Quick and easy hairstyles for girls are imperative for caregivers and parents as it supports several important needs at once- practical, emotional and developmental. Easy hairstyles can save time during busy routines, mornings can be hectic, therefore easy hairstyles help get children ready for school or activities without stress, reduce daily time spent on grooming and keep routines predictable. They can also help reduce hair damage and discomfort and promote children’s confidence by being comfortable throughout the day, protecting hair from damage and making them feel proud of their appearance without needing complicated styling. Easy styles can also help maintain consistency across different care environments, allowing for teachers, babysitters or relatives to recreate manageable styles. For more information on children’s haircuts designed to support easy styling and healthy hair, visit our Children’s Haircut service page.
Healthy Hair Matters, Care Tips Before Styling
Haircare can be tailored for girls, designed to be easy for parents and caregivers to follow, the focus is on keeping hair healthy, manageable and age appropriate.
Opt for a gentle washing routine, 2-3 times per week. Use a mild, tear-free shampoo that doesn’t strip natural oils. Focus on the scalp, not the ends. Detangle the right way, use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush, starting from the ends and working upward to avoid breakage, always detangling while the hair is wet and conditioned.
Trimming the hair every 8-12 weeks helps prevent split ends, excessive tangles and uneven growth.
20 Easy, Stylish Hairstyles for Girls
Ponytails & Simple Updos
1. Classic Ponytail
A classic ponytail is a simple, timeless hairstyle where the hair is gathered and secured at the back of the head with a bobble or scrunchie. It keeps the hair neatly pulled away from the face and neck, making it ideal for school, play or everyday wear. The hair is typically brushed smooth and collected into one bundle, which can sit high, mid or low on the head depending on comfort or preference. The finished look is clean, practical and easy to create.
Best Suited For
A ponytail needs enough length to gather and secure, making it ideal for shoulder length hair and longer. It is effective for girls who play sports as it keeps the hair out of the face.
Maintenance
This style may loosen throughout the day from play or movement, retighten when needed and smooth fly-aways with a gentle brush or dab of leave-in conditioner.
Styling Examples
Ponytails can sit high, low or even on the side of the year. Braids or bubbles can be added for a fun and trendy vibe.
2. High Ponytail with Bow
This fun, stylish hairstyle where the hair is gathered and secured at the crown of the head creates an energetic and lifted look. The ponytail is topped with a decorative bow- either tied from a ribbon or a pre-made hair accessory, which adds a feminine touch. This style keeps the hair neatly out of the face making it perfect for school parties.
Best Suited For
This style is best suited for girls comfortable with accessories and can tolerate them without discomfort.
Maintenance
Use soft bobbles to ensure the ponytail is snug but not too tight, especially at the crown as this can cause scalp discomfort and hair breakage.
Styling Examples
Secure the ponytail with customisable bows that can be matched to any outfit.
3. Low Sleek Ponytail
A low sleek ponytail is a neat, polished hairstyle where the hair is gathered at the nape of the neck and secured in place. The hair is smoothed down for a sleek, glossy appearance, creating a tidy and elegant look. This hair keeps the hair out of the face while maintaining a comfortable and practical fit, working well for all hair types from straight to wavy to curly. The low placement reduces tension on the scalp, making it gentler for tender-haired children.
Best Suited For
This style is great for those who prefer a polished or elegant look, perfect for parties or ceremonies. The low placement reduces strain on the scalp making it great for daily wear without causing discomfort or headaches.
Maintenance
Regular washing and conditioning are key to keep the hair smooth and manageable.
Styling Examples
Braid all the hair after securing it into a ponytail, this keeps the hair neat longer and adds style for school or special occasions.
4. Side Ponytail Twist
A side ponytail twist is a stylish, playful hairstyle where the hair is gathered to one side of the head, near the shoulder and secured in place. Before securing, a small section of hair is twisted to create an elegant, textured effect that adds visual interest and charm. The side placement and twist detail make it versatile for girls of all ages and hair types.
