These Cute Back-to-School Hairstyles Are Easy To Copy, Even On Busy Mornings

The last thing you'll be worried about on the first day is your hair.

Updated on July 6, 2023

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Dutch Braid Pigtails — Photo: @kayleymelissa

Going back to school is a huge event on any given year, but especially this year. Whether you're a freshman in high school, senior in college, or an elementary school teacher, it never hurts to look extra presentable on the first day. However, you certainly don't want to be tardy, either. That's where these quick, easy, and memorable hairstyles come in.

From a two-minute twist to the classic high pony to a fun set of braids, these hairstyles are simple enough to style at home in a flash. These cute back-to-school hairstyle ideas are the ultimate shortcut that'll have you making an entrance—in a good way. And if you're a mom of a little one, you can tweak these styles on her hair, too.

From the first day of school through picture day and graduation, consider your back-to-school hair handled.

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Pinned Curls

Double up on statement clips for a look that's equally interesting and easy to style. Bonus points for matching the barrettes to your outfit or adding every Southerner's favorite accessory, pearls.

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Double Buns

Quick, twisted buns have never looked so put together. Make sure to twist the two pieces of hair closest to your face back into the double buns.

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Messy Half-Up

This style is lightning-quick to achieve, making it your best friend whenever you're running late. Simply gather a handful of hair from each side of your head (about the length above your ear), meet your hands in the middle, and secure with a clip. For more volume, push your hair up before locking it down.

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Half-Up Fishtail Braids

This half-up style is equal parts laidback and dressed up. Get the tutorial from Missy Sue.

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Reverse Braided Bun

Dress up that topknot with a reverse braid that will look cool and keep it in place. This is a great style if you want to keep your hair out of your face.

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Inside-Out Ponytail

Think of this as an upgraded ponytail. Simply pull hair into a low ponytail, and use your fingers to create a hole right above the base and hair elastic. Next, tuck the length of the ponytail into the hole and back out the bottom for the upside-down look.

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Barrettes Galore

This easy style is the perfect way to wear curly hair down, but out of your eyes if desired. Simply comb your face-framing pieces behind your ears and line up multiple thin barrettes on both sides for extra flair.

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Scarf Braid

Stay cool in the heat with this braided style that's so much fun. Tie a skinny silk scarf to one of the strands of hair that you're braiding before beginning.

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Dutch Braid Pigtails

Don't know how to Dutch braid? Don't fret. Instead of braiding all the way down, cinch each side into buns when you get to the nape of the neck.

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Half-Up Claw Clip

Mable Jumbo Claw Clip — Urban Outfitters

This style will keep wispy hairs out of your face, and it can easily be pulled up into a ponytail or claw clip bun if you want your hair off your neck.

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Knotted Low Ponytail

Knotted hair is usually something you don't want, except in the case of this cute ponytail. Get the tutorial from Twist Me Pretty.

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Baby Bubble Ponytail

This one is easier than it looks. All you need is a handful of small clear elastics. Start with a low ponytail and work your way down, using the elastics to create little hair "bubbles."

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Messy High Ponytail

There's no better way to get your hair out of the way and command attention than a classic high pony. Get the tutorial here from Barefoot Blonde.

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Two-Minute Twist

Running late on the first day? You can still look put together with the quickest hairstyle ever. Bonus: It works great on second-day hair. Get the tutorial from Cup of Jo.

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