Chic & Sleek Ponytail Hairstyles to Amp Up Your Style

Introduction

Are you tired of the same old hairstyle, feeling like your hair options are limited? You’re not alone! Many women feel like they’re stuck in a styling rut, especially when it comes to ponytails. But the truth is, ponytails don’t have to be boring. There are countless creative, chic, and stylish variations that can elevate your look. Whether you’re heading to work, attending a special event, or just looking for something new, ponytail hairstyles offer versatility and sophistication. Let’s dive into 20 trendy ponytail hairstyles that will inspire your next look.

20 Cute Ponytail Hairstyles

1. Braided High Ponytail

The braided high ponytail is a bold and sleek option that gives off an elegant yet edgy vibe. The hair is braided from the scalp, leading into a high ponytail that flows effortlessly. It’s perfect for formal events or casual outings.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Brush your hair upward toward the top of your head.
2. Secure it with a hair tie to form a ponytail.
3. Take a section of the ponytail and divide it into three parts.
4. Braid the sections together, crossing the outer sections over the middle one.
5. Secure the braid at the end with a small elastic band.

2. Feed-In Braided Ponytail

Feed-in braids are a go-to for a natural-looking ponytail. These thin, gradually thickened braids are incorporated into the ponytail, providing both length and volume. It’s a great protective style that keeps your hair looking neat for weeks.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Part your hair in thin rows from the front to the back of your head.
2. Start braiding a small section near your forehead.
3. Gradually add more hair into the braid as you move backward.
4. Once all the sections are braided, gather the remaining hair into a ponytail.
5. Secure with a band and wrap a small braid around the base for a neat finish.

3. Fulani Braids with Ponytail

Inspired by the Fulani tribe, this hairstyle features intricate front braids paired with a low ponytail. Adorned with beads or cuffs, it’s a style that combines tradition with modern-day flair.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Part your hair into sections.
2. Braid the front portion of your hair into thin braids, adding decorative beads if desired.
3. Braid the remaining hair at the back into larger braids.
4. Gather all the braids together at the nape of your neck and secure with a band.

4. Bubble Braided Ponytail

If you want something fun and playful, try the bubble braided ponytail. Small hair ties are placed along the length of the ponytail, creating “bubbles” that add volume and dimension.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Brush your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a tie.
2. Every few inches down the ponytail, add another hair tie.
3. Gently tug at the hair between the ties to create a “bubble” shape.
4. Continue down the length of the ponytail until all bubbles are made.

5. Ghana Braided Ponytail

Ghana braids, also known as cornrows, are thick and sleek, leading into a ponytail. This style is not only protective but also stunning, making it perfect for any occasion.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Section your hair into thick rows.
2. Braid each section tightly from the front to the back, keeping the braids close to the scalp.
3. Once the scalp portion is braided, pull the remaining hair into a ponytail.
4. Finish by braiding or twisting the tail for a polished look.

6. Fishtail Braided Ponytail

The fishtail braid adds texture and a bohemian vibe to your ponytail. It’s an intricate yet easy-to-create look, ideal for those who want something unique without much effort.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Divide your hair into two equal sections.
2. Take a small piece from the outer edge of one section and cross it over to the other section.
3. Repeat on the other side, taking small pieces and crossing them over.
4. Continue this pattern down the length of your hair.
5. Secure the end with a small tie.

7. Side Braided Ponytail

For a subtle twist, try a side braided ponytail. A single or double braid is formed on one side of your head, adding a playful asymmetry to a traditional ponytail.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Part your hair to one side.
2. On the larger section, take a piece near your hairline and begin braiding it toward the back.
3. Continue braiding until you reach your neck, then secure it with a tie.
4. Pull the rest of your hair into a side ponytail and secure it together with the braid.

8. Sleek Braided Ponytail

This look is all about smoothness and precision. Hair is slicked back and tightly braided into a ponytail, giving you a sharp and polished appearance. It’s perfect for work or any formal occasion.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Brush your hair back so it’s smooth.
2. Apply some styling gel or cream to eliminate any flyaways.
3. Secure your hair into a ponytail at the back.
4. Divide the ponytail into three parts and braid it tightly.
5. Secure the end with a band for a neat, smooth look.

9. Box Braids Ponytail

Box braids are a classic protective style that can be easily pulled into a ponytail. Whether high or low, this ponytail exudes confidence and is incredibly versatile.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Section your hair into square-shaped parts.
2. Braid each section from root to tip.
3. Once all the sections are braided, gather the braids into a ponytail.
4. Secure with a hair tie and wrap a braid around the base for a clean finish.

