More than just a quick and easy way to keep your hair out of your face, the ponytail is the little black dress of hairstyles: it works anytime, anywhere. Mastering the ponytail hairstyle will give you a universal look that you’ll be using over and over.
Ready for some inspiration? Keep scrolling for pics that will spark your creativity, plus insider tips you need to kick your favorite style up a notch.
Ponytail Styles
Need a classic look or want to play with the latest trends? The ponytail is the perfect base if you want to get creative. Start with the basics, then throw in your own spin to create stunning looks that work every time. Take a look at the essential ponytail hairstyles to add to your beauty toolkit.
1. Classic ponytail
Don’t think of the regular pony as ordinary—it’s a classic. Not too high, not too low, tied around ear-height and secured with an elastic band, the mid-height pony is universally flattering, truly timeless and suitable for all occasions. It also serves as a base for many variations and styles, proving that simplicity is the starting point for versatility.
2. High ponytail
Let’s get extra with the high ponytail. Pulled up towards the crown and usually cinched tight for a snatched look, this hairstyle personifies drama. It accentuates the facial structure and creates a slight lift, making it super flattering and glam. The high ponytail is a foolproof fashion-forward look that also works in completely casual situations, like working out or lounging at home. An all-rounder!
3. Low ponytail
The low ponytail is the king of understated hairstyles that pack a punch. Want a casually cool model look? Need a sophisticated formal style? The low pony has got you covered. Worn at the nape or even lower, it easily adapts to diverse styles. Wear it looser or tighter for a subtle switch in mood and play with partings and texture to achieve a spectrum of looks.
4. Half-up half-down ponytail
You want to wear your hair up but you also don’t? The half-up half-down ponytail is your chance to have it both ways. It’s twice as versatile: you can adjust the height of the pony, play with variations like a braided top section or a top knot, leave out some loose face-framing strands, go sleek or curly—the options are only limited by your creativity. Get inspired!
5. Double ponytails
If you’ve been led to believe that double ponytails are just for kids, we don’t share that opinion here. If you love it, it’s your style: rejoice in the fun, youthful, and carefree vibe of this look. Divide your hair into two sections and secure each into a separate ponytail. Play with a high, mid, or low placement, get creative by wearing your two ponytails with weave, braided or in a half-up half-down look.
6. Side ponytail
Gathered to one side of the head, the side ponytail is a clever way to use asymmetry to complement the features. The side placement of the ponytail adds an interesting element and a modern aesthetic, while subtly shifting attention from any facial asymmetry. Plus, it’s a great way to flaunt your hair, even when it’s pulled up. Let your ponytail fall over one shoulder for an extra flirty look.
7. Low side ponytail
The low side ponytail is as dreamy as the high side pony is glam. This pretty hairstyle pairs beautifully with braids, loose waves and curls, creating a romantic side-swept look. Secure it just behind the ear for a face-framing and flattering style. An absolute must for those into boho and cottagecore aesthetics.
8. Slick-back ponytail
Sleek, sexy, and on-point—what more can be said about the slick-back ponytail that isn’t obvious when you see it? The perfect day-to-night look that can have an effortless or glamorous vibe depending on your attitude. Wear it high or low, pairing the slick-back style with a middle or side part. Use products like gel or cream to control frizz and smooth it back.
9. Messy ponytail
Loosely gathered and intentionally tousled, the messy ponytail looks effortless and carefree, even when a bit of intention is involved. While you might get lucky and create a gorgeous messy pony without actually trying, why not help out and enhance your deliberately disheveled look? Use a texture spray or sea salt spray to boost volume and create a tousled effect and pull at the crown to create a slightly undone look. Perfectly imperfect!
10. Sleek ponytail
Smooth and polished, a perfectly straight ponytail demands the use of hot tools and the right styling products. If your hair isn’t naturally pin-straight, begin by applying heat protectant, then create a silky-smooth texture with a straightening iron. Eliminate flyaways with a fine-tooth comb or brush and gel or hairspray. Tie the hair tightly, but adjust the tension based on comfort.
11. Curly ponytail
The curly ponytail is voluminous, glamorous and textured—a pure joy to see. You might want to enhance your natural curls with a curl-defining product or create a curled ponytail using a wand or rollers to add waves or curls to straight hair. Choose between a loose and airy curly ponytail, an elegant half-up pony with a deep wave, or go big with a weave.
12. Braided ponytail
Braided ponytails are a great protective option for textured hair—seamless feed-in braids gathered into a low or high ponytail keep your hair protected and looking amazing. Have fun playing around with different braid patterns like cornrows or box braids, adding extensions for length and more styling options. To keep your hair healthy, make sure it’s moisturized and conditioned before braiding.
13. Ponytail with braid
Step one, tie your hair into a ponytail. Step two, braid the ponytail. Voilà! It’s that easy to transform your everyday look with detail and texture. Braid the entire ponytail or use a smaller braid as an accent and when you’re done, pull at the edges of the braid to give it more volume. Try various braiding techniques like fishtail, waterfall, or the classic braid for variety.
