Back to School Hairstyle Ideas

21 Back to School Hairstyle Ideas From Young Hollywood's Finest

If you’re headed back to school, nothing sets off the new year quite like a hair makeover. The tricky part is selecting a style that will withstand the remnants of summer. If you're not careful, the humidity could leave you with strands that stray instead of slay. Prepare for your first day back by getting familiar with a slew of red carpet 'dos that are chic and in some cases, weatherproof, too.

By Jennifer Ford · Updated October 26, 2020

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Skai Jackson’s Fierce Fishtail Braid

Don’t be afraid to whip your braid back and forth.

Barry King

Kehlani’s Boldly Colored Bob

Take your bob to the next level with a splash of vibrant hair color.

Theo Wargo

Amandla Stenberg’s Big Chop

If you decided to big chop over the summer, then your back-to-school is already on lock. Just spritz on some leave-in conditioner and you’re out the door.

John Sciulli

Zendaya’s Low Ponytail

There’s no way school photos could go wrong when you rock this signature middle part and low ponytail style previously worn by Zendaya at the 2017 Nickelodeon’s Kids Choice Awards.

David Livingston

Winnie Harlow’s Pin Straight Mane

Channel your inner supermodel with sleek and long tresses.

Mike Marsland

Simone Biles’ Classic Waves

Score top hair goals with plush curls inspired by the Olympic gold medalist.

Jason LaVeris

Willow Smith’s Jet Black Locs

Your hair speaks louder than words and this loc style says, “I’m too cool for school.”

Rindoff/Le Segretain

China McClain’s Waist-Length Box Braids

They require little to no maintenance and instantly boost your style swag.

David Livingston

Keke Palmer’s Red Hot Braids

If you want a hairstyle that’s as easy as hitting the snooze button, then copy this Scream Queen’s braided updo.

Rob Kim

Ryan Destiny’s Asymmetrical Bob

A short bob will carry you a long way in the slay game.

Tommaso Boddi

Justine Skye’s Wavy Bob

There’s so many ways to freshen up your bob for back-to-school season. For instance, you can amp up your strands with a fierce new color and fun texture like the Roc Nation singer.

David M. Benett

Serayah’s Side Swept Braids

Slay like the TV star in these Lemonade- style braids.

Gregg DeGuire

Gabrielle Douglas’ Side Swoop Bangs

Bangs are a quick style fix for when you want to feel brand new.

Steve Granitz

Zendaya’s 2017 Met Gala Blow-Out

This bomb blow-out will definitely have all eyes on you.

John Shearer

Yara Shahidi’s Wash N’ Go

For curly girls, there isn’t anything easier than letting your curls go wild.

Gregg DeGuire

Serayah’s Beach Waves

It won’t take much to dupe Serayah’s beachy waves. Before bed, twist your strands into 4 Bantu knots and unroll them in the morning to emulate this A-list look.

Ben Gabbe

Keke Palmer’s Purple Buzz Cut

Want all eyes on you? Douse your big chop in a vibrant new shade.

George Pimentel

Chloe & Halle’s Blinged Out Locs

Accessorize you strands with fun embellishments like the singing sister duo.

Earl Gibson III

Jordyn Woods’ Honey Blonde Lob

They say blondes have more fun and if you’re ready to see for yourself, copy this bomb bob worn by the influencer.

Lars Niki

Leomie Anderson’s Sleek Strands

If you’re used to rocking middle parts, switch things up by sectioning your hair off to the side instead. Sometimes, small alterations make a huge difference.