10 Cute & Trendy Hairstyles for Girls That Mom's Will Love!

Looking for the perfect hairstyle for your little girl? 

Whether it's for school, a birthday party, or just a fun day out, we’ve got you covered! In this blog, we’ll explore 10 adorable, easy, and trendy hairstyles for girls aged 3 to 12. From cute braids to playful buns, these styles are not just beautiful—they’re practical and comfortable for your child.

This guide is specially made for moms who want to keep their daughters looking stylish and confident, without spending hours in front of the mirror. Each hairstyle includes a description and a photo, and if you're near our salon—we’d love to create the perfect look for your little princess!

1. The Double Dutch Braid

Double Dutch braids are a timeless and trendy choice for girls aged 3 to 12. They’re not only cute but also practical—perfect for school, playdates, or even a family photoshoot.

Why Moms Love It:

1. Keeps hair neat and tangle-free.
2. Works well with both long and medium hair.
3. Can last all day with minimal touch-ups.

How to Style:

1. Part the hair straight down the middle.
2. Start from the top of the head and begin a Dutch braid (crossing strands under instead of over).
3. Continue braiding all the way down and secure with soft hair ties.
4. Repeat on the other side.

Styling Tip:

Add a little hairspray or leave-in conditioner before braiding to keep it sleek. You can also accessorize with bows or clips for a playful look.

2. The Bow Bun

Want your little girl to look like a princess? The Bow Bun is a fun and fabulous hairstyle that turns heads! It's playful, unique, and perfect for special occasions like birthdays, weddings, or even a mommy-daughter photoshoot.

Why Moms Love It:

1. Looks adorable and stands out.
2. Keeps hair off the face and neck.
3. Can be styled in under 10 minutes with practice.

How to Style:

1. Brush the hair into a high ponytail and secure with an elastic.
2. Divide the ponytail into two equal loops and pin them into a bow shape.
3. Take a small strand of hair from the ponytail, wrap it around the center, and secure it underneath.
4. Set the look with a little hairspray or gel for hold.

Styling Tip:

Add a glittery clip or a floral pin in the middle of the bow for extra cuteness.

3. The Classic Ponytail Twist

Simple, elegant, and always in style—the Classic Ponytail Twist is perfect for everyday wear or a quick makeover before school. It adds a little flair to the traditional ponytail and works great for girls with medium to long hair.

Why Moms Love It:

1. Quick and easy to style.
2. Looks polished without being fussy.
3. Great for both formal and casual occasions.

How to Style:

1. Brush the hair back smoothly and secure it into a low ponytail.
2. Part a small section of hair above the elastic and create a small hole.
3. Flip the ponytail up and pull it down through the hole to create a twisted effect.
4. Gently tighten and add a ribbon or bow for a finished look.

Styling Tip:

Use a smoothing serum or detangler beforehand to get that clean, sleek finish. This look also holds well during active playtime.

4. Bubble Braids

Fun, bouncy, and totally Instagram-worthy—Bubble Braids are one of the easiest and most stylish hairstyles for little girls. This modern twist on the ponytail adds volume and charm to any look, making it ideal for school, picnics, or playdates.

Why Moms Love It:

1. Incredibly simple to create.
2. Looks trendy and fun.
3. Works with both long and medium-length hair.

How to Style:

1. Brush the hair into a high or mid-level ponytail and secure with a hair tie.
2. Place additional elastics every 2–3 inches down the length of the ponytail.
3. Gently tug at the hair between elastics to puff it out and create “bubbles.”
4. Adjust the bubbles evenly for a clean look.

Styling Tip:

Use colorful or glittery elastics to make it pop! It’s also a great style for themed events or birthday parties.

5. Half-Up Heart Braid

Looking for something sweet and unique? The Half-Up Heart Braid is a charming hairstyle that’s perfect for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or just to show your daughter a little extra love. It adds a magical touch while keeping the rest of her hair free and flowy.

Why Moms Love It:

1. Super cute and creative.
2. Ideal for both straight and wavy hair.
3. Great for medium to long hair lengths.

How to Style:

1. Part the hair in the middle and section off two small strands from the front.
2. Begin braiding each section and curve them backward to form half of a heart on each side.
3. Join the two braids in the back with a hair tie to complete the heart shape.
4. Let the rest of the hair fall freely or curl the ends for extra style.

Styling Tip:

Add a sparkly clip at the heart’s center or use colored ribbons in the braids to make it even more magical.

