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These styles deserve a diploma of their own.
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A sleek middle part is the perfect base for your cap.
Key Points
- Your graduation hairstyle has to hold up under a cap, last through hours of ceremony seating, and look great from every angle.
Graduation prep is its own ball game. From having to consider your nails to your makeup, there is a lot to think about when it comes to your final look. However, deciding on your grad hairstyle can be especially tricky. It has to hold up under a cap, last through hours of ceremony seating, and look great from every angle. After all, those pictures will live on in framed photos across your mom’s living room. From braided hairstyles to romantic blowouts or a good updo, there are plenty of ways you can style your hair for graduation.
Some might want to go sleek and sculptural, while others will prefer leaning into volume and movement. Whatever your preference, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to graduation hair, and that’s part of what makes it so interesting.
Of course, the real flex this day doesn't revolve around your hair. It's about the fact that you've made it through finals and are celebrating the next chapter in your life. Which is why we've listed 20 different graduation hairstyles that take the stress away from your look and let you focus on the stuff that really matters.
Feathered Curls

You can't go wrong with feathered curls that curve outward. It'll look beautiful underneath your cap and is a classic approach to grad hair.
Hollywood Waves

Want something a bit bolder? Go for cascading Hollywood waves. It'll give you the volume and just the right touch of drama that is acceptable when you're graduating.
Sleek Straight

Sleek, straight hair is timeless. This hairstyle is one that has long-lasting power when you add the right products, so you won't have to do regular checks throughout the ceremony.
Blowout

When in doubt, opt for a blowout. The dreamy hairstyle is all about packing on the romance.
Tousled Curls

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These tousled curls have a great mix of edge yet sophistication. It's subtle enough to inject some personality but still meet the mark.
Side Part Bob

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For those with short hair like Gracie Abrams, go for a side-part bob with your hair tucked behind your ears. So simple and effective.
Velcro Rolls

As seen on Grave Van Patten, this bombshell hairstyle is elegant but also still so fun. It'll be the perfect vibe to celebrate the bubbly you rightfully deserve following your walk across the stage.
Beach Waves

Summer is right around the corner, which makes these beach waves so appropriate for the occasion.
Bouncy Curls

Bouncy curls like this are always a good idea. Underneath your cap, it'll make for quite the pretty sight.
Polished Brushed Out Curls

Curl your strands and then pull back the structure by combing through your curls. This will make them look a bit undone in the best way possible.
High Ponytail

If you're not planning on wearing a cap, this high ponytail with face-framing strands looks so lovely.
Shine Galore

Pack on the shine—perhaps with an at-home gloss session—and lean all the way into hair that glistens.
Natural Curls

Curls, curls, curls! Show them off on graduation day and opt for a voluminous style with a strong middle part to keep the vibe strong.
Tucked Behind the Ears

Tucking your hair behind your ears alongside a curled 'do is the combo of our dreams. You can't tell me it's not foolproof!
Curtain Bang Updo

Want an updo with a bit more pizzazz? This updo with curtain bangs and long face-framing strands is everything. The relaxed styling also means you on't have to be too precious when removing your cap.
Flipped Bob

So Old Hollywood. Gigi Hadid's flipped bob is proof that having short hair can be just as interesting when styled correctly.
Koroba Braids

Koroba braids are a beautiful, bold choice for graduation. They'll stand out and hold their shape all day. Plus, they’re low-maintenance once done, so you can focus on enjoying the day without worrying about touch-ups.
Goddess Twists

Go for twisrs on your graduation day. This striking hairstyle will ensure you look glamorous at every angle, and your cap will be its perfect plus one.
Sharp Bob

Sharp bobs FTW. Short hair means you can go for the sleekest straight hair and make an impact.
Barbie Doll Ponytail

Is Barbie graduating or is it you? This doll-like hairstyle brings all the whimsy and playfulness to the center stage.