Graduation day is a momentous occasion, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. As you prepare to walk across the stage and receive your diploma, every detail matters – including your hairstyle.
The perfect graduation hairstyle should complement your cap and gown, while also reflecting your personal style and making you feel confident and beautiful. To help you find the perfect look for your big day, we've compiled a list of 20 stunning graduation hairstyles that pair perfectly with your cap.
From classic curls to trendy braids, there's a style for every taste and hair type. Each hairstyle is accompanied by step-by-step instructions, so you can easily recreate the look at home.
1. Classic Curls on Medium Shoulder Length Hair
Imagine yourself walking the graduation stage with confidence, thanks to these classic curls that never go out of style! A timeless look with medium shoulder length hair beautifully frames your face beneath your graduation cap. Our step-by-step guide will show you how to achieve those luscious curls for this elegant style that transcends time.
Here's how to achieve this stunning style:
- Start with freshly washed and conditioned hair
- Apply a heat protectant and blow dry your hair
- Using a curling iron, create soft, loose curls throughout your hair
- Gently brush through the curls to create a more natural, effortless look
- Finish with a light hold hairspray to keep your curls in place all day
⚡️Recreate look with: SL Raw Majesty Clip-in , Redken Thermal Heat Protectant, and Sebastian Professional Shaper Hairspray
2. Long Sleek and Straight Hair
Sleek and straight—the perfect combination of elegance and professionalism for your big day! With premium quality hair extensions, you can achieve a polished put-together look. The straight strands flowing beneath your cap exude sophistication, ensuring you make a lasting impression as you accept your diploma.
Here's how to get the look:
- Start with fresh clean, dry hair
- Apply small amount of heat protectant and use a flat iron to straighten your hair in small sections
- Use a shine serum to add a glossy finish and tame any flyaways
- Tuck your hair behind your ears for a neat, polished look
⚡️Recreate look with: SL Raw Natural Straight Hair , Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum , and BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Flat iron
3. Half-Up, Half-Down Hair
Get the best of both worlds with this half-up, half-down graduation look, a versatile option for all hair types. Achieve this look with your natural hair or with luxurious clip-in hair extensions that provide the length and volume needed to create this stunning style that keeps hair away from your face while allowing the rest to cascade beautifully.
Here's how to achieve this look:
- Start by dividing your hair into a top and bottom layer
- Taking the top layer, create a smooth ponytail or bun at the crown of your head
- Secure with bobby pins or an elastic
- Enhance the back by adding clip-in hair extensions. (Optional)
- If desired, curl or wave the bottom layer of your hair for added texture
- Finish with a light hold hairspray to keep everything in place
⚡️Recreate look with: Super Grip Bobby Pins , SL Raw Majesty Clip-ins , and Sebastian Professional Shaper Hairspray
4. Curly Ponytail with Face-Framing Pieces
Elevate your look with a natural curly ponytail and face-framing pieces, adding volume and charm to your ensemble. This look combines the convenience of a ponytail with the sophistication of soft, face-framing curls. It can be achieved using your natural hair or by adding curly hair wefts to your ponytail for extra length, offering both practicality and elegance.
Here's how to get the look:
- Start with curly or wavy hair, either natural or created with a curling iron
- Gather your hair into a low ponytail, leaving out a few face-framing pieces
- Secure the ponytail with an elastic, and gently tug at the hair to create volume
- Secure the face-framing pieces in place, and finish with a light hold hairspray
⚡️Recreate look with: Hotop Elastic Hook Hair Tie , and SL Raw Loose Curly Hair
5. Low Bun with Accessories
Discover how to add a touch of glamour with a low bun and accessories – the perfect blend of sophistication and fun.
A low bun is a classic choice for graduation day, but adding accessories can take it to the next level. Try adding a silk scarf, embellished pins, or even fresh flowers for a unique and stylish look.
Here's how to create a low bun with accessories:
- Start with smooth, sleek hair, either blown out or straightened
- Gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck
- Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure with bobby pins
- Add your chosen accessories, such as a silk scarf tied around the bun or embellished pins placed strategically
- Finish with a light hold hairspray to keep everything in place
⚡️Recreate look with: SL 'Pop-On' Clip-in Ponytail , Hotop Elastic Hook Hair Tie , and Elastic Bohemia Hair Scarf
6. Half-Up, Half-Down with Crystals
Step into the spotlight with a half-up, half-down style adorned with crystals, adding a sparkling finishing touch to your graduation look. The crystals catch the light and add a touch of magic to your hairstyle, making you feel like a true princess on your big day.
