January 2026 is getting closer and closer, which means parents will soon be buying their kids new clothes and styles. Children’s hairstyles change every season and finding the most up to date styles can be a hassle. For this reason, we have combed the internet for the most popular hairstyles for kids boxes this January and for the sake of time, and compiled a list of styles we think are great. To start the new year, we hope to help parents by offering styles that range from chic and adventurous to classic and modern.
One of the people who stopped me from underestimating the true worth of a good kids cut was a seven year old girl from my chair last March, who asked for “something that looks like me, not like my mom picked it.” This statement changed my entire outlook on kids cuts. And she was right. Most of my industry peers spend years working to elevate child cuts to miniature versions of adult styles, or worse, pretend like they don’t exist. A good cut on a child has the same effect as it does on anyone else: it allows them to walk a little taller.
I’ve put together an assortment of cutting techniques I am looking forward to this January. I really like some of these, others are just okay and some of the reference photos are inspiring enough to make me want to grab my shears. Parents, I hope you find something here that your child will love, just like the little girl who got that haircut.
#1: Mushroom Brunette Blunt Chin Bob
The design speaks for itself with absolute confidence, and there is no need for additional commentary. The blunt finish at the front presents a striking architectural profile, and on the right kid, looks incredibly deliberate in an unfussy sort of way. The brunette shade has perfect richness to give the whole look some mass, while I’d just put a small amount of smoothing serum in towel-dried hair and let it air dry, and that’s really all it needs. The best part about this cut is that it doesn’t even attempt to be nice or cute about it, it just is.
#2 Braided Side Ponytail with Sparkling Accents
The beauty of this style is that it is fancy and simple at the same time. The side ponytail is very voluminous, so it doesn’t just look like a little bow. The look is complemented with just the right amount of accessories, making it a part of the outfit instead of a costume. Most importantly, this look is practical for kids’ activities, which a lot of style guides don’t have. When it comes to thinner hair, certain types of clips can make a huge difference. Choose clips that don’t snag the hair and can be very annoying to wear. Thicker hair is ideal for this hairstyle. Overall, it is the kind of style that a kid requests over and over again.
#3: Modern Textured Quiff with Highlighted Tips for Boys
Right now, the quiff is one of the most popular boys’ hairstyles, but this version is particularly trendy due to the use of highlights. The highlights on the tips of the hair make the hairstyle catch the light without making it look like a color job. It is a good choice for younger kids because it has a lot of dimension. The added texture on top creates movement to the style, while the shorter sides keep everything feeling balanced. To achieve the most hold and volume, I would recommend using a light hold paste. If your hair is more of a wash-and-go, then you might want to consider a light hold paste. Overall, a hairstyle like this is uncommon for kids this age, and it looks like they put in a lot of effort, which is not really the case.
#4: Textured Short Cut for Young Boys
What I appreciate with this style on younger boys is the ease of the cut. Almost like someone gets that kids’ hair should move. The choppy layers create the necessary volume without the whole head feeling heavy, and the neutral blonde color is lovely against cooler skin. It is the sort of cut that looks best about a week after it is done, once the child has slept on it a few times and it has settled into its own rhythm. The trade off is that it does need trimming fairly regularly to keep that undone quality from drifting into genuinely messy, but between appointments it basically takes care of itself.
#5: Textured Asymmetrical Fringe for Boys
What stands out for me the most is the calmness and starring imbalance. A lot of kids unusual styles can go overboard and end up looking like a mess, but in this case, it is a bit off center in a way that is considered intentional but not overly crazy. The texture on top provides enough movement so it doesn’t appear too helmet-y and the overall length is short enough that no one will be wrestling with a comb before school. The fringe is going to require trimming every few weeks as it grows out, and when it gets to the eyes it loses that clean shape and appearance. But while it’s still fresh, this is such a different cut and has so much character to it.
#6: Precise Side-Parted Clipper Cut for Boys
This style is a more refined version of traditional barbering, and as long as the part is this precise, you have to appreciate the craft. There is a lot of intention put into the taper, the weight, and the styling of the hair to fall to one side and not just flop. It is polished without being stiff, which is a much harder line to walk than most people realise. A part this clean does mean that you will have to come in fairly regularly, every 3-4 weeks, as the sides grow out and completely change the structure of the cut. For parents who want something that looks clean and styled, this is ideal. It also suits most face shapes because of the considered proportions.
#7: Effortlessly Textured Short Cut for Young Boys
I keep coming back to this haircut and I’ve got no hesitation stating that this is the ideal haircut for me. The lift at the crown is so energizing to the entire style that no amount of product can replicate it. This is the sort of thing a great stylist definitely picks up on in a consultation and builds the cut around it. The short choppy layers in other areas aid that lift and don’t overshadow it which results in hair that looks done even when it’s not. When it needs structure a little dab of texturizing paste will give some hold, but to be honest, you can skip it on most days. This is the kind of cut that works with the hair rather than against it, and that’s always my goal as well.
