Fifth and sixth grade mark an exciting transition period where girls begin developing their personal style while navigating new academic challenges and social dynamics.
This comprehensive guide presents 33 trendy first day of school hairstyles for 5th and 6th grade girls that perfectly balance age-appropriate styling with contemporary trends that will help your daughter feel confident and stylish.
These carefully selected hairstyles range from quick five-minute morning routines perfect for busy school days to more elaborate weekend styles that can be adapted for special school events and picture day.
Each style has been chosen specifically for this age group, considering factors like ease of maintenance, school dress codes, physical activity requirements, and the desire to look grown-up while remaining appropriately youthful.
From classic braids with modern twists to trendy half-up styles and protective ponytails, these hairstyles work with various hair types, lengths, and textures while teaching young girls proper hair care techniques.
Whether your daughter prefers simple, understated looks or wants to experiment with more creative styling, this collection offers options that will boost her confidence and help her express her developing personality as she embarks on this important academic year.
1. Bubble Ponytail
The bubble ponytail creates a fun and playful look that transforms a basic ponytail into something special and eye-catching.
This trendy style is perfect for 5th and 6th graders who want to add personality to their hair while keeping it practical for school activities.
- Start with smooth, detangled hair and gather it into a high ponytail
- Secure the base ponytail with a strong elastic band
- Add additional elastics down the length of the ponytail every 2-3 inches
- Gently pull apart each “bubble” section to create volume and fullness
- Use colorful elastics or scrunchies to match school outfits or personal style
- This style works best on medium to long hair lengths
- Takes approximately 5 minutes to create and stays secure all day
2. Dutch Crown Braid
The Dutch crown braid offers an elegant and sophisticated appearance that’s perfect for special school events while teaching valuable braiding skills.
This protective style keeps hair neat and tidy throughout long school days.
- Part hair down the middle from forehead to nape of neck
- Begin Dutch braiding from one ear, incorporating hair as you move around the head
- Continue braiding along the hairline, keeping the braid close to the scalp
- Work around the entire head until you reach the starting point
- Secure the end of the braid and tuck it under the crown for a seamless finish
- This advanced technique may require practice but creates stunning results
- Perfect for picture day, school presentations, or formal events
3. Half-Up Space Buns
Half-up space buns combine trendy styling with practical functionality, creating a youthful and fun look that’s perfect for creative and artistic 5th and 6th grade students.
- Section off the top half of hair from temple to temple
- Divide this top section into two equal parts
- Gather each part high on the sides of the head to create two small ponytails
- Twist each ponytail and wrap around the base to form compact buns
- Leave the bottom half of hair flowing freely for added movement
- Secure buns with bobby pins that match the hair color
- This playful style allows for creative expression while remaining school-appropriate
4. Fishtail Side Braid
The fishtail side braid creates an intricate and impressive appearance that showcases advanced braiding skills while maintaining an age-appropriate and elegant look for middle school students.
- Gather all hair to one side and divide into two equal sections
- Take a small piece from the outside of the left section and cross it to the right
- Repeat this process, alternating sides and taking small sections each time
- Continue the fishtail pattern until you reach the end of the hair
- Secure with a decorative elastic or hair tie
- Gently pull apart sections of the braid to create texture and fullness
- This sophisticated style is perfect for students who want to impress classmates
5. Twisted Half-Up Ponytail
The twisted half-up ponytail adds elegant detail to a classic style, creating visual interest while keeping hair partially contained for active school days and sports activities.
- Section off hair from temple to temple across the top of the head
- Divide this section into two parts and twist each section backwards
- Bring the twisted sections together at the back of the head
- Secure with a colorful elastic or decorative hair tie
- Leave the remaining hair down for added movement and style
- This versatile look works well for both casual and dressy occasions
- Takes only 3-4 minutes to complete, making it perfect for busy mornings
6. Braided Headband with Loose Waves
The braided headband with loose waves creates a romantic and feminine appearance that’s perfect for students who want to feel special and put-together for important school events.
