Top Graduation Hairstyles - The Perfect Look For Your Big Day!

By Alex. Created on July 2, 2024

Graduation day is a milestone that deserves to be celebrated in style, and what better way to do that than with a stunning hairstyle? Whether you’re donning a cap or going cap-less, there are plenty of options to ensure you look your best as you walk across that stage. Here’s a guide to graduation hairstyles for every hair length and some fun, creative styles to inspire you.

Hair Prep

Before any big event you want to ensure that your hair is prepped and ready for the event. This means ensuring that your hair care routine the night before is perfect, using the Josh Wood Colour Dry & Damaging Shampoo and Conditioner. A good shampoo and conditioner  will leave your hair feeling smoother and softer, your flyaways are tamed and your vibrant and glossy hair colour is locked in. To further hydrate your hair, use the Josh Wood Colour Miracle Mask which helps to protect colour from fading and is packed with natural ingredients and UV filters for your healthiest hair yet! It’s perfect for ensuring your hair is prepped to use lots of heat and hairspray for the following day. 

Before and After of the Josh Wood Colour Miracle MaskImage Credit: Josh Wood Colour

Hair prep is one thing, but making sure that your hair colour is fresh is so important. You could either have a semi-permanent colour refresh using our range of Josh Wood Colour Glosses or use our Josh Wood Colour Permanent Colour Kits to remove 100% of grey hair and adding in our Miracle Shot to protect your hair from colouring with its unique blend of vitamins and conditions for longer lasting results. The Miracle Shot helps to protect colour fade by 38%, strengthens hair by 2.7x and ensures 62% less breakage. 

Graduation Hairstyle for Short Hair

1. Pixie Cut with Accessories

A pixie cut is effortlessly chic and easy to style. To add a touch of glamour for graduation, consider using decorative bobby pins or hair clips. These accessories can make your look stand out, especially if you’re wearing a cap.

2. Textured Waves

For those with a bob or slightly longer short hair, textured waves are a great option. Use a curling iron or a texturizing spray to create loose waves. This style adds volume and can be complemented with a side part to accommodate the graduation cap.

Textured Beachy Waves Graduation Hair from PinterestImage Credit: Pinterest

3. Sleek and Straight

A sleek, straight hairstyle is timeless and elegant. Use a straightener to smooth out your hair, and add a shine serum for a polished finish. This look works well under a cap, keeping everything neat and in place.

Sleek and Straight hair from PinterestImage Credit: Pinterest

Graduation Hairstyles for Mid-Length Hair

1. Half-Up Half-Down Hairstyle

The half-up half-down style is versatile and perfect for mid-length hair. It keeps hair away from your face while adding a bit of sophistication. You can enhance the look with soft curls and a delicate hair accessory like a jewelled barrette.
Beaded barrette Clip from PinterestImage Credit: Pinterest

2. Braided Crown Hairstyle

A braided crown is a beautiful, bohemian look that is great for graduation. It keeps hair secure under the cap and looks stunning once the cap comes off. This style involves braiding sections of your hair and pinning them around your head like a crown.

Braided Crown from PinterestImage Credit: Pinterest

3. Loose Curls

Loose curls add a touch of elegance and volume. Use a large barrel curling iron to create big, bouncy curls. This style looks great both with and without a cap and can be paired with a side or middle part depending on your preference.

Loose Curls from PinterestImage Credit: Pinterest

Graduation Hairstyles for Long Hair

1. Elegant Chignon

An elegant chignon is perfect for long hair. This classic updo keeps hair tidy and sophisticated. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a low bun. Secure with bobby pins and finish with hairspray to keep everything in place.

Chignon from PinterestImage Credit: Pinterest

2. Fishtail Braid

The fishtail braid is a fun and stylish option for long hair. It’s a bit more intricate than a regular braid and adds an element of interest. Start with a high or low ponytail and then fishtail braid the entire length.

3. Hollywood Waves

For a glamorous look, consider Hollywood waves. These soft, sculpted waves are perfect for a formal occasion like graduation. Use a large curling iron and set the curls with clips to cool, then brush them out gently for that signature wave.

Tips for Hair Styling with a Graduation Cap

  1. Secure Your Hair: Use bobby pins and hairspray to keep your hairstyle in place, especially if you’re wearing a cap.

  2. Volume on Top: If your cap tends to flatten your hair, add volume at the roots with a volumizing spray or teasing comb before placing the cap.

  3. Accessorise Smartly: Choose accessories that won’t interfere with your cap, like low-positioned clips or thin headbands.

  4. Practice Ahead: Try out your chosen hairstyle a few days before graduation to ensure it looks good and stays in place.

With these hairstyle ideas, you’ll be sure to shine on your graduation day. Whether you opt for a classic updo or elegant curls, the key is to choose a style that makes you feel confident and beautiful as you celebrate your achievements. Congratulations, and happy styling!

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