inch curling wand and a texturizing spray such as Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray, to keep your waves looking good after class. A quick spritz refreshes everything in under a minute.
This is something I turn to when my teen wants to add a little something to her hair but doesn’t want a big style. It allows her face to be open, but gives her the lift she wants when she moves her head.
It’s also great for days when your hair is down and you still want some structure—it’s romantic, youthful and surprisingly long-lasting. Bonus: it photographs beautifully.
Curly Crown With Braided Base
This one’s for the queens. This style combines Black braids that are curly at the bottom and a natural-textured puff at the top and it looks perfect. It’s like putting the spotlight right where it belongs—on those gorgeous curls. It’s perfect for Black natural hair because it is both practical and elegant. The style has strength, but the curls at the top are soft and billowy.
Caring for this style is all about hydration. I always use TGIN Butter Cream Daily Moisturizer because it keeps my curls hydrated and my braids moisturized. A quick fluff in the morning and you’re set.
This works best for Braids students in 9th grade and above. Nothing beats the combination of neat lines and wild texture. It reads: “I’m here to fight, but I’ve got chemistry coming up next.”
If your daughter’s curls have personality (don’t they all?), let them be the main character. This style adds volume and safeguards the edges which is perfect for the year ahead.
Curly Puff with Beaded Braids and a Bow
This style mixes the strong lines of Black natural hair with the softness of a puff, so it looks great on the first day. The front has side braids that are close to the scalp and a single long braid with silver beads hangs gracefully to one side. The top of the style shows off the natural curls which grow into a big puff and are finished with a crisp white bow. This style is perfect for Black 6th grade kids or short hair kids because it looks neat and natural at the same time.
The natural section of the hair needs to be moisturized regularly when you do this combo of braids kids and puff. I like to use Camille Rose’s “Fresh Curl” lotion for hydration and elasticity. And if you’re doing this yourself, edge control is your best friend. I highly recommend the Mielle Organics Honey & Ginger Edge Gel because it doesn’t cause flaking.
Honestly, this one’s close to my heart. It’s the kind of look I would’ve begged my mom for growing up—and now I’d happily recreate it on my niece. It’s cute, timeless, and has just enough sass to feel grown-up, but not too grown. A win for back-to-school style with real personality.
The only thing I’d add? Some shimmer spray. A little shine would make the puff look even better in the morning sun.
Flower Beads and Braided Twintails
If you want a style that shows how joyful and confident you are, this is the one to try. Long braids tied into ponytails and decorated with big flower beads? Iconic. It’s a fun hairstyle for 9th graders, but it’s actually made for 3rd graders, kindergarteners or any kid who likes to play. The earrings come out easily and the beads are bright enough to be worn as accessories, so you don’t need to add earrings.
A silk bonnet or scarf worn at night is my recommendation to keep this style looking fresh. It prevents frizz and preserves the parts, especially if you’re dealing with Black braids short styles. A light scalp oil is great for keeping your hair comfortable—mine is Taliah Waajid’s Protective Mist Bodifier. It moisturizes without making the beads slippery.
I like this look because it works well for busy school days. Gym class? Check. Picture day? Double check. The clothes stay together during recess and the bright colors make everyone want to talk.
The only suggestion? Let your child decide which colors they would like for the beads. That small detail makes them feel like they belong and you can see it in their smile.
Mini Braids and Neon Rubber Bands
This hairstyle has serious cool-girl energy. The neatness of the mini braids and the bright rubber bands make the look both stylish and playful. Teens with medium hair or even young kids with straight hair can try this style, as it adds detail without making the look too busy. The mix of bright colors gives off a cheerful, school-ready feeling that feels unique in August.
Keeping this style requires making sure the braids are neat and not frizzy. I’d apply a fine-tip styling cream like Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Defining Cream to straight hair as well, to make it smoother and easier to style. Always remember to change the rubber bands every few days to keep them from breaking.
