25 Winter Hairstyles for School: Cute, Easy, and Aesthetic Hair Ideas for Long and Short Hair

When winter rolls around, it’s easy to feel uninspired about your hairstyle options. The cold weather, bundled-up layers, and early mornings can make it tempting to stick with the same old ponytail every day. But winter is the perfect time to experiment with casual, easy, and cute hairstyles that are practical yet still stylish for school. Whether you have long hair or short, these ideas will give you some winter hair inspiration to stay chic all season long. Here are hairstyles that not only look great but are also quick to do—perfect for school mornings!

The Classic Messy Bun

The messy bun is an all-time favorite for students. This easy and low-maintenance style gives off an effortlessly aesthetic vibe while keeping your hair out of your face, ideal for busy school days. Whether you’re rushing to class or grabbing a coffee before school, the messy bun is versatile enough to complement both casual and semi-formal outfits. It also pairs beautifully with long hair, creating a voluminous and carefree look that works on nearly all face shapes. Add a cute scrunchie or hair accessory for that extra touch of style, and you’re set for a day of learning in comfort.

To create the messy bun, simply pull your hair into a loose ponytail at the crown of your head, twist it around itself, and secure it with a few bobby pins. A texturizing spray or mousse can help give your hair some extra grip and volume. To maintain the look throughout the day, a lightweight hairspray will ensure your bun stays in place without feeling stiff or weighed down.

Half-Up Twisted Crown

For those who want a style that’s a little more polished but still cute and practical, the half-up twisted crown is a great option. This hairstyle keeps your hair out of your face while still allowing you to show off your long hair. It’s the perfect blend of casual and elegant, making it ideal for both school and any after-school activities you have lined up. The soft twists give it a slightly bohemian feel, perfect for any student wanting a subtle yet stylish winter look.

Start by sectioning off the top half of your hair and creating two small twists on either side of your head. Pull them back and secure them together with a clear elastic or small clip. For added volume, gently tug at the twists to make them appear fuller. A curling iron can add some soft waves to the rest of your hair for a more textured finish. A leave-in conditioner is great for maintaining the health of your hair during the winter months, keeping it soft and hydrated.

Sleek Low Ponytail

For a sleek and modern look, the low ponytail never goes out of style. This hairstyle is perfect for students who prefer something understated yet polished. It’s a casual hairstyle that can easily transition from a school setting to an evening out. Plus, it’s excellent for cold days when you’re wearing a hat or scarf, as it won’t interfere with the accessories. The low ponytail suits all hair lengths but works especially well with long hair, keeping it manageable while still looking aesthetic.

To create this look, brush your hair back and secure it at the nape of your neck with a hair tie. You can smooth down any flyaways with a little pomade or serum to keep the look sleek. A shine spray like Bed Head by TIGI Headrush will give your ponytail a glossy finish and help maintain the style throughout the day.

Space Buns

Space buns are the ultimate cute and playful winter hairstyle, perfect for anyone who loves to have fun with their look. These double buns are a bit more quirky than your average style, making them a great choice for students who want to stand out. They’re also super practical for keeping long hair up and out of the way. Space buns suit a variety of face shapes and are ideal for casual school days when you want to show off your personality.

To create space buns, divide your hair into two sections and twist each section into a bun on top of your head. Secure the buns with bobby pins or small elastics. You can make the buns sleek for a more polished look or leave them a little messy for that effortless vibe. A good dry shampoo, like Batiste, can help add texture and grip to the hair before styling.

Braided Headband

For a style that combines elegance with ease, the braided headband is a fantastic choice. This aesthetic look keeps your hair out of your face while still showing off your length. It’s perfect for students who prefer a more refined hairstyle for school. This style works beautifully with wavy or straight long hair and suits both casual and more formal school events.

To create this look, take a small section of hair from one side of your head and braid it tightly. Pull the braid across the top of your head like a headband and secure it with bobby pins on the opposite side. You can leave the rest of your hair down or style it in soft waves. To keep the braid smooth and sleek, use a bit of anti-frizz serum, like John Frieda Frizz Ease.

Low Braided Bun

For those who want a hairstyle that’s both practical and elegant, the low braided bun is perfect for winter. It combines the simplicity of a bun with the intricate detail of a braid, making it ideal for long school days. This style keeps your hair out of your face, offering a polished and easy look that works well for students with long hair. It’s also great for anyone who has to wear hats or scarves during the cold season.