6. Floral Crown Braid

The Floral Crown Braid is a fairy-tale-inspired hairstyle that turns your little one into a blooming princess! Ideal for spring festivals, family functions, or photoshoots, this look combines elegance with a touch of whimsy.

Why Moms Love It:

1. Keeps hair neatly braided yet stylish.
2. Looks enchanting with real or artificial flowers.
3. Perfect for special occasions and themed parties.

How to Style:

1. Part the hair from ear to ear and start braiding from one side around the head like a crown.
2. Secure the braid with pins and blend it into the rest of the hair at the back.
3. Tuck in small floral clips or baby’s breath flowers along the braid.
4. Leave the remaining hair down in soft waves or curls.

Styling Tip:

Use lightweight floral accessories to keep it comfy. This look also works beautifully with pastel dresses and lace outfits.

7. Side Swept Waterfall Braid

Elegant and eye-catching, the Side Swept Waterfall Braid is a dreamy hairstyle that flows like a gentle stream. It’s especially stunning for special days like family functions, school events, or professional photoshoots.

Why Moms Love It:

1. A creative twist on the usual braid.
2. Adds volume and layers.
3. Looks stunning with straight, wavy, or curly hair.

How to Style:

1. Begin with a side parting.
2. Start braiding from the thicker side of the part, picking up sections from the top and dropping the lower strands to create a waterfall effect.
3. Sweep the braid across the back of the head and secure it behind the ear.
4. Let the rest of the hair fall naturally, or curl the ends for an extra touch.

Styling Tip:

Add pearl pins or tiny floral clips along the braid to enhance its cascading effect—perfect for fairy-tale themes or celebrations.

8. Messy Top Knot with Bangs

The Messy Top Knot with Bangs is the ultimate combo of cute and cool. Whether your daughter is off to school or a weekend outing, this hairstyle keeps her hair neat with a fun, carefree vibe. It's also a hit for active kids who like their hair out of the way.

Why Moms Love It:

1. Effortless and quick to do.
2. Keeps hair out of the face.
3. Looks playful and trendy.

How to Style:

1. Pull the top half of the hair into a ponytail, leaving the bangs untouched.
2. Twist the ponytail and wrap it into a loose bun.
3. Secure it with a scrunchie or bobby pins.
4. Allow some loose strands to fall naturally for that perfect messy look.

Styling Tip:

Use a texturizing spray to add volume to the knot. A velvet scrunchie or floral clip can elevate this simple style instantly.

9. Double Dutch Braids

The Double Dutch Braids are sporty, secure, and super stylish—perfect for school, dance practice, or running around the playground. This hairstyle keeps every strand in place while giving your little girl a confident, trendy look.

Why Moms Love It:

1. Great for active days and sports.
2. Reduces tangling and keeps hair clean.
3. Looks fabulous all day long.

How to Style:

1. Part the hair down the middle into two equal sections.
2. Begin Dutch braiding (crossing strands under instead of over) from the top of the head on each side.
3. Continue braiding tightly down to the ends and secure with elastics.
4. Pancake the braids slightly for a fuller look if desired.

Styling Tip:

Use a bit of hair gel or styling cream to smooth flyaways before braiding. Add some colorful beads or clips at the end for fun.

10. Loose Waves with Mini Braids

This dreamy and relaxed hairstyle is perfect for little girls who love to feel like princesses. Loose Waves with Mini Braids offer the perfect blend of natural beauty and playful style, making it a great pick for birthday parties, photo days, or weekend brunches.

Why Moms Love It:

1. Low-maintenance yet elegant.
2. Works on medium to long hair.
3. Comfortable and pretty for all-day wear.

How to Style:

1. Lightly curl the hair with a kid-friendly curling wand or use overnight braids for heatless waves.
2. Take small sections from the front and braid them tightly.
3. Pin or tie the mini braids toward the back or let them dangle freely.
4. Use a light mist of hairspray to keep the waves intact.

Styling Tip:

Add a touch of sparkle with glitter spray or thread colorful ribbons through the mini braids for a magical finish.

From playful ponytails to elegant braids, these top 10 adorable hairstyles for girls aged 3–12 are designed to make your little one feel confident, cute, and comfortable. Whether you're styling her hair for school, parties, or a casual day out—these looks are sure to bring smiles and compliments.

REMEMBER: A good hairstyle isn’t just about looks; it’s about expressing personality, creativity, and care.