Starting a new school year brings excitement, new opportunities, and the chance to showcase your personal style.
The first day of school is particularly special because it sets the tone for the entire academic year ahead. Your hairstyle choice can boost your confidence and help you make a memorable first impression on classmates and teachers alike.
Braided hairstyles offer the perfect combination of elegance, practicality, and versatility that every student needs for their school routine.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through 27 stunning first day of school hairstyles with braids to try, ensuring you’ll find the perfect look that matches your personality and lifestyle.
1. Classic Three-Strand Side Braid
The classic three-strand side braid remains one of the most timeless and versatile hairstyles for school. This elegant style works beautifully on medium to long hair and can be dressed up or down depending on your outfit choice.
- Part your hair deeply to one side using a fine-tooth comb
- Gather all your hair to the opposite side of the part
- Divide the hair into three equal sections
- Cross the right section over the middle, then the left section over the new middle
- Continue braiding down to the ends and secure with a clear elastic
- Gently tug at the braid sections to create a fuller, more relaxed appearance
- Finish with a light-hold hairspray to maintain the style throughout the day
2. Dutch Crown Braid
The Dutch crown braid creates a stunning halo effect that keeps hair completely off the face while looking absolutely regal. This sophisticated style is perfect for students who want to make a statement on their first day.
- Start by parting your hair down the center from forehead to nape
- Begin the Dutch braid at one ear, taking a small section of hair
- Braid along the hairline, adding hair only from the outside edge
- Continue the braid around the head like a crown
- When you reach the starting point, finish with a regular braid
- Tuck the end under the crown braid and secure with bobby pins
- Mist with hairspray for extra hold and shine
3. Fishtail Braid Ponytail
The fishtail braid ponytail combines the sophistication of a fishtail with the practicality of a ponytail. This style keeps hair secure during physical activities while maintaining an intricate, eye-catching appearance.
- Brush hair back into a high ponytail and secure with an elastic
- Divide the ponytail into two equal sections
- Take a small piece from the outside of the right section
- Cross it over to the inside of the left section
- Repeat on the left side, taking from outside and crossing to inside right
- Continue alternating sides until you reach the end
- Secure with another elastic and gently pull apart sections for volume
- Wrap a small section of hair around both elastics to hide them
4. French Braid Headband
The French braid headband style creates the illusion of wearing a beautiful hair accessory while keeping shorter layers and bangs perfectly in place. This romantic look is ideal for students with medium-length hair.
- Part your hair on your preferred side
- Starting at the part, take a small section of hair at the hairline
- Begin a French braid along the hairline toward the opposite ear
- Add small sections of hair only from the front as you braid
- Stop adding hair when you reach behind the ear
- Continue with a regular braid and secure with a small elastic
- Leave the rest of your hair flowing naturally or style as desired
- Pin the braid end behind the ear for a seamless finish
5. Box Braids in a Top Knot
Box braids styled in a top knot offer both protection and style, making them perfect for students who want a low-maintenance yet fashionable look. This versatile style works excellently for natural hair textures.
- If you don’t have box braids, install them first or work with existing ones
- Gather all braids toward the crown of your head
- Twist the braids together loosely to create texture
- Wrap the twisted braids around the base to form a bun
- Secure with bobby pins that match your hair color
- Leave a few braids loose around the face for a softer look
- Apply a light oil or shine spray to keep braids looking healthy
- This style can last several days with minimal touch-ups needed
6. Waterfall Braid Half-Up Style
The waterfall braid creates a cascading effect that looks complex but is surprisingly simple to achieve. This romantic style allows you to show off your hair’s natural texture while keeping the front sections neatly braided.
- Part your hair on your preferred side
- Take a section of hair near your temple and divide into three parts
- Start braiding normally for the first cross-over
- Drop the bottom section and pick up a new section from below
- Continue dropping and picking up sections as you braid across
- Work the braid from one temple to the other
- Secure the end behind your ear with bobby pins
- Curl the loose hair if desired for added romance
- Finish with a light hairspray to maintain the waterfall effect
7. Double Dutch Braids
Double Dutch braids provide excellent hair security while creating a sporty, energetic look perfect for active students. This practical style keeps hair completely contained during sports, PE classes, or busy school days.