10. Twist Braided Ponytail

Instead of traditional braids, twist your hair into a two-strand braided ponytail. It’s a quick and easy way to get a fresh, sleek look while protecting your hair.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Divide your hair into two sections.
2. Twist each section around the other, moving down the length of your hair.
3. Secure the end with a small elastic band.
4. Pull all the twists together into a ponytail and tie it with a band.

11. Knotless Braided Ponytail

The knotless braided ponytail eliminates the tight knots at the scalp, making it a more comfortable option. This style is gentler on your edges and scalp while still delivering a stunning ponytail look.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Part your hair into rows.
2. Start braiding each row, but instead of starting with a knot, gently add hair into the braid as you go.
3. Once all rows are braided, gather them into a ponytail.
4. Secure with a hair tie for a natural look.

12. Jumbo Braided Ponytail

If you want to make a statement, go for a jumbo braided ponytail. These thick, oversized braids lead into a full and bold ponytail that commands attention wherever you go.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Section your hair into large parts.
2. Braid each part into a thick, chunky braid.
3. Once all sections are braided, pull them into a ponytail.
4. Secure with a band and let the large braids fall naturally.

13. Dutch Braided Ponytail

A Dutch braid, also known as a reverse French braid, adds depth and texture to your ponytail. This style gives the illusion of thicker hair, making it a favorite for those with finer hair textures.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Divide your hair into three sections.
2. Cross the outer sections under the middle one, instead of over, to create a Dutch braid.
3. Continue this pattern until you reach the base of your neck.
4. Secure the rest of your hair into a ponytail and tie it with a band.

14. Cornrow Ponytail with Curls

Cornrows on the scalp lead into a curly ponytail for an interesting contrast of textures. The sleekness of the braids combined with the fluffiness of the curls gives you the best of both worlds.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Braid your hair into small cornrows from the front to the back of your head.
2. Once you finish the cornrows, gather the rest of your hair into a low ponytail.
3. Curl the loose hair in the ponytail for added texture and volume.

15. Ponytail with Beaded Braids

For a touch of glamour, add beads to your braids before pulling them into a ponytail. This is a great way to personalize your look and make it stand out even more.

1. Section off small parts of your hair.
2. Braid each section and slide beads onto the ends before securing with a small band.
3. Once all the braids are beaded, pull them into a ponytail.
4. Secure with a tie, and let the beads add flair to your look.

16. Waterfall Braided Ponytail

The waterfall braid is a stunning and intricate style where sections of hair “fall” from the braid into the ponytail. It’s a soft, romantic look perfect for special occasions.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Start by parting a small section near the front.
2. Begin braiding but drop one piece of hair after every few stitches to create the “waterfall” effect.
3. Continue braiding until you reach the back.
4. Pull all your hair into a ponytail and secure with a band.

17. Double Braided Ponytail

This style features two braids on either side of your head that join together into a ponytail at the back. It’s an ideal look for those who love symmetry and neatness in their hairstyles.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Part your hair down the middle.
2. Braid each side separately, starting near the forehead and moving toward the back.
3. Once both braids are done, join them together at the back of your head and tie them into a ponytail.

18. Criss-Cross Braided Ponytail

A criss-cross pattern of braids at the scalp adds an eye-catching detail before flowing into a simple ponytail. It’s a perfect combination of creativity and elegance.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Section your hair into two parts at the front.
2. Braid each section diagonally across your head in a criss-cross pattern.
3. When the braids meet at the back, gather them with the rest of your hair into a ponytail.
4. Secure with a tie for a stylish finish.

19. Braid and Bun Ponytail

Combine two styles by braiding your hair and then wrapping the braid into a bun at the base of your ponytail. It’s a chic updo that still gives you the sleekness of a ponytail.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Gather your hair into a high ponytail.
2. Divide the ponytail into three sections and braid it.
3. Once braided, twist the braid around the base of the ponytail to create a bun.
4. Secure the bun with bobby pins.

20. Micro Braided Ponytail

Micro braids are thin, delicate braids that can be gathered into a ponytail for a sleek and stylish look. This hairstyle is ideal for those looking for a long-lasting protective style with lots of movement.

To make Hairstyle:

1. Part your hair into small sections.
2. Braid each section tightly from root to tip.
3. Once all sections are braided, pull them together into a ponytail.
4. Tie with a small elastic band and let the tiny braids cascade down.

Conclusion

Ponytail hairstyles offer an incredible variety of looks, from sleek and polished to playful and bold. Whether you want a protective style like box braids or a chic, eye-catching look like the bubble braided ponytail, there’s something for every occasion and preference. With so many creative options, you can transform a simple ponytail into a stunning hairstyle that suits your personality and style. Try out these trendy braided ponytail hairstyles, and let your hair be the star of the show!