Here's how to achieve this look:
- Start with curled or waved hair, either natural or created with a curling iron
- Divide your hair into a top and bottom layer
- Create a half-up ponytail or bun with the top layer of hair, securing with bobby pins or an elastic
- Place the crystals strategically around the half-up style, either scattering them throughout or creating a more structured design
- Finish with a light hold hairspray to keep everything in place and ensure maximum sparkle
⚡️Recreate look with: SL Raw Natural Wavy Hair , Hair Adhesive Rhinestones Crystals , and Super Grip Bobby Pins
7. Long Glamour Girl Curls
Even if you don't have naturally long hair, investing in top-tier extensions can still help you achieve those eye-catching, long glamour girl curls that add an air of old-world sophistication as you graduate. Let these voluminous curls cascade down your back - a style that's both gorgeous and graduate-ready!
Here's how to achieve this look:
- Start with clean, dry hair. Apply a heat protectant throughout.
- Clip in hair extensions for added length and volume.
- Use a large barrel curling iron to curl large sections of your hair, including the extensions, ensuring uniformity.
- Once all hair is curled, gently brush out the curls with a wide-tooth comb for a softer look.
- Set the style with a flexible hold hair spray for a long-lasting hold without stiffness.
⚡️Recreate look with: Redken Thermal Heat Protectant , SL Raw Majesty Clip-ins , Hair Extension Brush Comb Kit ,and SexyHair Big Spray & Play
8. Deep Side Swept Waves
Add an extra dose of elegance with deep side-swept waves. The romantic look effortlessly blends with the graduation cap for a flattering, graceful charm. Our foolproof guide guarantees your waves will be perfectly positioned for your grand walk.
Here's how to achieve this look:
- Ensure your hair or extensions are dry and detangled.
- Create a deep side part for dramatic effect.
- Curl your hair with a medium 1" barrel curling iron.
- Gently brush the curls into waves and sweep them to one side.
- Secure the style with a touch of hair spray and pin if necessary to keep the waves in place.
⚡️Recreate look with: Raw Natural Wavy Lace Front Wig , HOT TOOLS Nano Ceramic Curling Iron , and Hair Extension Brush Comb Kit
9. Mid-Length Swept-Back Curls
For mid-length hair gworls, these elegantly swept-back curls perfectly enhance your cap and gown ensemble. They gently flow away from your face, allowing soft curls to gracefully cascade down, creating a flawless appearance for any graduation ceremony.
Here's how to achieve this look:
- Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair, then blow dry.
- Add extensions for length and volume as desired. (If needed)
- Curl small sections of hair away from the face, using a curling iron or wand.
- Gently comb through the curls with your fingers to loosen them once cooled.
- Use a light hairspray to set the style, sweeping curls back casually.
⚡️Recreate look with: Kenra Volume Mousse , SL Raw Loose Curly Hair , and
10. Low Bun
A timeless choice for any graduate, the elegant low bun sits beautifully beneath a graduation cap, offering a sleek and sophisticated look. This hairstyle, effortlessly attainable with your own hair or with the aid of a wrap-around ponytail for added volume, strikes the perfect balance between timeless grace and contemporary sophistication.
Here's how to achieve this look:
- Start with straight or slightly waved hair.
- Secure your wrap-around ponytail for added fullness. (optional)
- Pull your hair into a low ponytail, then twist it into a bun.
- Secure with pins, ensuring any extensions are well hidden and integrated.
- Finish with a smoothing hair serum and light hairspray for shine and hold.
⚡️Recreate look with: SL 'Pop-On' Clip-in Ponytail , Hotop Elastic Hook Hair Tie , and Super Grip Bobby Pins
11. Textured Blowout Hairstyle
Attain an effortlessly elegant look that radiates confidence and underscores your natural allure underneath your cap. Choose a textured blowout hairstyle to enhance your hair's volume, lending a more unique and distinguished appearance.
