47 Graduation Hairstyles

Graduation day is a big moment, and your hairstyle should help you feel confident and look your best. Whether you have long, short, curly, or straight hair, there are so many great styles to choose from. You can go for soft curls, sleek buns, braids, ponytails, or half-up looks that work well with a graduation cap.

In this list of 47 graduation hairstyles, you’ll find easy and stylish ideas for all hair types. These looks are perfect for photos, walking the stage, and celebrating your big day.

Graduation Hairstyles

1. Glamorous Hollywood Waves

Graduation day is the perfect excuse to go full glam, and nothing says classic beauty like Hollywood waves. This style features deep, defined curls that fall gracefully over the shoulders, adding instant elegance to your look.

It works especially well with longer hair and adds the perfect frame for your face under the graduation cap. With a good shine spray and a large-barrel curling wand, this look can stay in place through long ceremonies and endless photos.

It gives off a polished, red carpet feel while still being graduation-appropriate. If you’re looking for something timeless, feminine, and full of charm, this style is a flawless choice. Just toss on your cap and let the curls do the talking.

2. Luxe Curl & Volume Finish

This voluminous curl look is for graduates who want their hair to make a statement. Featuring big, bouncy curls with root lift and body, it’s a style that screams celebration.

Perfect for medium to long hair, it adds a full, luxurious finish that holds up all day. Pair it with soft glam makeup and you’ve got a winning combo. It’s also ideal for adding depth to fine hair or making thick hair look more styled.

Best of all, this style photographs like a dream, whether you’re mid-cap toss or locked in a tight family group shot. It’s high-impact, but still totally wearable for a graduation ceremony.

3. Sleek Half-Up Graduate Glam

Want a style that’s classy, secure, and still feels a bit fun? The sleek half-up look is a great pick for graduation. It pulls the front section of the hair back for a smooth finish while letting the rest fall into soft curls or waves.

It keeps the face open for photos and lets your earrings and makeup shine. Plus, the graduation cap fits neatly over it without crushing your whole look.

This style works for almost any hair type and can be dressed up with hairpins or decorative clips. If you’re aiming for something clean but stylish, this is your go-to graduation hairstyle.

4. Fairytale Braided Curls

Romantic and dreamy, this look blends tight curls with dainty braids for a style that feels straight out of a storybook. Ideal for spring or outdoor graduations, it’s sweet without being childish and polished without looking too stiff.

The braids add texture and help secure your hair under the cap, so you’re not constantly adjusting during the ceremony. It’s also perfect for showing off highlights or balayage, as the braids naturally showcase different tones in the hair.

Add a touch of shine or flowers for a fairy-tale finish. This one’s perfect for the grad who wants to feel magical and look camera-ready from every angle.

5. Chic Minimal Half-Pony Twist

Simple, modern, and totally stress-free the half-pony twist is a minimalist’s dream. This style pulls a small section of hair back at the crown and secures it with a pretty clip or accessory, leaving the rest of the hair softly styled.

It’s quick to do, easy to maintain, and incredibly flattering. Great for medium-length hair and perfect for a cap-friendly finish, this look lets you keep it casual while still showing you made an effort.

If you want a look that’s neat, chic, and not too fussy, this half-pony is the perfect solution. It’s graduation beauty, but make it effortless.

6. Romantic Side-Swept Elegance

The side-swept style is for those who want something timeless with a touch of drama. With the hair gathered to one side and flowing in soft curls, it’s flattering, elegant, and super photogenic.

This look complements most face shapes and gives your profile a beautiful frame, especially when paired with statement earrings. It’s also perfect for off-the-shoulder or asymmetric graduation outfits.

The best part? It stays put under a graduation cap without flattening your entire hairstyle. Whether you’re headed to a formal graduation or just want something a bit fancier, this style delivers graceful impact.

7. Polished Low Chignon

The low chignon is a classic for a reason. Sleek, structured, and totally refined, this style sweeps the hair into a smooth bun at the nape of the neck.

It’s the perfect base for a graduation cap, no hair squishing or awkward bumps. This look is ideal for formal ceremonies or evening graduation parties and works with almost any hair texture.

