First Day of School Hairstyles Ideas 2025 for Trendy Braids, Bows, and Ponytails to Stand Out
The beginning of a new school year and the first day always bring a lot of excitement. If you’re a new student or an experienced one, your hairstyle helps determine the mood of your day. In this article, I’m showing my favorite first day of school hairstyles for 2025—each based on real photos and meant to give you confidence, creativity and a sense of who you are. Whether you like braids, ponytails, bows or twists, you’ll get useful tips, style ideas and some personal thoughts. Let’s dive in and make this first day one to remember!
Double Dutch Braids for Effortless Confidence 2025
Nothing says “ready to conquer the first day” quite like a pair of neat, bold Dutch braids. The style is formed by making a middle part and tightly braiding the hair close to the head which creates an athletic and classic appearance. The braids rest on each shoulder, giving the face a soft outline and keeping frizzy hairs in place. This outfit is both useful and fashionable which helps you make a good first impression.
The reason I like this hairstyle is that it combines softness and structure. The long pieces of hair near the face make the hairstyle look young and the straight braids give it a neat look. You may add ribbon to make it fancy or skip it for a casual approach. When I tried this style in high school, my friends believed I took ages to do my hair, but it only takes a little practice to braid it.
This style is especially convenient for people who are always in a hurry in the morning. These braids stay put, no matter what activities you do during the day. Since the dress code is strict at your school, this outfit is neat and follows the rules which makes it a favorite for both students and their parents. If you’re just beginning to braid, you can find many tutorials online that will show you each step.
Dutch braids are still a top choice for the first day of school in 2025 because they are both easy to do and very versatile. This style looks great on people with thick, thin, long or mid-length hair. Plus, it’s photogenic—ready for that classic back-to-school selfie!
Half-Up Accent Braids with Loose Length 2025
The style is casual yet refined and it is inspired by the feel of a coffee shop in the morning. Two medium braids are created at the crown and then run back, smoothly joining with the rest of the straight hair. The result is stylish but easygoing, suitable for people who want their fashion to appear natural. For me, this sort of outfit seems perfect for a morning class as well as spending time with friends after school.
The difference between the braided parts and the natural hair makes the style look more interesting and lively. A plain crop top and a few touches of makeup can make you look cool and fresh which is what I like to do when I want to look tidy but not overdone. Growing out your bangs or layers is much easier with this technique.
When you do a half-up braid, the hair is kept out of your eyes while the length is left loose. No matter what your hair type is, this product is great when you need to style quickly. Just spray some texturizing spray, braid your hair and you’re all set for the day. Because it’s such a durable style, you won’t need to fix it up all day long.
Anyone checking out new first-day-of-school hairstyles should consider accent braids in the half-up style. They combine style and practicality which is why students who care about both will choose them on the first day.
Braided Space Buns for a Playful Statement 2025
Looking to turn heads on the first day? Braided space buns are both playful and useful at the same time. The look is made by starting with two Dutch braids that end up as round buns on either side of the head. Because of the exact center and smooth finish, this hairstyle looks both interesting and stylish.
I have a special connection to this style, as I wore it on a school spirit day and got so many nice comments from others. The joyful setting right away made me feel better and more confident. Wearing this outfit with a sweater or a varsity jacket will always make your first day of school outfit look more bold.
Moms and dads like braided space buns because they keep hair clean and away from the neck and this is especially useful when it’s warm outside or in busy places. It is able to handle humidity and keeps your look secure all day, so you don’t have to worry about retouching. It’s also suitable for medium to long hair and you can make it unique by adding scrunchies or hair clips.
If you are looking for hairstyle inspiration for the first day of school in 2025, this style is great. It’s fun, handy and has a special style that will make your first day of classes great.
Bubble Braids with Colorful Elastics 2025
If you want to look unique on your first day, bubble braids with colorful elastics will do the trick. In this style, you take small sections of hair and wrap each one with a bright band which gives a full and bouncy look. The sections are all gently stretched to add more volume and the waves at the ends make the style look softer.
