31 Hairstyles for School 2024 Perfect for Teens: Cute Styles for Long, Short and Curly Hair

As the new school year approaches, it’s the perfect time to experiment with fresh, fun, and cute hairstyles. Whether you have long hair or short hair, there’s a style that will make you stand out in the hallways while keeping things easy and manageable. From braids to buns, these hairstyles are perfect for kids and teens alike, catering to various hair lengths and textures. Let’s dive into the top hairstyles for school in 2024 that will have you looking pretty and polished every day.

The Effortless Boho Braid

For those with long hair, the Boho braid is an ideal style that brings a touch of vintage charm to your everyday look. This braid is perfect for a tomboy aesthetic or anyone channeling a grunge or Indie vibe. The loose, textured braid works especially well with curly hair, adding dimension and movement that is both casual and chic. Best suited for heart-shaped or oval faces, the Boho braid complements light eye colors, making it a great choice for teens who want a laid-back, yet stylish, appearance for school.

To achieve this look, simply gather your natural hair into a side ponytail and braid loosely, allowing a few strands to escape for that perfectly imperfect look. You can enhance the texture with a sea salt spray or mousse to maintain the braid’s shape throughout the day. A leave-in conditioner can help manage frizz and keep the braid looking fresh from morning to afternoon.

The Cute Space Buns

Space buns are making a comeback, and they’re just as cute as ever! Ideal for kids with medium length or shoulder length hair, this playful style is perfect for those school spirit days or a casual Friday. The dual buns positioned high on the head give off a fun, Y2K vibe, making them a favorite among younger students and teens alike. This look works best with round or square face shapes and pairs beautifully with darker eye colors, bringing a unique contrast to the overall style.

To create space buns, start by parting your hair length down the middle and gathering each section into high pigtails. Twist each pigtail into a bun and secure with bobby pins or small hair ties. For an extra touch, use a texturizing spray to add volume before twisting the buns. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep the buns in place, even during a busy school day.

The Vintage Victory Rolls

For those who love a vintage touch, victory rolls are a fantastic option that brings a touch of retro elegance to the classroom. This hairstyle is best for long hair or medium length hair and works beautifully with curly hair textures. It’s a pretty and polished look that’s perfect for a school dance or special event, making a bold statement that’s both classic and timeless. Victory rolls are especially flattering on round or heart-shaped faces and pair well with bold makeup, such as a red lip or winged eyeliner.

To create victory rolls, start by sectioning the front of your hair length into two parts. Using a curling iron, curl the sections away from your face. Roll each curl into a tight loop and pin it securely at the crown of your head. For a longer-lasting hold, use a strong-hold hairspray, and finish with a shine spray to keep the rolls looking sleek and glossy throughout the day.

The Simple Low Ponytail

Sometimes, the simplest styles make the biggest impact. The low ponytail is a style that’s both easy and versatile, making it perfect for teens and kids alike. It’s a go-to look for busy mornings when you need to get out the door quickly but still want to look cute and put-together. This style works for all face shapes and is especially flattering for those with curly hair or natural hair textures, as it allows the hair’s texture to shine.

To achieve a sleek low ponytail, start by brushing your hair straight back and gathering it at the nape of your neck. Secure with a hair tie, and for a polished finish, take a small section of hair and wrap it around the hair tie, pinning it in place. To keep the ponytail smooth and frizz-free, apply a light serum or oil to the length of your hair before tying it up.

The Dance-Ready Top Knot

For those days when you need a hairstyle that’s both practical and stylish, the top knot is a fantastic choice. It’s particularly great for teens who are involved in extracurricular activities like dance or sports, as it keeps the hair securely out of the way while still looking pretty and polished. The top knot is ideal for those with long hair or medium length hair and suits a variety of face shapes, especially oval and square.

To create a top knot, start by gathering your hair length into a high ponytail. Twist the ponytail around itself to form a bun, and secure it with bobby pins. For an extra secure hold, use a strong-hold hairspray, especially if you’ll be active throughout the day. To add some flair, consider using a decorative hair accessory like a scrunchie or hairpin.

