33 Gorgeous First Day of School Hairstyles with Box Braids

The first day of school marks a fresh beginning, and what better way to make a stunning impression than with gorgeous box braids that showcase your unique style and personality.

Box braids offer incredible versatility, allowing students to express themselves while maintaining a polished, school-appropriate look that lasts throughout busy academic days.

Whether you prefer classic styles or modern twists, 33 Gorgeous First Day of School Hairstyles with Box Braids will provide you with an extensive collection of creative, protective, and beautiful hairstyle options that will have you feeling confident and ready to conquer the new school year.

This comprehensive guide explores a diverse range of box braid hairstyles perfect for students of all ages, featuring everything from elegant updos and playful ponytails to intricate braided designs and trendy half-up styles.

Each hairstyle is designed to be both practical for school activities and stylish enough to make you stand out in the best possible way.

You’ll discover protective styling techniques, maintenance tips, and creative variations that can be adapted to suit your personal preferences, hair length, and school dress codes.

1. Classic High Ponytail Box Braids

The classic high ponytail remains one of the most popular and practical choices for students who want to keep their hair neat and stylish throughout the school day.

This timeless style works exceptionally well with box braids of any length and thickness.

• The high ponytail creates a clean, polished appearance that works perfectly for both casual and formal school settings
• This style keeps braids away from the face during activities like writing, reading, and participating in sports
• You can secure the ponytail with a hair tie that matches your natural hair color for a seamless look
• Adding a colorful scrunchie or hair accessory can personalize the style while maintaining school appropriateness
• The height of the ponytail can be adjusted based on personal preference and comfort level
• This protective style helps prevent tangling and reduces manipulation of the braids throughout the day

2. Side-Swept Box Braid Bob

A side-swept box braid bob offers a sophisticated and modern look that’s perfect for students who prefer shorter, more manageable hairstyles.

This chic style frames the face beautifully while maintaining the protective benefits of box braids.

• The bob length provides easy maintenance while still offering styling versatility for different occasions
• A deep side part creates asymmetry that adds visual interest and flatters most face shapes
• This length works well for students who participate in sports or other physical activities
• The side-swept front pieces can be tucked behind one ear for a different look throughout the day
• This style requires minimal daily styling, making morning routines quicker and more efficient
• The bob length reduces the weight of longer braids while maintaining the protective styling benefits

3. Space Buns with Box Braids

Space buns bring a fun, youthful energy to box braids while keeping hair secure and out of the way during school activities.

This playful style allows for creative expression while remaining practical for daily wear.

• Two buns positioned on the upper sides of the head create a balanced and symmetrical appearance
• This style works best with medium to long box braids that can be easily gathered into buns
• Space buns can be made sleek and tight or loose and textured depending on the desired look
• Adding small hair accessories like colorful elastics or bobby pins can enhance the playful nature of the style
• The remaining length can be left down or incorporated into the buns for a fuller appearance
• This updo is perfect for students who want to make a statement while keeping their hair practical

4. Half-Up Top Knot Box Braids

The half-up top knot combines the best of both worlds by keeping the top portion of braids secured while allowing the remaining length to flow freely.

This versatile style is both trendy and functional for school environments.

• The top knot keeps face-framing braids away from the eyes during reading and studying
• This style allows for easy adjustment throughout the day without completely restyling
• The contrast between the secured top and flowing bottom creates visual interest and dimension
• Different sized top knots can create varying looks from sleek and minimal to voluminous and statement-making
• This style works well with both thick and thin box braids of various lengths
• The half-up design is perfect for students who want to show off their braid length while maintaining practicality

5. Dutch Braid Crown with Box Braids

Creating a Dutch braid crown with box braids adds an elegant, bohemian touch that’s perfect for special school events or when you want to elevate your everyday look.

This intricate style showcases advanced braiding skills while remaining school-appropriate.

• The Dutch braid technique creates a raised, three-dimensional effect that stands out beautifully
• This style works best when you have someone to help with the braiding process for even results
• The crown braid can incorporate all front braids or just a selection for different levels of intricacy
• Remaining braids can be left loose, gathered into a low ponytail, or styled into additional braided elements
• This protective style keeps hair secure while creating an eye-catching, sophisticated appearance
• The Dutch braid crown is perfect for school presentations, performances, or special academic events

6. Low Bun with Braided Wrap

A low bun wrapped with a single braid creates an elegant, professional appearance that’s perfect for students who prefer sophisticated, understated styles.

