Getting your toddler to sit still for five minutes is a rare form of magic. Getting them to sit still while you do their hair? Practically sorcery. But the good news is, it doesn’t have to be that hard. These 15 toddler girl hairstyles are cute, practical, and designed for real moms – moms who don’t have an hour and a ring light to get through the morning routine.
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Whether you’re managing wild curls, baby-fine strands, or something in between, you’ll find a style here that works with your child’s hair texture – and your schedule. All it takes is a stash of bows, soft elastics, detangler spray, and a bit of patience. (And maybe the bribe of tablet time.) I like to keep a portable toddler hair kit under the bathroom sink stocked with a wide-tooth comb (for the bad tangles), a soft baby brush, and my clips and bows.
Go-To Everyday Styles
Bubble Ponytail with Bow
To create this style, section off a ponytail using elastics every couple of inches, then gently fluff each section to add volume. This is especially effective for fine or straight hair that tends to fall flat, but works easily in thick hair, too. I usually spray a tiny bit of hairspray beforehand to give the hair some grip.
A colorful bow on the end ties it all together – both literally and stylistically. It can be by itself or on top of a clear elastic if the bow doesn’t hold itself well. But overall, this style holds up well through the daily chaos.
Double Bubble Piggies
Think pigtails with extra personality. Part the hair down the center, make two side ponytails, then break each one into bubbles using elastics. Fluff each section for extra bounce. My toddler loved this one so much, she named it “bouncy tails.” It’s quick, secure, and undeniably adorable.
Top Knot with Scrunchie
This one is a lifesaver when time is short and the toddler is spinning in circles. Pull the hair into a high-ish bun and wrap it with a soft scrunchie. It’s functional and fuss-free, keeping hair out of little faces. A light mist of hairspray helps tame any flyaways before you twist, if you need a cleaner look.
Braids: When You Have a Few More Minutes
French Braid with Bow
A classic for a reason, the French braid keeps everything neat and contained. It works especially well on wavy or thick hair, particularly after a touch of leave-in conditioner. I’ve relied on this one for family photo day, because our shoots are always outside and my kids tend to become feral.
Large Side Dutch Braid
Start this braid at one side of the hairline and guide it along the curve of the head. It may look complex, but it’s surprisingly forgiving once you get the technique down. This style is a great way to keep bangs and shorter front layers from flopping into little eyes. You can also do one on BOTH sides, working them all the way to the nape, and connect them there with a single bow.
Lopsided Dutch Braids into Ponytail
You don’t have to re-part your girl’s hair every time you want to style both sides! For this look, create two off-center Dutch braids and gather them into a single low ponytail. It’s ideal for toddlers with thick or curly hair that tends to frizz midday.
I sometimes smooth a touch of styling cream through the hair before braiding, and it stays put through sandbox adventures and snack time.
Half-Up Styles That Actually Stay Put
Dutch Braid into Double Half Knots
This one takes a bit more effort than the previous braids, but it’s so cute! Braid each front section of hair into two Dutch braids (or even just one) and twist them into tiny top knots, braiding one of them a bit longer to wrap around the knot before securing. It’s a style that’s both structured and playful.
I tend to use this one on weekends when I want a little extra cuteness without going full glam. Small bows or barrettes add the finishing touch.
Mini Knots with Bows
This is just a simpler version of the style above. Two mini buns perched high on the head, each topped with a bright fabric bow. The rest of the hair stays down and loose, making it ideal for toddlers with thick or textured hair. This look manages to be tidy and free-flowing at the same time.
Half Top Knot
Gather the top portion of the hair and secure it into a quick bun, leaving the rest down. You can use a chunk of hair to hide the elastic for a little more visual interest. This is my go-to when we’re running late but I still want her to look like I put in a little effort. Soft elastics and a relaxed twist keep the vibe casual but cute.
Colorful & Playful Accessories
Diamond Pattern with Rainbow Elastics
This one takes the most time, but it’s by far my favorite! Starting from the front/top, section the hair into eight gradually smaller squares and pull them together one at a time, securing each junction with a colorful elastic. A rattail comb helps create clean parts, which makes all the difference. Before the last two squares, connect the tails in the center before finishing off the last sections.
It looks intricate but honestly only takes a few minutes once you’ve practiced a couple of times. This one was used for days that her hair absolutely needed to stay out of the way, but she wouldn’t be playing too rough (because you can’t expect a teacher to fix this if it gets messed up).
Traditional Pigtails
This was my mom’s go-to summer hairstyle when I was little because it’s quick, easy, and cute. I don’t think this style will ever go away!
Divide the hair into two sections and secure into ponies first. Braid each into a pigtail, securing along the bottom with colorful bands. Let your toddler pick the colors to avoid any tantrums. A quick spritz of detangler makes twisting easier and keeps the strands smooth while you work. I prefer this over using hairspray after the fact.
Double Fabric Hair Clips
On those mornings when nothing is going as planned, this style is your best friend. Simply use two (or one or three!) bright fabric clips to pin the sides back. It’s fast, functional, and still gives the illusion of trying. I keep a few extras in my bag for impromptu touch-ups on the go.
Headband Style with Rainbow Band
Brush the hair, slide on a colorful headband, and you’re done. It’s a perfect solution for shorter hair or for toddlers in the “I do it myself” phase. Look for bands with no-slip silicone backing to keep everything in place. Keeping a bunch of different styles and colors on hand also helps the look seem fresh every day!
Buns & Bows: Fancy Without Fuss
Double Knots with Red Bows
This festive style features two clean buns placed high on the head, each finished with a cheerful red bow. I use a touch of styling cream to prevent flyaways and make the part lines pop. It’s our holiday go-to and also works well for long days at Disney World!
Side Twist
This one is a sneaky little secret that’s more about practicality than looking cute. Twist a small section of hair from one temple and add hair to the twist as you move toward the nape, securing it with a clear elastic underneath and leaving the rest loose.
It’s an elegant solution for keeping hair out of your toddler’s face, and it’s okay if the rest of her hair falls over it and covers it up. It certainly reduces the amount of ear-tucking she does!
Final Tips: Making Hairstyling Actually Happen
The secret to toddler hairstyling success? Preparation. Get that kit together that I mentioned before, full of your favorite products and accessories. Since I prefer doing hair while sitting in the living room, a hand mirror also lets my girl check her style once I’m done.
Letting them “help” by holding the brush or picking the bow often buys you just enough time to get the job done. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection – it’s practicality. These toddler girl hairstyles are meant to make your mornings smoother, not harder. Try one. Take a photo. Laugh when it unravels. That’s what scrunchies – and memories – are for.
If you have older kids in your home, too, be sure to check out my kids’ hairstyles for inspiration!