Add a few soft tendrils or a pearl pin for a delicate touch. It’s a great choice if you want your hair to feel secure, timeless, and elegant, all while keeping the focus on your achievement (and your outfit).

8. Braided Crown Twist

The braided crown twist is a perfect mix of practical and pretty. It involves braiding a section of hair along the crown and pinning it across the back, leaving the rest of the hair loose or wavy.

This style works great for medium to long hair and keeps everything in place while adding visual interest. It’s especially cute with a middle part and works well with soft curls.

This style brings a soft, boho vibe while still feeling polished enough for the big day. It’s ideal for outdoor graduations, where you want something secure and stylish that won’t collapse in the wind.

9. Vintage-Inspired Floral Bun

A romantic floral bun brings an old-school charm that’s perfect for a graduation celebration. This style tucks the hair into a detailed low bun, finished with a floral or crystal hairpiece.

It’s classy, compact, and made to look stunning from every angle. Great for long or medium hair, this bun holds its shape all day, no matter how long the ceremony goes. If you’re into lace dresses or vintage aesthetics, this hairdo will complement your whole look.

Plus, it allows the cap to sit perfectly while the back of your head still makes a statement. Cute and clever? Yes, please.

10. Classic Soft Ponytail

Never underestimate the power of a well-done ponytail. This graduation-friendly version features a sleek crown and softly curled tail for a look that’s polished but not overdone.

The added bounce makes it perfect for celebration, while the clean sides allow your cap to sit smoothly. It’s low-maintenance, easy to style, and works for nearly all hair types.

Add a ribbon, hair wrap, or a sleek twist for extra flair. This look is perfect for the graduate who wants something chic, comfortable, and confidence-boosting. It’s simple, stylish, and made to last from ceremony to celebration dinner.

11. Braided Crown Bun

This braided crown bun is perfect for graduates who want a mix of soft detail and structure. It combines a braid that travels from the front into a loose bun, giving off a romantic yet composed vibe.

The loose strands in the front add softness to the face, making it ideal for cap-on, cap-off moments.

It’s great for medium to long hair and holds well throughout the day, even with all the hugging, picture-taking, and tossing of the cap. If you’re into simple elegance with a twist, this is a perfect option.

12. Pearl-Studded French Twist

Elevate your graduation hairstyle with a refined French twist decorated with pearls. This look gives strong vintage vibes while still feeling fresh and event-appropriate.

It keeps the hair neat and out of the way, which is ideal for long ceremonies. The added pearls give a touch of sophistication, perfect for pairing with classic makeup and minimal jewelry.

It works well with fine to medium hair textures and sits comfortably under the cap without losing shape. Truly a graceful option for any graduate wanting elegance with ease.

13. Twisted Half-Up Curls with Pearls

Looking for a style that blends dreamy curls with charming detail? This twisted half-up hairdo does just that. The twists pull hair back away from the face while keeping the rest loose and voluminous.

Scattered pearls add a whimsical feel, perfect for graduation day magic. It’s easy to maintain, looks great in photos, and works beautifully on long, thick hair.

This style suits someone who wants to feel both pretty and put-together without going over the top. It’s soft, sweet, and made for slow-motion cap tosses.

14. Classic Loose Waves

Sometimes the best look is the simplest one. This long, loose hairstyle is ideal for someone who wants a low-effort, high-impact graduation look.

With soft waves flowing naturally, it pairs effortlessly with a graduation cap and doesn’t require constant fixing. It’s great for thick or textured hair and can be enhanced with a touch of shine spray or a soft balayage to add dimension.

This look gives off a relaxed, free-spirited energy while still feeling polished enough for the occasion.

15. Waterfall Braid with Curls

If you’re after a style that’s unique but not too formal, a waterfall braid with curls is the way to go. The braid acts as a beautiful crown while allowing long curls to cascade down freely.

It’s ideal for medium to long hair and works especially well with colored or highlighted hair, as the braid shows off all those tones.

This hairstyle feels elegant but still playful, perfect for outdoor ceremonies and golden hour photo sessions. It’s a graduation hair moment you won’t forget.