14. Braid into ponytail
A braid into ponytail is a single hairstyle, but there are so many versions of it that it might as well be a category. Combining different styles of braids and ponytails creates limitless looks for every taste. The placement of the braid affects how it suits you and the type of braids—like French, Dutch or a protective style—sets the tone. And let’s not forget the impact of the texture of the ponytail!
15. Bubble braid ponytail
The bubble braid ponytail is modern, simple and fun. The best part? It takes moments to create. Using multiple elastic bands, create bubble-like sections down the length. You can space the elastic bands evenly down the length of the ponytail or gradually make them smaller. Loose, fluffy “bubbles” look playful, while smooth and sleek ones are fashion-forward. Use clear elastic bands or throw in some accessories to create different looks. Don’t forget to give each section a little tug to make them rounded and voluminous.
16. Twisted ponytail
The twisted pony has two variations: the side twist and the full-length twist. The side twist, where the hair is twisted on one or both sides before flowing into a ponytail, adds subtle detail and a boho vibe. The full-length twist, resembling a braid, has a full-on glam look. Experiment with the thickness and tightness of the twist to find out what works for you.
17. Ponytail with bangs
Almost all ponytail styles (except the super slicked-back ones) play nice with various types of bangs. Bangs always bring face-framing, but they also have their own vibe, so in addition to making your ponytail more flattering, they’ll also make it youthful, trendy or classic. Experiment with pairing different bang styles, such as blunt, side-swept, or wispy with different ponytail styles until you discover your dream combo.
18. Voluminous ponytail
When it comes to hair, you either have volume or want volume. High or low, the voluminous ponytail is always glamorous. Wear it higher for a lifted look or go low if you want a formal style. To amp up the volume even further, use a hair donut or extensions and tease the crown of the head before securing the ponytail.
19. Wrap-around ponytail
Don’t miss out on the easiest ponytail upgrade: the super simple trick of wrapping a section of hair or an accessory around the base. This small touch not only hides the elastic band but also takes your ponytail up a notch. Wrap up the whole base to keep it looking neat and experiment with wrapping styles. A braid, a twist, a ribbon, or a sleek metal cuff, you’ve got endless options.
20. Ponytail with extensions
Want a ponytail that has volume and glamour, but your hair is either too short or too thin? You can always add more hair. When you need extra length or volume, extensions are your best friend. That gorgeous high curly weave ponytail look is within reach.
Weaves can be sewn, glued, or clipped in. Go for clip-in extensions if you want a quick length boost, wrap-around ponytail extensions for a fuller ponytail and weave-in extensions for long-lasting ponytail styles. While a DIY quick weave is an option, a professional stylist will give you the most natural blend between your natural hair and the weave. Pro tip: invest in high-quality, heat-resistant extensions if you plan on styling your new locks with heat tools.
21. Ponytail with hair accessories
Hair accessories like pins, bows, headbands, scarves, barrettes, ribbons, scrunchies and many more are where you can show your personal style and taste. Be creative: add a pop of color, place accessories near the base, along the length or as an accent. Coordinate the color or the pattern, or contrast your outfit by using a statement piece. Go for a certain trend or vibe, or subvert the expectations. Mix and match different materials, sizes, and designs. Your imagination is key!
Ponytail Styles For Different Face Shapes
What are the best ponytails for your face shape? Read on to find out. Plus, learn how to make the styles that don’t quite work suit you better.
ROUND FACE
Go for high ponytails with volume on top to elongate your face and balance your cute round cheeks. Avoid tight, low styles that highlight the roundness—unless that’s what you’re going for. Play around with side-swept bangs or a deep side part to add some asymmetry to make any ponytail style more flattering.
SQUARE FACE
Try loose, soft, wavy ponytails or textured, low side ponytails to soften your angular features. Skip the super straight, severe looks that emphasize the sharpness of your face. Whichever style you pick, leave a few strands loose: face-framing is a surefire way to add softness to the jawline.
HEART-SHAPED FACE
Got a wide forehead and a narrow chin? A mid-height ponytail paired with side-swept bangs looks gorgeous on heart-shaped faces. Also, styles that add width around the jawline will help create balance: low or side ponytails with soft curls or waves. Avoid high, tight ponytails that emphasize the forehead.
OVAL FACE
Oval faces are already balanced so anything goes: they can pull off any ponytail style. Why not mix it up? Play with parting and placement, add accessories and experiment with texture. It’s your chance to discover your signature look.
DIAMOND FACE
An oval with an edge – that’s a diamond face! Balanced but angular, diamonds need softness. Soft waves or curls are your best choice, along with loose face-framing strands. Emphasize your amazing cheekbones with a low or side ponytail, but avoid anything that adds volume at the temples.
OBLONG FACE
Create some roundness to balance a long face. Low ponytails with bangs and ponytails with volume at the sides will create the illusion of width. High ponytails that elongate the face are not ideal, but they’ll still look good if you shorten your face in other ways, like curtain bangs or a blunt fringe.