This is a great choice for a kid who likes to express herself creatively. The kind who picks out matching notebooks and always uses her favorite pen. It’s artsy but put-together. If you want short hair for 8th or 7th grade, add some lightweight extensions to make it longer.
Optional add-on? A matching neon sticker placed on her water bottle or planner. I’m just saying—branding matters.
Crisscross Braided Pony with Loose Curls
Talk about dreamy. The crisscross braided ponytail is just the right balance between being neat and soft. The braids are pulled back to a low ponytail which then falls into soft curls. If you want a half up half look or a more mature style for your 10th grade or senior year, this is a good choice. It’s elegant, controlled, and still gives plenty of bounce.
To keep these curls soft and defined, I’d use Cantu’s Curl Activator Cream which keeps them bouncy even after a long day at school. A little bit of hairspray in the crown holds the braids in place, especially when the humidity is high.
I personally love this one for photo day. It highlights the face nicely from every angle and makes you look prepared for AP Chem and homecoming court. The soft pink elastics are a lovely touch.
If I were changing anything? A silk ribbon could be woven into the braids to make the style more attractive. Totally optional—but so cute.
Loose Twin Braids on Long Hair
There’s something low-effort yet totally charming about this look. Two braids are tied loosely on each side, so the hair underneath is left down. It’s a simple style that doesn’t look like you put in a lot of effort, but still looks like you made a nice choice for 11th grade or little kids. This is perfect for straight hair or Black natural hair that’s been silk pressed.
The most effective way to look after this is to pay attention to the outcomes. I use The Ordinary’s Multi-Peptide Hair Serum to help my hair stay healthy and strong. A little leave-in conditioner such as the Kinky-Curly Knot Today, can help a lot.
It’s a great style for the days in the middle of the week when you want to be relaxed but still want your hair out of your face. Honestly? It makes me think of times I’d wear my biggest sweater to school and still look nice.
If you want to make it more special—add some gold cuffs or a few bobby pins with pearls hidden in your hair.
Braided Crown and Gingham Bow
This hairstyle wins for charm and structure. Two braids are swept to the back and tied with a gingham bow. If you want a clean and simple look, go for kindergarten, 3rd grade or even little kids. The crisp parting and secure braids mean zero fuss during the school day—this one’s not budging during recess.
You may do this on hair that has been washed or stretched. Apply a bit of styling wax such as Pattern Beauty’s Edge Control, to keep the braids smooth and looking neat. If you want extra hold, try SheaMoisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus Hold & Shine Mist.
What I adore here is how timeless it is. It feels like an old-fashioned back-to-school catalog, but in a good way. It’s a simple style to keep up and it looks great with almost any outfit.
To make it more personal? Allow your child to pick the color or design of the bow. You get extra credit if the lunch matches the backpack or lunchbox.
Colorful Braided Buns with Beads
Bold Black braids hairstyles seem perfect for the time when everyone in class is watching you. The thick braids are styled into two high buns which gives a cool and trendy look and helps keep the hair off the neck, just right for the unpredictable weather in early fall. Securing the long braids with neon elastics gives a fun and colorful look that feels like a celebration of creativity. It can look like a Black 6th grade staple or a Braids 9th grade style, depending on the accessories.
To maintain this style, make sure to moisturize your scalp every day and a good choice is the Taliah Waajid Protective Styles Leave-In Conditioner. It prevents buildup and keeps the braids looking smooth, especially at the edges. I also enjoy applying a light oil to my scalp every few days such as Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil.
I’ve always admired how much this style can say—it’s linked to the past but looks very modern. One of my nieces tried this for her first day of school last year and she got compliments from her teachers and even the janitor. It’s that joyful. The bright color and neat styling give it a strong look but still feel natural.
It can also be used on kids with short hair who have extensions or extra volume. Having colorful elastics or beads ready can allow you to change the style a bit midweek without starting over.