The Cute Baddie Curly Bob

For those with short hair or chin length hair, the baddie curly bob is a cute and trendy option that’s perfect for school. This look is all about embracing your natural hair texture, whether it’s curly or wavy, and adding a bit of edge to your everyday style. The baddie curly bob works well on all face shapes but is particularly flattering for round and heart-shaped faces. It’s a great option for students who want a low-maintenance yet stylish look.

To achieve the baddie curly bob, start by applying a curl-enhancing cream to damp hair. Use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer to define the curls and add volume. Once dry, scrunch the curls with a bit of styling mousse or gel to hold the shape. To keep your curls looking fresh throughout the day, consider using a leave-in conditioner or curl refresher spray.

The Emo Side-Swept Bangs

For those who want to channel their inner Emo or Goth, side-swept bangs are a must. This style is perfect for teens who love a bit of drama in their look and is particularly flattering for medium length or shoulder length hair. Side-swept bangs frame the face beautifully and work well with all hair textures, from straight to curly hair. This look is best suited for oval and square face shapes and pairs well with bold makeup, such as smoky eyes or dark lipstick.

To achieve side-swept bangs, start by sectioning off the front portion of your hair. Use a flat iron to straighten the bangs, sweeping them to the side as you go. For a sleek finish, apply a smoothing serum or shine spray. To keep the bangs in place, use a light-hold hairspray, and consider trimming them regularly to maintain their shape.

The Y2K-Inspired Pigtails

Pigtails are no longer just for kids—the Y2K trend has brought them back in a big way, making them a grunge and Indie favorite for teens and even adults who love a throwback look. This hairstyle is best for those with medium length or long hair and works well with both straight and curly hair textures. The playful and nostalgic vibe of pigtails makes them a fun choice for school, especially on casual days. Pigtails are flattering for all face shapes and can be customized with accessories like colorful hair ties or clips.

To create Y2K-inspired pigtails, part your hair down the middle and gather each section into a ponytail on either side of your head. Secure with hair ties, and for a bit of extra flair, you can braid the ponytails or leave them loose. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep the pigtails in place throughout the day.

The Grunge Half-Up Hairdo

Channel your inner 90’s icon with a grunge-inspired half-up hairstyle that’s both edgy and simple. Perfect for those with chin length to medium length hair, this look combines the best of both worlds—letting your hair length flow while keeping it out of your face. It’s ideal for students who want a balance between casual and stylish, especially on days when you have gym class or after-school activities. This style works wonderfully on oval or square faces and suits darker eye colors, enhancing the overall Indie aesthetic.

To achieve this style, section off the top half of your hair, securing it with a small clip or hair tie. Leave the rest of your hair down, either straightened or with its natural wave or curl. For added texture, use a dry shampoo or a root lifter at the crown before securing the half-up section. This will give the hairstyle a bit of lift and help it maintain its shape throughout the day.

The Tomboy Textured Pixie Cut

For those who prefer short hair, the textured pixie cut is the ultimate tomboy look. This hairstyle is great for kids and teens who want a low-maintenance, easy style that’s still trendy and chic. The textured pixie cut is ideal for those with square or round faces, as it adds definition to the jawline and cheekbones. This look pairs beautifully with all eye colors, making it a versatile option for anyone who loves to keep things simple and stylish.

To style a textured pixie cut, apply a styling mousse or wax to damp hair and tousle it with your fingers to create texture and volume. For extra definition, use a flat iron to flip the ends slightly. A good-quality texturizing spray will help maintain the shape and keep the cut looking fresh throughout the day. To keep the look sharp, regular trims are essential.

The 90’s-Inspired Box Braids

For those with natural hair who want a protective hairstyle that’s also stylish, box braids are a fantastic choice. This style brings back the 90’s nostalgia while offering versatility and low maintenance. Box braids are ideal for long hair or medium length hair and work beautifully on oval or square faces. This look is perfect for kids and teens alike, as it can be styled in various ways, from ponytails to buns, making it a great option for busy school days.

To create box braids, section your hair into small squares and braid each section from the root to the tip. Depending on the length of your hair, this style can last several weeks with proper care. To maintain your braids, use a scalp oil to keep your scalp hydrated, and a leave-in conditioner to keep the braids looking fresh. A silk or satin scarf at night can also help prevent frizz and protect the braids while you sleep.

