19 Toddler Hairstyles Girl Ideas
Let’s be real—styling a toddler’s hair is basically a workout. One minute she’s giggling in front of the mirror, the next she’s running away with the hairbrush.
But hey, when it does work out, those cute little hairstyles are worth every second of the chase.
If you’re tired of cycling between the same ponytail and that “wild-and-free” bedhead look, I’ve got 19 adorable, doable toddler girl hairstyle ideas that can survive playground chaos and still look Insta-worthy.
1. The Classic Double Pigtails
It’s the toddler hairstyle equivalent of peanut butter and jelly—always a win. Just part the hair down the middle and tie each side with soft elastics.
Why it works:
- Keeps hair out of the face during playtime.
- Works for short, medium, or long hair.
- Easy to jazz up with ribbons or clips.
Pro tip: Use snag-free elastics unless you enjoy the sound of toddler protests.
2. The Baby Bun
Perfect for days when you’re in a rush but still want a “put-together” vibe. Gather hair into a high ponytail, twist, and secure with a mini elastic or scrunchie.
Why toddlers love it: It feels light, and there’s no hair sticking to sweaty cheeks.
Style upgrade: Wrap a cute bow around the bun for extra sweetness.
3. Side Swept with Clip
Sometimes less is more. Brush the hair to one side and secure with a colorful clip.
Best for: Short hair days or when your toddler is over the idea of elastics.
Bonus: Doubles as a way to keep bangs from getting into her snack bowl.
4. Double Dutch Braids
If your toddler actually sits still (teach me your ways), double Dutch braids are amazing. They’re secure, stylish, and last all day.
Pro tip: Use a dab of detangling spray before braiding to avoid the morning-after braid frizz.
5. The Messy Top Knot
Toddlers rock the messy look better than any influencer. Gather the hair high on the crown, twist into a loose bun, and let some strands fall out naturally.
Why it’s great:
- Zero precision required.
- Works even on slightly tangled hair (which, let’s be honest, is 90% of the time).
6. The Half-Up Ponytail
Think of it as the best of both worlds—hair is out of her eyes but still down for that soft, flowy look.
Style it with:
- A mini bow clip.
- Glitter elastics for special occasions.
7. Braided Headband
Braid a small front section of hair and pin it across the top like a headband.
Why moms love it: It’s an easy way to keep hair out of the face without an actual headband slipping off every five minutes.
8. Side Ponytail
Instant cuteness with a little sass. Just pull all the hair to one side and secure with an elastic.
Extra flair: Add a big bow for a playful vibe.
9. The Waterfall Braid
A little more advanced, but gorgeous for parties or family photos. The braid flows across the head with strands falling through like a waterfall.
Pro tip: Use a YouTube tutorial the first time—it’s easier than it looks.
10. Space Buns
Divide hair into two sections and twist each into a high bun.
Why it’s toddler-approved: They bounce when she runs—enough said.
11. Twisty Pigtails
Before securing the pigtails, twist the hair from the roots down. It adds texture and keeps flyaways at bay.
Tip: Works perfectly on slightly damp hair after a bath.
12. The Mini Afro Puffs
For curly-haired toddlers, part hair into sections and secure each with small elastics to create adorable puffs.
Why it’s practical: Low manipulation = healthier curls.
13. Loose Waves with Headband
Let her curls or waves run free but add a cute elastic headband to keep them in place.
Extra tip: Go for soft, fabric bands to avoid headaches.
14. French Braid into Bun
Braid from the top of the head down, then wrap the end into a bun.
Occasion-worthy? Absolutely. Think weddings, birthdays, or those random days when you feel extra.
15. Pull-Through Ponytails
Create a row of mini ponytails, pulling each one through the next.
Why it’s fun: Looks way more complicated than it actually is. You’ll feel like a pro stylist in under 10 minutes.
16. The Crown Twist
Twist small sections of hair along the hairline until they meet at the back, then secure with a bow.
Why it’s magical: Looks like a tiny princess crown without the actual crown sliding off every two minutes.
17. Low Bun with Ribbon
A neat low bun tied with a ribbon feels effortlessly chic—yes, even for a toddler.
Perfect for: School photos or family dinners.
18. Heart-Shaped Braids
Okay, this one’s a little extra, but if you’re feeling creative, part the hair into a heart shape and braid each side.
FYI: This is a serious Instagram moment hairstyle.
19. The “Five-Minute Fix” Clip Combo
For mornings when you’re already late, grab a few cute clips and secure random sections. It’s chaotic but intentional.
Why it works: Toddlers make messy adorable. End of story.
Tips to Make Toddler Hairstyling Easier
Because let’s be honest—cute hair means nothing if the process feels like a wrestling match.
- Distract, distract, distract. Give her a toy, snack, or even let her “help” with a mini brush.
- Work with damp hair. Reduces tangles and makes braiding easier.
- Invest in good tools. Soft-bristle brushes, snag-free elastics, and kid-friendly detangling spray are game changers.
- Keep it quick. Anything over 10 minutes and you risk mutiny.
My Personal Faves
IMO, space buns and the half-up ponytail win every time. They’re fast, playful, and hold up during toddler antics.
But on special days, I can’t resist the crown twist—it’s like instant storybook vibes. 🙂
Final Thoughts
Styling your toddler’s hair should be fun, not stressful.
Whether you go for classic pigtails, braided beauties, or the chaotic-but-charming clip combo, remember—perfection isn’t the goal.
Comfort, practicality, and a dash of personality matter way more.
So next time you’re armed with a brush and a dream, try one of these 19 toddler hairstyles for girls and watch your little one rock her look—playground, snack time, and all.
