Hair

40 Quick And Trendy Ponytails

The ponytail is a classic for a reason. Practical, trendy, and easy to style, there’s a ponytail for every hair type and occasion – and this blog covers most of them.

Whether you’re looking to dress your pony up for a wedding or find the perfect mid-week up-do that’s not too high-maintenance, we’ve got a ponytail for everyone. From ponytail hairstyles for women to men’s ponytail looks, this blog has them all, plus some recommendations for tools 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, throwing your long hair into a ponytail is a surefire way to stay stylish while also feeling comfortable. 

1. Long low ponytail

A long, low ponytail is timeless and classy. This sleek style is fast and simple to achieve. Simply brush your hair to remove tangles, then secure at the nape of your neck with a hair tie. This is the perfect style to showcase your hair’s natural texture, but if you’re looking for a super straight and sleek effect, use the Wide Iron. Its wider plates are designed for longer, thicker hair, and our signature Revive ModeTM keeps your hair healthy and shiny. Don’t forget to spritz with Quick Dry Magical Potion before straightening for moisturising heat protection.

2. Long high ponytail

If you want a little more attitude from your ponytail, take it higher. This bouncy and fun style can be accessorised with a ribbon, bow or scrunchie to match any outfit. Brush through to smooth with the Luxury Dressing Brush, then flip your head upside down and brush all of your hair to the crown of your head. Secure with a snag-free hair tie, and you’re done. For added texture, use the 2-in-1 Contouring Iron Pro to add waves or use a teasing comb to backcomb the underside of your high pony.

3. Tucked long ponytail

Spice up your standard ponytail with a twist. This flattering style looks like you’ve really tried, with very little effort actually required. As usual, detangle your hair with the Luxury Dressing Brush, then sweep it into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Secure loosely with a hair tie, then divide the hair above the tie in two, creating an opening. Flip your long ponytail over and tuck it into the gap you created, then tighten the hair tie to secure your style.

4. Long bubble ponytail

For a textured look that delivers high impact hair with little effort, try a bubble pony on long hair. To create this fun and quirky look, start by first creating a classic high ponytail. Using a teasing comb, gently backcomb the hair closest to the base of your high pony, then secure another hair tie an inch or so from the first. Gently pull the hair between the two hair ties outwards to create a bubble effect. Repeat, adding more hair ties until you reach the end of your hair.

5. Long side ponytail

Side ponytails are a romantic style that’s ideal for a date night or wedding guest look, and can be customised with twists and additions depending on your hair type or taste. For a classic long side ponytail, brush your hair with your Luxury Dressing Brush, then sweep it to one side and secure it with a hair tie. This style looks fantastic whether your long hair is sleek and straight, or cascading in waves or curls.

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 ponytail is packed with volume and ultra-versatile. Start with clean, dry and detangled hair. Secure into a low, high, or mid ponytail depending on the style you prefer. Spritz with Quick Dry Magical Potion for heat protection, then curl your hair with the Curling Wand, focusing on small sections at a time. The Sericite-infused barrel keeps your hair shiny and hydrated every time.

7. Long fishtail ponytail

For another ponytail that pops, take inspiration from the fishtail braid. When combined with a ponytail, it makes an effortless boho style to take you from beach to bar. Simply put your hair into a pony, then split your pony into two equal sections of hair. Take turns crossing a small strand from either side into the middle to craft your long ponytail into the perfect fishtail. Secure with another hair tie, then add texture by gently tugging at the braid to pull it apart. Then remove the hair tie at the top of the pony and pull a few strands out at the front to complete the carefree vibe.

8. Long ponytail with fringe

Long hair with a fringe is a chic combination. From retro curtain bangs to a straight-cut fringe, whatever style you’ve got, you can create a ponytail to complement it. Once you’ve tied your long hair up into the ponytail of your choice – high, low, or mid – use the CLOUD NINE Slim Iron to keep your fringe in check. Its slimmer plates are specifically designed for touching up short styles and fringes, and it still has our signature 11-setting heat control, so you can use the heat that’s best for your hair. Don’t forget a spray of Quick Dry Magical Potion before heat styling.

PONYTAIL TIP

Not sure what temperature to style your long ponytail at and 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 to style. Whether you’ve gone for a choppy shag cut or a blunt lob, you can still throw your mid-length hair into a ponytail when it suits. Embrace the effortless messy look, or smooth your hair into a sleek style that’s ideal for formal occasions with these easy ponytail ideas.

9. Mid-length half ponytail

A half-up ponytail is the ideal way to get your mid-length hair out of your eyes, while still showing off its trendy length and style. Rather than scraping all your hair back into a hair tie, split it into two sections – a back and a front. Allow the back section to flow freely, and secure the front section at the back with a hair tie. For a more lived-in, deliberately messy look, gently loosen a few pieces at the front and leave them free to frame your face.