The Boho-Inspired Braided Crown

For those who love a romantic and boho vibe, the braided crown is an ideal hairstyle for school. This style is especially gorgeous on long hair or medium length curly hair, as the texture adds volume to the braid. It’s perfect for a special event, like picture day or a school dance, giving you an ethereal and elegant look. This style is best for oval or heart-shaped faces and works well with lighter eye colors, adding a soft and feminine touch to your overall appearance.

To create a braided crown, start by parting your hair down the middle and braiding two sections on each side. Wrap each braid over the top of your head, securing them with bobby pins to form the crown. For a soft, romantic look, pull a few tendrils loose around your face. A light-hold hairspray will help keep the braids in place, and using a texturizing spray before braiding will add extra volume and hold.

The Grunge-Style Shag Cut

The shag cut is making a strong comeback, especially for those who love a grunge or Indie aesthetic. This hairstyle works best on medium length or shoulder length hair and is perfect for teens who want a simple yet edgy look for school. The shag cut adds layers and texture, making it ideal for natural hair and curly hair alike. It suits oval or heart-shaped faces, and its effortlessly cool vibe pairs well with dark, moody makeup looks.

To achieve a grunge-style shag cut, ask your stylist for choppy layers throughout the hair. To style at home, apply a texturizing spray to damp hair and let it air dry for that messy, undone look. You can also use a diffuser to enhance your curly hair texture. For maintenance, use a lightweight styling cream to keep the layers defined and prevent frizz throughout the day.

The Baddie Sleek Low Bun

For those looking for a sleek and polished hairstyle, the baddie low bun is the way to go. This style is perfect for teens with long hair or medium length hair who want a sophisticated look that’s still easy to achieve. The sleek low bun is ideal for more formal school events, such as presentations or school dances, but it’s also versatile enough for everyday wear. This look is best suited for oval or square face shapes and works particularly well with darker eye colors, complementing the sleekness of the style.

To achieve the baddie sleek low bun, start by brushing your hair back and securing it in a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it with bobby pins. For that ultra-sleek finish, apply a smoothing serum or gel to eliminate any flyaways. To maintain this look throughout the day, use a strong-hold hairspray, and consider using a shine spray to keep the bun looking polished and glossy.

The Simple Half-Up Ponytail

For a quick and easy school hairstyle, the half-up ponytail is a classic option that never goes out of style. This look works for all hair lengths and textures, making it perfect for busy mornings when you need to get out the door quickly. The half-up ponytail is flattering on all face shapes and can be dressed up or down depending on your outfit and accessories. It’s a simple yet cute look that’s ideal for both kids and teens.

To create a half-up ponytail, start by sectioning off the top half of your hair and securing it with a hair tie. For a more polished look, wrap a small section of hair around the hair tie to conceal it. You can leave the rest of your hair down in soft waves or straighten it for a sleeker finish. To keep the ponytail looking smooth, use a light-hold hairspray, and for added volume, tease the crown slightly before securing the ponytail.

The Dance-Ready French Twist

For those special occasions like a school dance or formal event, the French twist is a timeless and elegant hairstyle that’s perfect for long hair or medium length hair. This style adds sophistication and is ideal for students who want a polished, pretty look that’s sure to impress. The French twist works best on oval or heart-shaped faces and pairs beautifully with classic makeup looks, such as a nude lip or soft smokey eye.

To create a French twist, start by gathering your hair at the nape of your neck as if you’re making a low ponytail. Twist the hair upwards, tucking the ends into the twist and securing it with bobby pins. For a sleeker finish, use a smoothing serum to eliminate any flyaways, and a strong-hold hairspray will keep the twist in place all day long. This look can be dressed up with decorative pins or a sparkly hair accessory.

The Boho Braided Pigtails

For a modern twist on a classic look, the boho braided pigtails are a cute and simple hairstyle for school. This look is perfect for kids and teens with long hair or medium length hair and works especially well with natural hair textures. The braids add a playful, boho touch to the traditional pigtail look, making it a fun and stylish option for school days. This style is flattering on all face shapes and pairs well with minimal makeup for a fresh, youthful appearance.

