30 Ponytail Hairstyles for 2025 | Rush Hairdressers

Ponytail hairstyles are a timeless, versatile option for all occasions, whether you’re aiming for sleek and polished or big, bold volume and texture. They’re the go‑to when you need a quick, chic look that works just as well at the office as it does on the weekend. From poker‑straight to wild curls, ponytails can be tailored to every hair type and length and they’ve been around since ancient Greece. Today, they remain a celebrity and influencer staple, proving that this classic ‘do never goes out of style.

Key Considerations for Ponytail Hairstyles

Hair Length

The length of your hair dictates which ponytail styles will work best. Shorter hair may need volumising products, padding or clip‑in extensions to achieve a fuller look, while longer lengths allow for high, low or intricate braided ponytails with ease.

Hair Health

Healthy hair always elevates any ponytail. Dry, damaged strands can leave your style looking flat or frizzy. Incorporate leave‑in conditioners and hydrating masks to boost shine and smoothness, ensuring your ponytail always looks salon‑fresh.

Weather and Climate

Humidity can send flyaways into orbit, so on muggy days opt for a sleek, secured ponytail with smoothing serum. In windy conditions, a tightly braided or low pony will keep stray strands in check and maintain your polished silhouette.

Accessories

Personalise your ponytail with scrunchies, ribbons or statement clips. Metallic ties work beautifully for formal events, while colourful scrunchies add a playful twist to your everyday look. Choose accessories that complement your outfit and mood.

Comfort and Scalp Issues

Super-tight ponytails can cause tension and breakage if worn repeatedly. Give your hair a break with looser styles and swap out elastic bands for silk or satin scrunchies to reduce friction and protect delicate strands.

Top 30 Ponytail Hairstyles

1. French Braid Ponytail

A sleek French braid gathers hair from the hairline down to the nape before flowing into a polished ponytail. This look keeps flyaways and grease neatly contained while adding refined texture and interest.

Celebrity Inspiration: Beyoncé often opts for this sporty‑chic style.

Best for: Medium to long hair of any texture.

Styling Tip: Braid tightly from the forehead to the nape, secure into a ponytail, then gently pancake (pull apart) the braid for extra width and finish with a mist of shine spray.

2. Rope Braid Ponytail

Two strands twisted together create a rope‑like plait that exists as a ponytail, offering a sophisticated twist on the classic braid. The spiral effect distracts from any oil at the roots and lends a high‑fashion edge.

Celebrity Inspiration: Zendaya’s red‑carpet looks frequently feature this intricate braid.

Best for: Straight or slightly wavy hair of medium length.

Styling Tip: Divide hair into two sections, twist each in the same direction, then wrap them around each other; secure at the base and smooth with light hairspray.

3. Side Part Ponytail

A deep side part sweeps greasy patches aside, while a low ponytail drapes over the shoulder for a modern, asymmetrical silhouette. It’s effortlessly chic and perfect for drawing attention away from oily roots.

Celebrity Inspiration: Victoria Beckham nails this minimalist, fashion‑forward look.

Best for: All hair types and lengths.

Styling Tip: Create a sharp side part, brush hair into a low pony at the nape, then wrap a small strand around the band to conceal the elastic.

4. Long Low Ponytail

Hair is pulled into a smooth ponytail at the nape, creating a clean, elongating line that keeps greasy roots tucked under sleek lengths. The result is an elegant, understated style.

Celebrity Inspiration: Kim Kardashian’s signature low pony is always red‑carpet ready.

Best for: Long, poker‑straight hair.

Styling Tip: Apply a smoothing balm to damp hair, blow‑dry straight, secure low with a fine‑tooth comb, and finish with an anti‑frizz serum.

5. Sleek High Ponytail

Hair is slicked back high on the crown, showcasing glossy strands and making any grease look like intentional shine. This bold, lifted ponytail instantly adds polish and confidence.

Celebrity Inspiration: Ariana Grande’s sky‑high pony is instantly recognisable.

Best for: Medium to long hair, straight or wavy.

Styling Tip: Work a strong‑hold gel through damp hair, brush into a high pony, then wrap a small section of hair around the elastic and secure with a pin.

6. Fishtail Mohawk Ponytail

A faux‑hawk effect is created by a fishtail braid down the centre, which then flows into a ponytail at the back. The intricate braid distracts from any oil at the roots and makes a striking statement.

Celebrity Inspiration: Rihanna has worn variations of this daring look on tour.

Best for: Medium to long hair with some natural texture.