Being an experimenter, I enjoy both wearing this style and making it. You can pick and choose elastic colors that go well with your outfit or school colors. Also, bubble braids are ideal for rushing mornings, since you can style them in just a few minutes.
The elastics help a lot with practicality: your clothes stay in place all day, even when you are playing in recess or P.E. If your hair is naturally thick or curly, this style helps you keep the volume under control and show your personality. In addition, you don’t have to be an expert at braiding; all you need are some elastics and a little bit of patience.
Among all the first day of school hairstyles for 2025, bubble braids decorated with colorful elastics are a great pick. They add a bit of brightness to the return to school because they’re bold and creative.
Heart-Shaped Braid for Romantic Vibes 2025
Anyone who likes romantic and fun hairstyles will be impressed by the heart-shaped braid on the first day. Near the temples, the braids are braided around the head and join in the back to make a heart shape that frames the hair. It has a soft and enchanting effect, similar to a fairy tale and is bound to be noticed among the students.
I always admire the artistry behind this hairstyle. It needs patience and practice, but the final product is definitely worth it, especially if you’re honoring an achievement or hoping to impress someone. This style works well for people with long hair and suits them especially well when their hair has natural highlights.
From a functional point of view, the heart braid keeps part of your hair in place while the majority stays loose. It remains in place for hours by using a few pins that are barely noticeable and it works on all kinds of hair. A soft dress or casual tee will make you look stylish for any first day occasion.
This style introduces an original twist to the usual way of braiding hair. Being sentimental, one-of-a-kind and uplifting, it’s ideal for starting a new year with love.
Whimsical Pull-Through Braid with Loose Waves 2025
A pull-through braid and softly wavy hair is a combination that’s simply magical. A twisted accent braid starts by circling the head and the main part of this style is a big pull-through braid that falls down the middle. Waves that are slightly crimped and loose will give your hair extra interest and a calm feeling, so they are perfect for the first day of school. It’s equal parts fairytale and fashion-forward.
What I like most about this style is that it combines detailed braids with easy texture. The hair is gently pulled in the braid to make it fuller and the wavy lower part helps it look younger. I really like hairstyles that are both braided with care and a little bit free-spirited and this one does it perfectly.
This hairstyle is practical since it keeps your hair out of the way and lets the length be seen. It’s especially great for medium to long hair and can be tied up with only a few clear elastics. If your school mornings are hectic (aren’t they always?), this style holds up well from homeroom through the last bell with minimal fuss.
This pull-through braid is unique because it looks charming and is easy to wear. It helps anyone who wishes to feel like the main character in their own school year.
Classic French Braids for All-Day Hold 2025
French braids are always a good choice when you want your hair to remain neat from the start of the day to the end. The two thick braids are built right from the hairline, sticking close to the scalp to ensure they stay in place and look neat. As a result, you get a look that’s always in style and helpful for your return to school.
As a child, I always chose French braids for all my hectic days and celebrations. The smooth and steady rhythm of the song is very soothing. I recall my mom braiding my hair before picture day and checking every strand which always made me feel nice and tidy.
It is perfect for people who lead busy lives or take part in sports after school. It doesn’t move, covers the neck and can be worn smoothly from one place to another. Long or medium hair can be styled with French braids and that’s why they’re included in every back-to-school hairstyle list.
Personally, I think French braids help me get out of a style rut—they look neat, tidy and are set for anything that may happen in the new school year. No wonder they’re still a favorite!
Crown Braid Half-Updo for Sweet Simplicity 2025
The crown braid half-updo is one of the best ways to achieve a sweet and elegant hairstyle. Two sections of hair are braided and gathered at the middle of the head to make a crown that frames the head nicely. The rest of the hair is left out and straight which makes it perfect for students who like a braid but want to keep their hair long.
I adore how approachable this style feels. Although this look seems fantasy or high fashion, you can easily achieve it at home. As soon as I put on a crown braid for my first day, I felt much better and ready for something new.
You can wear crown braids for a long period since they are secure, yet they are gentle enough for regular activities. They fit the face nicely and not too firmly and a light mist of texturizing spray makes sure the hair is kept in place. This is a favorite first day of school hairstyle that might go unnoticed.