This classic updo works well for both casual school days and formal academic events.

• The low placement of the bun creates a timeless, elegant silhouette that flatters all face shapes
• Using one or two braids to wrap around the bun base adds textural interest and secures the style
• This updo is comfortable for long school days and won’t cause headaches from tight pulling
• The style works well under hoodies, hats, or other headwear without losing its shape
• Bobby pins that match your hair color help secure the style invisibly for a polished finish
• This professional-looking style is appropriate for school presentations, interviews, or formal events

7. Asymmetrical Side Braid

An asymmetrical side braid creates a modern, edgy look that stands out while remaining appropriate for school settings.

This style plays with proportion and visual weight to create an interesting, fashion-forward appearance.

• The dramatic side part creates asymmetry that adds visual interest and modernizes the classic braid
• This style works particularly well with box braids of varying lengths or layered cuts
• The large side braid can be worn loose and relaxed or tightened for a more structured appearance
• Adding small decorative elements like hair rings or colored elastics can personalize the look
• This style is perfect for students who want to experiment with edgy trends while maintaining school appropriateness
• The asymmetrical design flatters most face shapes and adds dimension to the overall hairstyle

8. Twisted Updo with Box Braids

Creating twisted sections with box braids before gathering them into an updo adds texture and visual complexity to a classic style.

This sophisticated approach works well for students who enjoy experimenting with different techniques.

• Twisting sections of braids creates rope-like textures that add dimension and interest to the updo
• This technique works best with longer box braids that can be easily manipulated and twisted
• The twisted elements can be pinned in various configurations to create unique, personalized updos
• This style is perfect for special school events or when you want to create something more elaborate
• Different sized twisted sections create varying levels of texture and visual complexity
• The updo keeps all hair secure while showcasing advanced styling skills and creativity

9. Braided Headband with Loose Box Braids

Creating a braided headband with some of your box braids while leaving the rest loose combines structure with freedom in an appealing way.

This style offers a boho-chic appearance that’s perfect for creative students.

• The braided headband keeps front pieces away from the face while adding decorative appeal
• This style can be created by braiding together several front box braids or using a Dutch braid technique
• The headband effect frames the face beautifully and works well with various face shapes
• Remaining braids can be styled in multiple ways including loose, wavy, or with added accessories
• This look is perfect for students in art classes or other hands-on activities where face-framing hair might be distracting
• The braided headband adds a bohemian, artistic touch that appeals to creative personalities

10. Layered Ponytail Box Braids

Creating layers within a ponytail adds depth and movement to what could otherwise be a simple style.

This technique works particularly well with long box braids and creates a more dynamic, voluminous appearance.

• Gathering braids at different heights creates the illusion of layers and adds visual interest
• This technique works best with box braids of varying lengths or when you want to create dimension
• Multiple hair ties at different levels secure each layer while allowing for natural movement
• The layered effect can be subtle or dramatic depending on the spacing between each level
• This style is perfect for students with very long braids who want to add structure to their ponytail
• The layers create a cascading effect that’s both elegant and youthful

11. Fishtail Braid Combination

Incorporating fishtail braid techniques with box braids creates an intricate, textured appearance that showcases advanced braiding skills.

This complex style is perfect for students who enjoy detailed, artistic hairstyles.

• The fishtail technique creates a woven, scale-like pattern that adds significant visual texture
• This style requires patience and skill but creates a stunning, unique result
• Box braids can be grouped and fishtail braided together for various thicknesses and textures
• The fishtail pattern works well as an accent braid or as the main styling technique
• This intricate style is perfect for special occasions or when you want to showcase braiding artistry
• The detailed nature of fishtail braids creates a conversation starter and demonstrates personal style

12. Mohawk-Inspired Box Braid Style

Creating a mohawk-inspired look with box braids offers an edgy, modern appearance that’s still appropriate for most school environments.

This bold style makes a statement while remaining practical for daily wear.

• The center braids are gathered and styled upward while side braids are slicked back or braided close to the scalp
• This style can be adjusted for different levels of drama from subtle to bold statement-making
• Various products can help achieve the upward lift and hold needed for the mohawk effect
• The sides can be styled in multiple ways including flat braids, twists, or simple slicked-back looks
• This edgy style appeals to students who want to express individuality while maintaining school appropriateness
• The mohawk inspiration adds modern edge while the braids keep the look polished and controlled

13. Cascade Braid Down the Back

A cascade braid that flows down the back creates a waterfall effect that’s both romantic and practical.