Ponytails For Different Hair Types And Textures
Different hair types and textures have different hairstyling challenges. We’ve got the lowdown on how to tackle them.
STRAIGHT HAIR
Challenges
- Tends to show oil and grease more prominently
- Difficult to keep in place
- Lacks natural volume and texture
Tips
- Use a volumizing or texturizing spray to add body to straight hair
- Tease or backcomb the crown for extra volume
- Play around with different partings
- Try accessories like hairpins or bows
CURLY HAIR
Challenges
- Frizz and flyaways are common
- Maintaining curl definition can be a struggle
Tips
- Tame frizz with a leave-in conditioner or curl-defining product
- Opt for a loose ponytail to avoid disrupting natural curl patterns
- Use a silk or satin scrunchie to minimize friction and prevent breakage
AFRO-TEXTURED HAIR
Challenges
- Shrinkage can make the ponytail seem shorter than it actually is
- Detangling can be difficult
- Fragile strands need extra care
Tips
- Stretch your hair before styling to minimize shrinkage
- Gently detangle using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers
- Opt for protective styles like braided ponytails or ponytail weaves to reduce manipulation
THICK HAIR
Challenges
- Heavy ponytails that can cause tension on the scalp
- Difficulty securing the ponytail tightly
Tips
- Invest in strong, durable hair ties that can handle your hair
- Go for high ponytails or styles that distribute weight evenly
- Section your hair for more comfortable wear
FINE HAIR
Challenges
- Lack of volume and thickness
- Difficulty maintaining a secure ponytail
Tips
- Tease the crown for added volume before styling
- Create the illusion of thickness with hair products like mousse or volumizing spray
- Avoid overly tight ponytails to prevent breakage in fine hair
Ponytail Styles For Different Occasions
With all these cute ponytails around, how to choose the one perfect for the occasion? The easy—and the only right—answer is to go for the vibe that matches the situation. Here are some suggestions (but there are no rules).
1. Casual: Perfect for everyday, these styles combine comfort and simplicity.
Casual, everyday ponytails: classic ponytail, messy ponytail, low ponytail, two ponytails, ponytail with wrapped base
2. Professional: Neat and refined styles for the office.
Professional, for work: slick-back ponytail, low ponytail, classic ponytail, sleek ponytail.
3. Glamorous: For special occasions, parties, or a night out.
Glam, night out, party, prom hairstyles: high ponytail, voluminous ponytail, ponytail with extensions, fishtail ponytail, glamorous curly ponytail.
4. Wedding: Elaborate and sophisticated ponytails that stand out.
Wedding, bride, bridesmaid: braided ponytail, low side ponytail, ponytail with weave, elegant wrap-around ponytail, low ponytail wedding hair
5. Formal ponytail hairstyles: Avoid overly playful styles, but add your own touch—for example with accessories.
Formal events, galas, ceremonies: classic ponytail, low side ponytail, sleek ponytail, wrap-around ponytail.
6. Sporty: Keep your hair secure and away from your face.
Gym, workouts, sports activities: high ponytail, two ponytails, low ponytail with headband
7. Romantic: Soft styles to make you feel pretty for date nights.
Romantic, date night: half-up half-down ponytail, romantic twisted ponytail, braid into ponytail
How To Create Great Ponytails
A perfect ponytail takes a little practice but even the pros start there, adapting the details to the exact look they’re going for. Follow these steps and you’ll be creating amazing ponytails in no time.
1. Preparation
Wash and condition your hair before styling. Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to make sure your hair is free of knots and tangles. Customize your prep with products that match your hair type and what you’re going for—add moisture, texture, or hold. Depending on what kind of final look you’re after, dry or blow-dry your hair before you tie it into a ponytail.
2. Securing The Ponytail
Get creative with your ponytail placement. Flip your head upside down to gather hair at the top when you’re doing a high ponytail. Part your hair in the middle or on the side if you’re doing a cute low ponytail.
Keep it gentle with elastic bands that won’t cause damage to your hair. Choose invisible bands or those that blend seamlessly with your hair color.
3. Finishing Touches
Tame flyaways with hairspray, gel or styling cream, or leave out a few loose strands to frame your face. Smooth edges and hide hair ties by wrapping a strand of hair around the base or with an accessory. Add extra accessories as a finishing touch.
4. Hacks
From the claw clip hack to the pull-through ponytail, there are always new viral tips on your timeline promising bouncy ponytails, but do they work? Here’s one that does, guaranteed!
Tips And Tricks
Discover the insider tips that will instantly make your ponytail more stylish.
- Swap out regular bands for clear elastic ones
- Use a silk or satin scrunchie, not just for style but also to protect your hair
- Wrap a strand of hair around the base for a clean look
- Add a twist or braid around the base for an extra detail
- Leave a few strands loose for a softer look
- Amp up the volume in the top section by teasing the crown
- Experiment with different partings to discover what suits you best
- Secure your pony with bobby pins for extra stability when you want it to stay put all day
- Use texture spray to add grit for a better hold
- Avoid a too-tight pony to prevent breakage