easy hairstyles · hair styling
Ponytail Hairstyles: Sleek, Bubble, Braided,and More
Ponytail hairstyles for every occasion: sleek low ponytails, high ponytails, bubble ponytails, braided and half-up versions, with how to add volume and avoid tension.
Hairover Team
A ponytail is the fastest way to look put together, and small changes make it look completely different. A sleek low ponytail is polished enough for work, a high ponytail feels sporty and lifted, and bubble or braided ponytails are fun for events. The tricks that make any ponytail look better: a little texture before you tie it, wrapping hair around the band, and keeping it loose enough that it doesn’t pull.
Everyday ponytails
1. Sleek low ponytail. Brush smooth with a little cream or gel, tie at the nape, and wrap a strand around the band. Perfect for work and interviews. See job interview hairstyles.
2. Messy low ponytail. Pull a few face-framing pieces out and loosen the crown with your fingers.
3. Mid-height ponytail. Tied in line with your cheekbones. The easy middle ground.
4. Side ponytail. Swept over one shoulder. Soft and romantic.
Lifted ponytails
5. High ponytail. Tied at the crown. Use a brush to smooth everything up, and tease the ponytail slightly for volume.
6. Double (stacked) ponytail. Tie the top half into a ponytail, then the bottom half directly underneath. The top one covers the bottom one, making the ponytail look longer and fuller.
7. Bow or scarf ponytail. Add a bow, ribbon, or silk scarf over the band.
Fun ponytails
8. Bubble ponytail. Add elastics every few inches down the ponytail, then gently pull out the hair between them.
9. Braided ponytail. Tie a ponytail, then braid it. Neater on windy days.
10. Dutch braid into a ponytail. Braid along the top of your head, then tie at the crown. Sporty and secure. See Dutch braid vs. French braid.
11. Half-up ponytail. Only the top half tied back. See half-up half-down hairstyles.
12. Curly ponytail. On curly hair, leave the ponytail full and use a scrunchie to avoid squashing curls.
Tips for a better ponytail
- Use second-day hair or texturizing spray for grip.
- Curl the ends with a large barrel or a quick twist for more movement.
- Use soft hair ties or spiral ties, which are gentler than tight elastic.
- Keep a few face-framing pieces out to soften the look. See face-framing layers.
Don’t pull too tight
Tight ponytails worn often can pull on your hairline. The American Academy of Dermatology lists tightly pulled ponytails among styles that can cause traction alopecia and recommends changing styles often. If your scalp hurts or you see broken hairs around your forehead, loosen up.
Related guides
Try a new cut that ties back easily
If you wear a ponytail most days, the right layers make it look better. Hairover lets you upload a clear photo, get a hair analysis, and try hairstyles on your own face in Style Studio.
FAQ
How do I make my ponytail look fuller?
Tease the hair at the crown lightly, use two ponytails stacked one above the other, or curl the ends. Texturizing spray before you tie it also adds grip and volume.
How do I hide the hair tie?
Take a small section from the ponytail, wrap it around the band, and pin the end underneath with a bobby pin.
Are ponytails bad for your hair?
Not when worn loosely. Very tight ponytails worn often can pull on the hairline and cause hair loss over time. Change the position often and use soft hair ties.
What ponytail is best for work?
A sleek low ponytail. It's polished, simple, and works with almost any outfit.