If you’d like to begin the school year with a cool but calm style, this simple crown braid is perfect for you.
Side French Braid with Soft Ponytail 2025
If you prefer a cute look for back to school, a side French braid and a wavy ponytail is the best choice. A French braid is made on one side of the head and then the braid is wrapped around to meet a loose, soft ponytail. The outfit is elegant, casual and prepared for the cool early autumn days.
As soon as the weather gets chilly and I put on sweaters, this hairstyle is one of my favorites. A braid helps the style look neat and attractive and the waves in the ponytail give it a young and relaxed touch. It can work for both school and for playing in the snow without any problem.
A side braid holds your hair neatly and out of your view and a ponytail adds some motion to your look. This is perfect for people who enjoy braids but don’t want to go for a full updo. It is perfect for medium to long hair and looks good on different textures.
Anyone who’s looking at first day of school hairstyles ideas 2025 will find that this braid-and-pony combo is both comfortable and stylish. It’s simple, enjoyable and cozy which is exactly what you’re looking for on the first day.
Sporty Boxer Braids for an Active Start 2025
For anyone who wishes to feel confident and ready for the school year, sporty boxer braids are always a good choice. The braids start from the hairline and continue all the way down, making sure the hair is completely secure during sports, school and every other activity. This style radiates strength, focus, and fun.
I always go for boxer braids on days when I have lots of physical activities or classes after school. They help me get through every obstacle and make me feel strong. The style is perfect for taking photos in front of the lockers or on the track which makes it great for those “new year, new me” pictures.
Practically speaking, boxer braids hold all your strands tight, keep your hair tangle-free and make you need fewer touch-ups during the day. They are suitable for any hair type, including thinner and thicker ones and they are best for long hair. This hairstyle often appears on the first day of school lists since it looks nice and is practical.
When you want your hair to be perfect on the first day, boxer braids are a good choice. They are helpful, easy to wear and always in fashion for students who are always active.
Braided Pigtail Ponytails with a Modern Twist 2025
Two tight side braids are made and then they are brought together into low ponytails. The style comes across as lively but not juvenile, mainly when it is complemented by messy, loose waves. Students who want a look that’s both organized and easygoing should go for this style. In my opinion, this is the ideal way to look put-together and relaxed at the same time.
The versatility of this hairstyle is one of the reasons I like it. It looks great on straight and slightly wavy hair and the braids at the roots keep everything secure, no matter the wind outside. This style is a good choice when you want to make something simple but it appears detailed. You can either make it formal or informal by changing your accessories and what you wear.
This way of dressing is quite handy when you’re running late. There is no hair in your face, but instead of a plain ponytail, you have a hairstyle that’s more interesting. It matches nicely with tank tops, sweaters or school uniforms, so it is often chosen for the first day of school hair. I used to wear this style during exams and it stayed strong for every test and mealtime.
If you want a hairstyle that is both sporty and fashionable, these braided pigtail ponytails are right for you. They’re fast, friendly and bold which makes them the perfect choice for starting a new school year.
Half-Up Braids with Statement Bow 2025
People who like both sweetness and elegance will love half-up braids decorated with a statement bow. Two braids start at the temples and are tied together by a bright and happy bow at the top of the head. The soft waves falling down make the hairstyle look both youthful and polished at the same time. This style always represents the excitement of starting a new school year—clean, hopeful and prepared for anything.
Putting a bow in braided hair gives a lovely sense of nostalgia. It seems like those classic first day photos, where everything looks unique. The best part? Because this style works for all ages, it’s a good choice no matter if you’re new to middle school or almost done with high school. You can use a bow in various colors or materials to go with your clothes and your feelings.
The braids not only look pretty but also help keep hair off the face and the half-up style prevents it from tangling and keeps everything in place all day. I find that this look takes even a simple outfit to the next level and the bow completes the whole look. Whenever I had ribbons or bows in my hair, I felt a bit more confident and felt ready to face any challenge.
