Ponytails are an effortless hairstyle that never goes out of style. Whether you’re heading to work, going out with friends, or just chilling at home, a ponytail can elevate your look in minutes. The best part? You don’t need to be a hair pro to pull these off. Ponytails can be as simple or as chic as you want them to be, making them versatile for any occasion.
If you think ponytails are just about pulling your hair back and tying it up, you’re in for a surprise! There are so many different ways to style a ponytail that can give you a completely fresh and unique look. From sleek and high to messy and low, we’ve got you covered with these 19 quick and easy ponytail hairstyles.
Let’s dive in and explore some stylish, fun, and easy ponytails you can try right now!
1. High Sleek Ponytail
If you’re looking for a polished and professional look, the high sleek ponytail is your go-to. This hairstyle pulls the hair tightly up to the crown of your head, giving off an elegant vibe.
Start by brushing your hair straight, removing any tangles. Then, gather it at the top of your head and secure it with a hair tie. To get that extra sleek finish, use a bit of gel or hair serum to smooth down any flyaways. You can even wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail for a seamless finish.
2. Messy Low Ponytail
For those days when you want to keep it casual yet chic, a messy low ponytail is the perfect solution. It’s effortless, relaxed, and gives off that “I woke up like this” vibe.
To achieve this look, pull your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck, but don’t worry about making it too neat. Let a few strands fall around your face for that perfectly undone look. You can even tease the ponytail a bit for added volume and texture.
3. Braided Ponytail
A braided ponytail adds a playful twist to your everyday ponytail. It’s ideal for both casual days out and more formal events.
Begin by securing your hair into a regular ponytail. Then, braid the ponytail all the way down to the ends and secure it with another elastic band. You can go for a tight braid for a more polished look or a loose braid for a boho vibe. Either way, this style looks stunning and takes only a few minutes to do.
4. Bubble Ponytail
The bubble ponytail is fun, trendy, and perfect for days when you want to switch things up. This playful hairstyle adds volume and texture to a standard ponytail with minimal effort.
Start by tying your hair into a high or mid-level ponytail. Then, use additional elastics to section the ponytail into “bubbles.” Gently pull on each section to puff them out a bit, creating a bubble effect. This hairstyle works especially well for long hair but can be adapted for medium lengths too.
5. Twisted Side Ponytail
For a romantic and soft look, try the twisted side ponytail. It’s an easy way to make your ponytail look more intricate without much effort.
Start by parting your hair to one side. Take a small section from the front and twist it backward, securing it with a bobby pin. Then, gather all of your hair into a low ponytail on the same side and secure it with an elastic. The twist adds an elegant touch while keeping the overall look casual.
6. Half-Up, Half-Down Ponytail
Can’t decide between wearing your hair down or up? The half-up, half-down ponytail gives you the best of both worlds. It’s perfect for adding a bit of lift to your look without pulling all your hair back.
Section off the top half of your hair and secure it into a ponytail at the crown of your head, while letting the bottom half flow naturally. This style works well for both straight and wavy hair, and you can easily dress it up or down depending on the occasion.
7. Low Sleek Ponytail
A low sleek ponytail is ideal for when you want something minimal yet sophisticated. It’s a timeless look that works for both day and night.
To create this style, part your hair in the middle or on the side, and brush it straight down. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and secure it with a hair tie. Smooth down any flyaways with some hair serum or gel for a flawless finish.
8. Curly Ponytail
Curly hair adds so much volume and texture to a ponytail. Whether your curls are natural or styled, a curly ponytail is full of life and bounce.
If you have naturally curly hair, simply gather your curls into a high or low ponytail, depending on your preference. For those with straight or wavy hair, you can use a curling iron to add some curls before pulling your hair into a ponytail. This look is fun, flirty, and perfect for any occasion.
9. Knotted Ponytail
A knotted ponytail adds a unique twist (literally) to your hair. It’s a playful and creative style that looks a lot more complex than it really is.
To achieve this look, divide your hair into two sections. Tie the two sections into a knot, and then secure the ends with a hair tie. You can leave it at one knot for a simple style or add more knots for extra flair. This hairstyle works especially well for medium to long hair.
