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Side-Swept Pony
Getty Images This super polished ponytail looks like it took hours, but probably only took a few seconds – that's the power of a good hair clip.
Effortless Beachy Waves
Dave J Hogan//Getty Images This seems to be Olivia Rodrigo's go-to look lately, and we can totally see why. It gives that "I woke up like this" glam and is so easy to achieve, you can even do it overnight without heat.
Half Up Box Braids
Jon Kopaloff//Getty Images If you're looking for a quick and easy way to change up your box braids, this is it. By sectioning some strands into a half-updo like Never Have I Ever's Lee Rodriguez, you keep the classic beauty of the protective style while giving it some extra flair.
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Swept Back
Getty Images Go suave on the first day of school with swept back bangs that serve that 2020 Greaser vibe. It's somehow both casual and glamorous.
Big Bow Energy
Getty Images Hair clips and statement bows – 2020's favorite accessories. Ditch your hair tie and use your favorite barrette (the more extra the better) to clip back your hair into a low pony. It'll stay put all day and look so chic.
Twisted Bangs
Getty Images Instead of your typical braids, try out a cool twisted take to keep your bangs out of your face. Keep your center part as is, then wrap two pieces of hair over the other. Wear your natural texture for a chill, beachy look.
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Tucked Back Strands
Getty Images This is quite possibly the easiest update to the straight-hair look. Just tuck the front of your hair behind your ears and push the rest back behind your shoulders. Idk why, but it always looks fab.
Extra Long Bangs
Getty Images A half-up, braided statement bun with bangs and gold detailing? There's a lot of chicness happening here. Skai Jackson keeps this hairdo from looking basic with super long bangs – an unexpected, but super cool detail.
Major Headband
Getty Images Headbands are the Instagram version of a baseball cap – they effectively distract from even the worst hair day. Pop one on and all attention will be on the chic accessory.
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Side Bun
Getty Images The half-up bun is a trademark. Give it an artsy refresh by swirling your bun a little to the side. The unexpected angle will make your back to school hairstyle look 100% unique.
Space Buns
Getty Images Billie's word is law and she has given her stamp of approval on messy space buns. Make the look feel more chill (and less Coachella) by pulling some wispies down around your face.
Classic Curls
Jon Kopaloff//Getty Images You can't go wrong with a classic. Maitreyi Ramakrishnan rocks curls that can be achieved in 30 minutes or less. Grab a curling wand and don't forget to set that 'do with some hairspray.
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Contrasting Braids
Getty Images Beaded braids are classic, but if you want to elevate the look just a bit, play with the sizing of each braid. Mixing in some thicker braids will make you look straight out of a magazine.
Y2K-Inspired Front Twists
Amy Sussman//Getty Images Tons of trends from the early 2000s are making a comeback in fashion and music, but why limit it to that? High School Musical: The Musical: The Series' Julia Lester rocks some super cute front twists with loose waves. So, grab your favorite rubber bands (or butterfly clips, if you really want to pay homage to the 2000s) and get to twisting.
Faux Bangs
Getty Images I don't know who needs to hear this, but: STEP AWAY FROM THE SCISSORS. You can get a chunky bang without permanently chopping your hair. Just pull your natural curls up into a high bun and instead of tucking in the ends of your hair, pull them down to dupe the look of straight-across bangs.
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Buzzcut
James Devaney//Getty Images This may or may not be the easiest option on this list. If you've been debating on whether you should get a buzzcut or not, let Gossip Girl's Jordan Alexander be your ultimate inspo. Maintain your buzz by washing and towel drying — no hair products or styling necessary.
Crimped
Getty Images These waves look like they require a cosmetology degree, but really all you need is a three-barrel crimper. Just hit your tresses with the hot tool and your hair will come out looking like this.
Fishtail Top Knot
Getty Images Not all top knots are created equal – and I know that for sure, because this one is one of the coolest I've seen. Fishtail your ponytail before you twist it into a bun for an elevated back to school hairstyle.
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Artsy Pins
Getty Images I've spent my entire life trying to hide my bobby pins and now Dove Cameron is out here rocking them like a champion. The contrast of the black pins against her blonde locks gives the perfect amount of edge.
Layered Headbands
Getty Images If the Blair Waldorf aesthetic isn't quite your vibe, go for a more ethereal take on the headband trend. Wrap some gold twine around your head a few times to replicate Amandla Stenberg's fairy princess hairdo.
Sam is an assistant news editor at Cosmo, covering all things pop culture, entertainment, and celebrity news. She previously covered those same topics along with health, lifestyle, and beauty at Seventeen. When she isn't draping her cheeks in blush, you can probably find her live-tweeting awards shows or making SwiftToks.
Kelsey is Seventeen.com's fashion expert and resident Harry Potter nerd. At the office, she spends her day writing about style, beauty, and literally every move Kylie Jenner makes. On the weekends, you can find her sifting through vintage shops and hunting for the perfect burger. Follow her on Instagram at @klstieg.
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