Best Suited For
This style works great for girls with medium to long hair as the style needs enough length to twist and pull to the side without falling apart.
Maintenance
Retwists may be needed throughout the day, especially after activities where the hair may loosen.
Styling Examples
Part the hair into two small sections at the front for a double twist, creating a fuller, more secure look.
Braids
5. Simple Three-Strand Braid
A three-strand braid is a classic, easy hairstyle made by weaving three sections of hair together. To create it, the hair is divided into three equal pieces. Start by crossing the right section over the middle, making it the new middle piece. Then you cross the left section over the middle. Keep repeating this pattern until you reach the ends of the hair and secure it with a bobble. This results in a neat, woven pattern that lies flat and works for almost any hair type. It’s gentle, versatile and perfect for everyday wear.
Best Suited For
This is a great choice for active girls, as the braids keep the hair out of the face during school, sports or playdates.
Maintenance
You can leave the braid in overnight for some loose waves the following day.
Styling Examples
Braid loosely and pull a few strands near the face for a softer look, this is great for fine or silky hair.
6. French Braid (Beginner-Friendly)
This classic style features the hair woven together close to the scalp, starting at the top of the head and working downward. Unlike a regular braid, a French braid adds small sections of hair from the sides as you go, so all the hair is neatly held in place. The result is a neat, elegant braid that keeps hair out of the face and stays secure all day.
Best Suited For
This is a great option for those with medium to long hair as it is needed to create the braid from top to bottom.
Maintenance
Minimal product is needed for this, a light leave-in conditioner or smoothing cream can help tame flyaways.
Styling Examples
Weave a ribbon through the braid as you go and tie a bow at the end for a festive touch.
7. Fishtail Braid (Quick Version)
A fishtail braid is a stylish and intricate-looking braid that is relatively simple when you get the hang of it. Instead of the usual three strands, a fishtail braid uses two large sections of hair, crossing them over from right to left. Repeat this pattern, alternating sides until you reach the ends of the hair and secure in place. This results in a tight, woven braid that looks elegant and keeps hair neat.
Best Suited For
This style works great for straight or slightly wavy hair as it keeps the braid looking neat and defined.
Maintenance
Small strands can slip out, tuck them behind the ears or smooth back with a light serum.
Styling Examples
Loosen the braid slightly by gently pulling sections apart, giving a boho, relaxed look that’s great for curly or wavy hair.
8. Dutch Braid Half-Up
A Dutch braid half-up features only the top section of the hair braided, while the rest is left down. It can look like a French braid but with a twist: instead of crossing the strands over each other, you cross them under, making the braid sit on top of the hair with a raised, 3D effect. As you continue to braid, add small pieces of hair from each side until you reach the back of the head where you stop, let the rest of the hair stay loose. This results in a pretty braid that stands out on top while keeping the hair neatly pulled back.
Best Suited For
This is a great option for those with curly or coily hair as it gives a fuller, more textured braid. However, make sure to detangle before braiding to keep the braid smooth.
Maintenance
This style can be left in overnight, since it’s only a half-up braid, it will take just a couple minutes to redo in the morning if it becomes messy.
Styling Examples
Make two small Dutch braids, one on each side of the head and tie them together at the back or let them hang separately. This gives a cute, sporty vibe and keeps hair out of the face.
9. Bubble Braid
A bubble braid is a fun and playful hairstyle where the hair is styled into a series of ‘bubbles’ along the length of a ponytail. Instead of traditional braiding, use bobbles to section the ponytail into puffy, rounded segments that look like bubbles. Gather the hair into a high, mid or low ponytail and secure it in place. About 2-3 inches below the first bubble, add a second bubble and secure in place- continue until the full ponytail is done.
Best Suited For
This is a great option for active kids; bubble braids hold the hair out of the face and are secure. Rough activity may loosen the bubbles slightly, but they are easy to redo.
