31 Curly Hairstyles For School
Curly hair is full of bounce and beauty and there are so many fun ways to style it for school. Whether your curls are loose or tight, you can try ponytails, buns, puffs, half-up styles, or simple braids that keep your hair looking neat all day.
In this list of 31 curly hairstyles for school, you’ll find easy and stylish looks that are perfect for busy mornings. These hairstyles help you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to learn.
Curly Hairstyles For School
1. Bouncy Twin Ponytails
Twin ponytails are always a hit for school girls, and adding natural curls to the look makes it even more adorable. This hairstyle keeps the curls bouncy and full while pulling the hair away from the face, which is perfect for active school days.
It’s both playful and practical, especially for girls who love to feel cute but need their hair managed. You can part the hair down the middle and secure the ponies high or low, depending on the look you’re going for.
This style stays in place through class and recess, plus it gives off that fun and energetic vibe all kids love.
2. Low Side Bunches
Low side bunches with defined curls create a soft and charming style that’s super comfortable for school. It frames the face in the sweetest way and keeps the rest of the curls neatly gathered to the side.
This style works great with both casual outfits and school uniforms. Moms will love how quick and easy it is to style in the morning, and kids will feel extra special walking into class with a hairstyle that shows off their beautiful curls.
3. Free-Flowing Natural Volume
For girls who love keeping their curls loose and wild, this natural look is a statement on its own. It celebrates volume, texture, and the natural beauty of curly hair.
While it’s more of a free-spirited style, it still works well for school with a little leave-in conditioner or styling cream to define curls and reduce frizz.
It’s also perfect for encouraging self-confidence and letting kids feel proud of their hair just as it is. Great for picture day or a regular Tuesday!
4. Butterfly Clip Twists
Add a playful pop to any school day with butterfly clips and soft twists. This style features a sleek middle part with twists held in place by bright butterfly clips, which make it visually fun while keeping hair tidy.
It’s especially great for special events or themed school days. The butterfly clips also allow for color coordination with outfits or school colors, making it a favorite for both kids and parents. Quick to do, cute to wear, and full of personality!
5. Mini Ribbon Twist Halves
This heart-twist look is such a sweet option for curly-haired school girls. It starts with a precise middle part and features small front sections twisted and tied back with little ribbons.
Not only does this keep the hair off the face during lessons, but it adds a polished and girly touch to the overall look. Whether it’s a regular school day or a picture day, this hairstyle is picture-perfect and charming from every angle.
6. Wavy Half Ponytail
The half-up ponytail is a classic, and with these soft, flowing curls, it’s elevated to school-girl chic. This look gives the volume and bounce of loose hair with the practicality of keeping strands away from the eyes.
It’s a great compromise for girls who want their hair down but moms want it slightly controlled. A hair bow or scrunchie can be added for a fun accessory touch. It’s a versatile and cute option that works every time.
7. Pineapple Puff with Bang Curls
This curly top bun style, sometimes called a pineapple puff, is stylish and secure ideal for a busy school schedule. The loose spiral bangs at the front give it extra flair, while the bun keeps the rest of the curls tucked away neatly.
It’s perfect for curly kids with thick hair and is easy to maintain throughout the day. Bonus: it pairs well with both sporty and dressy school outfits and is a win for moms looking for no-fuss, high-impact styles.
8. Beaded Twist-Back Braids
Adding tiny rubber bands or beads to twist-back sections of curls makes this style playful and functional. It starts with a couple of face-framing curls and moves into a simple twist tied with colorful elastics.
This hairstyle is great for keeping hair in place during active school time while still letting the curls shine. Plus, it adds a creative flair without much styling time in the morning. It’s ideal for moms who want a bit of extra detail without overcomplicating things.
9. Ribbons and Middle Part
This school look brings elegance to everyday curls with satin ribbons and a middle part. The hair is softly parted and tied with bows just above the ears, giving a symmetrical and tidy finish.
It’s especially great for more formal school settings or days when kids want to dress up a little. The ribbons keep the curls off the face while still letting the natural texture flow freely. It’s a sweet, polished style that’s surprisingly easy to pull together.
10. Half Space Buns with Defined Curls
This playful half-up style features space buns on the crown with the rest of the curls flowing down freely. It’s fun, youthful, and ideal for girls who love something different.
The buns add height and personality, while the rest of the curls show off the texture.
It’s perfect for themed days, fun Fridays, or even after-school events. Moms will appreciate the style’s ability to stay secure while looking fabulous all day.