10. Mid-length messy ponytail

This look 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. Starting with clean, dry, brushed hair, secure it into a mid-height ponytail at the centre of the back of your hair. Gently loosen a few tendrils of hair from the front and let them hang loose. 

Plug in your 2-in-1 Contouring Iron Pro and spritz your pony with Quick Dry Magical Potion for heat protection. Run the iron through your hair, twisting as you go to use the curved plates to add texture. Repeat with the tendrils you pulled loose at the front to complete the look.

11. Mid-length slicked-back ponytail

If you’re looking for the complete opposite of the last style – something sleek and sculpted – this look might be for you. A mid-length slicked-back ponytail looks great for the office, but could also be taken from day to night. 

For that ultra-smooth vibe, start with clean, dry hair – then brush through with the Luxury Dressing Brush and add a few generous sprays of Quick Dry Magical Potion. Use the CLOUD NINE Original Iron to straighten all of your hair, then brush it back into a mid-height ponytail and secure it with a snag-free hair tie. To keep your slicked-back style looking crisp and sleek throughout the day, smooth a lightweight gel or a small amount of leave-in conditioner like CLOUD NINE Magical Remedy through the top of your hair.

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 ponytail, it’s sleek and tidy, making it perfect for work or formal occasions. To achieve a wrap-around ponytail, start by putting your hair up into a standard pony, secured with a hair tie as usual. Then, section a small strand of hair from the main body of the ponytail and wrap it around the hair tie to conceal, securing at the end with a bobby pin tucked underneath. 

For an extra neat look, straighten your hair beforehand with the Original Iron. Don’t forget a spritz of Quick Dry Magical Potion before you start.

13. Mid-length ponytail with fringe

The ponytail-fringe combination looks just as great on mid-length hair as it does on long hair. Tying the rest of your hair back from your face can really make your bangs or fringe pop. To create this look, start with clean, dry and detangled hair. Brush all your hair, except your fringe, back into a mid-height ponytail, and secure it in the middle of the back of your head with a snag-free hair tie. To keep your fringe in check, spray with Quick Dry Magical Potion heat protector, and shape with the CLOUD NINE Slim Iron, which is designed for healthy precision styling.

14. Hair claw ponytail

Hair claws have made a comeback. These practical and cute clips come in a range of stylish designs and colours to suit every outfit and occasion and are the perfect accessory to spice up your next mid-length ponytail. For a low-tension look that’s kind to your hair, detangle and brush it back, holding it at the nape of your neck. Twist up and secure with your hair claw – and there you have it, an ultra-fast, easy style that looks like you made lots of effort.

 

PONYTAILS FOR SHORT HAIR

So you’ve braved the chop, but you still want some options for tying your hair back every now and then? The good news is, short, chin-length hair can still be styled into a chic ponytail, with plenty of options to stop you getting bored of your style. From stylish twists to artfully messy dos, these styles will take you from the boardroom to the dancefloor with very little effort. Plus, you can use your CLOUD NINE styling tools to add extra oomph, while still protecting your hair’s health and condition.

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. To create a side-parted short ponytail style with impact, the CLOUD NINE Slim Iron is your best friend. This slimmer, more precise straightener is perfect for touching up shorter hair. Spritz thoroughly with Quick Dry Magical Potion, and plug in your Slim Iron. For the sleek and neat version of this style, straighten all your hair until it’s neat and straight. For that effortless messy look, use the Slim Iron to add twists of texture throughout. Once complete, secure your hair into a pony with a hair tie.

16. Accessorised short ponytail

Short ponytails are a blank canvas that’s too tempting not to accessorise. Whether you’re a fan of a jewelled hair grip, or you’ve got a brand new scrunchie to try out, the short ponytail is the perfect way to show it off. We recommend sticking with snag-free, lightweight hair accessories that don’t pull or drag your hair, as this can put it under greater stress and risk damage. Choose silk hair ties and gentle clips and combs.

 17. Half-up short ponytail

Half-up dos are the ideal option for short hair that’s naturally straight, as they add the illusion of volume and texture. As with mid-length hair, simply split your clean, dry and detangle hair in half, tying back the top/front layer with your favourite hair tie, and leaving the bottom/back loose. This style looks especially cute accessorised with a silk scrunchie – which is great for protecting your hair from breakage too.

18. Short ponytail with side twist

A ponytail with a (literal) twist, this cute style takes little effort to achieve but elevates a standard ponytail significantly. To style a short ponytail with a side twist, section off a small piece of hair at the front of your head, to one side of your parting. Divide this in two, and twist each piece apart while also twisting around each other to create a small rope braid. 

Braid towards the back of your head, picking up more small sections of your hair as you twist. When you reach the back of your head, secure the rope braid with a hair tie. Now, gather all your hair - including the rope braid – into a ponytail and secure it with a hair tie. Remove the hair tie that you previously used to secure the rope braid, and you’re ready to go. 