#8: Sharp Contrast Crew Cut with Textured Top
The design of this style is perfected with the sides being tight and the top being over the top, and the stylist’s understanding of head form is demonstrated in the execution. The back taper is clean and is a refinement that separates a good crew cut from a great one. If your child has fine hair, this cut is even more suitable as it reduces bulk on the sides but keeps enough length on top to be fun. A few minutes in the morning with a styling product on top will make it look polished and in my opinion, that trade is worth it.
#9: Braided Crown with Voluminous Curls
This kind of hair style would work for every occasion! It has the fun braids that turn into a crown. The face is framed beautifully, and the amazing curls have fun bouncin underneath. It’s nice to have a hair style that works for family functions on Saturdays and school during the week! I understand that not everyone is going to be able to do the braids, and some may need a bit of help the first time around. You might want to book a session with a braiding pro to get the feel for it before you give it a go. The braids will still be looking good at the end of the day, but the curls might need some extra moisture and definition.
#10: Sleek Side-Swept Undercut for Boys
What impresses me the most are the little details that have obviously been carefully considered. Everything is in balance and nothing seems to be out of alignment. The top is also long enough to allow for a side sweep without looking unruly, and has an undercut that is polished enough to be modern. This will likely require minimal maintenance during the week, so this is ideal for families that don’t want to spend more than a minute on hair in the morning. The only real maintenance requirement is the undercut, as once that grows out, the sharpness of the cut will be gone. For a boy with straight, medium-density hair, this is about as good as it gets for everyday haircuts.
#11: Dynamic Textured Top with Sharp Fade for Young Boys
Great fade! The gradient blending the skin to the different lengths is very nice. Managing the clippers like that is very skillful. The way the compacted top looks serious makes the cut feel more appropriate for young boys. The design is well done to keep the hair easy to manage, and it’s perfect for sports and recess. The cuts look good with hair worn down but they are so versatile with the top that they can also wear it to the front, to the side, or do nothing to it. It’ll look tidy either way. The top will look jank but the length can get long before it stops holding its shape. That is a good balance for parents who are controlling the schedule.
#12: Soft Cascading Chestnut Waves with Subtle Highlights
The cut’s layering is what stands out to me the most. The stylist seems to know how to best place the layers so the waves can form naturally and not look too full and stringy. That is an especially experienced skill with finer hair. The highlights are also very good. They give dimension to the chocolate base color, but not in an overly obvious way. The overall hair length gives a lot of options to do updos or just wear it down. One thing I will flag is that a child with this hair length will need to have a consistent conditioning regimen in order for the hair to stay healthy and tangle-free. This means that a leave-in conditioner will definitely be an investment worth it.
#13: Smooth Chestnut Blunt Bob with Natural Highlights
A blunt bob that grazes the collarbone seems to be so much easier to do than it actually is, but this one has been done to perfection. The weight line is spot on, the ends killer, and the sun-kissed highlights throughout the chestnut base are balanced and just the right amount. This style means you don’t have to do much more to it to look finished, so it works on its own. Get a trim every six weeks to maintain that blunt edge and after a while, I bet the ends will get shaggy — that will be worth it because the results will be so low maintenance while the look of the style is so high prep.
#14 Long Braids with Ribbon Ties for Girls
I really enjoy the different finishes for this style that I can choose from! The base style is all about the braids, and then the ribbons finish off the look and give it that personal touch. This is something a child can have some input on, and easily change it to go with her mood or outfit. The braids can also be done on hair that is medium to long in length, and are meant to last a full day without having to be redone, which is the ultimate test of any kids’ style! The only thing worth mentioning is to keep the tension light around the hairline and nape. With all of the different styles that are available for kids, it is easy to assume that kids’ hair is tough and can take some roughness. In fact, kids hair is sensitive and has a tighter feel to it, and if a braid is done too tightly, it can cause a lot of discomfort. If you pull the hair too tightly too many times, it can break the hair. If you keep it relaxed, the braid will stay nice for a long time.
#15 Wavy Bob with Cute Clips for Young Girls
The natural wave sets the softness in the bob, with the clips being double functional and decorative. The length sits right at the sweet spot with the face framing and not getting in the way, and the hair density gives an effortless fullness to the entire look. While wavy and curly hair at this length can benefit from some deep conditioning, the effort to maintain the look at its best is minimal. It is day ready. Just brush it and add a clip or two.
#16 Lush Layered Lob for Young Faces
These layered lob styles give the movement I always hope for in layered styles. On younger faces, this length is forgiving and flattering. With the natural hair texture and waves, the layers have something to work with. This is one of those cuts where the child’s own hair texture becomes the star feature and the cut just gives it permission to shine. For maintenance, I recommend a trim every couple months to keep the shape. I consider this when cutting kids’ hair, and it grows out gracefully rather than awkwardly between visits.
#17 Sleek Chestnut Bob with Subtle Layers
I enjoy the peacefulness this haircut brings. The ends moving in synergy with the chestnut color creates a warmth to the overall look that is natural and not forced. The cut creates an overall balanced look due to the great attention to proportion and the clean finish adds to this. In contrast, this is straight to wavy hair so this is a wash and wear scenario and we know how parents love that. This cut is forgiving as it grows out, especially for people with straighter hair, as they will lose the shape much sooner than the wavy ones.