11. Half-Up Twist with Defined Curls
This half-up curly style with twisted sections at the crown is perfect for school girls who love a polished but playful look.
The hair is parted cleanly and secured with little ponytails, while the rest flows in long, spiral curls. It keeps the hair off the face during class but still showcases those beautiful natural curls.
It’s a great choice for moms who want a hairstyle that looks put-together without being too tight or complicated. Just a few hair ties and a curling wand for touch-ups will make this style school-ready in no time.
12. Side Braids with Volume
This curly hairstyle uses intricate side braids to add interest and keep hair secure on one side. Perfect for active school days, the look combines neat cornrow-style braiding with free-flowing curls for balance.
It’s a fantastic way to show off a curl pattern while still keeping things tidy and fun. The little details like colorful rubber bands or tiny hair clips can elevate the style even more for school events or photo days.
13. Braided Crown into Pigtails
This super cute look wraps a braided crown around the front of the head and ends in bouncy pigtails, making it ideal for younger school girls. The design keeps hair neatly in place, which helps avoid knots or tangles during school playtime.
Each braid is clean and smooth, and the curls are left soft and defined. With a bit of hair gel and a few colorful elastics, this becomes a playful, age-appropriate style that still feels special.
14. Voluminous Ponytail with Scrunchie
This curly style gets a fun school-girl twist thanks to a bold scrunchie. The curls are gathered into a high ponytail, offering both style and comfort.
The volume is key here it’s not slicked tight, which allows curls to maintain their bounce. This look is ideal for picture days, casual Fridays, or just when your little one wants to feel extra cute at school. It’s also super quick to recreate in the morning.
15. Braided Headband with Ponytail
This look features a crown braid styled like a headband that leads into a mid-level curly ponytail. It gives a mix of elegance and practicality, perfect for school presentations or events.
The braid keeps the front hair controlled, while the curls in the back bring all the personality. It’s especially useful for those with medium to long curly hair, and it’s easy to accessorize with bows or clips.
16. Twisted Low Ponytail
This twisted low ponytail keeps curly hair neat and secure without sacrificing style. Two sections of hair are twisted from each side and meet at the back, blending into a ponytail of loose curls.
It’s easy to do and takes just a few minutes before school. Ideal for tweens or teens who want something a bit more grown-up while still embracing their natural texture.
17. Slick-Top Curly Ponytail
This look features a sleek top with curls pulled into a high ponytail perfect for a polished school style. Edge control or gel can help tame the top section, while the curly ends are left free and voluminous.
It’s great for keeping curls out of the face while highlighting texture in the back. Moms will appreciate how long-lasting and clean this look stays, even during active days.
18. Ribbon High Ponytail
Add a girly twist to a high curly ponytail with a simple ribbon! This look is easy, quick, and adorable especially for school mornings when time is short but style still matters.
The ribbon adds charm and can match school uniforms or seasonal themes. The rest of the curls stay natural and bouncy, giving a sweet and soft vibe.
19. Star Glitter Braided Design
Perfect for school performances or special days, this look takes curly hair to the next level with a star-shaped braid pattern and a touch of glitter.
The braids are precise and tight, pulling sections into a half-up look while the rest of the curls flow down naturally. This creative style is a hit with kids and adds just the right amount of sparkle without going overboard.
20. Half-Up Puff with Defined Back Curls
This style balances practicality and flair with a small puff bun on top and curls left free in the back. It’s ideal for girls with tighter coils who need a look that keeps their hair neat without pulling too tight.
The half-up section adds volume and personality, while the curls at the bottom are moisturized and defined for that “wow” factor.
21. Natural Mid-Length Curls with Curtain Bangs
This soft and simple curly hairstyle is a perfect option for school girls who love to wear their natural curls with minimal fuss.
The mid-length cut keeps things easy to manage, while the subtle curtain bangs give the style a trendy twist. It’s a great everyday look that balances comfort and fashion.
The curls are well-defined but still light and bouncy, ideal for staying active through the day without the hair getting in the way. It also works beautifully with casual school outfits, giving a neat appearance without looking too styled.
22. Tight Twist Braids with Defined Curls
This look is a beautiful blend of protective styling and natural curls. The twist braids on top help keep hair away from the face and reduce tangles during school hours, while the loose curls at the bottom add a touch of flair.