Here's how to achieve this look:
- Apply a heat protectant and volumizing product on damp hair.
- Attach textured extensions, then use a paddle brush and blow dryer to dry hair in sections, lifting at the roots for volume. (Add hair extensions if needed)
- Once dry, use a large barrel curling iron on 280F for added texture and movement. (optional)
- Finish with a texturizing spray for an effortlessly chic look.
⚡️Recreate look with: Mielle Thermal & Heat Protectant Spray , DIY Kinky Straight U-part Wig , and Hair Extension Brush Comb Kit
12. Bubble Braid
Add a touch of whimsy to your graduation look with the fashionable bubble braid. Our guide shows you how to create this trendy hairstyle with playful "bubbles" using a ponytail attachment. It's a fun, youthful twist that still maintains a polished appearance.
Here's how to achieve this look:
- Tie your hair into a high or low ponytail, incorporating a wrap-around ponytail for length.
- Add small elastic bands every 2-3 inches down the ponytail.
- Gently pull apart each section between the elastics to create the "bubble" effect.
- Secure with a light hold hairspray to maintain the structure of the bubbles.
⚡️Recreate look with: SL 'Pop-On' Blonde Clip-in Ponytail , Hotop Elastic Hook Hair Tie , Clear Rubber Bands , and Kenra Design Spray 9
13. Blunt Bob with Side-Swept Curl
The blunt bob with a side-swept curl is a perfect balance of sophistication and playfulness. The sleek, straight bob combined with a soft curl creates a chic and stylish look that complements any graduation outfit. This hairstyle works best for those with shorter hair or anyone looking for a fresh, modern style.
Here's how to achieve this look:
- Start with clean, dry hair
- Begin with your hair cut into a blunt bob for a sleek, uniform edge.
- If your hair is not naturally straight, apply a heat protectant and straighten it with a flat iron.
- Clip in extensions beneath layers of your natural hair if additional volume or length is desired.
- Using a curling iron, curl the front sections of your hair away from your face to create a side-swept look.
- Finish with a mist of flexible hold hairspray to keep the curl in place without stiffness.
⚡️Recreate look with: Straight Bob Wig , Hot Tools 24K Gold Curling Iron , and
14. Afro-Textured Curls
Celebrate your natural hair texture with a stunning display of afro-textured curls on your graduation day. This look pairs perfectly with any graduation cap and exudes a sense of pride and confidence in your natural beauty. Whether you have short or long hair, this hairstyle is achievable for all lengths.
Here's how to achieve this look:
- Start with washed and conditioned hair for the best definition.
- Apply a curl-enhancing cream or gel to damp hair.
- If using extensions, ensure they match your natural texture and are fully integrated.
- Air dry or use a diffuser attachment on your hair dryer to minimize frizz and define curls.
- Once dry, gently fluff out your curls with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb for volume.
⚡️Recreate look with: Euphoria Afro Kinky Hair , Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Sculpting Custard , and Conair Hair Dryer with Diffuser
15. Retro Glamour
Channel vintage vibes with pin curls, victory rolls, or a classic Hollywood wave. This retro-inspired look adds a touch of glamour and sophistication to your graduation ensemble. Perfect for shorter or medium-length hair, this style will surely make heads turn and add a timeless flair to your graduation look.
Here's how to achieve this look:
- Start with clean, dry hair.
- Select the style you wish to emulate (pin curls, victory rolls, Hollywood wave) and prepare the appropriate size curling iron or rollers. (Size roller determined by hair length)
- Use a pea-sized amount of styling cream to smooth down any frizz.
- Apply a heat protectant and work with small sections, curling your hair or extensions as needed to form the base of your style.
- For pin curls and victory rolls, pin each curl into place and allow to set using a clip. For waves, brush through curls gently to form smooth waves.
- Finish with a strong-hold hair spray to ensure your vintage style stays in place.
⚡️Recreate look with: Beachwaver Rotating Curling Iron , John Frieda Frizz Ease Secret Weapon , and Organic Keratin Bond Tips
16. Goddess Braids
Goddess braids are the epitome of elegance and strength, perfectly complementing your graduation cap and gown. These braids radiate an aura of poise and grace, making them a popular choice among graduates. They are also a great option for protecting your natural hair while still looking stylish and put-together.