- Create a small braid starting from one temple area
- Braid loosely across the front of the head like a headband
- Secure the braid behind the opposite ear with bobby pins
- Use a curling iron or braiding technique to add gentle waves to the remaining hair
- Apply a light hairspray to maintain the waves throughout the day
- This elegant style is perfect for school dances, graduations, or picture day
- Combines practical hair control with beautiful decorative elements
7. High Ponytail with Ribbon
A high ponytail enhanced with a colorful ribbon creates a classic and polished look that’s both practical and stylish for everyday school wear while adding a touch of personality.
- Brush hair smooth and gather at the crown of the head
- Secure with a strong elastic band that matches the hair color
- Choose a ribbon that coordinates with the school outfit or personal style
- Tie the ribbon around the elastic, creating a bow or letting ends flow freely
- Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to hide it before adding the ribbon
- This simple style is quick to create and adds a feminine touch to any outfit
- Perfect for students who want to add color and personality to basic styles
8. Side-Swept Bangs with Low Ponytail
Side-swept bangs paired with a low ponytail create a mature and sophisticated appearance that’s perfect for 6th graders who want to look older while maintaining age-appropriate styling.
- Style bangs to sweep gracefully to one side of the face
- Gather the remaining hair into a low ponytail at the nape of the neck
- Use a smoothing serum to eliminate flyaways and create a polished finish
- Secure the ponytail with an elastic and wrap a section of hair around it
- This classic style works well with straight, wavy, or lightly curled hair
- Perfect for students who want a more mature appearance without being too formal
- Requires minimal maintenance throughout the school day
9. Multiple Small Braids
Multiple small braids throughout the hair create texture, visual interest, and cultural significance while offering a protective styling option that’s perfect for students with various hair types.
- Section hair into uniform squares or triangles for consistent braid sizes
- Create tight three-strand braids throughout the entire head
- Secure each braid with small elastics that match the hair color
- Add colorful beads or accessories for personalization and cultural expression
- This protective style can last several days with proper nighttime care
- Excellent for students who want low daily maintenance while looking stylish
- Celebrates cultural heritage while remaining appropriate for school environments
10. Messy Bun with Face-Framing Pieces
The messy bun with face-framing pieces strikes the perfect balance between effortless style and put-together appearance, ideal for students who want to look polished without excessive effort.
- Apply texturizing spray to add grip and volume to the hair
- Gather hair loosely at the crown or nape, leaving face-framing pieces free
- Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base to form a loose bun
- Secure with bobby pins, allowing some pieces to fall naturally for texture
- Gently pull apart sections of the bun to create the desired messy effect
- Leave wispy pieces around the face for a soft, youthful appearance
- This trendy style looks intentionally effortless while being completely practical
11. French Braid Pigtails
French braid pigtails combine classic braiding techniques with a youthful pigtail style, creating a look that’s both sophisticated and age-appropriate for elementary and middle school students.
- Create a center part from forehead to nape dividing hair into two sections
- Begin French braiding each section starting from the hairline
- Incorporate hair as you braid down each side, keeping braids neat and even
- Continue braiding until you reach the ends and secure with colorful elastics
- This protective style keeps hair controlled during physical activities
- Perfect for students who participate in sports or enjoy active playground time
- Teaches valuable braiding skills while creating a classic, timeless look
12. Curly Hair Pineapple
The curly hair pineapple is specifically designed for students with natural curls, creating a protective and stylish look that celebrates natural texture while keeping curls defined and beautiful.
- Gather curls very loosely at the very top of the head
- Use a silk or satin scrunchie to minimize breakage and frizz
- Allow curls to cascade down from the high position like a pineapple top
- Avoid pulling curls tight to prevent creating dents in the curl pattern
- This protective style maintains curl definition while looking stylish
- Perfect for students with naturally curly or textured hair
- Can be created in under 2 minutes, making it ideal for rushed mornings
13. Zigzag Part with Twin Braids
The zigzag part with twin braids adds visual interest and creativity to traditional braiding, perfect for students who want something different and eye-catching for school.
- Use a rat-tail comb to create a zigzag pattern down the center of the head
- Divide hair into two sections following the zigzag pattern
- Braid each section using traditional three-strand braiding techniques
- Secure both braids with matching elastics or decorative hair ties
- The zigzag part adds unexpected detail to a simple braided style
- This creative variation shows attention to detail and artistic flair
- Perfect for students who enjoy experimenting with different styling techniques
14. Low Side Bun with Twisted Detail
The low side bun with twisted detail creates an elegant and mature appearance that’s perfect for formal school events while teaching advanced styling techniques to developing young ladies.