Styling Tip: Begin a fishtail braid at the crown using the “fakey” method (a quicker technique that mimics the look of a fishtail), switch to a regular fishtail at the nape, then secure with an elastic.

7. Box Braid Ponytail

Pre‑braided box sections are gathered into a high or low ponytail for a bold, protective style that completely conceals greasy roots. This look is both practical and eye-catching.

Celebrity Inspiration: Lupita Nyong’o often embraces box braids in statement ponytails.

Best for: Braided or extension hair of any length.

Styling Tip: Pull braids into your desired ponytail height, secure with a strong elastic, and embellish with hair cuffs or beads for extra flair.

8. Mermaid Braid Ponytail

A loose, multi‑strand braid fans out like a mermaid’s tail before merging into a ponytail, creating voluminous texture and depth that mask any oiliness at the roots.

Celebrity Inspiration: Gigi Hadid’s festival looks often feature boho‑inspired mermaid braids.

Best for: Long, thick hair, straight or wavy.

Styling Tip: Start with a Dutch fishtail at the crown, gently pull each section for width, then tie off and let the rest of your hair cascade freely.

9. Ponytail with Headscarf

A taut ponytail wrapped at the base with a silk scarf disguises grease while injecting a burst of colour or print. This stylish twist turns second‑day hair into a fashion accessory.

Celebrity Inspiration: Beyoncé’s Coachella ensemble paired her puff‑inspired pony with a bold printed scarf.

Best for: All hair types and lengths.

Styling Tip: Secure your ponytail, fold the scarf into a band, wrap around the base and knot to one side; smooth edges with a dab of styling cream.

10. Side Ponytail

A low ponytail draped over one shoulder offers a playful, romantic silhouette that keeps greasy roots out of sight. The side placement adds a dash of casual glamour.

Celebrity Inspiration: Blake Lively’s easy‑going side pony is a go‑to for off‑duty glamour.

Best for: Straight to wavy hair of medium length.

Styling Tip: Sweep hair to one side, tie at the nape just below the ear, wrap a strand around the elastic, and set with flexible‑hold spray.

11. High Barbie Ponytail

Ultra‑high, super‑straight and glossy, this ponytail perches at the crown for maximum height and shine, channelling early‑2000s doll‑inspired glamour.

Celebrity Inspiration: Ariana Grande’s signature sky‑high pony is instantly recognisable.

Best for: Long, poker‑straight hair or extensions.

Styling Tip: Smooth hair back with a strong‑hold gel, secure high with a sturdy elastic, then wrap a strand around the base to conceal the band.

12. Long Curled Ponytail

Loose, bouncy curls flow from a mid‑height ponytail, creating softness and volume that disguise any oil at the roots. The cascading waves add instant red‑carpet drama.

Celebrity Inspiration: Jennifer Lopez often wears long, voluminous ponytails on the red carpet.

Best for: Long hair with natural waves or curls.

Styling Tip: Curl hair in 2‑inch sections before gathering into a ponytail, then spritz with flexible‑hold hairspray to maintain bounce.

13. Retro High Pony

A high ponytail with a subtle bump at the crown nods to ’60s go‑go girl chic. The lifted silhouette hides greasy roots and adds vintage flair.

Celebrity Inspiration: Brigitte Bardot made the high‑volume pony iconic.

Best for: Medium to long hair, straight or gently waved.

Styling Tip: Tease the crown for lift, sweep hair into a high pony, smooth the sides with a boar‑bristle brush and finish with hairspray.

14. Fishtail Ponytail

A classic ponytail is elevated with a fishtail braid down the length, creating an intricate texture that draws the eye away from any oiliness at the base.

Celebrity Inspiration: Jennifer Aniston’s beachy fishtail pony remains a go‑to.

Best for: Medium to long straight or slightly wavy hair.

Styling Tip: Divide hair into two sections, cross thin strands alternately, braid to the ends and secure with a clear elastic. Gently tug for fullness.

15. Half‑Braided Low Pony

A small braid on one side is pulled back into a low ponytail, adding subtle detail and keeping greasy front sections under control while the rest falls freely.

Celebrity Inspiration: Hailey Bieber often adds delicate braids to her ponytails.

Best for: Medium‑length hair of any texture.

Styling Tip: Braid a 2 cm section from the hairline to the nape, then join with the rest in a low pony and mist with shine serum.

16. Ponytail with Fringe

Pairing a sleek ponytail with fringed bangs draws focus to the face while the gathered hair conceals any grease at the roots.

