Prom season

17 graduation hair ideas that will make you look like the main character

Whether you're team "sleek and simple" or "bring on the curls and volume," we've got you covered

Senior Writer

JUNE 2, 2025 6:41 PM EDTJUN 2, 2025, 6:41 PM EDT

Graduation day is around the corner! That magical, chaotic, wildly emotional ride of caps flying, tassels flipping, and parents ugly-crying in the back row. You've worked for this, and now it's time to walk that stage looking like the main character. That means the right hairstyle, one that holds up under a cap, looks fire in photos and doesn't require 47 bobby pins and a prayer.

Here's your cheat sheet for the best graduation hair ideas that balance glam and practicality. Whether you're team "sleek and simple" or "bring on the curls and volume," we've got you covered.

USC graduate Ashanti Damisi wears a cap that she made with braids to match her hair during the 2025 commencement ceremony at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on Thursday, May 15, 2025, in Los Angeles, CA.

Loose Waves + Middle Part

Soft waves are the unofficial hairstyle of any event. A center part keeps it modern, and the waves peek perfectly under your cap. Spritz with texturizing spray for that bouncy, lived-in look.

Low Ponytail

This is the ultimate power move. It's polished, keeps hair off your face, and won't get crushed by your cap. Use a shine serum and wrap a strand of hair around the base for that slick, celeb-level finish.

Half-Up, Half-Down with a Twist

This is the sweet spot between done-up and low-key. Twist back the front sections and secure them with a cute clip or hidden pins. You'll get volume and face-framing flair, and your cap won't ruin it.

Braided Crown

It's romantic, Instagram-friendly, and cap-compatible. Use a mirror (or a bestie) to make sure your braids sit just under the edge of the cap.

Silk Press + Side Part

A silk press gives natural hair a glossy, flowing finish that stuns under the stage lights. A deep side part adds drama and elegance, perfect for that slow-mo hair flip as you cross the stage.

Curly High Puff

Graduation caps + curls = a known struggle. Enter the high puff: it showcases your natural texture and gives your cap something solid to rest on. Bonus points for a bold headband or jeweled clip.

Old Hollywood Waves

Channel red carpet energy with structured, retro waves. Use a curling iron with a large barrel and brush them out for that glam, cascading finish. It's timeless, dramatic, and guaranteed to make your selfies pop.

Bubble Ponytail

Cute, trendy, and cap-friendly, this style involves stacking hair into "bubbles" with clear elastics every few inches down your ponytail. It's playful and Instagram-ready without trying too hard.

Low Bun with a Middle Part

The clean girl aesthetic has entered the chat. This sleek bun is elegant, stays put all day, and won't mess with your cap. Add pearl pins or a satin ribbon for a little extra sparkle.

Beachy Braids

Two loose braids (or fishtails) give you that laid-back, free-spirit vibe. Leave out a few face-framing strands and pull at the braids to fluff them up. This look is ideal for outdoor ceremonies and casual chic looks.

Wash-and-Go Magic

Let your curls do their thing. With the right curl cream and diffuser, you can rock your natural texture like the crown it is. Just fluff it out after your cap comes off for that volume moment.

Side-Swept Curls

Part your curls to one side and pin them back for a classic, old-school glam silhouette. This style adds drama and makes your earrings the main event.

High Bun or Top Knot

Not just for finals-week hair emergencies. A messy or sleek top knot can actually be super chic.

Plus, it gives your cap a nice perch. Tie with a satin scrunchie or add a few small braids for texture.

Boho Waves with Tiny Braids

Add a couple of mini braids to your loose, beachy waves for a subtle boho vibe. It's laid-back but still intentional like you're walking from graduation straight to Coachella.

Tucked-Under French Twist

This one screams sophistication. It keeps your hair up and off your neck (hello, summer heat) and adds a little Audrey Hepburn energy to the occasion. The cap sits nicely on top. Classy all the way.

Hair Accessories: Clips, Bows, Pearls, and Bling

Sometimes, the hairstyle is simple, but the accessories bring the magic. Think bows, rhinestone bobby pins, pearl-studded headbands, or even a floral comb. Bonus: You can take your cap off and still serve looks.

Straight + Snatched

If you have long, straight hair, wear it bone straight and parted down the middle for a minimalist vibe that still makes a statement. Add a shine spray and flat iron those ends for maximum drama.

Final Tips for Graduation Hair That Survives the Day

Test-drive it first. Seriously, wear your cap around the house with your planned hairstyle. See how it fits, flattens, or shifts.
Pack a mini emergency kit. When the wind or sweat inevitably show up, Bobby pins, hairspray, and a tiny brush will be your besties.
Think about post-cap moments. After the ceremony, make sure your style can transition without looking smooshed.