- Part your hair straight down the middle from forehead to neck
- Start the first Dutch braid on one side at the hairline
- Braid straight back, adding hair from both sides as you go
- Secure the first braid at the nape with an elastic
- Repeat the same process on the other side
- Both braids should be parallel and evenly sized
- Gently tug at the braid sections to create fullness
- Wrap small sections of hair around the elastics to hide them
8. Braided Flower Bun
The braided flower bun transforms a simple braid into an elegant floral-inspired updo. This sophisticated style is perfect for students who want to showcase their creativity and attention to detail.
- Create a low ponytail at the nape of your neck
- Braid the entire ponytail with a loose three-strand braid
- Gently pull apart the braid sections to create width and texture
- Starting at the base, wrap the braid around itself in a spiral
- Create a flower shape by continuing to wrap and pin each layer
- Secure each wrapped section with bobby pins as you go
- Tuck the end of the braid underneath and pin securely
- Mist with hairspray and add small pearl pins if desired
9. Side Swept Dutch Braid
The side swept Dutch braid combines asymmetrical styling with intricate braiding technique. This modern look adds visual interest while maintaining a polished appearance suitable for any school environment.
- Create a deep side part using a tail comb
- Start the Dutch braid on the side with more hair
- Begin at the hairline and braid diagonally back
- Add hair only from the top and sides as you work
- Continue the braid behind one ear
- Finish with a regular braid down the length
- Secure with an elastic and gently loosen sections
- Pin the braid behind the ear or let it fall over one shoulder
10. Triple Strand Twist Braid
The triple strand twist braid offers more texture and visual interest than a regular braid while remaining easy to create. This style works beautifully on both straight and wavy hair textures.
- Divide your hair into three large sections
- Twist each section tightly in the same direction
- Braid the three twisted sections together normally
- The twisted sections will create a rope-like texture
- Secure the end with an elastic band
- Gently pull apart sections of the braid for added volume
- This style looks especially beautiful when slightly messy
- Finish with texturizing spray for enhanced definition
11. Braided Space Buns
Braided space buns bring a playful, trendy vibe that’s perfect for students who love contemporary fashion. This fun style keeps hair secure while making a bold fashion statement.
- Part your hair straight down the middle
- Create two high ponytails on either side of your head
- Braid each ponytail completely down to the ends
- Wrap each braid around its base to form a bun
- Secure each bun with bobby pins and small elastics
- Leave some face-framing pieces loose if desired
- Add colorful scrunchies or hair accessories for extra fun
- This style works great with both natural and colored hair
12. Infinity Braid Half-Up
The infinity braid creates a stunning figure-eight pattern that looks incredibly intricate. This unique style is perfect for students who want to showcase their braiding skills and creativity.
- Part your hair on your preferred side
- Take a section from the temple area and divide into two parts
- Cross the sections to form a figure-eight shape
- Continue crossing sections while adding hair from the top
- Work across the head from one temple to the other
- Secure the end with bobby pins behind the opposite ear
- Leave the remaining hair down and style as desired
- This braid looks beautiful with both straight and curly hair
13. French Braid into Side Ponytail
This elegant style combines the sophistication of a French braid with the practicality of a side ponytail. It’s perfect for students who need their hair completely off their neck and shoulders.
- Start with a deep side part
- Begin French braiding from the part line
- Work diagonally across the head toward the opposite ear
- Continue adding hair from both sides as you braid
- When you reach ear level, gather all remaining hair
- Combine the braid with loose hair into a low side ponytail
- Secure with an elastic and wrap a hair section around it
- Curl the ponytail ends for added elegance if desired
14. Mohawk Dutch Braid
The mohawk Dutch braid creates an edgy, modern look while keeping hair practical for school. This bold style is perfect for confident students who want to make a fashion statement.