16. Braided Boho Rope Twist

For the free-spirited grad who wants a little edge, this chunky braided rope style is a game changer. It combines texture, structure, and a bit of drama in one hairstyle.

The added accessory at the back pulls everything together and makes it feel special. It holds its shape even under the cap and adds an unexpected twist literally to your look.

Great for thick or long hair and super photogenic. It’s bold but beautiful, and definitely not your average braid.

17. Textured Updo with Volume

Want something more polished but not too stiff? This textured updo gives you volume, shape, and a lot of personality.

It’s perfect for anyone who doesn’t want their hair flying around during the ceremony but still wants to look styled. The volume at the crown adds height and elegance, and the structured back gives a clean silhouette for photos.

It’s ideal for medium-length hair and works wonders when paired with simple earrings or a bold lip. This look says, “I came to graduate and I looked fabulous doing it.”

18. Defined Spiral Curls

Nothing beats the bold, bouncy beauty of spiral curls. This look is for the grad who wants to keep it simple yet ultra-polished.

These curls are perfectly defined and full of life, framing the face while working seamlessly with a cap.

It’s a great option for medium to long hair, and with the right prep and hold products, it stays flawless from first speech to final selfie.

Whether your vibe is classic or modern, these curls never go out of style and always bring the drama in a good way.

19. Long Side Braid with Floral Touch

A long side braid is an elegant way to keep hair styled and out of your face during the big day. This one adds dainty flower pins along the braid for a soft, romantic touch.

It’s perfect for longer hair and stays neat under a graduation cap without flattening your whole look. This style works beautifully with dresses that have delicate details or floral prints.

It’s cute, low-maintenance, and makes a subtle but stylish statement for the grad who loves charm and grace.

20. Loose Twisted Braids with Volume

This hairstyle features beautifully twisted braids pulled into a half-up style with lots of texture and bounce. It’s soft, flowy, and ideal for those who want a little detail without committing to a full updo.

The volume adds elegance, while the twists keep it playful. Best of all, it balances well under a graduation cap, meaning you won’t have to worry about it losing shape throughout the event.

It’s perfect for medium to long hair and gives a soft, romantic finish to your graduation look.

21. Twisted Crown with Loose Waves

This soft twisted crown hairstyle is a beautiful balance of simplicity and elegance. Two sections of hair are gently twisted and joined at the back, letting the rest of the waves flow freely.

It’s perfect for graduates who want a romantic, effortless vibe without going overboard. The soft waves add bounce and texture, while the twist gives a little structure.

It holds well under a cap and looks especially pretty with highlighted or layered hair. This one is for the grad who wants to feel pretty but still keep things natural and graceful.

22. Sleek Low Ponytail

If you’re all about clean lines and effortless style, a sleek low ponytail is the ultimate go-to. This look is smooth, minimal, and perfect for any grad who wants to look sharp and put-together.

With the ponytail sitting just above the nape and wrapped with a strand of hair for polish, it works wonderfully under a cap.

Best suited for straight or smoothed-out hair, it gives off major boss energy while staying low-maintenance. Pair it with bold earrings or sharp eyeliner for that extra edge.

23. Braided Crown Half-Up

This braided crown half-up look is for the graduate who wants a bit of whimsy with her waves. The braid frames the top of the head like a halo, while soft curls cascade down the back.

It’s a standout style that still feels relaxed and wearable. Great for medium to long hair, it works best when you want a little drama up top and movement below.

Add a touch of sparkle with a clip or ribbon for even more charm. It’s a fun, fairytale-ready style that still fits a graduation stage.

24. Floral Fantasy Braided Updo

Add a touch of nature-inspired charm with this floral braided updo. The hair is styled into delicate braids and twisted into a bun, decorated with small faux flowers and pearls.

It’s the perfect choice for an outdoor ceremony or a grad who wants her hair to feel artistic and unique. The details elevate it beyond a regular bun, but it still sits comfortably under a cap.

Plus, it’s secure enough to last through emotional speeches and endless hugs. It’s charming, feminine, and totally photo-friendly.