Double Side Braids with Satin Bows
It’s about making everything look neat, elegant and like you planned it all out. The side braids are done at the crown, curve down to the nape and are finished with low buns tied with black satin ribbons. If you want a style that’s easy to take care of and still looks great, this style will give your child that classic storybook look.
Such styles should be given some attention during the preparation stage. I recommend using a smoothing cream like Briogeo Farewell Frizz Blow Dry Perfection Heat Protectant even if you’re air drying. It keeps the little hairs around the part and edges from sticking up. A little SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Hold & Shine Moisture Mist will seal the style without making it stiff.
I’ve noticed it at school recitals, in family photos and in dance class—it can do it all. It’s a fast and simple style that seems like it took a lot of time. And let’s be honest, those bows? They’re giving soft glam in the sweetest way.
Change the ribbon color to match your outfit or use it to match your school uniform for a special touch. This style is loved by kids who want their hair neat and fashionable at the same time.
Half-Up Double Buns with Soft Curls
This one is offering a mix of half up half down and princess vibes and I’m totally into it. Two small buns are placed on the sides of the head and soft curls fall down the back. A center braid gives the style a bit more elegance. It’s fun for 8th graders, but it can also be worn for math class or during recess. Actually, this style is flexible and can be made edgy with chunky boots by 11th graders.
The curls definitely need a touch of prep. I like Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Defining Cream—it adds hold without weight. If you’re curling your hair with a wand instead of letting it air dry, spray Tresemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray on your hair first.
I wore this on a day I didn’t plan to be noticed and I was still featured in the yearbook. Half-up styles look simple, but they actually make a big difference. The mini buns add the right amount of volume to keep the look young, but not too young.
This one totally works on teens medium hair or longer, and it’s super easy to DIY the night before. If you want a bit more glamour, add a glitter clip or keep it simple for a soft look.
Single French Braid with Big Red Bows
A French braid from the top of the head, ending in two bold, bright red bows? That’s a classic power move. This style is neat and well-organized and it’s likely to stay in place for the whole day. I think this is perfect for girls in 10th grade who want to look young but also classic. It’s a favorite among 3rd grade girls who want to feel more grown up.
This one doesn’t need much upkeep throughout the day, but I do like to start with a light leave-in like It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product. To get a smooth look, I use a toothbrush and some Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel on the crown which is a tip I got from dance moms.
Real talk? It shows you are serious, but also has a touch of charm that tells others not to overlook you. It brings to mind the classic uniforms from the past and it looks great. Straight hair tends to hold a braid more securely.
Want to modernize it? You can join two braids into a single braid or change the bows for clips. It’s totally flexible—like the person wearing it.
Soft Twisted Halo with Loose Waves
If you want a simple, subtle look, this twisted crown with gentle waves is perfect. The style is ideal for the Senior yearbook photo or for 7th graders with short hair growing out, as it gives a romantic look without being complicated. Two twists frame the face and the rest of the hair is left loose and shiny.
Keep it healthy with OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Extra Strength Hair Oil—especially if you’re working with natural wave or heat-styled ends. I tend not to use heavy ingredients so the texture stays light and airy.
What I find special about this is the way it highlights the face. There’s just something graceful and self-assured about this style. It may not be flashy, but it takes over the room just like the girl wearing it. It’s a good way to feel confident on your first day without having to deal with lots of bobby pins.
The style works best when your hair is natural or soft straight and is medium length. If you want your hair down to stay in place all day, this is the product for you.
Boho Braids with Natural Volume
Long, loose braids on kids look effortless but are still carefully put together. The style uses texture by adding small crown twists that flow into bigger braids on each side. It makes me think of a confident older sister starting 3rd grade. The hair is styled to be soft and loose in the back which makes it look cute and not too perfect or too casual for the first day of school in 2025.