This flowing style works beautifully with long box braids and creates elegant movement.

• The cascade technique creates a flowing, waterfall-like effect that’s visually stunning
• This style works best with long box braids that can create the necessary length for the cascade effect
• Different sections of braids are incorporated at various points to create the cascading appearance
• The technique requires some skill but creates a romantic, ethereal final result
• This style is perfect for special school events or when you want to create something truly unique
• The flowing nature of the cascade braid creates beautiful movement and catches light beautifully

14. Box Braid Bun with Face-Framing Pieces

Leaving strategic face-framing pieces loose while gathering the rest into a bun creates a soft, romantic appearance that’s perfect for students who want a feminine, approachable look.

• Face-framing pieces soften the overall look and create a more romantic, approachable appearance
• The contrast between the structured bun and loose pieces adds visual interest and dimension
• This style flatters most face shapes by creating softness around the face
• The loose pieces can be left straight or styled with slight waves for added texture
• This approach works well for students who want the practicality of an updo with feminine touches
• The face-framing elements can be adjusted based on personal preference and face shape

15. Geometric Parting with Box Braids

Creating geometric patterns with your parting adds an artistic, modern element to any box braid style.

This technique showcases creativity while maintaining the protective benefits of the braids.

• Geometric partings can include zigzags, triangles, or other angular patterns for visual interest
• This technique works best when the scalp is visible and can showcase the parting design
• Different parting patterns can completely change the appearance of the same braided style
• The geometric elements add modern, artistic flair that appeals to creative personalities
• This styling approach is perfect for students who enjoy experimenting with unique, eye-catching looks
• The parting design can be changed regularly to create different appearances with the same braids

16. Braided Crown with Loose Waves

Combining a braided crown with loose, wavy box braids creates a bohemian princess look that’s perfect for students who love romantic, ethereal styles.

• The braided crown creates a halo effect that’s both elegant and whimsical
• Loose waves in the remaining braids add softness and romantic appeal to the overall style
• This combination works well for special school events or when you want to feel extra feminine
• The crown braid can be tight and structured or loose and relaxed depending on the desired effect
• Adding small flowers or decorative elements can enhance the princess-like quality of the style
• This romantic look is perfect for students who gravitate toward fairy-tale inspired aesthetics

17. Side-Swept Low Ponytail

A side-swept low ponytail offers sophistication and elegance while remaining comfortable for all-day wear.

This classic style works well in professional school settings and formal academic events.

• The low placement reduces tension and is comfortable for extended wear during long school days
• Side-sweeping the braids creates asymmetry and visual interest in an otherwise simple style
• This elegant approach works well for school presentations, interviews, or formal events
• The style can be secured with a hair tie that matches your natural hair color for seamless blending
• Adding a decorative hair accessory can elevate the look for special occasions
• This classic style never goes out of fashion and works well with both casual and formal attire

18. Twisted Side Updo

Creating twisted sections on one side before gathering into an updo adds texture and asymmetry to a classic style.

This modern approach offers sophistication with contemporary flair.

• The twisted sections create rope-like textures that add visual and tactile interest
• This asymmetrical approach feels modern and fresh while maintaining classic updo elegance
• The style works well for students who want something unique but still appropriate for school
• Different sized twisted sections create varying levels of texture and complexity
• This updo is perfect for showcasing advanced styling skills and creativity
• The asymmetrical design creates movement and prevents the style from looking too rigid or formal

19. Multi-Level Braided Ponytail

Creating multiple levels within a braided ponytail adds structure and visual complexity to a simple style.

This technique works particularly well with very long box braids.

• Multiple braids at different levels create a structured, architectural appearance
• This technique is perfect for students with very long braids who want to add organization and structure
• Each level can be secured separately to create distinct sections and prevent the style from becoming too heavy
• The multi-level approach adds visual interest and prevents long braids from looking overwhelming
• This style is practical for students who need their long braids controlled but don’t want a simple single braid
• The structured levels create a modern, geometric appearance that’s both practical and stylish

20. Box Braid Chignon

A classic chignon created with box braids offers timeless elegance perfect for formal school events or when you want to look particularly polished and sophisticated.