Here's how to achieve this look:
- Part your hair into sections where you would like the braids to lay.
- Braid in braiding hair extensions into each section, starting close to the scalp and working down. Secure ends with rubber bands or threads.
- Apply edge control to tidy up the frontal hairline for a sleek finish.
- Decorate with hair cuffs or beads for an extra regal touch.
⚡️Recreate look with: Goiple Goddess Braid Gel kit and Lvnatu Boho Braiding Human Hair
17. Short Blunt Cut with Playful Back Flips
This fresh and modern hairstyle not only complements your cap and gown but also imbues a sense of unique style and personal flair. The short blunt cut with playful back flips adds a touch of fun and playfulness to your graduation look, while still maintaining a chic and sophisticated edge.
Here's how to achieve this look:
- Start with clean, dry hair.
- Ensure your bob cut is at a length that flatters your face shape and works well with extensions if used for added volume.
- Straighten your hair and the extensions, then slightly curl the ends outwards with a flat iron or a curling iron for the playful flips.
- Use a texturizing spray to add some grit and hold to the flipped ends.
- A light spritz of hairspray will keep everything in place.
⚡️Recreate look with: Kenra Dry Texture Spray , Short Hair Wig Bob with Bangs and BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Flat iron
18. Glamorous Money Piece Middle Part Hairstyle
Make a bold statement on your graduation day with the eye-catching money piece middle part. This glamorous hairstyle features a bright pop of color framing your face and a sleek middle part that adds symmetry and sophistication. Whether you choose to add in extensions or stick with your natural length, this look is perfect for standing out on your special day.
Recommended for licensed professionals:
- Create a sharp middle part.
- Apply lightening cream to the front sections of your hair or extensions for the “money piece” effect, following the product’s instructions closely.
- Once the desired lift is achieved, tone these pieces to complement your natural hair color.
- Style the rest of your hair in soft waves or straighten for contrast with the highlighted pieces.
⚡️Recreate look with: 20" Soft Brown #6 Straight I-Tip Hair Extensions and Beachwaver Rotating Curling Iron
19. Layered Bob
Make a fashion-forward statement with a layered bob hairstyle on your graduation day. This versatile look adds texture and movement to your hair while still maintaining a polished and sophisticated appearance. Whether you have thin or thick hair, this style can be tailored to suit your hair type and desired level of volume.
Here's how to achieve this look:
- If your hair isn’t already cut into a bob, start by getting a licensed professional to cut layers into your hair for movement and texture.
- Clip in layered extensions for added volume and dimension where needed.
- Choose to style your bob sleek and straight or with waves by using a flat iron or a curling wand.
- Finish with a lightweight hairspray to maintain the style's shape without weighing it down.
⚡️Recreate look with: Straight Bob Wig , SL Raw Majesty Clip-in , Hot Tools 24K Gold Curling Iron
20. Tousled Long Length Hair
Laid-back and carefree vibe, consider tousled long-length hair for your graduation day. This style is perfect for those with longer hair who still want to show off their locks while keeping it effortless and chic. Whether you have natural curls or straight hair, this look can be easily achieved and personalized to your own unique features.
Here's how to achieve this look:
- Start by washing and conditioning your hair, then apply a curl-enhancing cream or mousse if you have natural curls.
- For straight hair, use a sea salt spray or texturizing spray to add volume and create a "beachy" effect.
- Use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer if you have curly hair, or let it air dry for natural waves.
- Once dry, use a 1" curling iron or wand to add loose waves and texture to the hair.
- Finish with a lightweight hairspray for hold and shine.
⚡️Recreate look with: Organic Keratin Bond Tips , Beachwaver Rotating Curling Iron , L'ANGE Sea Salt Texturizing Spray , and Kenra Perfect Medium Spray
As you prepare to take this momentous step into your next chapter, your graduation hairstyle should reflect your unique personality, style, and the confidence you've gained through your academic journey. With these 20 stunning options and our expert recommendations, you'll find the perfect 'do to make your graduation day truly unforgettable. From classic elegance to trendy chic, we've got you covered—so you can focus on embracing this exciting new beginning with the poise and self-assurance you've worked so hard to achieve.
Congratulations, graduate!