Mornings before high school or early lectures are always a rush. Finding a balance between looking polished and sleeping in is the ultimate daily struggle for every student.
Updos are the perfect solution for busy schedules. They keep hair out of your face during exams while looking effortlessly trendy and curated for the campus halls.
Clips and buns are currently dominating social media trends. From 90s nostalgia to clean-girl aesthetics, these styles offer versatility for every hair texture and personal style.
1. The Classic Slicked-Back Claw Clip Bun
This style is the gold standard for late mornings when you want to look put-together. Use a fine-tooth comb and a bit of styling gel to smooth your hair back.
Gather your length at the nape or mid-height and twist it upward. Secure the entire twist with a large, matte-finish claw clip that matches your school outfit or backpack.
This look works exceptionally well for 16-19 year olds who want a sophisticated, “clean girl” aesthetic. It transitions perfectly from a morning AP class to an after-school internship.
2. Double Space Buns with Butterfly Clips
Space buns offer a playful, Y2K-inspired vibe that is perfect for creative teens. Part your hair down the middle and create two high ponytails before wrapping them into messy knots.
To elevate the look for school, add several pastel or metallic butterfly clips around the base of the buns. This adds a touch of nostalgia that is currently trending on campus.
This style is particularly flattering for various hair textures, including natural curls and waves. It keeps the hair secure during gym class while maintaining a distinct, trendy personality.
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For a more academic and polished look, the low chignon is an excellent choice. Secure your hair in a low bun at the base of your neck.
Instead of a boring hair tie, use two or three oversized pearl-encrusted snap clips on one side. This adds an intentional, high-fashion element to a very simple and quick hairstyle.
This look is ideal for school presentations or college interviews where you want to look mature. It keeps the focus on your face while showing off your personal style.
4. Spiky 90s-Inspired Twist
The spiky bun is a major trend for older teens who love a bit of edge. Pull your hair into a high twist but leave the ends poking out.
Secure the middle of the twist with a medium-sized claw clip, allowing the straight or textured ends to fan out over the top. It creates a cool, architectural silhouette.
This style works best on straight or relaxed hair to get that specific “spiky” look. It’s a low-effort way to look like you spent an hour on your hair.
5. Half-Up Top Knot with Mini Claw Clips
If you can’t decide between wearing your hair down or up, the half-up bun is the winner. Section off the top third of your hair and spiral it.
Instead of a scrunchie, use three or four mini claw clips to “pin” the bun into place around the edges. This creates a more textured and interesting visual than a standard tie.
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6. Braided Low Bun with Floral Pins
Braiding your hair before twisting it into a bun adds a layer of complexity and prevents frizz. Create a simple three-strand braid and wrap it into a low coil.
Decorate the perimeter of the bun with small floral-themed clips or pins. This adds a soft, cottage-core aesthetic that is very popular for spring semesters and school photos.
This style is highly protective for those with textured or fragile hair. It minimizes tangles throughout the school day and keeps your ends tucked away safely.
7. The “Pineapple” Updo with Decorative Side Clips
For teens with thick curls or coils, the pineapple is the ultimate school-day savior. Pile your curls at the very front of your head to maintain volume.
To make it school-ready, use two large, decorative gold or silver clips on either side of your head. This tames flyaways and adds a “styled” feel to the natural look.
This hairstyle celebrates natural volume while being functional for long days of classes. It’s a favorite for its ease and the way it highlights facial features.
8. Messy Bun with a Statement Metal Clip
The messy bun is a staple, but a statement metal clip makes it intentional. Toss your hair up into a loose, high knot without overthinking the placement.
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This is the perfect look for 18-19 year olds heading to university lectures. It’s quick, reliable, and looks great with an oversized hoodie or a structured blazer.
9. Twisted French Rope Bun
A rope twist bun is achieved by splitting your ponytail into two sections and twisting them around each other. Coil the “rope” into a tight bun at the back.
Secure the style with several U-shaped pins or a large claw clip for extra security. The rope texture looks much more intricate than a standard bun, despite taking only seconds.
This style is excellent for those with long, heavy hair that often falls out of standard buns. The twist keeps the weight distributed so it stays up all day.
