At one year old, most little girls have fine, soft hair that is still growing in. The best styles are quick, gentle and comfortable, since toddlers rarely sit still for long.
Here are 20 cute hairstyles for a 1-year-old girl, from tiny pigtails to bows and soft braids, with a tip for each one. Always use soft, snag-free ties and avoid pulling the hair tight.
1. The Mini Pigtails
Two tiny pigtails are the classic toddler hairstyle and work even on short hair.
SaveHow to do it: Use small, soft elastics made for baby hair to avoid breakage.
2. The Messy Top Knot
A small knot on top of the head keeps hair out of her eyes.
SaveHow to do it: Gather just the front section if the hair is too short for a full knot.
3. The Mini Braids
Small, loose braids look sweet and last through naps.
SaveHow to do it: Braid while she is busy with a toy or snack.
4. The Half-Up Ponytail
Pulling the front section back into a tiny ponytail keeps hair off her face.
SaveHow to do it: A soft scrunchie is gentler than a tight elastic.
5. The Side Sweep
Brushing the hair to one side and holding it with a clip is quick and neat.
SaveHow to do it: Use a snap clip with a soft grip so it does not slide out.
6. The Flower Crown
A soft flower crown headband makes a pretty look for photos and parties.
SaveHow to do it: Choose a stretchy, lightweight headband and remove it for naps.
7. The Faux Hawk
Gently brushing the hair up through the centre creates a playful faux hawk.
SaveHow to do it: A tiny bit of water is enough to shape baby hair.
8. The Bubble Ponytails
A ponytail divided into small bubbles with elastics looks fun and stays neat.
SaveHow to do it: Space the elastics evenly and keep them loose.
9. The Side Braid
A small braid along one side keeps the fringe out of her eyes.
SaveHow to do it: Start the braid near the parting and finish with a tiny clip.
10. The Curly Bob
Natural curls left loose in a bob shape look adorable.
SaveHow to do it: Use a little leave-in conditioner to define curls and reduce tangles.
11. The Top Puff
A single puff on top suits curly and coily hair.
SaveHow to do it: Use a soft fabric band or scrunchie to avoid tension on the edges.
12. The Double Buns
Two small buns on top of the head look cute and playful.
SaveHow to do it: Make loose buns so they are comfortable when she lies down.
13. The Mohawk Braid
A loose braid down the centre of the head gives a fun, sporty look.
SaveHow to do it: Only braid the top section and keep it loose.
14. The Side Ponytail
A tiny ponytail on one side is quick and sweet.
SaveHow to do it: Place it above the ear so it does not get in the way of car seats.
15. The Twisty Braids
Small twisted sections pinned back are gentle and quick.
SaveHow to do it: Twist the front sections back and hold them with small clips.
16. The High Ponytail
A tiny high ponytail is perfect for longer baby hair.
SaveHow to do it: Keep it loose and take it down at bedtime.
17. The Sock Bun
A small, round bun gives a polished look for special occasions.
SaveHow to do it: A mini bun donut helps if the hair is long enough.
18. The Butterfly Clips
Colourful butterfly clips add a playful touch to loose hair.
SaveHow to do it: Choose clips that are too large to be a choking hazard and supervise while she wears them.
19. The Top Bow
A bow clip or headband is the simplest way to dress up short baby hair.
SaveHow to do it: Use soft nylon headbands that stretch without pressing on her head.
20. The Half-Up Braided Crown
Two small braids from the front, joined at the back, form a sweet crown.
SaveHow to do it: Keep the braids loose and secure them with one soft elastic.
Safety Tips for Baby Hairstyles
Keep it loose
Tight styles can pull on delicate hair and the scalp, so always keep ties loose.
Use baby-safe accessories
Choose soft elastics and clips that are large enough not to be a choking hazard.
Remove accessories for sleep
Take out clips, bows and headbands before naps and bedtime.
Detangle gently
Use a wide-tooth comb or soft brush and a detangling spray made for babies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put a 1-year-old’s hair in a ponytail?
Yes, if the hair is long enough. Use a soft, baby-safe elastic and keep it loose.
Are hair clips safe for babies?
Clips are fine under supervision. Choose large, secure clips and remove them for sleep.
How can I style very short baby hair?
Soft headbands, bows and tiny top knots work well on short hair.
How often should I wash a 1-year-old’s hair?
Two or three times a week is usually enough with a gentle baby shampoo.
Final Thoughts
The cutest hairstyles for a 1-year-old are the simple ones that keep her comfortable. Start with pigtails, a top knot or a soft bow, and save more detailed styles for photos and parties.
For more ideas, see our Easter hairstyles for little girls, Christmas hairstyles for kids and toddler Halloween hair.
