Effortless & Chic: 16 Back to School Styles

12. Braided Ponytail

Effortless & Chic: 15+ Back to School Hairstyles (Braids, Buns & Ponytails). - 12. Braided Ponytail

Want to make a basic ponytail a little more interesting? Add a braid! You can do a simple three-strand braid at the top and then gather it into a ponytail, or braid a section of the ponytail itself. It’s a great way to keep your hair extra secure, especially if you’re involved in sports or activities. You can braid it tightly for a sleek finish or keep it loose for a more casual look.

11. Space Buns

Effortless & Chic: 15+ Back to School Hairstyles (Braids, Buns & Ponytails). - 11. Space Buns

Space buns are just pure fun! These two buns on either side of your head are perfect for a youthful and energetic vibe. They’re surprisingly easy to do and really show off your playful side. I think leaving a few strands loose around your face adds a nice touch and keeps it from looking too perfect.

10. Twisted Half-Up

Effortless & Chic: 15+ Back to School Hairstyles (Braids, Buns & Ponytails). - 10. Twisted Half-Up

If braiding feels like too much effort sometimes, a twisted half-up is your friend. Just grab two sections of hair from the front, twist them back, and secure them together. It adds a lovely detail to your hair in seconds. To make the twists really stand out, try twisting them tightly before you pin them.

9. Bubble Ponytail

Effortless & Chic: 15+ Back to School Hairstyles (Braids, Buns & Ponytails). - 9. Bubble Ponytail

This style is all over social media right now and it’s so easy to do! You just create sections down a regular ponytail using elastics. It adds such a fun, visual appeal to a simple ponytail. To get that perfect bubble effect, gently pull on the sides of each section to puff them out a bit.

8. French Braid

Effortless & Chic: 15+ Back to School Hairstyles (Braids, Buns & Ponytails). - 8. French Braid

A classic for a reason! The French braid is great at keeping hair neatly contained and secure all day long. It’s perfect for school because it stays put through classes and activities. If you’re new to French braiding, just remember that practice really does make perfect when it comes to getting an even braid.

7. Dutch Braid

Effortless & Chic: 15+ Back to School Hairstyles (Braids, Buns & Ponytails). - 7. Dutch Braid

The Dutch braid is like the French braid’s cooler cousin. You braid the sections under instead of over, which makes the braid pop out from your head. It’s a fantastic way to really showcase your braiding skills. For a thicker-looking braid, I like to gently pull on the edges of the braid once I’m done.

6. Fishtail Braid

Effortless & Chic: 15+ Back to School Hairstyles (Braids, Buns & Ponytails). - 6. Fishtail Braid

This braid looks super intricate, but honestly, it’s simple once you get the hang of it! You just use two sections of hair and criss-cross small strands from the outer edges. It gives such a beautiful, detailed look that’s perfect for a slightly more bohemian vibe. Make sure you secure the end really well so it doesn’t unravel during the day.

5. Top Knot

Effortless & Chic: 15+ Back to School Hairstyles (Braids, Buns & Ponytails). - 5. Top Knot

When you need your hair completely out of the way, a top knot is the answer. It’s quick, stylish, and keeps your neck cool. It sits high on your head and gives you a really clean look. Sometimes, I think a slightly messy top knot looks even better – it just feels more effortless and cool.

4. Low Braided Buns

Effortless & Chic: 15+ Back to School Hairstyles (Braids, Buns & Ponytails). - 4. Low Braided Buns

This is a super chic upgrade to classic buns. You braid sections of hair before you twist them into low buns at the nape of your neck. It gives you a more polished braided look that still feels easy. Just make sure your braids are secure before you start twisting them into the buns.