To maintain this style without frizz throughout the morning, I always suggest using a light smoothing cream such as the Ouai Finishing Crème. It helps control flyaways without making your hair feel heavy, since nobody likes stiff braids.
I really like this style because it looks great on straight hair and could still look fantastic on teens with some natural waves. It’s flexible, simple and appears like something your child made with style—and perhaps a little help from you.
Want to make this even more personal? Add some mini ribbon clips or flower pins to the braids to coordinate with what they are wearing. Such details always make the hallway strut look more impressive.
Space Buns and Braids Mash-Up
This style which mixes half up half space buns with front braids, is a fun and trendy look for younger people. It keeps the hair out of the face (big plus for active little kids) while still giving that pop of personality. The braids give the look structure, the buns add a fun touch and when combined? It’s a crowd-pleaser.
I like to use a dry texturizing spray such as Amika Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray, before braiding to help the strands stay in place. As a result, the style stays consistent during classes, snack time and recess games.
I tried this style on my niece for her first day of kindergarten and her teacher liked it before the bell sounded. That’s when I knew—it’s a keeper.
Thinking of trying this for your child? Add some glitter ties or pastel elastics to make the hairstyle more stylish. Buns are basically the canvas—make it sparkle.
Star Pigtail Braids with a Pop of Color
It changes the usual down or pigtails look by adding neat braids and bright star-shaped clips. It’s stylish, it’s cute and it’s just right for 7th grade hair that’s a little longer than the shoulders but still easy to braid.
To get smooth and shiny braids, begin by using a nourishing shampoo. The Mielle Organics Detangling Co-Wash is great for Black natural hair, whether it’s straight or textured. It adds moisture without leaving anything sticky which is perfect for this type of style.
This style looks neat and also very cute. It has the same confident look as a first row class photo, but in a more natural way.
Bonus: You can do this style fast, even when you’re in a hurry. Add some accessories that match your kid’s backpack and you’ll have a great-looking set.
Sweet Double Braids with Pastel Bows
This is a lovely way to braid your child’s hair for the first day of school. The braids with peach bows on kids give off a nice mix of elegance and playfulness. This is a great choice for people with soft natural hair or silky strands that keep a clean braid in place.
Besides being cute, bows also stop the ends from coming loose by lunchtime. You could also add a clear elastic under the bottom bows to make the style stay in place. I’ve been through it myself, mainly with short-haired kids who like to move around a lot.
A look like this is suitable for 1st or 2nd graders and still looks fashionable. It’s kind of nostalgic, too. Remember how you felt when your mom put a ribbon on your gift?
You can also use this method on Black braids short styles by changing the plaiting to use more grip and shorter sections. Flexibility is everything.
Curly Braids with a Twist and Bow Finish
Talk about charming! The style has braids on top and loose, bouncy curls in the back. Secured with elegant white bows, it’s giving “storybook character but make it back-to-school.” I think this style is perfect for 8th grade or any time kids start choosing their own fashion.
To maintain curls like these, hydration is key. TGIN Curl Bomb Moisturizing Styling Gel is my favorite—it makes my curls look great and feels soft. I promise, it will make a big difference in keeping your Black braids curly styles looking great in photos.
The look of tight braids and soft ends is just too attractive to resist. This style seems like it would be hard to maintain, but it’s actually quite easy after you’re done.
Want to really personalize it? Add some small clips or charms to your braids to make them unique. That’s what will stand out to them when they look through their yearbook.
Criss-Cross Double Ponytails
These ponytails are neat and fast and the criss-cross over the top gives them a fun geometric look. This is a great choice for black 6th grade or 10th grade girls who want their hair neat but don’t want to do braids. It looks best on hair that is straight or only slightly wavy.
I think this style works best when you use a gentle gel and Eco Style Olive Oil Gel gives you hold without making your hair too stiff. A little toothbrush trick on the flyaways? Instant polish.
My friend tried this on her daughter for kindergarten and she couldn’t believe it stayed on her through gym class. That’s a win in my book.