Celebrity Inspiration: Taylor Swift styles her fringe with a low ponytail for a chic, retro look.

Best for: Shoulder‑length to long hair with straight or slightly textured fringe.

Styling Tip: Smooth your fringe with a small round brush and light hairspray, then sweep the rest into a pony at brow level.

17. Goddess Braid Ponytail

Multiple chunky cornrow‑style braids wrap around the head into a central ponytail, evoking ancient Grecian elegance and hiding oily patches beneath each plait.

Celebrity Inspiration: Zendaya channels “Grecian goddess” vibes with her braided up‑dos.

Best for: Long hair or extensions; suits both textured and straight hair.

Styling Tip: French or Dutch‑plait sections around the crown, then gather the ends into a ponytail and adorn them with metallic cuffs.

18. French Twist Low Ponytail

Hair is swept into a low pony and then rolled upwards into a smooth French twist, creating an elegant style that disguises second‑day oiliness.

Celebrity Inspiration: Meghan Markle has sported sleek twists at official events.

Best for: Medium to long straight or wavy hair.

Styling Tip: Gather hair low, roll it into a twist, pin securely, then tuck in the ends and finish with anti‑frizz spray.

19. Messy Ponytail

An undone pony at mid‑height, with tousled ends and face‑framing strands, turns greasy hair into a deliberately relaxed, textured look.

Celebrity Inspiration: Selena Gomez favours laid‑back, textured ponytails.

Best for: Medium to long textured hair.

Styling Tip: Pull hair back loosely, tease the pony for volume, tug out wisps around the face and set with texturising mist.

20. Slicked‑Back Ponytail

Hair is combed tight into a high or mid pony, celebrating natural sheen and making any grease appear as coveted gloss.

Celebrity Inspiration: Kim Kardashian West favours this polished, high‑glam style.

Best for: Straight to slightly wavy hair.

Styling Tip: Apply gel to damp hair, comb back with a fine‑tooth brush, secure, then mist with strong‑hold hairspray.

21. Wrap‑Around Ponytail

A section of hair is wound around the elastic to conceal it completely, creating a seamless, editorial finish that stops grease from peeking through.

Celebrity Inspiration: Rosie Huntington‑Whiteley nails this sleek detail on the red carpet.

Best for: Medium to long hair, straight or wavy.

Styling Tip: Secure the ponytail, then wrap a 5 cm strand around the base twice, pin underneath and smooth with serum.

22. Claw Clip Ponytail

A low pony secured with a chunky claw clip at the nape hides greasy roots beneath a tactile accessory and lends 90s‑inspired flair.

Celebrity Inspiration: Dua Lipa has revived clip‑in styles in her off‑duty looks.

Best for: Medium to thick hair.

Styling Tip: Gather hair into a low pony, twist slightly, clamp with a large claw clip, and pull out a few face‑framing bits.

23. Ponytail with Side Twist

A twist on one side leads into a side‑swept ponytail, adding elegant detail and keeping greasy front sections firmly in place.

Celebrity Inspiration: Emma Watson styles side twists with low ponytails for red‑carpet polish.

Best for: Medium‑length straight or wavy hair.

Styling Tip: Twist a 3 cm front section back to the ear, secure with an elastic, then gather all hair into a side pony and conceal the band.

24. Curly/Coily High Ponytail

Natural curls or coils are piled high, showcasing bounce and texture while hiding any oil at the roots within the voluminous shape.

Celebrity Inspiration: Tracee Ellis Ross embraces her coils in high ponytails for maximum impact.

Best for: Curly and coily hair of medium to long length.

Styling Tip: Moisturise your curls, gather hair high without flattening the roots, secure with a snag‑free band and fluff out with your fingers.

25. Bubble Ponytail

A ponytail segmented by elastics into “bubbles” injects playful volume and distracts from greasy roots. Pulling each section slightly enhances the shape for a whimsical finish.

Celebrity Inspiration: Bella Hadid’s multi‑bubble ponytails are street‑style favourites.

Best for: Straight or wavy hair of any length.

Styling Tip: Slick hair into a pony, add clear elastics every 5 cm, then tug each bubble gently to puff it out.

26. Ponytail with Bow

A simple ponytail is elevated by an oversized bow at the base, which covers oily roots and adds an instant dash of femininity and charm.

Celebrity Inspiration: Ariana Grande frequently tops her ponytails with satin bows.

Best for: Medium to long hair, straight or lightly curled.

