Mornings before school can feel like a race against time. You’re trying to get breakfast sorted, pack lunches, find that one missing sock—and somewhere in the middle of all that, there’s the hair situation.
Maybe you’re a parent brushing out knots while your kid squirms. Or maybe you’re a student yourself, staring at the mirror, wondering how to make your hair look decent in the five minutes you’ve got left. Either way, you’re not alone.
The good news? School hairstyles don’t have to be complicated to look great. With just a few simple styles in your back pocket, you can head out the door looking neat, confident, and ready for the day, without the stress.
In this guide, you’ll find easy, cute hairstyle ideas that actually work for real mornings. Whether you like ponytails, braids, buns, or something fun in between, there’s something here for you.
Let’s make school mornings a little easier, starting with the hair.
Table of Contents
You’ve done a ponytail a thousand times, but it can still look great when done right.
Try this:
Brush the hair smoothly back and tie it mid or high. Then take a small section of the ponytail, wrap it around the hair tie, and pin it underneath.
Why it works:
It takes less than two minutes, keeps hair out of your face, and looks more “done” than just throwing it up.
Example:
You’ve got five minutes before class, and you don’t want hair falling into your eyes all day. This ponytail does the trick. Add a scrunchie if you’re feeling fun.
Braids are perfect when you know it’s going to be a long day—PE class, recess, and after-school clubs.
How to do it:
Split the hair in two, braid each side, and secure with small bands. That’s it.
Good for:
You, if your hair gets messy easily or if you’re tired of brushing tangles at the end of the day.
Example:
You’ve got gym third period, and you’re wearing a hoodie—two braids are your best friend. They stay put, no matter how much you move.
This is perfect when you want your hair down but still out of your face.
What to do:
Take the top section of your hair and tie or clip it back. You can even twist or braid the top section first.
Why you’ll like it:
It’s soft, pretty, and super quick. Great for days when you don’t feel like trying too hard but still want to look cute.
Example:
You’re running late, but you want something that works for picture day or a class presentation. Boom—half-up, half-down with a bow clip.
This one’s for the days when you’re tired, rushed, or both.
Steps:
Pull your hair into a low ponytail, twist it, and wrap it into a bun. Secure with a soft band or a couple of bobby pins.
Why it’s great:
It looks neat and takes barely any time.
Example:
You didn’t wash your hair, but you have to look like you did. This bun gives clean vibes even when you don’t have time to try.
This one’s playful and perfect for long hair.
Try this:
Put your hair in a ponytail. Then, add another hair tie a few inches down, then another, and so on. Gently tug each section to puff it up like a bubble.
Why it’s fun:
It’s a twist on the regular ponytail. People will think it took way longer than it actually did.
Example:
You’ve got a field trip today and want something comfy and cute in photos. Bubble ponytail is your go-to.
This one gives you that cute, “I tried today” look without much effort.
How to do it:
Take a small strand of hair from behind one ear, braid it, and pin it over the top of your head like a headband.
What it’s good for:
When your bangs won’t behave, or you just want to do something different.
Example:
You’re wearing a dress and want a little something special. This adds that sweet touch without being over the top.
This is a favourite if you’ve got thick hair or just like your hair out of the way.
Steps:
Tie your hair into a high ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it with a scrunchie or big clip.
Why you’ll like it:
It looks trendy and takes under 2 minutes.
Example:
It’s Friday. You’re tired. It’s raining. You just want your hair up and out of your way—top knot to the rescue.
This one’s a little more effort, but totally worth it if you know how to braid.
How to:
Start near your forehead, braid downward while adding small sections of hair, and tie it off at the end.
Why it rocks:
It holds everything together, especially on windy or active days.
Example:
You’ve got a science lab, lunch outside, and drama club after school. You don’t want to touch your hair again all day—French braid it is.
If you’ve got curls or textured hair, you don’t have to fight them every morning.
Do this:
Add a little curl cream or water, and pull back the front with clips or mini bands.
Why it’s good:
It keeps your hair natural but still styled. Plus, it’s way easier than trying to straighten it before school.
Example:
You’re short on time, but you want to feel polished. Just clip back the sides and go.
Claw clips are having a moment again, and for good reason—they’re fast and stylish.
Try this:
Twist your hair up and secure it with a claw clip. Leave some pieces loose in the front if you like.
Best for:
Middle and high school girls who want a casual but cute look.
Example:
You’ve got second-period math and then a club meeting. You don’t want to mess with your hair all day, but you still want to look put together.
You don’t need to be a hair pro to make school mornings easier. Just a few go-to styles—like a simple braid, a ponytail with a twist, or a fun bun—can help everyone feel more ready to take on the day.
Some days, it’ll turn out great. Other days, it’ll be a bit messy. That’s totally fine. What matters is that you feel good walking into class, head held high (hair clip optional).
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