19. Short messy ponytail

One of the best things about having short hair is that ‘just woke up’ messy look is within easy reach. Short messy ponytails are full of texture and simple to style. Depending on your hair’s natural pattern and texture, simply pull it back into a mid-height pony and secure it with a snag-free hair tie, then use your hands to gently mess up the style by pulling out a few strands here and there, especially around your face. If your hair is naturally straight, you may want to use the Slim Iron to inject some messy texture – just don’t forget to apply Quick Dry Magical Potion first.

 

PONYTAILS FOR CURLY HAIR

Curly hair has volume, bounce and personality. However, curls come with their own set of challenges – frizz, tangles, and finding the perfect curl-friendly products. But with a few clever styling tricks and the right tools, you can turn your curls a fabulous ponytail.

One essential tool for defining and styling 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 a ponytail. Learn how to use a diffuser effectively.

20. Curly high ponytail

Feeling like rocking some serious volume? A curly high ponytail is your go-to as it lifts your curls high and shows off that gorgeous bounce. Plus, it’s super easy to pull off just gather your curls up high and secure them with a hair tie for a look that’s both chic and practical.

21. Curly braided ponytail

Looking for something a bit more playful? Try a curly braided ponytail. This style combines the fun of curls with the elegance of braids. Simply braid a section of your hair before gathering it into a ponytail. It’s a cute and creative way to add some extra flair to your curls, whether you’re heading out for a casual day or dressing up for a special event.

22. Wavy ponytail

If you’re after a sleek and modern vibe, a wavy ponytail is for you. This style gives your curls a glossy, polished finish that’s seriously eye-catching. First, spritz your hair with a heat protectant like our Magical Quick Dry Potion and blow dry your curly hair straight with the Airshot Pro hair dryer. Then use our 2-in-1 Contouring Iron Pro to create smooth waves before gathering your hair into a ponytail. 

23. Slicked back curly ponytail

A slicked-back curly ponytail 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. It’s like the classic 80s ‘business in the front and a party in the back’ style. To get this look just right, click the Diffuser attachment onto your Airshot Pro hair dryer to help define your curls while keeping the front sleek and stylish.

 

PONYTAILS FOR FINE HAIR

Fine hair can be a challenge when it comes to ponytails because it often lacks the volume or fullness you want. But with the right styles, you can create the illusion of thicker, more voluminous hair. Here are some ponytail ideas that will have you looking fab, even if your hair is on the thin and wispy side.

24. Double ponytail for fine hair

By creating two ponytails stacked on top of each other, you instantly double your volume. This flattering style works even better with curls or waves for added thickness, so grab your Curling Wand to create those bouncy curls, and voilà – your ponytail will look twice as thick.

Half ponytail for fine hair

The half ponytail is another great way to add volume without pulling all your hair back. This style lifts the crown of your head, creating the illusion of thicker hair. You can easily add a bit of texture using our Original Iron for extra oomph or add a clip for an extra-easy style. It’s perfect for those casual days when you want a bit of height without going full pony.

26. Bubble ponytail for fine hair

For an effortlessly cute and voluminous look, try the bubble ponytail. This style involves brushing your hair into a ponytail about mid-way up the back of your head. Then gently back-comb your hair with our Luxury Dressing Brush and add bands along the length of your ponytail to create “bubbles” of puffed-up sections. It’s a playful way to volumise fine hair and gives off a puffy, stylish vibe.

27. Braided ponytail for fine hair

A braided ponytail is ideal for fine hair, as it adds texture and makes your hair appear fuller. Simply sweep your hair into a ponytail and braid its whole length, then tease out some of the strands for an instant lift in volume. This textured style is easy to achieve and looks great for both casual days and nights out.

Discover our recommended volumising tips for thin hair

28. Retro bouffant ponytail

For a fabulous throwback look, go for the retro bouffant ponytail to add texture and volume to limp, fine hair. Lightly backcomb the top section of your hair before securing your ponytail with a hair tie. This look is best in a high ponytail, as this creates the illusion of fuller hair. It’s a great choice for a night out when you want a bit of glam.

 

BRAIDED PONYTAIL HAIRSTYLES

Braids and ponytails are a match made in hair heaven. Whether you’re looking for a quick style 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. Here are some braided ponytail ideas for both casual days and formal occasions.

29. Goddess braid ponytail

The goddess braid ponytail is a fantastic option for thick, natural hair and is made up of lots of braids tied together into a ponytail. It’s both elegant and practical, and perfect for showcasing your length while keeping everything neat and controlled. 

To achieve this style, section your hair into sections, depending on how many braids you want, and then braid each section tightly close to your scalp. Once your braids are in place, gather them into a low or high ponytail depending on the vibe you’re going for. To really make this style pop, add some hair cuffs or beads to your braids.