10. Wrapped Ponytail
For a sleek and polished look, try a wrapped ponytail. It’s a small detail that can make a huge difference in your overall appearance.
Simply tie your hair into a high, mid, or low ponytail. Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the base to cover the hair tie. Secure the wrapped hair with a bobby pin for a clean, seamless look. This style is perfect for both casual and formal occasions.
11. Puffed Ponytail
Want to add a bit of volume to your ponytail? The puffed ponytail gives your hair a voluminous, bouncy look without much effort.
Start by teasing the crown of your hair to add volume. Then, gather your hair into a ponytail, keeping the top part puffed up for that extra lift. You can adjust the puff to be as subtle or as dramatic as you like, depending on the look you’re going for.
12. Side-Swept Ponytail
The side-swept ponytail adds a touch of glamour to your hairstyle. It’s a simple way to change up your look while keeping it elegant.
To create this look, part your hair to one side and gather it into a low ponytail on the opposite side. You can keep the ponytail sleek or add some waves for a softer look. This hairstyle works well for both casual and formal settings.
13. Fishtail Braid Ponytail
If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, the fishtail braid ponytail is a stunning option. It looks intricate, but it’s actually pretty easy to create.
Start by tying your hair into a ponytail, then fishtail braid the ponytail by dividing it into two sections. Take small pieces from the outer edge of each section and cross them over to the opposite section, repeating until you reach the end. Secure with an elastic, and you’re done!
14. Voluminous High Ponytail
For a bold and dramatic look, the voluminous high ponytail is a must-try. It’s perfect for nights out or whenever you want your hair to make a statement.
Start by teasing your hair at the crown to add volume. Then, pull your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a hair tie. To keep the volume intact, gently pull on the hair at the top to create a fuller look. This style pairs beautifully with big curls or waves.
15. Sleek Mid-Level Ponytail
A mid-level ponytail is a perfect middle ground between a high and low ponytail. It’s versatile, simple, and works for any occasion.
To get this look, brush your hair back and secure it at the middle of your head. For a sleek finish, use a bit of serum to smooth down any flyaways. You can also wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail for an extra polished look.
16. Retro Flip Ponytail
If you’re feeling a bit nostalgic, the retro flip ponytail brings back that vintage vibe with a modern twist. It’s playful, fun, and perfect for adding a little flair to your everyday look.
Start by tying your hair into a ponytail. Then, use a curling iron or a straightener to flip the ends of your ponytail outwards. This creates that signature retro look. Pair it with bold makeup for an even more glamorous finish.
17. Double Braided Ponytail
Why settle for one braid when you can have two? The double braided ponytail is a unique and stylish way to elevate your everyday ponytail.
Start by creating two small braids on either side of your head. Then, gather all of your hair, including the braids, into a ponytail and secure it with an elastic. This look adds texture and dimension to your hair, making it stand out from the crowd.
18. High Puff Ponytail
The high puff ponytail is perfect for natural hair, giving you a voluminous and textured look that’s both stylish and easy to achieve.
Simply gather your hair into a high ponytail, leaving the puff full and fluffy. You can use a bit of gel to smooth the sides, but let the puff do all the talking. This look is effortless, beautiful, and perfect for showcasing your natural curls.
19. Textured Ponytail
For a ponytail that’s full of life and movement, the textured ponytail is a great choice. It’s perfect for adding volume and interest to your hair, whether it’s curly, wavy, or straight.
To get this look, start by adding texture to your hair with a curling iron or by teasing it lightly. Then, pull your hair into a ponytail and secure it with an elastic. You can even pull out a few strands for a more relaxed, undone finish.
Conclusion
There you have it—19 quick and easy ponytail hairstyles that are perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re aiming for sleek and polished or fun and messy, there’s a ponytail style here for everyone. The best part? These hairstyles don’t take much time to achieve, and you don’t need any fancy tools. Just grab a hair tie, maybe a few bobby pins, and you’re good to go.
So, which one are you trying first?