25. Soft Curl Half-Up Twist

Sometimes, less is more and this soft curl half-up twist proves it. It pulls a small section of hair back to keep it off the face, while the rest tumbles down in relaxed curls.

It’s flattering, easy to wear, and won’t compete with your makeup or accessories. This is ideal for the laid-back grad who wants to look nice but not overly styled.

Perfect for all hair types and especially useful if you want your hair to look great even after the cap comes off.

26. Voluminous Ponytail with Waves

This hairstyle takes the everyday ponytail to glamorous new levels. Featuring a teased crown and curled ponytail, it adds volume and bounce.

It’s great for thicker hair types and works well when you want to wear something playful yet polished. The extra lift gives a sophisticated silhouette, while the curls soften the overall effect.

Add some shine spray, and you’re runway-ready for that walk across the graduation stage.

27. Ombre Twist and Curls

This look is all about playing up your hair color. The ombre twist and curl style lets you showcase lightened ends or balayage beautifully.

The twist keeps the top section structured, while loose curls show off every shade from root to tip.

This is ideal for grads who want their hair to feel styled, but not stiff. It’s fresh, youthful, and perfect for those who want to let their color shine through their cap and gown moment.

28. Old Hollywood Side Waves

For a more vintage-inspired vibe, go for Old Hollywood side waves. This glamorous look features soft, sculpted curls brushed into smooth waves, swept to one side.

It’s ideal for medium-length hair and pairs well with both simple dresses and glittery gowns. Bonus: it stays secure under a cap without flattening out.

This look is all about timeless glam, so if you’re the type to channel a bit of silver-screen magic on your big day, this one’s made for you.

29. Loose Textured Braid

If effortless beauty is your thing, this loose textured braid has major cool-girl energy. It starts with soft waves and pulls sections into a low, slightly undone braid that feels casual but still styled.

Perfect for thicker or longer hair, it gives shape and style without looking too “done.” You can even pull out a few strands for an airy, romantic feel.

It’s a win if you’re aiming for comfort and charm all at once bonus points for how cute it looks post-cap toss.

30. Slicked-Back Crown with Straight Hair

This look is for the grad who wants edgy sophistication with zero fuss. The hair is slicked back at the top, giving volume and polish, while the ends remain straight and free-flowing.

It works beautifully for fine to medium hair types and is especially striking when paired with bold makeup or statement earrings. The best part?

It fits like a dream under a cap and requires minimal touch-up. It’s strong, clean, and the ultimate cool-girl graduation hairdo.

31. Fishtail Side Bun

For a soft, intricate finish, the fishtail side bun gives serious elegant-but-approachable vibes. The fishtail braid leads into a textured bun that feels detailed without being overdone.

This style works beautifully for medium to thick hair and stays neat under a grad cap. It’s the kind of look that says “I put effort into this” without screaming prom. It also photographs like a dream from every angle.

32. Twisted Low Chignon

The twisted low chignon is the hairstyle version of “effortlessly chic.” It has volume, structure, and soft curled tendrils that frame the face beautifully.

This look flatters almost everyone and is super cap-friendly. It feels romantic without being fussy perfect for someone who wants to look timeless and polished but still move freely and comfortably throughout the big day.

33. Dutch Braid High Ponytail

This look is sleek with a sporty twist. A Dutch braid down the center adds cool dimension while the high ponytail keeps things sharp and energetic.

Ideal for straight or lightly textured hair, this style is comfortable, practical, and cute. It won’t get squashed under a cap and is great if you want something modern and playful with a hint of edge.

34. Double Crown Braids with Low Bun

Double braids wrapping into a neat low bun? Yes, please. This hairstyle is all about balance structured at the top, soft at the bottom.

It works wonders for keeping hair off your face and still showing off those elegant earrings. Whether you’re walking the stage or dancing at dinner later, it stays in place while still looking delicate and graceful.

35. Textured Messy Bun

A textured messy bun is graduation glam with zero stress. The softly tousled updo creates volume and movement, while loose strands keep the style relaxed and modern.

It’s a great choice if you want something that looks intentional but still chill. Plus, you don’t have to worry about keeping every hair in place this look actually benefits from a little chaos.