• The chignon is a timeless, elegant style that never goes out of fashion
• This low updo is comfortable for extended wear and won’t cause headaches from tight pulling
• The style works well under graduation caps, formal headwear, or when wearing hoodies
• Box braids can be twisted or braided before being formed into the chignon for added texture
• This sophisticated style is perfect for school presentations, formal dinners, or academic ceremonies
• The classic nature of the chignon makes it appropriate for the most formal school occasions

21. Braided Mohawk Updo

Combining mohawk-inspired height with braided techniques creates an edgy updo that makes a statement while remaining school-appropriate.

This bold style showcases creativity and confidence.

• The braided mohawk creates height and drama while keeping all hair controlled and neat
• This style combines edgy modern trends with the practical benefits of an updo
• The braided technique adds texture and interest to what could otherwise be a simple slicked-up look
• This bold style is perfect for students who want to express individuality and confidence
• The updo nature makes it practical for sports, arts and crafts, or other hands-on school activities
• The mohawk inspiration adds contemporary edge while the braids maintain sophistication

22. Waterfall Braid with Box Braids

Creating a waterfall braid effect with box braids produces a flowing, romantic appearance that’s perfect for students who love intricate, detailed hairstyles.

• The waterfall technique creates the illusion of braids cascading like flowing water
• This intricate style requires skill and patience but produces stunning, eye-catching results
• The flowing nature of the waterfall braid creates beautiful movement and catches light wonderfully
• This romantic style is perfect for special school events or when you want to feel extra feminine
• The technique can be adapted to different thicknesses and textures of box braids
• This detailed braiding showcases advanced skills and creates a unique, artistic appearance

23. Asymmetrical Updo with Twists

Creating an asymmetrical updo using twisted box braids produces a modern, artistic look that’s both sophisticated and contemporary.

This style showcases advanced styling techniques.

• The asymmetrical design creates visual interest and prevents the updo from looking too traditional
• Twisted sections add texture and dimension to the overall styling
• This modern approach appeals to students who appreciate contemporary, artistic aesthetics
• The updo keeps all hair secure while creating a statement-making appearance
• Different angles and heights create a sculptural, almost architectural quality
• This sophisticated style is perfect for students who want to showcase their creative styling abilities

24. Braided Side Sweep

Sweeping box braids to one side and securing with strategic braiding creates an elegant, red-carpet inspired look that’s perfect for special school occasions.

• The dramatic side sweep creates Old Hollywood glamour while remaining age-appropriate
• Strategic braiding elements help secure the style and add decorative interest
• This elegant approach works well for school dances, graduations, or other formal events
• The style can be adjusted for different levels of drama from subtle to statement-making
• This glamorous look helps students feel confident and sophisticated for special occasions
• The side-swept style flatters most face shapes and creates elegant, flowing lines

25. Double Dutch Braids

Creating two Dutch braids with box braids offers a sporty, practical style that’s perfect for active students who need their hair secure but stylish.

• Double Dutch braids keep all hair secure and out of the way during physical activities
• The Dutch technique creates raised, three-dimensional braids that add visual interest
• This practical style works well for students involved in sports, dance, or other physical activities
• The symmetrical design creates a balanced, neat appearance that’s appropriate for all school settings
• This protective style prevents tangling and reduces manipulation of the braids during active days
• The sporty aesthetic appeals to students who prefer practical, no-fuss hairstyles

26. Vintage-Inspired Victory Rolls

Adapting the classic victory roll style with box braids creates a unique, vintage-inspired look that’s both retro and contemporary.

This creative style showcases historical fashion influences.

• Victory rolls add vintage glamour while maintaining the protective benefits of box braids
• This creative adaptation of a historical style creates something unique and conversation-starting
• The rolls can be sized and positioned differently to create various levels of vintage drama
• This style is perfect for themed school events, theater productions, or when exploring historical fashion
• The vintage inspiration adds sophistication and shows appreciation for classic beauty standards
• This unique style demonstrates creativity and historical fashion knowledge

27. Braided Top Knot Bun

Combining braiding techniques before creating a top knot adds texture and interest to a popular contemporary style.

This modern updo offers height and sophistication.