#18 Double Bun Twists with Natural Curls for Kids
I like how this style doesn’t try to tame the curls, as many others do. The twin buns keep the styling tidy, so it looks put together, while letting the curls fly free. It also embraces the hair’s natural volume, and once you know how to do it, it comes together fast for school. A bit of curl cream can help smooth and define the ends when they turn into a tangle after a while, but even a little frizz can actually improve the look. It adds to that lived in vibe.
#19 Classic Bob with Pinned Side Twist for Young Girls
Though the pin detail may be considered small, it adds a lot of effect to the stylistic value of the bob. The twist detail is ideal to pull the hair away from the face while keeping the whole look very thought out and intentional. The bob has been cut properly, and the lines are very clean. The length of the bob is great and will require little maintenance. This style is ideal for fine, straight hair because the cut will hold its shape and move beautifully throughout the day. While this style does not offer a ton of versatility in terms of how the hair can be worn, this is not the objective. The aim here is to provide a clean, polished bob that is low-maintenance so that a young girl can do it herself and that is extremely important.
#20: Tousled Texture Cut for Boys
The effectiveness of this style relies on leaving the weight in the right spots. The length on top is just enough to have some natural movement, and a slight side part is just enough to keep it structured in a way that it’s a haircut and not just long hair. If you have thick hair, this will look great as it is, and putting a bit of matte pomade on the ends will help with some definition if it needs a bit of touch up on those days. I will be honest and say that with a kid who won’t touch his hair, this is going to look unstyled over time, so it suits a child who doesn’t mind a touch up to the style or a parent who doesn’t mind that tousled look either way.
#21: Textured Top with Clean Fade for Boys
The top has been done with some playful texture while the fade has been done with some sharpness. This style is structured on the bottom and playful on the top. It is very neat from all sides and gives a clean appearance while also looking great with minimal upkeep. The top has texture which suggests the use of product, especially if the hair is naturally flatter, even though this style is one that does not collapse without product. It is ideal for oval and round faces as the height creates a good visual balance. Overall, the style is uncomplicated in a good way, very well done, and not difficult to manage.
#22: Fresh Textured Fade with Sharp Side Part for Boys
The side part in this style is doing a lot of the heavy lifting, adding a sharpness that elevates the look from a standard fade. The short to long transition is executed well, and the top is textured enough to look relaxed and not stiff. Overall, it’s a shorter cut which means you can go longer between visits, and the grow-out will be clean instead of awkward. A small amount of styling product is all that’s needed to keep the part defined and the top look textured, and that will take seconds to do. For round face shapes, the defined part and the height on top create a subtle, but useful, lengthening effect.
#23 Crown Braid with Soft Waves
In my opinion, this is one of the most beautiful styles in the entire collection. I love the contrast in the style. The braid is simple and precise, and the waves are soft and flowy. The crown braid has everything secured at the top but the rest of the hair is free to move. That mix of control and freedom is what makes this style really special. It is super practical for kids and you won’t have to worry about it being in their face. It is really well done, and it will take you much longer than five minutes, unless you have practiced enough to have your hands memorize the pattern. It really is worth every minute.
#24 Double Braids with Pink Ribbons for Young Girls
The pink ribbons match the warm tone of the braids in a thoughtful way rather than a random choice, and the warm tone of the braids is accentuated by the color of the hair. The braids are done evenly, which reinforces the idea that they are well done, and wouldn’t come undone because of recess or lunch, or any other randomness the day has to offer. This is a hairstyle that a child can be proud of, and that stays in place which is a combination any parent will appreciate. It takes practice to get both braids right, especially if the child is squirmy. Once you’ve found the rhythm it becomes second nature.
#25 Curly Tendril Ponytail with Pink Scrunchie
Face framing tendrils make this ponytail more fun. The natural curls do the work and pair nicely with the pink scrunchie which lightens the look in contrast to the darker curls. The style is super simple but still shows that some sort of decision has been made which I hope for with young kids. Just be mindful of how tight you pull at the base of the ponytail. A scrunchie is better than an elastic in terms of gentleness, but keeping it slightly loose will be kinder to the curls underneath and avoid stress and breakage.
#26 Crown Braids with Colorful Clips for Young Girls
I really like crown braids, and I appreciate the different clips layered into the braid. It creates a look that is clean, polished, and purposeful. You can tell the stylist finished the look and also made sure the braids weren’t too tight. The child really enjoyed getting her hair done and the clips are a nice touch. When doing hair on young children, it’s important to let them show their individuality. On top of that, styling hair that is medium density can be challenging, but this particular look seems to have just the right amount of hair to be full without becoming overly heavy. If this is your first time doing crown braids, I suggest making an appointment with a stylist to figure out how the braids should be placed around the head. It is a really reliable technique and a style that you can have for many years.
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