Maintenance
Sometimes the hair between elastics can slip or flatten, simply fluff it gently with fingers.
Styling Examples
Position the hair over the shoulder for an asymmetrical, playful style.
Buns
10. Messy Bun with Ribbon
A messy bun with ribbon is a relaxed hairstyle where the hair is gathered into a loose bun and a ribbon is added for a decorative touch. Unlike a tight, formal bun, a messy bun is intentionally soft and slightly undone, giving it a casual, effortless look while keeping the hair out of the face. Tie a ribbon around the base of the bun, or weave it into the bun itself, letting the ribbon ends hang loose for a playful effect.
Best Suited For
Medium to long hair is best for this style as it creates a full, noticeable bun.
Maintenance
The ‘messy’ style is intentionally relaxed but hair may slip out of place, simply tuck or reposition stray strands.
Styling Examples
This style can be worn high on the head or low, add a ribbon for a soft, elegant look.
11. Ballerina Bun
A ballerina bun is a neat, sleek style where the hair is pulled back and twisted into a smooth, tight bun, usually positioned high on the head. The style gets its name as it is traditionally worn by ballet dancers, keeping their hair completely out of their face while looking polished and elegant. This results in a tidy, professional-looking bun that keeps hair secure.
Best Suited For
This style is best suited for those with straight hair as it smooths easily for a sleek bun.
Maintenance
At night, undo the bun to prevent tangles and use a leave-in conditioner to get rid of any knots.
Styling Examples
Use a hair donut or sock to create a perfectly round and full bun.
12. Space Buns
Space buns feature the hair parted down the middle and gathered into two buns, one on each side of the head. They sit on the top or slightly to the side, giving a cute, ‘double bun’ look that’s popular for casual days and parties. Each section is gathered into a high ponytail before being twisted or looped into place and secure in place.
Best Suited For
This works for toddlers all the way through to tweens, as the style is fun, playful and age appropriate.
Maintenance
A light styling cream can help with smoothness and hold.
Styling Examples
Loosen the buns slightly and pull a few strands out for a playful, relaxed look.
Half-Up Styles
13. Half-Up Twist
A half-up twist keeps hair out of the face while letting the rest flow freely. Small sections of hair from each side of the head are twisted toward the back and secured in place. It is a quick and easy style for busy mornings and keeps the hair neat without a full updo.
Suitable Hair Types
This style is great for wavy hair as it adds natural volume and texture to the twists.
Maintenance
Hair may loosen slightly throughout the day, especially near the temples. Gently retwist if needed.
Styling Examples
Twist a small section from one side and secure at the back with a decorative clip, ideal for fine hair or when you just want a subtle accent.
14. Half-Up Bow Bun
This fun, playful style combines the elegance of a bun with the whimsy of a bow, perfect for school, parties and special occasions. It’s beginner friendly, comfortable and gives a polished yet fun look in just minutes. This style is great as it adds a unique style with minimal effort, while keeping the hair neat without a full updo.
Best Suited For
Medium to long hair is best suited for this style as it is needed to create a full, visible bow. However, short hair can work for smaller, mini bows.
Maintenance
This style holds well for most of the day with proper pins and hair bobbles, fine or silky hair may need extra or some styling product to maintain shape.
Styling Examples
Braid the top sections before shaping the bow for texture and a more intricate look.
15. Half-Up Bubble Pony
The half-up bubble ponytail is a trendy and playful hairstyle where the top section of hair is pulled into a ponytail and styled into a series of ‘bubbles’ using hair bobbles, while the rest of the hair flows freely. It’s a fun way to keep hair out of the face while adding a whimsical, voluminous look. This style combines practicality with style, keeping hair secured out of the face.
Best Suited For
Curly, thick hair creates natural volume and fuller bubbles.
Maintenance
Make sure each bubble is snug but not too tight to avoid breakage.
Styling Examples
Make two bubble ponytails, one on each side, for a sporty, fun look.
