40 Quick And Trendy Ponytails

The ponytail is a classic for a reason. Practical, trendy, and easy to style, there’s one for every hair type and occasion. This guide covers simple ponytail hairstyles for everyday plus some tool recommendations to help you achieve your desired style while also keeping your hair healthy.

Ponytails for long hair

Long hair can be luscious and glamorous, but sometimes you just need it out of your face. Whether you’re heading for a workout or getting close to hair wash day, gathering your long hair into a pony is a surefire way to stay stylish while also feeling comfortable. From low to high ponytail hairstyles – long hair gives you so many options

1. Long low ponytail

A long, low pony is timeless and classy while also simple to achieve. If you’re looking for a super straight and sleek effect, use the Wide Iron first.

2. Long high ponytail

If you want a little more attitude from your ponytail hairstyle, take it higher. For added texture, use the Contouring Original Iron to add waves or a teasing comb to gently backcomb the underside of your high pony.

3. Tucked long ponytail

This flattering style looks like you’ve really tried, with very little effort required. Simply flip your long pony into a gap above the hair bobble and pull gently downwards.

4. Long bubble ponytail

For the ultimate in high ponytail hairstyles for long hair, the bubble pony is a textured look that delivers high impact.

5. Long side ponytail

Side ponies are a long romantic style that’s ideal for a date night or wedding guest look and can be customised depending on the occasion.

6. Long curled ponytail

Whether your long hair is naturally blessed with spiralling curls, or you just love getting the look using the Cloud Nine Curling Wand, this long curly look is packed with volume and ultra-versatile.

7. Long fishtail ponytail

For another long pony that pops, take inspiration from the fishtail braid – an effortless boho style to take you from beach to bar.

8. Long ponytail with fringe

From retro curtain bangs to a straight-cut fringe, whatever style you’ve got, you can create a ponytail to complement it. Use the Cloud Nine Slim Iron to keep your fringe in check.

Tip: Not sure what temperature to style at to keep your long hair healthy and thriving? Try our Temperature Calculator to find out.

Ponytails for mid-length hair

Shoulder-length hair is stylish and versatile. Whether you’ve gone for a choppy shag cut or a blunt lob, you can throw your mid-length hair into a pony when it suits. Embrace the effortless messy look or smooth your hair into a sleek style for formal occasions with these easy ponytail ideas.

9. Mid-length half ponytail

Half a ponytail is the ideal way to get your mid-length hair out of your eyes, while still showing off its trendy length.

10. Mid-length messy ponytail

The messy pony is especially suited to choppy cuts like a shag or layered lob. It’s flattering and so easy and quick to style, it’s sure to become part of your midweek hair rotation.

11. Mid-length slicked-back ponytail

A shoulder-length slicked-back look is great for the office but could also be taken from day to night. Smooth a lightweight gel or a small amount of leave-in conditioner like the Cloud Nine Magical Remedy through the top of your hair for sleekness.

12. Mid-length wrap-around ponytail

To add a touch of glamour to a classic pony, look no further than this wrap-around style. Customisable to suit a high, low, or mid-height style, it’s sleek and tidy, making it perfect for work or formal occasions.

13. Mid-length ponytail with fringe

The pony-fringe combination looks just as great on mid-length hair as it does on long hair. Keep your fringe in check using the Cloud Nine Slim Iron, which is designed for healthy precision styling.

14. Hair claw ponytail

Hair claws have made a comeback. Simply gather your hair, twist, and secure with a hair claw – and there you have it, an ultra-fast, easy style that works for any occasion.

Ponytails for short hair

Short hair doesn’t mean you can’t wear a ponytail. Here’s a range of simple ponytail hairstyles for every day that are quick, stylish, and perfect for busy days and whatever you’ve got on your plate.

15. Side-parted short ponytail

This versatile style can be customised to be sleek and tidy for that ‘clean girl’ look or mussed up and textured for a more casual ‘bed head’ vibe.

16. Accessorised short ponytail

Whether you’re a fan of a jewelled hair grip, or you’ve got a brand new scrunchie to try out, the short updo is the perfect way to show it off. Sticking with silk hair ties and other snag-free, lightweight hair accessories that are kind to your hair.

17. Half-up short ponytail

Half a ponytail is the ideal option for short hair that’s naturally straight, as it adds the illusion of volume and texture.

18. Short ponytail with side twist

A ponytail with a (literal) twist, this cute style takes little effort to achieve but elevates your standard pony into a chic short updo.

19. Short messy ponytail

Short messy ponies are full of texture and simple to style. If your hair is naturally straight, you may want to use the Slim Iron to add texture.

Ponytails for curly hair

Curly hair has volume, bounce and personality. With a few clever styling tricks and the right tools, you can turn your curls into a fabulous pony.

One essential tool for curly hair is the Airshot Pro hair dryer. It comes with a Magnetic Diffuser attachment that helps to define your curls before you style them into your updo. Learn how to use a diffuser.

20. Curly high ponytail

A curly high pony updo is one of the most dramatic high ponytail hairstyles out there, as it lets your curls take centre stage to show off that gorgeous bounce.

21. Curly braided ponytail

Looking for something a bit more playful? Try a curly braided look. This style combines the fun of curls with the elegance of braids.

22. Wavy ponytail

If you’re after a sleek and modern vibe, a wavy pony updo is for you. This style gives a glossy, polished finish that’s seriously eye-catching. Use our Contouring Original Iron to create smooth waves before styling.

23. Slicked back curly ponytail

A slicked-back curly pony is the perfect mix of sophistication and fun. Smooth the front of your hair back for a neat look while letting your curls flow freely at the back.