Styling Tip: Secure your ponytail, clip on a velvet or satin bow at the base, then mist lightly with flexible‑hold spray.

27. ’70s Ponytail

A low ponytail with a centre part and slightly flicked‑out ends channels disco‑era glamour, keeping grease hidden under smooth lengths.

Celebrity Inspiration: Farrah Fawcett’s iconic feathered pony defined the ’70s.

Best for: Medium to long straight hair.

Styling Tip: Create a clean centre part, secure hair low, curl ends outward with a large‑barrel waver and finish with shine serum.

28. Embellished Ponytail

Studded elastics, pearls or crystal clips adorn a ponytail, turning second‑day hair into a show‑stopping accessory that hides grease while you sparkle.

Celebrity Inspiration: Rihanna often accents her ponytails with bold embellishments.

Best for: Any hair length; particularly striking on sleek, straight styles.

Styling Tip: After securing your ponytail, add your chosen embellishments along the length or at the base and set with gloss spray.

29. Short Shaggy Ponytail

A cropped ponytail at the nape, paired with choppy, layered lengths, embraces an edgy, lived‑in vibe that makes grease look like part of the cut.

Celebrity Inspiration: Zoë Kravitz’s effortless shaggy pony has become her signature.

Best for: Short to medium hair with layers.

Styling Tip: Pull hair back loosely, let layers fall naturally, tease the crown for texture and finish with a matte texturising spray.

30. Dutch Braid Ponytail

A pair of inverted Dutch braids run from the temples down to the nape, merging into a sleek ponytail. This look tucks away greasy roots beneath neat plaits and adds a sculptural finish.

Celebrity Inspiration: Cara Delevingne often rocks Dutch braid ponytails on the runway.

Best for: Medium to long hair and straight, wavy or slightly curly.

Styling Tip: Braid each side close to the scalp, gently pancake (pull apart) the plaits for width, then secure both ends with an elastic before gathering into a low ponytail.

How to Achieve the Perfect Ponytail

Use the Right Tools

• Fine‑tooth comb: Ensures a sleek, polished finish by smoothing flyaways and creating precise partings.
• Wide‑tooth comb: Ideal for detangling damp or textured hair without causing breakage.
• Silk or satin scrunchie: Gentle on strands, minimises friction and prevents breakage at the base of your ponytail.
• Strong, snag‑free elastic: Holds your style securely without pulling or damaging your hair.

Add Volume with Teasing

• Backcombing brush: Use to tease the hair at the crown in small sections for instant lift.
• Sectional teasing: Work in two or three narrow sections, teasing gently at the roots to build structure without matting.
• Lift and smooth: After teasing, smooth the top layer lightly with your comb to hide the backcombed base and create a clean silhouette.

Add Texture for Fullness

• Curling iron or wand: Create loose waves or spiral curls before styling to give your ponytail extra body.
• Texturising spray: Mist onto lengths to add grip and separation, helping the ponytail appear thicker.
• Braided sections: Braid a few small strands before tying back. When you unpick them slightly, they’ll add subtle texture and volume.

Finish with Hairspray

• Light‑hold hairspray: Locks your style in place while allowing natural movement.
• Flexible‑hold formula: Keeps frizz and flyaways at bay without making hair feel stiff.
• Comb‑through trick: Spray a fine‑tooth comb with hairspray and gently comb over the hairline to smooth any stray hairs for a flawless finish.

Tips for Maintaining Your Ponytail Hairstyle

Keep It Fresh with Dry Shampoo

• Apply at the roots: Lightly dust dry shampoo where oil tends to build up before styling to add instant lift and absorb excess grease.
• Refresh mid‑day: A quick spritz and gentle massage at the roots can revive your ponytail’s volume and keep it looking salon‑fresh.

Protect Your Hair

• Silk or satin scrunchies: Swap out ordinary elastics to reduce tension, friction and breakage.
• Overnight care: Pull hair into a loose ponytail at the nape with a silk scrunchie before bed to minimise frizz and preserve your style.

Avoid Tight Ponytails

• Loosen at night: Give your scalp a breather by loosening your pony before sleeping to prevent discomfort and breakage.
• Rotate styles: Regularly switch between high, low and side ponytails to avoid placing constant strain on the same section of hair.
• Scalp health: Alternating looser styles promotes better blood flow to the roots, encouraging healthier hair growth.

Book Your Ponytail Appointment at Rush

Ready to master the perfect ponytail? Book your appointment at RUSH today and discover ponytail looks tailored to your hair type and lifestyle.