To achieve this look, start by braiding your hair into a low braid at the nape of your neck. Once braided, twist the braid into a bun and secure it with bobby pins. A texturizing spray can help give the braid more volume and hold. For maintenance, a lightweight hair oil like OGX Argan Oil of Morocco can keep the hair soft and shiny without weighing it down.

Braided Low Ponytail

The braided low ponytail is the perfect balance between casual and chic, making it an ideal winter hairstyle for school. This style keeps your hair in place while adding a playful element with the braid. The ponytail, resting at the nape of your neck, ensures that your long hair stays manageable throughout the day, even when you’re wearing layers like scarves or coats. This hairstyle is especially flattering for those with round or heart-shaped faces, as it creates length and draws attention to the jawline. It’s an excellent choice for students who want a polished, aesthetic look that is easy to recreate.

To style, create a simple braid on one side of your head, starting near the temple, and pull it back into a low ponytail. Secure with an elastic and use a hair tie or ribbon for added flair. The ponytail can be sleek or tousled, depending on your preference. Use a bit of texturizing spray for a more relaxed, voluminous effect, and finish with a spritz of lightweight hairspray for hold. A moisturizing conditioner, such as SheaMoisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Conditioner, can help keep your hair smooth and soft throughout the winter.

Loose Waves with a Beanie

Winter is the perfect time to embrace cute loose waves paired with a cozy beanie. This hairstyle allows you to look effortlessly chic while staying warm on your way to school. Loose waves give a relaxed, casual vibe, and the addition of a beanie adds a cozy, wintery touch. This style is perfect for long hair and suits all face shapes, particularly those with round or square faces, as the waves soften the features and add movement. It’s the ideal hairstyle for a day when you want to be comfortable but still stylish.

To achieve this look, use a large-barrel curling iron to create loose waves. Curl random sections of your hair, then gently brush them out for a softer, more natural finish. Put on your favorite beanie to complete the look. To maintain the waves, use a lightweight curl-enhancing mousse like Aussie’s Miracle Curls Mousse, which will help define the curls while keeping them frizz-free throughout the day.

High Ponytail with Scrunchie

A high ponytail is a cute and easy hairstyle that works perfectly for students with long hair. It’s great for days when you’re running late but still want to look put together. The height of the ponytail creates an instantly youthful and fun look, while the scrunchie adds a pop of color and personality. This style is best suited for oval or heart-shaped faces as it elongates the neck and lifts the face, giving you a sleek and stylish appearance. Plus, it’s practical for school days when you’re active or need to focus.

To create this look, gather your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head and secure it with a scrunchie. For a sleeker look, smooth down any flyaways with a bit of hair gel or serum. You can also wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail for a more polished finish. A detangling spray like It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product will keep your ponytail soft and free of knots.

Fishtail Braid

The fishtail braid is a more intricate but surprisingly easy hairstyle that works well for long hair. It’s a fantastic choice for school days when you want to add a little extra flair to your usual braid. This style is aesthetic and looks especially good with casual or bohemian-inspired outfits, making it perfect for winter. The fishtail braid is a great option for students who want something a bit more detailed, and it works well with heart-shaped or oval faces, as it draws attention to the eyes and cheekbones.

To create a fishtail braid, divide your hair into two sections and take a small piece from the outside of one section, crossing it over to the other side. Repeat this process, alternating sides until you reach the end of your hair. Secure with an elastic. For a more relaxed look, gently tug at the braid to loosen it and create volume. A texturizing spray like Amika’s Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray will give the braid more body and help it stay in place.

Side Braid with Ribbon

For a more playful winter hairstyle, try a side braid with a ribbon woven through it. This style adds a cute and aesthetic element to a simple braid, making it a great choice for students looking for something a little different. The ribbon can be any color, allowing you to coordinate with your outfit or add a pop of contrast. This hairstyle is ideal for long hair and works best with oval or round face shapes, as the side-swept braid creates balance and softens the face’s natural curves.