- Create a deep side part and gather hair to one side at the nape
- Twist a section of hair before wrapping it into the bun for added detail
- Secure with bobby pins that match the hair color for a seamless appearance
- Leave some soft pieces around the face to frame it gently
- This sophisticated style conveys maturity and attention to detail
- Perfect for school concerts, award ceremonies, or graduation events
- Requires some practice but creates a polished, grown-up appearance
15. Braided Crown with Ribbon Weave
The braided crown with ribbon weave incorporates colorful ribbon into the braiding pattern, creating a special and festive look that’s perfect for celebrations and special school occasions.
- Select a ribbon that coordinates with the outfit or school colors
- Begin Dutch braiding around the hairline, incorporating the ribbon as a fourth strand
- Continue braiding around the entire head, weaving the ribbon throughout
- Secure the end of the braid and tie the ribbon into a decorative bow
- This special technique creates a crown-like effect perfect for celebrations
- Ideal for school spirit days, holiday parties, or cultural celebrations
- The ribbon adds color and festivity to traditional braiding techniques
16. Half-Up Twisted Bun
The half-up twisted bun keeps the top section neat and controlled while allowing the bottom half to flow freely, creating a balance between practical styling and youthful beauty.
- Section off the top half of hair from temple to temple
- Twist this section loosely and wrap it into a small bun at the crown
- Secure with bobby pins and allow some texture to show for visual interest
- Leave the remaining hair down, adding gentle waves if desired
- This versatile style works well for both studying and social activities
- Quick to create and comfortable to wear during long school days
- Balances the need for hair control with the desire to wear hair down
17. Waterfall Braid
The waterfall braid creates a stunning cascading effect that appears complex but becomes achievable with practice, perfect for students who want to impress with their styling abilities.
- Begin with a regular three-strand braid starting at one temple
- After each crossover, drop the bottom strand and pick up a new section from the top
- Continue this pattern across the back of the head, allowing strands to cascade
- The dropped strands create the illusion of hair flowing through the braid
- This advanced technique requires patience and practice to master
- Creates a stunning effect that’s sure to receive compliments from classmates
- Perfect for students who enjoy learning challenging new styling techniques
18. Double Dutch Braids (Boxer Braids)
Double Dutch braids, commonly called boxer braids, provide excellent hair management for active students while creating a trendy, athletic-inspired look that’s both practical and stylish.
- Create a precise center part from forehead to nape using a rat-tail comb
- Begin Dutch braiding on one side by crossing sections under rather than over
- Continue braiding down the side, incorporating hair as you progress
- Repeat the same technique on the other side for symmetrical braids
- Secure both braids with strong elastics that can withstand physical activity
- This sporty style stays secure during PE class and playground activities
- Perfect for students who participate in sports or enjoy active play
19. Side Ponytail with Curled Ends
The side ponytail with curled ends adds glamour and sophistication to a simple ponytail, creating a special look that’s perfect for school dances or formal events.
- Gather all hair to one side at ear level or slightly higher
- Secure with a decorative elastic or ribbon that matches the outfit
- Use a curling iron to add bouncy curls to the ponytail ends
- Apply light hairspray to maintain the curls throughout the event
- This glamorous style elevates a simple ponytail for special occasions
- Perfect for school dances, graduation ceremonies, or formal presentations
- The side placement creates asymmetrical interest and elegance
20. Twisted Rope Braid
The twisted rope braid offers an alternative to traditional three-strand braiding, creating a unique texture and appearance that stands out while remaining age-appropriate and school-friendly.
- Divide hair into two equal sections at the nape of the neck
- Twist each section tightly in the same direction (clockwise or counterclockwise)
- Wrap the two twisted sections around each other in the opposite direction
- Continue this pattern until you reach the ends and secure with an elastic
- This technique creates a rope-like texture that’s different from regular braids
- Perfect for students who want something unique but not too complicated
- The twisted texture catches light beautifully and adds visual interest
21. Crown Puff with Low Ponytail
The crown puff with low ponytail creates volume and height at the crown while maintaining a sleek ponytail, perfect for students who want to add sophistication to their everyday style.