If you want to make it more special, use pearl-tipped elastics or barrettes with gemstones. The way you dress the outfit can make it look either very stylish or very fun.
Sleek Braids with Bold Red Bows
This hairstyle is everything you’d want for that crisp September morning — neat, symmetrical, and totally unforgettable. Two braids are made at the front and end in small buns, with each bun decorated by a bright red bow with polka dots. The rest of the hair falls in smooth, shiny curls that make the hairstyle look full and attractive. This is a great hairstyle for the first day of school for little kids or 3rd grade girls who want to look special but not too much.
To keep curls bouncy and soft, I use the L’Oréal Paris Boost It Volume Inject Mousse and a light-hold hairspray to finish. It’s key to avoid stiffness — we’re aiming for soft definition that holds through recess and beyond.
This style reminds me of a great memory — I did something similar for my niece’s 8th grade orientation and she was so happy all day. It’s fun but not silly and the drama makes it perfect for the first day of school.
If I wanted to add something extra, I would put glitter gel at the roots or rhinestone clips just above the braids. A little shimmer never hurt anyone, right?
Bubble Braid with Mini Plaits Inside
This hairstyle is sure to make people look and remember it. The high ponytail is transformed into a bubble braid and each bubble section shows a little plait in the middle. The styling is very impressive, especially on straight hair and the look is completed with a large navy bow at the top, making it both classic and a bit regal. Great for girls who want a neat style with a bit of playfulness.
Flyaways are the biggest problem, so I always use the John Frieda Frizz Ease Secret Weapon Touch-Up Crème. It makes everything smoother without making the hair heavy or greasy. An absolute game-changer.
I once did something similar for a kindergarten graduation and the moms kept coming up to me to find out how I did it. Honestly, it looks way harder than it is. When you have the sectioning and elastics right, this style is simple and fast to do.
Want to switch things up? Put in some colorful elastics or weave in pastel ribbon between each section to add some extra style, especially for kids with curly hair that’s been blown out.
Pulled-Through Braids with Pink Pop
Talk about school-ready glam! In this style, several thin braids start at the crown and end in chunky ponytails. Every section is puffed out and secured with hot pink elastics and matching bows. It’s neat, colorful and perfect for kids who want a little extra spring in their hair. This is one of the most daring first day of school hairstyles for 2025.
Sectioning is key here. I use a rat-tail comb and Got2B Ultra Glued styling gel to make sure my parts are exact and my braids are secure. It also gives the hair a little shine and shape without making it too stiff.
This would be a great choice for 3rd grade girls who enjoy colorful accessories and like to look expressive. It looks confident and strikes a great balance between being useful and celebratory.
If you want to go a little further, you could use glitter elastics or change the bows for star-shaped clips. You can still be creative while keeping the sharpness of the style.
Classic Side Braid with Delicate Accessory
This one touches the heart — it is classic, calm and quietly elegant. A French braid is made by starting at the top and gently curving it to one side, finishing just past the shoulder. A pearl-embellished clip at the crown makes the hairstyle look more elegant and unique. This is perfect for a senior girl or a 10th grader who likes simple and classic designs more than trendy ones.
All you need is patience and to use the right technique. I always recommend a leave-in conditioner like It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In to keep the braid silky and prevent breakage, especially when braiding slightly damp hair.
I did this braid one morning when the weather was cool and the leaves were just beginning to fall. There’s a special feeling about starting a new school year with a classic watch. It pairs beautifully with denim or simple dresses.
If you’d like to make it more special, put a few small crystal pins inside the braid. A little bit of shimmer can help create a gentle, polished effect.
Conclusion
The first day of school is special and having a great hairstyle is part of it. All of these styles, from short hair for kids to bows for little ones and braids for black 6th graders, add something special to the classroom. Save the recipes you like, try them out and feel free to experiment. Here’s to a happy, stylish start to 2025!
