Finding the best back to school hair styles doesn’t have to be a hassle. You want to strike a balance between effortless and glamorous that you can throw together before the first bell rings. No problem, right? Here are some ideas to help you get the right ‘do if you’re on the go in the morning.

One of the hottest options for longer hair is also the most versatile. Braids can be used in a wide variety of hairstyles, so you can get the boost you need no matter what your look is. A loose side braid goes with a casual vibe and can be pulled together in no time at all. Use some pins to pull up a trendy wrap-around or crown braid you won’t have to worry about for the rest of the day.

Short or long, up or down, wavy hair is great for that deliberately tousled look. A few loose curls can show off a style that seems elegant yet relaxed. Grab some gel or spray from your local hair salon and give those waves a few good squeezes to get a great volumizing effect in an instant.

The ponytail is the classic solution for pulling that hair back fast, and it can be dressed up or down in an almost infinite number of hair styles. Add some gel for a sleek style without the flyways. Pile it all high on the crown of your head and pull it apart for a wild feel, or keep it low and loose for an easy, laid-back look. As long as you have an elastic on hand, the possibilities for you ponytail are endless.

For that touch of flair with almost zero effort, keep a few cute hair accessories nearby. Snap in some colorful, chunky plastic hairpins to take any hairdo to the next level, or tie in a floppy bow to keep those pesky tendrils tucked back while looking cute.

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