30. Double braid ponytail

If you’re looking to add more dimension to your hairstyle, the double braid ponytail is a perfect choice. Start by separating two sections of hair on either side of your head. Create two individual braids, securing them with small hair bobbles. Then, pull the rest of your hair, along with the two braids, into a ponytail and secure it with a hair tie. This layered look adds extra texture and style, making it ideal for any hair length or texture.

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 ponytail. Whether you're heading to the gym or out for the day, this look is both stylish and practical. Start by gathering your braids into a ponytail – high for a bold look or low for something more subtle – and secure them with a sturdy hair bobble. For a sleek finish, wrap a couple of braids around the base of the ponytail to cover the hairband and secure with a booby pin.

32. Mermaid braid ponytail

The mermaid braid ponytail is a dreamy, romantic look that works really well with long, thick hair. To achieve this style, start by taking small sections of hair from either side of your head, braiding them, and then weaving them into your ponytail. Continue adding sections as you braid down, creating a “mermaid” effect. 

33. Fishtail ponytail

To create a fishtail ponytail, begin by pulling your hair into a ponytail at your desired height. Then, divide the ponytail into two sections and begin the fishtail braid by taking small pieces from each side and crossing them over to the opposite section. Keep repeating this until you’ve braided the entire ponytail, securing the end with a band. While this braid takes a little practice, it’s well worth the effort for its intricate, eye-catching look – perfect for when you really want to impress.

34. French braid ponytail

To create this look, start by French braiding your hair from the crown of your head to the nape of your neck. Once you’ve reached the base of your head, gather the rest of your hair into a ponytail and secure it. This style 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 braid that adds extra volume and stands out, the Dutch braid ponytail is your go-to. This is essentially an inside-out French braid that sits on top of your hair rather than blending in. Start by Dutch braiding your hair from the front to the base of your head, pulling each section tightly to create that raised, voluminous effect. Once you reach the very end, pull your hair into a ponytail and secure it with a hair bobble.

36. Rope braid ponytail

For a sleek and simple look, the rope braid ponytail is a great alternative to traditional braids. Begin by gathering your hair into a low ponytail. Divide the ponytail into two sections, then twist each section in the same direction. Finally, twist the two sections together in the opposite direction to create the “rope” effect.

37. Ponytail with braided extensions

If you’re looking to add length or volume to your ponytail, braided extensions are your best friend. Start by braiding your natural hair into a ponytail, then attach the extensions by wrapping them around the base of your ponytail. This style is perfect for creating a fuller, more dramatic look – ideal for events where you really want to stand out. Braided extensions also give you the flexibility to play around with different lengths, textures, and styles so you can play around with your look.

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

 

PONYTAIL HAIRSTYLES FOR MEN

Having long hair doesn’t mean you’re short on styling options. A ponytail is a practical and stylish way to keep your hair in check, whether you're working out, going on a date, or heading to the office. Here's a breakdown of 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 ponytail 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 your hair and give it a shiny finish. Pull your hair back, secure it with a hairband, and smooth down any flyaways using our Original Iron for a flawless finish. For longer hair, try looping it back through the hair tie for a less polished look.

39. Men’s messy ponytail

The messy men’s ponytail is ideal for those laid-back, casual days. Whatever your hair texture or length, simply pull your hair back with your hands (no brush) without worrying about making it perfect. You can leave a few strands loose for that effortless, rugged look. To give your hair some texture, you can use a bit of sea salt spray or a light pomade to enhance the messy vibe. 

40. Men’s ponytail with undercut

If you’re after an edgier style, pairing a ponytail with an undercut is the way to go. Start by pulling the longer top section of your hair into a ponytail, leaving the shaved or short sides exposed. This style works great when you want to make a statement. For added smoothness and shine, run the Original Iron over the ponytail to tame any frizz and perfect the overall look.

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 your ponytail placement and use soft hair bobbles like silk scrunchies. Avoid yanking your hair back too tightly, and give your hair a break when you can by wearing your hair loose.

Where is the most flattering ponytail placement?

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

Does a ponytail make you look younger or older?

A high, bouncy ponytail can give a youthful vibe, while a sleek, low ponytail looks more polished and mature. Adding texture or loose strands softens the ponytail look and can make you appear younger. 

How do I get my hair in a neat ponytail?

Brush through your hair, tilt your head back slightly to avoid bumps, and gather it into a ponytail. Use our a small amount of our Magical Remedy to smooth away frizz and glide our Hot Brush through the ponytail to tame flyaways for a sleek finish. For an extra neat finish, wrap a small section of hair around the hair bobble.

How do you make a ponytail look fuller?

For a fuller ponytail, try the double ponytail trick – two ponytails 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.

Share your ponytail style ideas with us on our socials: TikTok, Instagram and Facebook.