- Tease the hair at the crown gently to create volume and height
- Smooth the top layer over the teased section to hide any visible teasing
- Gather all hair into a low ponytail at the nape of the neck
- Secure with an elastic and wrap a section of hair around it to hide
- This style adds mature elegance while remaining completely school-appropriate
- Perfect for presentations, meetings with teachers, or leadership activities
- Creates the illusion of longer hair while adding sophisticated height
22. Braided Flower Bun
The braided flower bun transforms a regular bun into something special by creating a flower-like pattern with braided hair, perfect for students who want an artistic and creative hairstyle.
- Create a regular three-strand braid with all the hair
- Coil the braid around itself at the nape to form a spiral pattern
- Pin the braid in place to create a flower-like appearance
- Allow some texture and loops to show for added visual interest
- This creative technique transforms basic braiding into artistic expression
- Perfect for students who enjoy crafts, art, or creative activities
- The flower-like result is both beautiful and age-appropriately special
23. Sleek High Ponytail with Hair Wrap
The sleek high ponytail with hair wrap creates a polished and sophisticated look that’s perfect for students who want a clean, modern appearance for school presentations or formal events.
- Apply smoothing serum to create a sleek, frizz-free finish
- Brush hair into a high ponytail at the crown of the head
- Secure with a strong elastic band that matches the hair color
- Wrap a section of hair around the elastic to hide it completely
- Use bobby pins to secure the wrapped section and finish with hairspray
- This sophisticated style conveys confidence and attention to detail
- Perfect for student council presentations, academic competitions, or formal events
24. Asymmetrical Side Braid
The asymmetrical side braid creates visual interest through uneven placement and styling, perfect for creative students who want to express their artistic personality through their hairstyle.
- Create a dramatic side part, leaving more hair on one side
- Braid the larger section loosely and position it over one shoulder
- Leave the smaller section styled straight or with gentle waves
- Secure the braid with a decorative elastic that adds to the artistic effect
- This modern twist on traditional braiding creates contemporary appeal
- Perfect for students who enjoy fashion, art, or creative expression
- The asymmetrical design makes a statement while remaining school-appropriate
25. Double Twisted Half-Up
Double twisted half-up style incorporates two twisted sections that meet in the middle, creating symmetrical detail while keeping hair partially up and partially flowing.
- Take a section of hair from each temple area
- Twist each section back toward the center of the head
- Bring both twisted sections together and secure with a decorative clip
- Leave the remaining hair down with natural texture or added waves
- This balanced style creates symmetrical beauty and visual harmony
- Perfect for students who appreciate balanced, harmonious styling
- Quick to create yet sophisticated enough for special school occasions
26. Vintage Victory Roll
The vintage victory roll brings classic 1940s glamour to modern school settings, perfect for themed days, school plays, or students who love retro-inspired fashion and historical styles.
- Section hair on one side and roll it forward and upward into a barrel shape
- Secure the roll with bobby pins, hiding them within the curl
- Style the remaining hair in gentle waves or incorporate into additional rolls
- Set with strong-hold hairspray to maintain the vintage shape
- This dramatic style requires practice but creates authentic vintage glamour
- Perfect for school plays, history presentations, or themed dress-up days
- Teaches historical styling techniques while creating a unique appearance
27. Textured Pixie with Hair Accessories
The textured pixie enhanced with cute hair accessories proves that short hair can be just as versatile and stylish as longer lengths, perfect for confident students with shorter cuts.
- Apply texturizing paste to create piece-y definition in short hair
- Use small clips, headbands, or decorative pins to add personality
- Create texture by scrunching and finger-styling the short layers
- Choose accessories that reflect personal style and coordinate with outfits
- This low-maintenance style is perfect for active students with shorter hair
- Accessories allow for daily variety and personal expression
- Proves that short hair can be just as fun and stylish as longer styles
28. Loose Fishtail Side Ponytail
The loose fishtail side ponytail combines the intricate beauty of fishtail braiding with the casual elegance of a side ponytail, creating a relaxed yet sophisticated appearance.