- Part your hair into three sections: two sides and one center strip
- Secure the side sections temporarily with clips
- Dutch braid the center section from forehead to nape
- Start with small sections and add hair as you work back
- Keep the braid tight and centered for the mohawk effect
- Secure the end and release the side sections
- Style the side hair sleek against the head
- Use strong-hold gel or pomade for a polished finish
15. Pancake Braid Crown
The pancake braid crown gets its name from the way sections are pulled apart to create a flat, wide appearance. This bohemian-inspired style is perfect for free-spirited students.
- Create a deep side part
- Start a Dutch braid at the temple on the heavier side
- Braid along the hairline like a headband
- Continue around the head back to the starting point
- Finish with a regular braid and tuck the end under
- Gently pull apart each section of the braid to create width
- This “pancaking” technique creates a fuller, more dramatic look
- Secure with bobby pins and finish with flexible hold hairspray
16. Braided Low Chignon
The braided low chignon offers sophisticated elegance perfect for school presentations or special events. This timeless updo combines multiple braiding techniques into one stunning style.
- Create a low ponytail at the nape of your neck
- Divide the ponytail into three sections
- Braid each section separately down to the ends
- Twist and wrap each braid around the ponytail base
- Layer the braids to create a full, textured chignon
- Secure each wrapped braid with bobby pins
- Leave some loose pieces around the face for softness
- Finish with hairspray and add subtle hair jewelry if desired
17. Zigzag Parted Dutch Braids
Zigzag parted Dutch braids add a playful twist to the classic double Dutch braid style. The creative parting pattern makes this look unique and eye-catching for school.
- Use a tail comb to create a zigzag part down the middle
- Make sharp angles back and forth from forehead to nape
- Dutch braid each section starting from the front hairline
- Follow the zigzag pattern as you add hair to each braid
- Keep the braids tight and even on both sides
- Secure both braids at the nape with elastics
- Gently tug at braid sections to create fullness
- This style works especially well on thick, straight hair
18. Rope Braid Side Sweep
The rope braid side sweep creates elegant texture through a simple twisting technique. This sophisticated style is perfect for students who want something different from traditional three-strand braids.
- Sweep all hair to one side over your shoulder
- Divide the hair into two equal sections
- Twist both sections tightly in the same direction
- Wrap the twisted sections around each other in the opposite direction
- Continue twisting and wrapping down to the ends
- Secure with an elastic and gently pull apart sections
- This creates a beautiful rope-like texture
- Pin one side back behind the ear for asymmetrical styling
19. Crown Braid with Loose Curls
This romantic style combines the elegance of a crown braid with the beauty of loose, flowing curls. It’s perfect for students who want to feel like royalty on their first day.
- Curl your hair using a large barrel curling iron
- Create a Dutch or French braid along your hairline
- Work from one temple across the forehead to the other temple
- Secure the braid behind your ear with bobby pins
- Allow the curled hair to cascade naturally
- Gently finger-comb the curls for a softer appearance
- Use a light-hold hairspray to maintain both braid and curls
- Add small flowers or pearls to the braid for extra elegance
20. Milkmaid Braids
Milkmaid braids create a sweet, vintage-inspired look that’s both practical and charming. This classic European style keeps hair completely secured while maintaining feminine appeal.
- Part your hair straight down the middle
- Create two low pigtails behind your ears
- Braid each pigtail completely down to the ends
- Lift the right braid up and across the top of your head
- Pin it securely behind your left ear
- Repeat with the left braid, crossing it over to the right side
- Tuck both braid ends under and secure with bobby pins
- Gently pull at the braids to create a softer, fuller appearance
21. Braided Headband with Beach Waves
This effortless style combines a practical braided headband with relaxed beach waves. It’s perfect for students who want a casual yet put-together appearance.
- Create loose beach waves using a curling wand or sea salt spray
- Take a section of hair from one temple
- Braid this section loosely across the forehead like a headband
- Secure behind the opposite ear with bobby pins
- Allow the rest of your hair to fall in natural waves
- Scrunch the waves gently with your hands for texture
- Use texturizing spray for enhanced wave definition
- This style looks effortlessly beautiful and camera-ready
22. High Braided Ponytail
The high braided ponytail combines the energy of a high pony with the sophistication of braiding. This versatile style works for both casual school days and athletic activities.