If you are looking for stylish and unique first day of school hairstyles for 2025, this braided half-updo is always a good choice. It’s picture-perfect for any milestone.
Braided Accent Ponytail for Sporty Vibes 2025
The style begins with a braid at the top of the head which becomes a ponytail high enough for a sporty look. An accent braid on the side gives the look more style and the ponytail is high and bouncy which is great for anyone who wants to keep their hair out of their face and look stylish. I found it easier to wear this style when I was busy and had many things planned.
What I like is that this ponytail looks good and is practical at the same time. The braid in front forms the shape, while the ponytail makes the hairstyle fun to watch. A shell necklace or some other playful accessory will make your style both more fun and unique. It’s a great choice for riding the school bus, doing gym class or practicing after school.
This is mainly about being practical: the hair is taken off the face and secured by strong elastics. To keep shorter pieces in place, you can use a little bit of hairspray on your layers. First day of school hairstyles 2025 for sporty students and anyone who wants a lasting look often include this style.
No matter if you’re rushing or just late, this cute braided ponytail will help you look calm and collected. This style is easy to wear, safe and very popular in the current year.
Dutch Braided Pigtails with Loose Curls 2025
The braids are tied into two low pigtails and each one is turned into long, loose curls for a beautiful and feminine style. This way of styling hair uses a lot of volume and texture which is ideal for anyone who wants to make their first day of school special. Braids make strong lines on the head and the curls add a gentle touch that suits every hair color.
There’s a certain confidence that comes with this hairstyle. I always thought I could handle anything once I had Dutch braids with curled ends which gave me a glamorous look. It gives you a special look that isn’t too flashy or dramatic. Pigtails make the model look younger and curls enhance the whole look.
There are many useful aspects: braids keep your hair out of your face, pigtails are simple to deal with and curls stay put all day if you use the right products. If you’re looking for something a little special but easy to do, this style is one of the best for the first day of school in 2025. It’s especially useful for saving your photos such as those in a yearbook or online.
If you want a fuller look and lots of style, you can try Dutch braided pigtails with curls. It’s fashionable, lovely and remains unforgettable for students starting school.
Intricate Side Braids with Voluminous Ponytail 2025
Try a ponytail that’s not just simple and plain. The style has side braids that become part of a big ponytail filled with curls. The braids are very tight and carefully made to provide structure and the ponytail is full of life and energy. Anyone who wants to make a great first impression should choose a suit.
I’ve always admired this style for its creativity. Braids are adjustable, so you can make them thicker or thinner as you like and putting one in a voluminous ponytail gives your hair a bold look. I remember trying a version of this look for a dance recital—everyone asked how I got so much volume! It’s important to tease and curl your hair before making the ponytail.
When you use this style, everything stays in place so you can enjoy a busy day. Braids hold down the loose hairs and a high ponytail keeps your hair away from your neck while still looking fashionable. When you want to make a statement on the first day of school, this is one of the best choices.
If you’re a fan of standing out with your hair, these side braids and a curly ponytail will let you start the school year with joy and comfort.
Side Braid Ponytail with Soft Curls 2025
A side braid and a bouncy ponytail are combined in this hairstyle for a style that is fun and romantic. The braid is created near the part, bends back and ends up in a big, curled ponytail, while the remaining hair frames the face for a gentle look. The style is ideal for the first day, as it brings elegance and lots of movement to the event. To me, side braids are a great secret weapon because they are easy to do and always look impressive.
Its adaptability is one of the best parts of this style. Wear your outfit with accessories for a flashy look or leave them out for a simple style. Thanks to the curls, the hair has extra volume, making it perfect for taking photos or walking down the hallway. Braids are also good for medium to long hair since they help keep everything in place all day.
This way of styling your hair keeps it back and lets your long locks be seen. Since the braid holds everything in place, you don’t have to check your ponytail during the day. It has proven itself as a popular first day of school hairstyle in 2025, since it’s both easy and eye-catching.
If you want to look both elegant and fun, the side braid ponytail is a great choice for you. This look gives you the confidence to face any challenge, step by step.
