The comforting days of freedom are winding down, and many of our readers are headed back to school. Whether you’re traveling back to an HBCU down south or a huge Ivy League in a big city, the remnants of summer weather are still looming, so we understand the need for fuss-free, easy hair. It’s okay to be a little vain when it comes to choosing your back-to-school style, though. After all, when you look good, you feel good. Plus, this is precisely the energy you’ll need to conquer a more challenging course load, jetting to a plethora of org meetings, and, overall, just basking in the fleeting experience of college.
We are fully aware that back-to-school season requires functional hairstyles that account for your busy lifestyle but also keep you feeling put-together for both classes and after-hour functions, as each year marks an opportunity to show your peers just how much you’ve leveled up (among other things) from the year before.
We’ve compiled a list of 14 of our favorite ones perfect for our collegiate queens, from bantu knots to the viral curly flip-over to mini twists.
1. Curved Stitch Braids
Image Source: @hairbytayy
Stitch braids are the perfect style for those looking to get braids but want to avoid an overwhelming amount of hair on your head. With their curved design, these ones nod to Alicia Keys’ iconic cornrows from the 2000s. What we love about this style is that it is customizable, too. Consult with your braider to decide which designs will go best with your head shape and facial structure.
2. Curly Half Up/Half Down
Image Source: @potentexperience
Though fall is approaching, we are fully aware that the sun is still gleaming on many college campuses. Curly extensions are the perfect style to pair with warm weather for its flirty, effortless feel. This half-up half-down can easily be achieved with clip-ins or beauty supply pack hair. Plus, you don’t have to worry about ensuring it stays neat or sleek.
3. Mini Twists
Image Source: @blakejael
Mini twists are the cutest style for our natural college girls who want to DIY their back-to-school hair. They can be as small and neat as you like– just be sure to allot a few hours for bringing them to life depending on your hair length and density. They will keep your hair protected while also offering versatility.
4. Bantu Knots
Image Source: @_kaicealea
Bantu knots on Black women never get old. Not only do they have a cool, edgy vibe but they are also a nice style to show off that face card. They don’t require a hunt for a stylist or long hours in the chair either. Simply part and sleek your hair before wrapping it around itself. This is another style that can be catered to your lifestyle. Want it to last longer? Go for smaller sections and more products.
5. Picked-out Puff
Image Source:@preciousidika
Want to wear your hair in its natural state but unsure how? A good ol’ puff updo will never fail you. For a voluminous, dense look, pick your hair out.
6. Boho Senegalese Twist Bob
Image Source: @hair_by_favy__
The boho hair trend has been all over all of our timelines this summer. These Senegalese twists with loose curls are a different way to hop on the trend while it’s still warm. The bob length allows this style to be fuss-free as you don’t have to worry about maintaining a lot of hair from the boho.
7. Three-part Sleek Pony
Video Source: @knxyrae
It’s a rite of passage to master a good ponytail in college. Hair suppliers are making the style a lot easier to achieve at home with invisible sleeve packaging that allows you to slip the ponytail right on instead of worrying about attaching the hair with glue or bobby pins. Add in the three-part method for a sleek, mature style.
8. Curly Flip Over
Video Source: @kkaitthy
Flip Over hairstyles are another viral summer trend that is here to stay for fall. Acclaimed for their ability to combine low-maintenance with versatility, this style will ensure that you feel effortlessly beautiful throughout your day-to-day life on campus. Find a curly hair vendor that suits your hair type and be sure to get your hands on rods or curling irons to maintain the style.
9. Slicked Front and Curls
Video Source: @tacarrashyann
It can be nice to have hair out of your face in the heat. If you want a natural style that will show off your curls, grab some gel and sleek the front of your hair down like the curl queen above. This look will last you throughout the week with proper maintenance and provide freedom to try incorporating updos or half-up half downs as well. You can sleek your hair in the part of your choice and secure it with pins or rubber bands.
10. Natural Half-up Half Down
Video Source: @niaax.o
Need more curly hair inspo? Incorporate this claw clip half up half down into your rotation. Grab your favorite gel combo for the desired look. You can clip your half up, style it in a bun, or let it hang. Our reference defined her curls wash ‘n go style, but this can be achieved on just about any hair, whether picked out, blown out, or twisted out.
11. Bun Updo and Bang
Video Source: @kyranikole
Getting a silk press ahead of back to school is half the battle in low-maintenance styles. If the heat or humidity starts to get to it, try out this cutesy bun updo with a side bang. Using a medium-hold hair spray and a low-heat styling tool, this look will only take minutes and can easily be refreshed.
12. Messy Puff with Bangs
Image Source: @baya.zm
Sometimes messy hair is the look. Try out this effortless puff by compiling your strands into a high pony. You can leave the front of your hair out and pin them at the root for bangs.
13. Jumbo Knotless Braids
Video Source: @ttaystouch
Here at NaturallyCurly, we are no strangers to the increasingly high cost of knotless braids. If you want a knotless style that won’t break the bank, consider jumbo-sized braids. They have the same versatility and low maintenance as smaller braids at a lower cost.
14. Y2K-Inspired Space Buns with Bangs
Image Source: @kashiajabre
Straight hair sporters, this style is for you. This style requires two sleek low buns, a very demure take on y2k space buns. We love it because it can be achieved on both bob cuts and long hair. Curl two bangs in the front and you’re good to go.
There are plenty of quick and easy styles that will help you exude beauty and brains as you take on another academic year. Whether you’re showing these references to your stylists or trying them out at home, we hope you’ve found some inspiration for your back-to-school look.
