Summer is wrapping up, and that means many of us are thinking about the new school year. Whether you're going to college, teaching, or getting the kids ready for school, now's the chance to ace your first day with a new 'do! Here are the hottest back-to-school hairstyles for 2024, inspired by the latest IG trends, #hairtoks, and fashionistas who caught our attention this year.
1. The Sleek Ponytail With a Twist 🎀
@sidranajam1 Summery hairstyle❤️❤️❤️ #hair #hairstyle #hairtok #hairtransformation #hairstyles #viral #twistponytail #summervibes ♬ Drama Queen - Vishal & Shekhar & Shreya Ghoshal & Vishal Dadlani
As you might have guessed, the sleek ponytail isn't just any ponytail. We’re talking about the one with a twist—literally! This style has been all over TikTok, with dozens of influencers serving looks for everyone from little girls to style queen Zoe Saldana.
To achieve this, pull your hair into a high ponytail, first making sure it’s super smooth and frizz-free with Lu's Control Collection. Then, take a small section of hair and wrap it around the base to hide the hair tie. For that extra oomph, add a fun twist by braiding the ponytail or even incorporating some tiny beads or colorful elastics. You can also go low instead of high with this tutorial for a triple twisted low ponytail look that slays.
It’s a simple style that keeps things neat but with a playful edge, perfect for showing off your fierce personality on day one!
2. Bubble Braids are Back 🫧
@jasssmen.nn Replying to @🎀jocyy if u suck at doing hairstyles like me do these they are so easy !!#paratii #🔥 #fyp #xyzbca #foruyou #parati #fypシ #fypofficial #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #viral #hairstyle #tutorial ♬ original sound - jj🪷
You thought bubble braids were so 2021? Think again! This braided style has made a major comeback this summer, but now they’re bolder and more creative. Seen on Insta and Pinterest all over, this hairstyle is all about making a statement.
To nail this look, part your hair down the middle and create two high pigtails. Secure each pigtail with hair ties, spaced out a couple of inches apart. Then, gently tug the hair between each tie to create that bubble effect. Add some colorful scrunchies or hair rings and you've got one of those cute hairstyles that scream “I’m ready for a fun school year!” And if all those ties or elastic bands pull on your hair or stress it out, Lu's Rescue Collection is there to restore and nourish those strands back to health.
3. The Clavi-Cut Is Too Cool for School ✄
Did you go for a big chop to start the summer and have been letting your short hair grow out? Just because you're waiting to rock your long hair again doesn't mean your style has to go into hibernation, too. In-between cuts for medium-length hair are all the rage these days, and the “clavi-cut” is the trendy hairstyle of the year. Named because the ends of the hair hit right at the collar bone, this style is a bit more elegant than other short cuts like the octopus cut and the wolf cut, which tend to favor freer, loose waves.
The clavi-cut is more refined than a simple grown-out bob: the front sections are cut slightly shorter than the back, emphasizing the clavicle. It's been the style of choice for celebs ranging from Emma Stone to Olivia Palmero. Keep those ends looking sharp and this style looking on trend with Control.
4. Messy Bun, But Make It Fashion 👱🏼♀️
@emma_august_ Easy peasy #messybuntutorial #easymessybun #messybun #messybunhairstyle #brunettes #messyhairstyle #easyupdo #easyhairstyle ♬ love looks pretty - Ness
The messy bun is an old favorite, but in 2024, it’s been reimagined with a fresh, fashionable twist. This year, it’s all about embracing the effortless, “I woke up like this” mood while still looking chic with the use of hair ties, bobby pins, and some creativity.
Here's one way to pull off this trendy look: gather your hair into a loose bun at the crown of your head. Don’t worry about making it perfect; the more relaxed, the better. Pull out a few face-framing strands and, if you want, finish it off with a statement accessory or a stylish twist. Prefer a low bun instead of a high bun? Check out this almost-too-easy tutorial. It’s the perfect look if you want casual with a hint of cute, and it's ideal for those busy school days when you’re running late but still want to people to think you spent time on your style!
5. Go Retro With Your Half-Up Half-Down 🌼
@mariaaiellohair Easy Hair Tutorial😍🔥 #hairstyle #cutehairstyles #summerhair #hairhack #quickhairstyle #trendinghair #halfuphalfdown #easyhairstyles #fypシ゚viral ♬ Gold (Remix) - Kiiara
Start the new high school year by throwing it back to your inner ‘90s girl. This style blends vintage flair with modern-day chic for a look that works for all ages ... yes, even your little one's hair.
To rock this half-up style, take the top half of your hair and secure it into a mini ponytail or bun. The key here is volume—don’t be afraid to tease the roots a bit to give it that retro puff. Leave the rest of your hair flowing down in soft, loose waves. If you really want to own the retro vibe, add butterfly clips or a velvet scrunchie. Since this look is all about volume and luscious waves, make sure to add Lu's Freedom Collection to your haircare routine.
6. French Curl Braids FTW 🙌
We're channeling the 2024 Olympics with this style that was all over Paris and most notably worn by WNBA and Team USA superstar A'ja Wilson. This protective hairstyle is ultra-versatile and helps shield your natural hair from breakage and dryness without sacrificing hair length. French curl braids are single braids with the middle to lower parts of the hair left loose in flowy curls. Its braids meets curly hair and it looks ahh-mazing.
To create the look, start by braiding your hair (both box braids and triangle braids work). Once you reach the mid or lower length, secure the point between braided and unbraided hair with hair glue. Then curl your remaining hair using of hair rods or a curling wand. If you want to give those curls some added volume and bounce, reach for Freedom.