Ponytails for fine hair

Fine hair can be challenging to style because it often lacks the volume or fullness you want in a pony hairstyle. Try these looks to create the illusion of thicker, more voluminous hair:

24. Double ponytail for fine hair

Two ponytails stacked on top of each other instantly doubles the volume. This flattering style works even better with curls or waves for added thickness, so grab your Curling Wand.

25. Half ponytail for fine hair

Half a ponytail is perfect for those casual days when you want a bit of height without going full pony. You can easily add a bit of texture using our Original Iron for extra oomph.

26. Bubble ponytail for fine hair

This ‘bubble’ hairstyle involves brushing your hair into a pony about mid-way up the back of your head. Gently back-comb your pony with our Luxury Dressing Brush and add bands along the length to create “bubbles”.

27. Braided ponytail for fine hair

A braided pony is ideal for fine hair, as it makes it appear fuller. This textured hairstyle is easy to achieve and looks great for both casual days and nights out.

28.Retro bouffant ponytail

For a fabulous throwback look, go for the retro bouffant style to add texture and volume to limp, fine hair. It’s a great choice for a night out when you want a bit of glam.

Discover our volumising tips for thin hair

Braided ponytail hairstyles

Whether you’re looking for a quick plait and ponytail combo to keep your hair back while you work out, or you need something stylish and intricate for a special occasion, braided ponytails are versatile, chic, and practical. Try these braided looks for all hair types:

29. Goddess braid ponytail

The goddess braid pony is a fantastic option for thick, natural afro hair and is made up of lots of braids tied together.

30. Double braid ponytail

If you’re looking to add more dimension to your hairstyle, the double braid style is a perfect choice.

31. Box braid ponytail

Box braids are a timeless classic, particularly for afro-textured hair. To give this traditional style a new twist, pull your box braids into a sleek, high pony.

32. Mermaid braid ponytail

The mermaid braid pony is a dreamy, romantic look that works well with long, thick hair.

33. Fishtail ponytail

While this plait and ponytail combo takes a little practice, it’s well worth the effort for its intricate, eye-catching look.

34. French braid ponytail

This pony plait hairstyle is perfect for all hair lengths and textures for day-to-day wear and can easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

35. Dutch braid ponytail

For a style that adds extra volume and stands out, the Dutch pony plait hairstyle is your go-to. This is essentially an inside-out French braid that sits on top of your hair rather than blending in.

36. Rope braid ponytail

For a sleek and simple look, the rope braid
pony is a great alternative to traditional braids and works particularly well on shoulder-length or long hair.

37. Ponytail with braided extensions

If you’re looking to add length or volume to your pony, braided extensions are your best friend. Create a fuller, more dramatic look while also having you the flexibility to play around with different lengths, textures, and styles.

Check out our braided hairstyles style guide for more braiding ideas, especially if you have coily type 4 hair.

Ponytail styles for men

Ponytails aren’t just for women – they’re a practical and stylish way for men to keep longer hair in check. Here's a few styles that work for different occasions, from casual looks to more formal options.

38. Men’s sleek ponytail

For a polished, professional look, the sleek
pony is a solid choice. Start by brushing your hair with our Luxury Dressing Brush to remove any knots or tangles, then use a little Magical Remedy to smooth frizz or flyaways.

39. Men’s messy ponytail

The messy men’s pony is ideal for those laid back, casual days. Whatever your hair texture or length, simply pull your hair back with your hands, without worrying about making it perfect.

40. Men’s ponytail with undercut

If you’re after an edgier style, pairing a pony with an undercut is the way to go. This style works great when you want to make a statement.

For more long hairstyle ideas for men, check out our men’s long hairstyle style guide.

FAQs: Ponytails

Do ponytails cause breakage?

Ponytails can cause breakage if they’re too tight or worn in the same spot every day. To prevent this, switch up the placement and use soft, snag-free hair bobbles like silk scrunchies. Avoid yanking your hair back too tightly and give your scalp a break when you can by wearing your strands loose sometimes.

Where is the most flattering ponytail placement?

It depends on your face shape and the look you’re after. A high style lifts your features for a fresh, youthful look, while a mid or low style offers a more classic or elegant look. Play around to find what flatters you best.

Does a ponytail make you look younger or older?

A high, bouncy pony can give a youthful vibe, while a sleek, low version looks more polished and mature. Adding texture or loose strands softens the look and can give a younger feel.

How do I get my hair in a neat ponytail?

Brush through your hair with the Luxury Paddle Brush, tilt your head back slightly to avoid bumps, and gather it together, fastening with a snag-free hair tie. Use a small amount of our Magical Remedy to smooth away frizz and glide the Hot Brush through for a sleek finish. For an extra neat look, wrap a small section of hair around the hair bobble.

How do you make a ponytail look fuller?

For a fuller look, try the double ponytail trick – two ponies stacked on top of each other create the illusion of thickness. Adding curls or waves with our Curling Wand also adds volume, or you can tease your hair at the crown for extra lift.

How do you do a high ponytail?

Start by brushing your hair to remove any tangles using the Luxury Paddle Brush. For a straight, sleek look, spritz with Magical Quick Dry Potion and use the Original Iron first. Gather your hair at the crown (top) of your head, keeping it smooth. Secure it with a strong, snag-free hair tie, and for an extra polished look, wrap a small section of hair around the base to hide the elastic. Finish with a bit of hairspray or shine serum for a sleek, all-day hold.

How do you do a slicked-back ponytail?

Begin with dry or slightly damp hair and apply a smoothing serum or gel. Brush your hair straight back from your forehead using the Luxury Paddle Brush, making sure there are no bumps. Gather it at the nape of your neck or higher, depending on your style, and secure gently with a snag-free hair tie. Use
a small amount of our Magical Remedy to smooth away frizz. For an ultra-polished finish, run a fine-tooth comb over the top and edges, and set with hairspray or gel to keep flyaways at bay.