36. Side Twist with Deep Waves

Romantic and sunlit-ready, this style is perfect for outdoor ceremonies. A single side twist adds gentle shape to the top while long, deep waves do all the talking.

Great for grads who want to keep it natural and flowing but still look put-together. It pairs beautifully with dresses, floral accessories, and a casual breeze.

37. Bubble Half-Up for Natural Texture

This bubble half-up style is fresh, fun, and cap-proof. It adds visual interest with minimal effort just a few sections pulled into mini “bubbles” along the crown, while the rest of the curls do their thing.

Perfect for naturally wavy or curly hair, it keeps things playful and youthful without overcomplicating the vibe. Add subtle sparkle bands to make it pop even more.

38. Soft Twist Ponytail

Sleek in the front, whimsical in the back this twisted ponytail has it all. It starts smooth and gathered, then transitions into soft, styled waves that flow effortlessly.

The twist adds a detail that makes this style stand out without being too much. Ideal for someone who wants practicality with a feminine edge.

39. Precision Cornrow Braids

Cornrow braids bring a clean, strong structure to any graduation look. This version keeps the parts sharp and the braids tight, perfect for showcasing natural texture in a polished way.

It’s ideal for anyone wanting a no-fuss, long-lasting style that still shows personality and style. These braids are fierce, functional, and graduation-photo ready.

40. Braided Mohawk with Ringlets

Talk about cute and bold this braided mohawk style leads into a cascade of tight ringlets for a look that’s equal parts edgy and sweet.

It’s great for shorter lengths or fine hair, especially if you want to add body without teasing or spraying it to death. The braid adds a touch of cool, while the curls bring the softness. Total crowd-pleaser.

41. Curls with Printed Headband

This look is for the fun-loving grad who wants something a little bold without going overboard. Loose curls add softness while the leopard print headband brings attitude and structure.

It’s perfect if you want to keep your hair out of your face while still showing personality under that grad cap.

This is a great pick for medium to long hair lengths and pairs well with simple outfits that let the hair do the talking.

42. Sleek Bubble Ponytail

This bubble ponytail is playful, modern, and totally cap-safe. It’s great for thick or long hair and adds volume without heat styling.

Each bubble is secured with a small clear elastic, keeping the look sharp and polished.

It’s the kind of style that says you’re stylish but not trying too hard which is graduation gold, honestly. Add some shimmer spray to give the bubbles a little more glam.

43. Soft Twist with Voluminous Curls

This look combines the elegance of a twisted crown with the drama of voluminous curls.

It’s romantic, easy to wear, and ideal for grads who want a statement look without dealing with pins all day.

The back detail is a showstopper under a cap, and once it’s off, this look shines even more in photos and parties alike.

44. Waterfall Crown with Loose Waves

Delicate and charming, the waterfall crown braid paired with loose waves gives fairytale vibes. It’s the type of graduation hairstyle that works for an outdoor ceremony or a garden party right after.

The braid softly blends into the hair, letting your natural texture and movement shine. It looks especially great on medium to long lengths and gives you that soft, magical finish.

45. Rose-Inspired Half-Up Curls

If you want your hair to match the moment, this rose-shaped braid in a half-up style is as extra as it is beautiful.

It adds a unique focal point right where your grad cap sits and gives off total main character energy.

The cascading curls keep it romantic, while the rose detail adds a touch of artistry without needing a single flower pin.

46. Sleek Half-Up with Modern Twist

Sometimes less is more and this style proves it. A simple half-up twist keeps the hair out of your face while still showing off your locks.

It’s clean, stylish, and won’t fight your graduation cap for attention. This is perfect for someone who wants a low-maintenance look that still feels thoughtful and picture-ready.

Bonus: It holds its shape through heat, hugs, and happy tears.

47. Half-Up Hair Wrap with Curls

A classic with a modern finish, this style features a soft half-up ponytail where a strand is wrapped around the band for a seamless look. Paired with loose curls, it feels polished but not fussy.

This is perfect for graduation because it works with all face shapes and hair textures. The slight volume at the crown adds a little lift under the cap, giving you a well-balanced, camera-friendly finish.