- Brush all hair up into a high ponytail at the crown
- Secure tightly with a strong elastic band
- Braid the entire ponytail down to the ends
- You can choose from regular, Dutch, or fishtail braiding
- Secure the braid end with another elastic
- Wrap a section of hair around both elastics to hide them
- Gently pull apart braid sections for added volume
- This style stays secure during sports and physical activities
23. Twisted Crown with Braided Details
This intricate style combines twisting and braiding techniques to create a stunning crown effect. It’s perfect for students who enjoy experimenting with complex hairstyles.
- Part your hair in the center from forehead to nape
- Take sections from each temple and twist them back
- Secure the twists temporarily at the back of your head
- Create small accent braids from different sections
- Incorporate these mini braids into the twisted crown
- Pin everything securely at the back of your head
- Allow remaining hair to flow freely or braid it as well
- This style showcases multiple techniques in one look
24. Side Dutch Braid with Curly Ends
This romantic style features a side Dutch braid that transitions into beautiful curly ends. It’s perfect for students who want to showcase both braiding skills and natural texture.
- Create a deep side part using a fine-tooth comb
- Start a Dutch braid on the side with more hair
- Braid along the hairline and down behind one ear
- Stop braiding when you reach shoulder length
- Curl the remaining loose hair with a curling iron
- Secure the braid transition point with a clear elastic
- Gently separate the curls with your fingers
- Finish with curl-enhancing cream and light hairspray
25. Double Waterfall Braids
Double waterfall braids create an intricate cascading pattern that looks incredibly complex but is achievable with practice. This show-stopping style is perfect for special school events.
- Part your hair in the center from forehead to nape
- Start a waterfall braid on one side at temple level
- Work across the head, dropping and picking up sections
- Begin a second waterfall braid slightly below the first
- Mirror the pattern on the opposite side of your head
- Both layers should create a beautiful cascading effect
- Secure the ends behind your ears with bobby pins
- Curl the loose hair for added romance and movement
26. Braided Faux Hawk
The braided faux hawk creates an edgy, modern look while maintaining school-appropriate styling. This bold choice is perfect for confident students who want to stand out.
- Section off the center strip of hair from forehead to nape
- Temporarily clip the side sections out of the way
- Dutch braid the center section, keeping it tight and raised
- Use strong-hold gel on the side sections
- Slick the sides down smooth against your head
- The contrast creates the faux hawk effect
- Secure the braid end at the nape
- Finish with strong-hold hairspray for all-day wear
27. Elegant Braided Updo
This sophisticated braided updo combines multiple braiding techniques into one stunning formal style. It’s perfect for school dances, presentations, or special events.
- Create three separate braids from different sections of hair
- Vary the braid types: regular, Dutch, and fishtail
- Twist and weave the braids together at the nape
- Pin each braid strategically to create texture and height
- Leave some loose pieces around the face for softness
- Incorporate small accent braids for added detail
- Secure everything with bobby pins that match your hair color
- Finish with strong-hold hairspray and optional hair jewelry
Styling Tips for Success
Creating the perfect braided hairstyle requires proper preparation and technique. Start with clean, slightly damp hair for the best hold and manageability. Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle hair gently, working from ends to roots to prevent breakage.
- Apply a light-hold mousse or styling cream before braiding
- Keep hair elastics and bobby pins in colors that match your hair
- Practice new styles on weekends before attempting them for school
- Take progress photos to help you remember complex braiding patterns
- Don’t braid too tightly as this can cause headaches and hair damage
- Prepare your styling tools and accessories the night before
- Watch tutorial videos multiple times before attempting intricate styles
Conclusion
The first day of school presents the perfect opportunity to showcase your personal style through beautiful braided hairstyles.
These 27 Stunning First Day of School Hairstyles with Braids to Try offer something for every student, regardless of hair length, texture, or skill level.
From simple side braids to complex crown designs, each style provides the perfect balance of beauty and practicality needed for successful school days.
Remember that the key to mastering any braided hairstyle lies in practice, patience, and choosing styles that reflect your unique personality.
With these stunning options at your fingertips, you’ll start your school year feeling confident, stylish, and ready to take on any challenge that comes your way.