• The braided elements add texture and prevent the top knot from looking too simple
• This high placement creates height and elongates the silhouette
• The style works well for students who want a modern, trendy look that’s still practical
• The top knot keeps all hair secure while creating a statement-making height
• This contemporary style appeals to students who follow current fashion and beauty trends
• The braided texture adds sophistication to what could otherwise be a casual style

28. Romantic Side Braid

Creating a loose, romantic side braid with box braids produces a soft, feminine appearance that’s perfect for students who prefer gentle, approachable styles.

• The loose braiding creates a soft, romantic texture that’s feminine and approachable
• This style works well for students who want to feel pretty and feminine without being overly formal
• The side placement creates asymmetry and visual interest while remaining comfortable
• This romantic approach appeals to students who gravitate toward gentle, soft aesthetics
• The loose texture prevents the braid from looking too structured or rigid
• This feminine style is perfect for school events where you want to look extra pretty and put-together

29. Sculptural Updo Creation

Using box braids to create sculptural, artistic updo shapes showcases advanced styling skills and creates a truly unique, museum-worthy appearance.

• Sculptural updos turn hairstyling into an art form and showcase exceptional creativity
• This advanced technique requires skill, patience, and artistic vision to execute properly
• The resulting styles are truly unique and create conversation-starting, memorable appearances
• This approach appeals to students with artistic personalities who see hairstyling as creative expression
• Sculptural elements can range from subtle geometric touches to dramatic architectural shapes
• These artistic styles are perfect for art shows, creative presentations, or when you want to make a bold statement

30. Layered Cascade Style

Creating cascading layers with box braids of different lengths produces a flowing, waterfall-like effect that’s both elegant and dynamic.

• Layered cascading creates beautiful movement and catches light wonderfully as you move
• This technique works best with braids of varying lengths or when layers are specifically cut
• The flowing nature of cascaded layers creates an ethereal, almost magical appearance
• This elegant style is perfect for special occasions when you want to look particularly graceful
• The layers prevent long braids from looking heavy or overwhelming while adding visual interest
• This sophisticated technique demonstrates advanced understanding of how length and layers work together

31. Bohemian Twisted Crown

Creating a twisted crown with box braids while leaving the rest loose produces a bohemian, free-spirited look that’s perfect for creative students.

• The twisted crown creates a halo effect that’s both bohemian and elegant
• This style combines structure with freedom, appealing to students who like balanced approaches
• The bohemian aesthetic works well for students with artistic, creative personalities
• Loose flowing braids contrast beautifully with the structured crown element
• This style is perfect for outdoor school events, art fairs, or creative presentations
• The bohemian inspiration adds free-spirited energy while maintaining school appropriateness

32. Modern French Twist

Adapting the classic French twist technique for box braids creates a sophisticated, contemporary updo that’s perfect for formal school occasions.

• The French twist adaptation maintains the elegance of the classic style while working with box braid texture
• This sophisticated updo is perfect for graduations, formal dinners, or other special school events
• The modern adaptation feels fresh while honoring classic, timeless styling traditions
• This elegant style works well with formal attire and creates a polished, put-together appearance
• The updo nature makes it practical while the French twist technique adds sophistication
• This classic-inspired style demonstrates appreciation for timeless beauty standards

33. Creative Combination Style

Combining multiple techniques like braiding, twisting, and wrapping creates a unique, personalized style that showcases individual creativity and advanced styling skills.

• Combination styles allow for maximum creativity and personal expression within school-appropriate boundaries
• This approach lets students experiment with multiple techniques in a single hairstyle
• The creative freedom appeals to artistic personalities who enjoy pushing styling boundaries
• These unique styles ensure that no two students will have identical hairstyles
• Advanced combination techniques demonstrate exceptional styling skills and creativity
• This personalized approach allows students to create signature looks that reflect their individual personalities

The journey through 33 Gorgeous First Day of School Hairstyles with Box Braids reveals the incredible versatility and beauty that box braids offer to students of all ages and style preferences.

From elegant updos perfect for formal school events to playful styles that showcase youthful creativity, these protective hairstyles provide the perfect combination of practicality and beauty for the academic year ahead.

Each style offers unique benefits, whether you’re looking for something quick and easy for busy mornings or intricate and artistic for special school occasions.

With proper care and creativity, these box braid hairstyles will help you feel confident, stylish, and ready to take on whatever the school year brings while protecting your natural hair and expressing your individual personality.