- Gather hair into a low side ponytail and secure with an elastic
- Create a loose fishtail braid with the ponytail, keeping it relaxed and textured
- Gently pull apart sections of the braid to create fullness and a casual appearance
- Secure the end with a decorative elastic or ribbon
- This relaxed version of fishtail braiding feels more casual and age-appropriate
- Perfect for everyday school wear when you want something special but not formal
- The loose texture creates a more approachable and youthful appearance
29. Braided Ponytail with Ribbon
A braided ponytail enhanced with colorful ribbon combines practical ponytail functionality with decorative braiding detail, perfect for students who want both style and convenience.
- Gather hair into a ponytail at the desired height
- Incorporate a ribbon into the braiding process as an additional strand
- Continue braiding the entire length of the ponytail with the ribbon included
- Tie the ribbon into a bow at the end for a finishing flourish
- Choose ribbon colors that match school spirit or personal preferences
- This style combines the practicality of a ponytail with decorative flair
- Perfect for school spirit days, sports events, or when you want added color
30. Natural Waves with Headband
Natural waves enhanced with a stylish headband create an effortless and romantic look that celebrates natural texture while adding a touch of accessory styling.
- Enhance natural wave patterns with wave-defining cream or mousse
- Allow hair to air dry or use a diffuser to maintain natural texture
- Choose a headband that coordinates with personal style and school dress code
- Position the headband to frame the face while controlling any flyaways
- This natural approach celebrates individual hair texture and characteristics
- Perfect for students who prefer minimal styling while still looking put-together
- The headband adds a feminine touch without requiring complex techniques
31. Triple Twisted Ponytail
The triple twisted ponytail incorporates three separate twisted sections into one ponytail, creating texture and visual interest while maintaining practical functionality for school activities.
- Divide hair into three sections horizontally across the back of the head
- Twist each section individually before combining them into one ponytail
- Secure all three twisted sections together with a strong elastic
- Allow the twists to maintain their texture within the combined ponytail
- This technique adds complexity to a simple ponytail without being too elaborate
- Perfect for students who enjoy detailed styling but need practical functionality
- The triple twist effect creates visual interest from multiple angles
32. Side-Swept Bang Ponytail
The side-swept bang ponytail creates a mature and sophisticated appearance by combining fashionable bangs with classic ponytail styling, perfect for students transitioning to more grown-up looks.
- Style bangs to sweep dramatically to one side using a round brush and blow dryer
- Gather the remaining hair into a ponytail at the preferred height
- Use smoothing products to create a polished, sleek appearance
- Secure the ponytail and wrap a section of hair around the elastic
- This combination creates maturity while remaining completely age-appropriate
- Perfect for students who want to look older and more sophisticated
- The bang styling adds fashionable detail to basic ponytail functionality
33. Curly Half-Up with Decorative Clips
Curly half-up styling with decorative clips celebrates natural curl texture while incorporating fun accessories, perfect for students with naturally curly hair who want to add personality to their look.
- Apply curl-defining cream to enhance natural curl patterns
- Section off the top half of curly hair from temple to temple
- Secure this section with decorative clips that reflect personal style
- Allow the remaining curls to flow freely, maintaining their natural bounce
- Choose clips in colors or designs that coordinate with outfits or preferences
- This style celebrates natural curl beauty while adding playful accessories
- Perfect for students who want to embrace their natural texture with added flair
Navigating the exciting world of hairstyling during fifth and sixth grade opens up countless opportunities for self-expression and creativity while building confidence during these formative years.
These 33 trendy first day of school hairstyles for 5th and 6th grade girls provide the perfect foundation for developing personal style preferences while maintaining age-appropriate boundaries and practical functionality for busy school schedules.
From simple ponytails enhanced with creative details to more elaborate braided styles that showcase developing skills, each option has been carefully selected to boost confidence, encourage creativity, and ensure comfort throughout long academic days.
Remember that the best hairstyle is one that makes your daughter feel confident, expresses her unique personality, and works with her individual hair type and lifestyle needs.
Whether she gravitates toward classic elegance, creative artistry, or sporty functionality, these diverse styling options ensure she’ll find the perfect look to start her school year with confidence and style.
With these 33 trendy first day of school hairstyles for 5th and 6th grade girls, every young lady can discover her signature look while learning valuable styling skills that will serve her well throughout her academic journey and beyond.