The style not only protects the hair but also keeps it looking fresh all day. This hairstyle works well on medium to thick hair textures and is perfect for both everyday school and special events.
You can also add colorful beads or rubber bands for a playful twist that matches school spirit days or themed dress-up events.
23. Half-Pony with Two-Tone Curly Texture
Talk about playful and bold this two-tone curly ponytail is full of personality. With a light blonde streak standing out against dark curls, this style adds color and dimension while keeping the overall vibe school-appropriate.
The half-up ponytail keeps hair off the face during class or activities and adds a bouncy lift to the back. It’s great for girls who love to express themselves through their hair and want something more unique than a basic ponytail.
The layered fringe also helps shape the face beautifully, making this style ideal for photos or presentation days at school.
24. Twin Ponytails with Butterfly Clips
Nothing says school-ready cuteness like twin ponytails! This style features voluminous natural curls styled into two high ponytails with adorable butterfly clips for that extra charm.
It’s the perfect blend of fun and function, keeping hair out of the way while still feeling playful. The curls look soft and bouncy, ideal for little girls who love running around during recess.
25. Double Braids with White Headband
This look is the definition of neat and sweet. Two thick braids frame the face and are tucked behind the ears, while the rest of the hair flows down in soft natural waves.
A wide white headband keeps everything in place and adds a clean, sporty finish. This style is perfect for girls who have gym class or play sports at school but still want to keep their curls looking good.
It’s quick to style in the morning, especially with second-day curls, and offers a polished vibe that works great for picture day or casual Fridays.
26. Half-Up Bun with Long Wavy Curls
The half-up bun is always a favorite for school because it’s stylish yet super practical. This look features a high, twisty bun up top while the rest of the hair falls in soft, defined curls.
It adds a touch of elegance without being too formal for the classroom. What makes this version extra special is the mix of loose texture and structure it’s the kind of look that will turn heads in the hallway but still hold up for a full day of school.
It’s also a great way to keep hair off the face without sacrificing length.
27. Curly Space Buns with Loose Ends
Fun, fresh, and full of personality this space bun style is perfect for younger school girls or pre-teens who love to play with trends.
The buns sit high on the head, while the rest of the curls cascade down the back. It’s a cheerful and confident look that brings a bit of festival flair to everyday schoolwear.
The buns are secured with hair ties or scrunchies and are easy to do with just a brush and a little curl cream. It’s also a great style for girls who are growing out bangs or want to try something new without a big change.
28. High Ponytail with White Headband
Sleek at the front and curly in the back, this high ponytail with a white headband is a sporty yet girly style that’s perfect for school days. The hair is pulled up high, keeping curls off the neck and face ideal for warm classrooms or outdoor recess.
The white headband adds a clean touch and keeps flyaways in check, making this a top pick for busy mornings. Whether she’s into sports or simply needs a style that stays put all day, this look is a go-to. It’s also easy to accessorize with school colors or themed headbands.
29. Front Rope Braids with Loose Curls
This hairstyle mixes a little detail with a lot of natural charm. Two rope-style braids are done at the front, adding texture and keeping hair away from the face, while the rest of the curls fall freely down the back.
It’s a beautiful combination of tidy and casual perfect for girls who love feeling put together but don’t want to spend too much time getting ready.
This look works especially well on long, thick curls and stays neat throughout a school day. You can even use small ribbons or clips to give it a special touch for events or school photos.
30. Curly Ponytail with Golden Scrunchie
Elevate a basic ponytail with this curly version tied up using a bold golden scrunchie. It’s stylish, simple, and school-appropriate all in one.
The curls add volume and fun movement, while the golden scrunchie brings in a pop of flair without going overboard. This is a quick style to put together before school, especially for older girls who like minimal effort with maximum effect.
You can also tuck in a small braid or twist near the crown to give it extra dimension. Whether it’s a casual day or a classroom presentation, this look delivers polished confidence.
31. Sleek Half-Up Curls with Flower Claw Clip
This school-friendly curly hairstyle is a lovely mix of sleek and sweet. The top section is pulled up into a neat bun or twist and secured with a big flower claw clip, which instantly adds a fun and youthful touch.
The rest of the curls fall freely, cascading down the back with natural bounce and shine. It’s a great style for girls who want to keep hair out of their face during class while still showing off their beautiful curls.
The smooth, gelled sides give it a polished feel, while the pink flower clip brings in personality and playfulness. This style works well for both everyday wear and special school occasions like picture day or class parties.