Side Braid with Bold Bow Accent 2025
To get a hairstyle that is both lovely and eye-catching, add a side braid and a big, colorful bow. This style has a messy side braid that goes across the back and is tied with an eye-catching orange bow, so the rest of the hair can flow freely. It’s happy, traditional and will definitely make your first day more cheerful, no matter how old you are.
I find that bows make any hairstyle stand out and look more fun. As a kid, I always wanted to find the best bow for the first day, as it made everything perfect. With the side braid, the look appears more mature, but the bow keeps it young and lively.
This style is as practical as it is pretty. Braiding the hair keeps it in place and the bow makes sure the style doesn’t move. It is great for people with long hair and suits different types of hair. In today’s world of changing fashion, this style is perfect for people who enjoy a bit of the past and the present together.
Want a style that’s both low-maintenance and totally photo-worthy? This style is great—it’s simple to achieve, looks fantastic and will be remembered for any special event.
Twisted Half-Up Style with Soft White Bow 2025
If you are looking for a dreamy and delicate style, the twisted half-up look with a soft white bow is a nice choice. Two parts of hair are twisted behind the head and pinned at the top, so the loose waves can flow down. With a bow, your outfit looks both neat and easygoing which is ideal for the beginning of a new school year.
I find twisted styles appealing since they are fast to put on, look nice and can be worn in countless ways. A bow will make any basic outfit look more special and sophisticated. Whenever I wanted something other than a ponytail for a picture or an event, I went for this style.
In practice, the twists hold your hair off your face to show off your hair’s natural look. Creating it is simple and it stays fresh even during a packed school day. This hairstyle is sure to be noticed on lists of first day of school hairstyles 2025 because it looks lovely and doesn’t take long to do.
Anyone looking for a simple yet stylish look can go for a twisted half-updo with a bow. It’s a nice way to start your day, as it’s sweet, simple and fits any mood.
Halo Braid with Effortless Summer Waves 2025
If you’re going for a bohemian style at school, the halo braid with summer waves will make you look wonderful. A thick braid is wrapped around the head which makes it look like a crown above messy hair. This style is comfortable and stylish which is why it’s great for those days when summer is almost over.
Halo braids make me think of summer and outdoor festivals which is why I feel they’re perfect for the first day of school. The way the braid is placed above the waves looks young, fresh and a little playful which is a fun way to begin a new school year.
The style looks wonderful and is also very convenient: it keeps your hair from your face and gives it a natural bounce. With thick or thin hair, this style lasts all day without any problems. Of all the first day of school hairstyles in 2025, the halo braid is unique because it is easy to do and looks artistic.
Ready for a style that’s effortless yet memorable? The halo braid is a well-known style that always makes people feel good and look great.
Voluminous Ponytail with Braided Details 2025
If you want to start the year with excitement, a ponytail with braided details will be perfect. The style brings hair into a high ponytail and a thick braid is added along the side for extra style. The look is full of life, excitement and style, so it’s ideal for anyone who wants to show their passion for the year to come.
What I love about this look is its impact. The braid gives shape and style and the ponytail’s height turns it into a glamorous and enjoyable look. I was complimented a lot after wearing this style for the first time—it has a unique ability to make any day feel special, even if you only wear it with a sweater and jeans.
In everyday life, this ponytail will stay in place no matter how active you are. The braids secure everything and a dash of hairspray adds extra volume to your style. It’s no surprise that this style appears everywhere in the first day of school hairstyles for 2025 collections.
If you want to make a statement, this style with a braided twist will do the trick. It’s bold, fun, and totally first-day ready.
The first day of school helps establish the mood for the school year and a nice hairstyle can give you the confidence you want. If you prefer bold braids, fun ponytails or cute bows, these first day of school hairstyles will suit everyone’s taste and hair style. What counts most is finding a style that you like, feel yourself in and are ready for anything the school year has to offer. If you have your own favorite look or want to share your first-day story, I’d love to hear from you—leave a comment below and let’s inspire each other for a beautiful year ahead!