10. Zig-Zag Part with Twin Buns
Revive the early 2000s by using a comb to create a sharp zig-zag part down the center of your head. Secure the hair into two symmetrical buns.
Use colorful mini-clips along the hairline to accentuate the unique parting. It’s a graphic, fun look that stands out in the hallway for all the right reasons.
This hairstyle is a great conversation starter and shows off a bold personality. It’s especially popular for school spirit days or casual Fridays on campus.
11. Sleek Mid-Height Bun with Snap Clips
A mid-height bun offers a balanced silhouette that isn’t too formal or too casual. Pull your hair back smoothly and secure it in a rounded knot.
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17 Up Hairstyles for Work from Sleek Buns to Textured Chignons — Read morePlace three colorful snap clips in a parallel line just above your ear. This “stacked” clip trend is huge right now and adds a pop of color to your look.
This style is great for active teens who have soccer practice or dance after school. The clips keep the shorter layers secure while the bun stays out of the way.
12. Bubble Braided Bun
Create a “bubble” effect by placing elastics every two inches down a ponytail, then puffing the hair out. Fold this bubble chain into a voluminous bun.
Clip a large, decorative bow or a wide-jaw clip at the top of the bun to hide the main elastic. It creates a high-fashion, “extra” look with very little technical skill.
This style is perfect for teens with thinner hair who want to create the illusion of a massive, thick bun. It’s sturdy and holds its shape through the entire school day.
13. Criss-Cross Braid into a High Bun
Section the front of your hair into two small braids that cross over each other like an ‘X’ at the top of your head. Incorporate the ends into a high bun.
Use small gemstone clips at the intersection of the ‘X’ for a bit of sparkle. This keeps the hair very flat to the head and out of the face during long study sessions.
This look is very popular for 16-year-olds who want a style that feels youthful yet sophisticated. It’s a great way to handle growing-out bangs or layers.
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Incorporate a silk scarf by wrapping it around the base of your bun and letting the ends hang or tying them in a bow. It adds color and texture instantly.
Add a few small metal clips on the opposite side of the head to balance the visual weight of the scarf. It creates a very curated, “art student” aesthetic.
This is a fantastic option for protecting hair from the wind during commutes. The silk scarf prevents friction on your strands, keeping your hair healthy and shiny.
15. The “Tucked” French Twist
The French twist is no longer just for formal events. For a modern school version, twist your hair upward and tuck the ends inside the fold.
Secure the entire length with an extra-long, rectangular claw clip. This provides a sleek, vertical line that looks very “old money” and polished for an 18-year-old student.
This style is perfect for late-week hair that might have a bit of dry shampoo in it. The twist hides the roots and provides a clean, professional finish for school life.
How do I make my bun stay secure during gym class?
The key to a gym-proof bun is using a “grip” product like sea salt spray or dry shampoo before styling. Additionally, use a strong elastic hair tie as a base before applying your clips or decorative pins to ensure the weight doesn’t shift while you are moving.
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If you have thick or long hair, look for “extra-large” or “wide-tooth” claw clips made of acetate or sturdy metal. Standard plastic clips often snap under the pressure of thick hair, so investing in a high-quality, 5-inch clip will ensure your bun stays up through all your classes.
Are these styles safe for natural hair textures?
Yes, buns and clips are excellent protective options for natural hair as long as you avoid pulling the hair too tight at the edges. Use silk-lined scrunchies or coated clips to prevent snagging, and always ensure your hair is moisturized before pulling it into an “up” style.
How can I make a messy bun look intentional for school?
To make a messy bun look like a choice rather than an accident, focus on the “framing” of your face. Pull out two thin strands near your ears and use a trendy clip to secure one side; this small detail tells people that the look was styled on purpose.
What clips are currently trending for 16-19 year olds?
The most popular trends for older teens right now include matte-finish claw clips, 90s-inspired colorful butterfly clips, and minimalist metal geometric pins. Pearl-encrusted snap clips are also making a huge comeback for those who prefer a more “preppy” or classic aesthetic.
Will a claw clip bun work on shorter shoulder-length hair?
Absolutely, though you may need to use the “half-up” method or a smaller clip. For shoulder-length hair, a mid-height bun secured with several mini-clips around the base provides a better hold than one giant clip, which might slide out of shorter layers.
