15 Curly Hairstyles for School – Slick Back Edition

If you love curly hairstyles but want something neat and stylish for school, slick-back hairstyles are a great choice! They help keep your hair in place while allowing your curls to shine. Below, I’ve shared 15 amazing hairstyles, each with a detailed description and an AI prompt so you can generate a perfect image of the style.

1. Sleek High Ponytail with Curly Ends

A sleek, high ponytail is chic, elegant, and perfect for school. It keeps your hair off your face while letting your curls bounce freely at the ends. Start by applying a smoothing gel or mousse to your roots and brushing your hair back. Gather it into a high ponytail and secure it tightly with a hair tie. To add definition, apply curl cream or mousse to the ends. This style is perfect for busy mornings when you want to look put together with minimal effort.

2. Slicked-Back Low Bun

A low bun is a timeless hairstyle that works well for both casual and formal school days. It’s sleek, easy to achieve, and keeps curls under control. To create this look, apply a lightweight gel to the top of your hair and brush it back smoothly. Gather your hair into a low ponytail, twist it into a bun, and secure it with pins. Leave a few curly strands loose to add softness. This style is perfect for keeping hair frizz-free while maintaining a polished look.

3. Half-Up, Half-Down Sleek Style

This classic half-up, half-down look gives you the best of both worlds. The top section is neatly slicked back and secured, while the rest of your curls flow naturally. This style is ideal for school because it keeps hair off your face while showcasing your natural texture. Use gel or mousse to sleek back the top section, securing it with a clip or elastic. To enhance your curls, apply curl cream to the loose section.

4. Slicked-Back Space Buns

Space buns are a fun, trendy hairstyle that’s perfect for a school day. This look keeps your hair in place while adding a playful touch. Divide your hair into two equal sections and slick each side back with styling gel. Twist each section into a cute, curly bun and secure them with pins. This style works best on naturally curly hair, as the buns remain full and voluminous.

5. Gelled-Back Curly Puff

A curly puff is a quick and stylish way to embrace your curls while keeping them neatly in place. This hairstyle works best for short to medium-length curly hair. Apply gel to the front section of your hair and brush it back. Secure the hair with a headband or elastic to create a high puff. Fluff the curls for volume and definition.

6. Low Sleek Ponytail with Defined Curls

A low ponytail is an elegant and effortless hairstyle that looks great on all hair types. It gives a polished and structured appearance while allowing your natural curls to stand out. Use gel to smooth the front, secure your hair into a low ponytail, and define your curls with styling cream.

7. Slicked-Back Braided Ponytail

If you love protective styles, a slicked-back braided ponytail is a great option. Start by applying a styling gel to your roots and brushing your hair back smoothly. Gather it into a ponytail, then braid the length while leaving the ends curly. This look is stylish, long-lasting, and school-friendly.

8. Wet Look Slicked-Back Curls

The wet look hairstyle is perfect for curly-haired individuals who want a sleek, modern style. Apply a strong-hold gel to damp curls, slick the hair back without tying it up, and let your curls fall naturally. This look gives a glossy, runway-inspired effect.

9. Sleek Twisted Crown

The sleek twisted crown is an elegant yet practical style that keeps hair out of your face while maintaining volume. Part your hair in the middle and apply a smoothing gel to the roots. Take two sections from the front and twist them towards the back, securing them with pins. Let the rest of your curls flow naturally. This look is perfect for school as it gives a princess-like vibe while being easy to maintain.

10. Slick-Back Curly Pony with Bubble Effect

The bubble ponytail adds a unique twist to the classic ponytail. Start by slicking back your hair with gel and securing it into a high or mid-level ponytail. Then, place elastic bands along the ponytail at equal distances to create a “bubble” effect. Gently tug at each section to add volume. This look is trendy, playful, and perfect for school.

11. Slicked-Back Claw Clip Style

The claw clip is a lifesaver for quick and stylish hairstyles. To achieve this look, brush your hair back using a lightweight gel or mousse and gather it into a loose, twisted bun. Secure it with a large claw clip while allowing some curls to fall naturally. This hairstyle is effortless yet chic, perfect for school days when you’re in a hurry but still want a polished look.

12. Sleek French Braid into a Curly Bun

This braided updo is great for adding texture while keeping hair sleek. Begin by parting your hair and French braiding from the crown to the nape. Once you reach the end of the braid, twist the remaining curls into a low bun and secure it with pins. This style is perfect for school because it keeps hair in place while looking stylish.

13. Sleek Afro Puff

For those with tighter curls or coils, an Afro puff is a stylish and easy option. Apply a strong-hold gel to your hairline and brush your hair back. Secure it with an elastic band to create a rounded puff at the crown. This look is both trendy and natural, allowing your curls to be the highlight.

14. Slicked-Back Twisted Updo

The twisted updo is perfect for an elegant yet school-friendly hairstyle. Start by slicking back your hair with gel. Divide the hair into sections and twist each section before securing them into a bun or pinned-up style. This creates a textured, voluminous updo that looks sophisticated while keeping your hair in place.

15. Sleek Headband Style with Defined Curls

If you want to keep your curls down but still maintain a neat and polished look, a sleek headband style is perfect. Simply apply a smoothing gel to the front and use a stylish headband to push your hair back. Let your curls flow naturally while keeping the front sleek. This is a quick and cute school hairstyle that works for all curl types.

Final Thoughts

These 15 slick-back curly hairstyles are trendy, easy to achieve, and perfect for school. Whether you prefer a bun, ponytail, updo, or loose curls, these styles keep your hair neat while embracing your natural texture. Pair them with a matching nail design for a fully polished look!

Read More: 15 Prom Hairstyles for Medium-Length Hair: A Stylish Guide for the Perfect Look