To achieve this look, braid your hair to one side and tie a ribbon at the base before braiding it into your hair. Secure the braid with a clear elastic and tie the ribbon in a bow at the end for a polished finish. You can also add some loose curls to the rest of your hair for added texture. A leave-in conditioner like the Not Your Mother’s Way to Grow Leave-In Conditioner will keep your hair hydrated and soft during the colder months.

Top Knot

The top knot is the ultimate easy hairstyle for those cold winter mornings when you just need to get out the door. It’s a casual and practical style that works well with hats and scarves, keeping your hair out of your face and tangle-free. The top knot is especially suited for long hair, as it gives volume and texture to the look. It’s a great option for students with oval or square faces, as it pulls the hair away from the face, highlighting your facial features.

To create the top knot, gather your hair into a high ponytail and twist it around itself to form a bun. Secure with bobby pins and pull gently at the bun to loosen it for a more relaxed look. To keep the top knot in place all day, use a firm hold hairspray like TRESemmé’s Compressed Micro Mist for an all-day hold without the stiffness.

Double Dutch Braids

Double Dutch braids are a bold and aesthetic winter hairstyle that’s perfect for school. They give a sporty, edgy look while keeping your hair out of the way, making them perfect for days when you have gym class or after-school activities. This style works especially well for students with long hair, as the braids provide a lot of length and detail. Dutch braids are also a great choice for oval and heart-shaped faces, as they frame the face beautifully while keeping the hair neatly secured.

To create this look, part your hair down the middle and begin braiding each side using the Dutch braiding technique, which involves crossing the hair strands under rather than over. Once the braids are complete, secure them with elastics and tug slightly at the edges to add volume. A bit of pomade or hair wax can help keep the braids smooth and sleek. For maintenance, use a lightweight hair oil like Ouai Hair Oil to keep your braids looking shiny and frizz-free.

Soft Curls with Headband

Soft curls paired with a headband are a cute and casual hairstyle that’s perfect for winter school days. The curls add volume and bounce to your hair, while the headband keeps everything in place, preventing any stray hairs from falling into your face. This hairstyle is especially flattering for those with long hair, as the curls frame the face and create a soft, feminine look. It’s a great option for all face shapes, particularly round or oval, as the curls add dimension and shape.

To create this look, use a curling iron to add loose curls to your hair, starting from the mid-lengths down to the ends. Once your curls are set, place a headband over the top of your head, either pushing your hair back or leaving some pieces out in the front. Finish with a lightweight hairspray to keep the curls in place. A curl-enhancing product like OGX Locking + Coconut Curls Mousse will help maintain the shape of your curls throughout the day.

Braided Ponytail

The braided ponytail is a cute and easy winter hairstyle that’s perfect for school. It combines the practicality of a ponytail with the added detail of a braid, making it a stylish yet functional choice for students. This hairstyle works well for long hair, as the braid adds texture and dimension to the ponytail. It’s also a great option for those with oval or heart-shaped faces, as it elongates the neck and draws attention to the face.

To create this look, gather your hair into a low or high ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Braid the ponytail down to the ends and secure it with another elastic. You can pull at the braid slightly to create a fuller, more voluminous effect. A shine spray like Kenra Professional Shine Spray will add a glossy finish to your braid and keep it looking sleek all day.

Double Bun Twists

Double bun twists are a cute and trendy winter hairstyle that’s perfect for school. This aesthetic look is a playful twist on the traditional bun, offering double the fun and style. The two twisted buns add a youthful touch to your overall look while keeping your hair secure and off your face. This hairstyle is perfect for students with long hair, as the extra length adds volume and texture to the buns. It’s especially flattering for oval or round face shapes, as it draws attention to the top of the head and elongates the face.

To create this look, divide your hair into two sections and twist each section into a bun, securing them on either side of your head with bobby pins. You can make the buns tight and sleek for a more polished look or keep them loose and messy for a more laid-back vibe. A little bit of hair mousse like Herbal Essences Totally Twisted Curl Boosting Mousse can add extra hold and volume to the twists, ensuring they last all day.

Conclusion

Winter doesn’t have to mean boring hairstyles. With these creative, easy, and cute looks, you can stay stylish while also being practical for school. Whether you’re looking for a casual updo or a more aesthetic style to complement your long hair, there’s something for everyone. Leave a comment below to let us know which style you’ll be trying this season or share your own winter hair ideas!