Short Hair–Friendly Styles
16. Mini Pigtail Twists
This style features the hair being parted into two or more small sections and each section is twisted into a mini pigtail. This hairstyle is perfect for young girls of all ages, from toddlers to tweens. It works well for school, playdates, casual outings, and even special occasions like birthday parties or family photos. Mini pigtail twists are not only adorable but also practical, they keep hair secure during active play while allowing for easy styling and personalisation.
Best Suited For
This style works beautifully for curly hair as it adds natural texture and interest.
Maintenance
Leave-in conditioner will help tame frizz and stray hairs.
Styling Examples
Divide the hair into more sections to create multiple mini twists across the head, resulting in a creative and playful pattern.
17. Clip-Back Fringe Style
The clip-back fringe is a cute and easy hairstyle where the front section of hair- often bangs or fringe- is gently pulled back and secured with a hair clip or decorative pin. This style keeps hair out of the face while adding a polished, playful, or stylish touch depending on the clip used. This hairstyle is perfect for young girls who want a practical yet fashionable look.
Best Suited For
This is great for everyday wear as it is quick and fuss-free.
Maintenance
Avoid pulling hair too tightly to prevent breakage.
Styling Examples
Use two clips symmetrically on each side for a playful look.
18. Headband Tuck Style
The headband tuck is a classic and chic hairstyle where a headband is used as an accessory to tuck the hair behind, creating a smooth, tucked look that keeps hair neat and out of the face. It’s a versatile style that works for casual days, school, parties, or special occasions. Unlike traditional updos, the hair remains mostly loose while the headband helps create a polished and tidy appearance.
Best Suited For
This works great for medium to long hair as it is ideal for tucking hair neatly behind the headband.
Maintenance
Hair may slip from behind the headband during play, gently retuck if needed.
Styling Examples
Use a bow, sparkly or patterned headband for a festive or party-ready style.
Curls & Waves
19. Heatless Overnight Waves
Heatless overnight waves are a gentle, beginner-friendly way to create soft, wavy hair without using heat. The hair is styled before bed using braids, twists or other techniques, allowing natural waves to form overnight. In the morning, the hair is unravelled to reveal soft, flowing waves that look polished, playful, and effortless. This style is perfect for young girls who want a fun, wavy look without damaging their hair with heat styling tools.
Best Suited For
This is a great choice for those with busy mornings as you are waking up ready to go and requires minimal styling.
Maintenance
Gently finger-comb or use a wide-tooth comb to separate the waves.
Styling Examples
For more defined waves, braid or twist smaller sections of the hair.
20. Curly Pigtails
Curly pigtails are a cheerful and versatile hairstyle where the hair is divided into two sections and secured into pigtails, showcasing natural curls or styled curls for added volume and texture. This style is playful, cute, and perfect for keeping hair out of the face while highlighting natural curls or waves. They’re easy to create and can be dressed up with ribbons, bows, clips, or other hair accessories for extra flair.
Bes Suited For
This is a great way to show off natural curls.
Maintenance
Separate the curls using your fingers, avoiding frizz or breakage.
Styling Examples
Add ribbons or bows at the base for a playful, girly touch.
Tips for Stress-Free Styling
When it comes to stress-free styling, focus on easy manageable styles like ponytails, braids or pigtails. Avoid overly intricate styles on busy mornings- simplicity reduces frustration for both kids and parents. Tools such as soft elastics, mini claw clips and ribbons help elevate simple styles without discomfort.
Professional Styling Support from Rush
Family friendly salons help offer a gentle approach with children. They can offer expert advice for braids, styling maintenance and hair health.
FAQ’s
Choosing the correct hairstyle for your child, all comes down to understanding the hair type and texture, as well as the length and maintenance.
For active children, the goal is to choose hairstyles that keep hair secure, out of the face and comfortable.
For kids, less is more when it comes to styling products. Their hair is generally more delicate than adult hair, so use products sparingly to keep hair heathy and avoid buildup.