To create boho braided pigtails, part your hair down the middle and braid each section from the roots to the ends. You can leave the braids loose for a more relaxed look or tighten them for a sleeker finish. A light-hold hairspray will keep the braids in place throughout the day, and a texturizing spray can add volume and texture to the braids for that effortless boho vibe.

The Emo Choppy Bob

For those who want to embrace their inner Emo, the choppy bob is the perfect hairstyle for school. This style is best for chin length or shoulder length hair and works well with all hair textures, from straight to curly hair. The choppy layers give this look an edgy vibe, making it ideal for teens who want a bold statement style. This look is particularly flattering on square or round faces and pairs well with dramatic makeup, such as dark eyeliner or bold lips.

To create a choppy bob, ask your stylist for uneven layers throughout your hair. Use a flat iron to straighten the layers, flipping the ends slightly for added texture. Apply a styling wax or pomade to define the layers and add extra edge to the look. To maintain this style, regular trims are needed to keep the layers looking fresh and sharp.

The Indie Loose Waves

For a relaxed and carefree look, Indie loose waves are the perfect hairstyle for school. This style works best for long hair or medium length hair and adds a soft, natural texture that’s ideal for teens who want an effortlessly cool vibe. Loose waves are particularly flattering for oval or round face shapes, and they enhance lighter eye colors, giving your look a laid-back, beachy feel that’s perfect for school.

To create loose waves, start by applying a heat protectant spray to your hair. Use a large-barrel curling iron to create soft curls, then gently brush them out for a more relaxed wave. To keep the waves looking fresh throughout the day, use a lightweight texturizing spray and finish with a medium-hold hairspray to lock in the style without weighing it down.

The Simple Low Braided Bun

For a chic and easy school hairstyle, the low braided bun is a classic choice that combines practicality with elegance. This style is perfect for teens with long hair or medium length hair and is ideal for busy school days when you want a put-together look with minimal effort. The low braided bun works well for oval or square face shapes and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

To create a low braided bun, start by braiding your hair into a single braid at the nape of your neck. Twist the braid into a bun and secure it with bobby pins. For a sleek finish, apply a smoothing serum or light-hold hairspray to tame any flyaways. This style is also perfect for those days when you have gym class or after-school activities, as it keeps your hair securely in place.

The Goth Two-Strand Twists

For a bold and edgy Goth look, two-strand twists are a fantastic hairstyle that’s perfect for natural hair. This protective style works well for medium length or shoulder length hair and adds a touch of drama to your everyday look. Two-strand twists are particularly flattering for oval or round face shapes and pair beautifully with darker makeup looks, such as deep purple or black lipstick.

To create two-strand twists, start by sectioning your hair and dividing each section into two strands. Twist the strands together from the roots to the tips, securing the ends with small elastics if necessary. To keep the twists looking fresh, apply a moisturizing leave-in conditioner and a light oil to your scalp. A silk or satin scarf at night can help protect the twists while you sleep, keeping them frizz-free and neat for longer.

The Goth-Inspired Sleek Ponytail

For those who want to embrace their inner Goth or Emo, the sleek ponytail is a bold and edgy hairstyle that’s perfect for teens. This style works well for long hair or medium length hair and adds a touch of drama to your everyday look. The sleek ponytail is ideal for oval or square face shapes and pairs perfectly with dark, dramatic makeup, such as black eyeliner and deep lipstick.

To create a sleek ponytail, start by brushing your hair back and securing it in a high or low ponytail. Use a flat iron to straighten the ponytail for a sleek finish, and apply a smoothing serum to eliminate any frizz or flyaways. To keep the ponytail looking sharp all day, use a strong-hold hairspray, and for extra shine, finish with a glossing spray.

With these 31 hairstyles for school 2024, you’ll be ready to take on the new school year in style. Whether you’re looking for something simple and easy or want to embrace a more baddie or vintage vibe, there’s a hairstyle here for everyone. From long hair to short hair, and curly hair to straight, these looks are designed to keep you looking cute and confident, no matter your hair length or texture. We’d love to hear which of these styles you’re excited to try, so be sure to share your thoughts in the comments below. Let’s make this school year a stylish one!