Hair is one of the most underrated accessories. And with an overflowing schedule, we often find ourselves running out the door with zero time to think of creative new ways to upgrade our ’dos. That’s why most of us are constantly scoping out looks to copy; sometimes you just need a good Instagram-stalking sesh to get some inspiration. From natural curls to messy updos, these are the best college-student hairstyles to try now.
Boho Waves
Embrace your bohemian side with this laidback ’do. Add Pacifica Salty Waves Texture Spray ($14) to your styling routine for extra curls and texture. Just spritz into wet hair and let it dry naturally.
Sophisticated Braids
If you’re sporting box braids, this style is an easy one to copy. To re-create this look, you’ll just need an elastic and a scarf or band to wrap around the front. Throw it up into a high ponytail and add a thick turban headband for a sporty effect.
Effortless Middle Part
Worried that your part will be whisked away in the wind? Keep your middle part from going askew with a light coat of Kiehl’s Stylist Series Creative Cream Wax ($18). Lightly coat your fingertips and style your part with the paste for a look that’ll stay put all day.
Classic French Braid
Go the extra mile and braid your hair up to your hairline. This style is perfect for keeping hair out of your face because it pins it all back (even if you have bangs). Secure the hair at the top of your head better with the help of Living Proof Flex Shaping Hairspray ($27).
All-Business Bob
Bobs can take the form of many different textures and hair types, but right now the straight-haired bob is trending. If you want the perfectly straight look but can’t seem to tame every strand of hair, then try Philip Kingsley Elisti-Styler ($50). Wait until your hair is damp, apply some of the product, then blow-dry. Finish by straightening the hair from front to back with BaBylissPRO Porcelain Ceramic 1 1/2 ” Straight Iron ($75).
Blunt Bangs
Blunt bangs are quickly rising on the trend charts. You don’t need much to maintain this look—simply brush them out each day, then curl, straighten, or let them air-dry (depending on your preference).
Subtle Ombré
Add a little light and dimension to your hair with a lighter tone. Invest in a dye job, henna shampoo, or simply bush in color with dpHUE Hair Lightening Blonding Brush ($28) for a gradual effect.
Loose, Curly Ponytail
This is our go-to look when we’re rushing to get ready for class. Run SheaMoisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie ($14) through your strands, part your hair down the middle, then pull it into a low pony at the nape of your neck. Secure with an elastic and then pull a few pieces out to frame your face.
Turtleneck Tuck
Tucking your hair into a sweater or turtleneck is always an unexpectedly chic look (and a great way to fake a bob). However, the static and friction from the material can leave your hair frizzier than normal. Coat your ends with Reverie Milk Anti-Frizz Leave-in Nourishing Treatment ($42) before tucking it in to keep it from looking or feeling damaged.
Carefully Constructed Curls
Let’s face it: not all of us have naturally perfect curly hair (or curly hair at all). So take matters into your own hands with a 1-inch curling iron. Simply curl your hair in alternating directions all the way around your head.
Half-Up Topknot
This style is perfect for when you want to wear a bun but just can’t fully commit. Keep this style sleek by running a pump of Ouai Hair Oil ($28) from roots to ends to ensure there aren’t any flyaways in your face while you’re studying.
Glamorous, Sleek Pony
Don’t let anything get in the way of finishing your projects—especially not your hair. Straighten your hair, then part it down the middle and brush it back into a low ponytail. Wrap a bow-adorned elastic around to keep the ponytail in place (while also looking elegant).
Decorated Dreads
If you have dreadlocks, consider adding some flair with accessories. We love a subtle addition of silver, which can be done by sliding jewelry (made specifically for this style) onto your dreads.
Grown-Up Pigtail Braids
Have you ever braided your hair and noticed you didn’t catch every strand? We say embrace it. Start by spritzing Bumble and Bumble Thickening Hairspray ($30) into your hair to add fullness to the overall look. Then part your hair down the middle and braid each side, from ears to ends. Wrap an elastic around the tip of each side to finish.
Bang-Disguising Headscarf
We all wake up with wonky bangs from time to time, but there’s no reason to let it ruin your day. If you just can’t get them under control, throw your hair up into a simple bun and wrap a chic scarf around the front of your hair.
On-the-Go Messy Bun
If you’re the kind of person who’s always got a packed schedule, this cute, messy bun will be your new best friend. The only product you need for this style is a soft hair tie. (The soft fabric on this type of elastic will reduce damage to your hair.) To create, pull your hair back and twist it all into a bun at the nape of your neck, then secure it and go!
Easy Blowout
You can never go wrong with a classic blowout style. After washing your hair, prep it with your favorite heat protectant. Then section off your hair and run a round bristle brush through your hair while blowing-drying it. If you want to keep it more casual, add a baseball cap once you’re finished.
Natural Curls
Ditching damaging heating tools? Flaunt your bouncy curls for a natural look. Start with damp hair, then run Mixed Chicks Curl Sculptor ($10) along your hairline and at the ends of your curls for definition. Then, take two to three pumps of Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk Nourishing and Conditioning Styling Foam ($12) and squeeze into the middle and back sections of your curls. To finish, use a T-shirt–material hair towel and scrunch sections of your hair to soak up any excess product. Lastly, let it air-dry, and shake out curls for added volume.
Mostly Bangs Ponytail
Battling a short haircut? This pony is a simple solution for anyone with a short bob. You can master this messy-chic look with ease; simply pull your hair into a ponytail and pull out any short layers in the front that you want to hang loose. Mist Chi Shine Infusion Hair Shine Spray ($16) all around for added polish and sheen.
Polished Bun
Wearing a bun that’s anything other than messy can be a challenge if you’re an active person. For a slicked-back look, try using R+Co Motorcycle Flexible Gel ($28) in your hair to keep your bun looking in place throughout the day. Just apply a thin coat through your hair and twist it into place with a bobby pin.
Clipped-Back Bangs
Clips are no longer those annoying things your mom made you wear when you were little. They’re now cute accessories that serve a stylish purpose and add a colorful statement to your look. To copy this ’do, part your hair down the middle and pull your bangs back on each side, then secure them with two clips in the color of your choice.
What hairstyles are you loving right now? Let us know in the comments below!
Featured photo by @cocoalizzy
