15 Ponytail Hairstyles That Are Anything But Basic

Listen up, besties! If you think ponytails are just for the gym or lazy days, we need to talk. The humble pony has evolved into a whole mood, and I’m here to spill all the tea on 15 absolutely stunning ways to rock this versatile style. Whether you’re headed to brunch, the office, or even a wedding, there’s a perfect ponytail waiting to be your new signature look.

1. Sleek High Pony with Wrap-Around

The ultimate boss babe style! This isn’t your basic gym pony – we’re talking glass-like smoothness and sky-high placement. Start with straightened hair and use a boar bristle brush with strong-hold gel to eliminate every single flyaway. Pro tip: Use a bungee hair tie for the perfect tension, then wrap a small section of hair around the elastic for that salon-finish look. Finish with a shine spray for that glazed donut effect.

2. Bubble Ponytail

This Instagram-worthy style is way easier than it looks! Create a regular high pony, then tie clear elastics every 2-3 inches down its length. Gently pull apart each section to create perfect “bubbles.” The key is consistency in spacing and making sure each bubble is equally fluffy. Add some face-framing pieces for extra sass.

3. Braided Base Ponytail

Take your pony game up a notch by adding a cornrow or Dutch braid leading into your ponytail. Start from the nape and braid upward to where you want your pony to sit. This adds texture and interest while keeping those annoying baby hairs in check. Perfect for the gym when you actually want to look cute while working out.

4. Twisted Side Pony

Giving major red carpet vibes! Create a deep side part, then twist small sections of hair along your hairline, pinning as you go. Gather everything into a low side ponytail and secure with a clear elastic. The twists add that perfect amount of romance and keep your style looking intentional rather than just thrown together.

5. Double-Stacked Ponytail

The secret to making your pony look twice as thick! Create a half-up ponytail, then gather the remaining hair into another pony directly underneath it. Blend them together by wrapping a piece of hair around both elastics. This trick works magic for fine hair or when you want extra volume.

6. Messy Volume Pony

For that perfect “I woke up like this but actually spent 20 minutes making it look effortless” vibe. Tease the crown section for height, gather your hair loosely at the middle of your head, and pull out strategic pieces around your face. The messier, the better! Use texturizing spray for extra lived-in texture.

7. Sculptural Loop Ponytail

This architectural style looks complicated but it’s actually super achievable! Create a sleek ponytail, then instead of pulling your hair all the way through the last loop with your elastic, create a modern loop shape. Pin any excess hair underneath for a clean finish. It’s giving minimalist fashion editor energy.

8. Criss-Cross Ponytail

Add interest to a basic low pony by creating a criss-cross effect at the nape of your neck. Section your hair horizontally at the ears, create two ponytails, then cross them over each other and pin in place. It looks like you spent way more time on it than you actually did.

9. Curly Waterfall Pony

Let those natural curls shine! Gather your curls into a high pony, but don’t pull them all the way through the elastic on the last wrap. Let them cascade down like a waterfall, creating a gorgeous fountain effect. Add some curl-defining cream to keep everything bouncy and frizz-free.

10. Braided Accent Pony

Start with two small braids at your temples, then gather them along with the rest of your hair into a mid-height ponytail. The braids add just enough detail to make it special without going overboard. Perfect for those “desk to drinks” days.

11. Flipped Ends Retro Pony

Channel your inner ’60s bombshell! Create a mid-height pony, then use a round brush and blow dryer (or flat iron) to flip the ends outward. Add a velvet ribbon or scrunchie for extra retro vibes. Don’t forget to tease the crown for that perfect vintage volume.

12. Slicked-Back Wet Look

Serving model-off-duty realness! Use gel or styling cream to create that wet-look effect, then sleek everything back into a low pony at the nape of your neck. The contrast between the super-sleek front and the textured pony is everything. Plus, it works on literally any hair texture.

13. Topsy Tail Chain

Remember the topsy tail from the ’90s? She’s back and better than ever! Create a regular pony, then split the hair above the elastic and flip the tail through. Keep creating these flips down the length of your pony for a cool chain effect. It looks way more complicated than it actually is.

14. Hidden Elastic Pony

The most elegant take on a ponytail! Instead of using an elastic, section off a small piece of hair and use it to tie your pony in place. Cross it over, under, and around until it’s secure, then pin the ends underneath. It takes some practice but looks absolutely stunning for special occasions.

15. Textured Pull-Through Pony

Perfect for those second-day curls or waves! Create small sections from front to back, securing each with an elastic. Then, gently pull apart each section for maximum volume and texture. The result is a gorgeous, full ponytail that looks like it took hours (but didn’t).

Time to Level Up Your Pony Game!

See? Ponytails are anything but boring! Remember to keep some clear elastics, bobby pins, and your favorite smoothing product in your bag for touch-ups. Whether you’re going sleek and sophisticated or perfectly undone, there’s a ponytail style here that’ll become your new go-to.

Now go forth and rock that pony with confidence, bestie! And remember – when in doubt, add texture, pull out some face-framing pieces, and hit it with hairspray! 💁‍♀️✨