34 Braided Ponytail Hairstyles for Natural Long, Medium Length Hair with Curls and Bangs
Braided ponytail hairstyles offer endless options for black women, black kids, and anyone with natural hair looking to add flair to their look. From feed-in braids to playful styles with curls, with swoop, and with bow, these styles are perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer medium or long styles, braided ponytails offer a versatile, cute way to express yourself
High Feed-In Braided Ponytail with Curls
This braided ponytail combines the sleekness of feed-in braids with the playful bounce of curls at the ends. Perfect for black women or black kids, this style is ideal for any occasion, whether you’re attending a wedding or simply enjoying a night out with friends. The curls add volume and a whimsical touch, making this ponytail both elegant and fun. It works especially well for those with medium-length hair, as the feed-in method helps create a fuller, more voluminous look, while the curls bring in the perfect finishing touch.
To create this style, begin by sectioning the hair into medium-sized parts for the feed-in braids. As you braid towards the back, leave some strands out to curl later. For the curly ends, use a curling iron or flexi rods to achieve the perfect curls. A shine-enhancing spray and edge control gel will help keep the look sleek. To maintain, consider a lightweight curl-defining cream like SheaMoisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie to keep your curls looking fresh.
Low Braided Ponytail with a Bow
A low braided ponytail tied with a bow is an adorable yet sophisticated style that suits both black kids and adults alike. This look is perfect for more formal occasions, such as church events or family gatherings. The low ponytail adds an element of sleekness, while the bow adds a cute, playful charm. It’s a great hairstyle for women with a round face shape, as the low ponytail elongates the face, while a soft bow draws attention to your hairstyle.
To create this style, braid the hair starting from the scalp in a downward direction. Gather the braids into a low ponytail at the nape of the neck. Choose a bow that matches your outfit or opt for a neutral shade like black or white for versatility. Secure the bow in place, and use edge control to smooth the baby hairs. This style is low-maintenance, but adding a leave-in conditioner like Mielle Organics’ Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner will keep the hair soft and manageable.
High Boho Braided Ponytail with Bangs
For a trendy yet laid-back look, the boho braided ponytail with bangs is the perfect choice. The mix of braids and loose strands gives off an effortless vibe, making it ideal for casual occasions like brunches or outdoor events. The bangs add a unique element, softening the overall look and drawing attention to the eyes. This style works beautifully for those with an oval face shape and lighter-colored eyes, as the bangs help frame the face while allowing the eyes to pop.
Begin by creating loose braids and incorporating boho elements such as hair rings or beads into the style. The bangs can be styled by either leaving a section of hair out in the front or creating smaller, more delicate braids. Finish off the look with some loose strands to give it that undone, bohemian charm. To maintain, use a gentle hair serum, such as OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco, to prevent frizz while keeping the look light and breezy.
Medium Stitched Braided Ponytail with a Swoop
This medium length stitched braided ponytail with a swoop offers a striking, structured appearance that’s perfect for formal events like galas or business meetings. The stitched braids provide a neat and clean look, while the swoop in the front adds elegance and drama. This hairstyle is especially suited for those with longer face shapes, as the swoop softens the angles of the face while the stitched braids keep the style looking sharp.
To achieve this look, start by sectioning the hair into clean parts for the stitched braids. Braid each section tightly towards the back, leaving a side section to create the swoop in the front. For the swoop, use a blow dryer and flat iron to smooth the hair into place, securing it with pins. To keep the braids neat and long-lasting, use a braid mousse such as the Shine ’n Jam Magic Fingers Setting Mousse. This will help prevent frizz and keep the hair looking fresh.
Braided Ponytail with Front Bangs and Curls
This braided ponytail with front bangs and curls is a chic and playful look that’s perfect for both black women and white women easy styles. The bangs create a youthful appearance, while the curls add movement and volume to the ponytail. It’s a great hairstyle for everyday wear, but it also works well for special occasions like birthdays or date nights. This look is ideal for those with square face shapes, as the bangs help soften sharp angles.
To create this style, start by braiding the back section of your hair into medium-sized braids. Leave the front section of hair out to style as bangs, either straight or curled. Use a curling iron to add some loose curls to the ponytail for extra texture and volume. A curl-enhancing mousse like TRESemmé Flawless Curls Mousse will keep the curls bouncy and defined throughout the day.
Cute Braided Ponytail with Beads for Black Kids
This cute braided ponytail, adorned with beads, is the perfect hairstyle for black kids real hair. The ponytail features small, intricate braids that are gathered into a high ponytail and decorated with colorful beads. It’s a fun and functional look that works for kids attending school or family events. This style is also great for maintaining natural hair, as the braids protect the hair while keeping it stylish.
To create this style, part the hair into small sections and braid each section, adding beads towards the ends. Gather the braids into a high ponytail and secure them with a scrunchie or band. Be sure to use a moisturizing leave-in conditioner, such as Aunt Jackie’s Knot On My Watch, to keep the hair soft and prevent breakage.
Long Braided Ponytail with a Swoop and Curls
This long braided ponytail with a swoop and curls is a showstopper. Perfect for glamorous events or nights out, this hairstyle combines length, volume, and a dramatic swoop in the front. The curls at the end of the ponytail add a romantic flair, while the swoop draws attention to your face. Best suited for those with heart-shaped faces, this style enhances cheekbones and adds dimension to the look.
To recreate this style, braid the hair towards the back, leaving a section at the front for the swoop. Once the braids are in place, use a curling iron to curl the ends of the ponytail for added texture. Apply a strong-hold styling gel like Eco Styler Professional Gel to keep the swoop in place and ensure that the braids remain sleek and neat.
Easy Boho Braided Ponytail with Bow
The boho braided ponytail with a bow is an easy yet stylish option for casual outings or even music festivals. The loose, bohemian vibe of this hairstyle makes it perfect for warm-weather events, while the bow adds a fun, playful element. This style works well for those with round face shapes, as the bow draws attention upwards, adding height and elongating the face.
To create this look, loosely braid the hair and gather it into a medium ponytail. Use a fabric bow to tie the ponytail and finish the look. You can also leave some strands out to create a relaxed, undone feel. Keep the look fresh by using a lightweight hair oil like OGX Nourishing + Coconut Oil Weightless Hydrating Oil Mist.
Medium Length Braided Ponytail with Bangs
The medium length braided ponytail with bangs is a versatile style that suits a variety of occasions. The bangs add a modern twist to a classic braided ponytail, making this look ideal for both casual outings and more formal events. With its chic yet simple vibe, this hairstyle is perfect for black women or white women easy style enthusiasts who want a manageable, everyday look.
To create this style, braid the hair towards the back and leave a section in the front to create bangs. You can straighten the bangs or add a slight curl for a more romantic look. To maintain the style, consider using a conditioning mist like Cantu Comeback Curl Next Day Curl Revitalizer to keep the hair soft and the braids defined.
Braided Ponytail with Stitched Cornrows
The stitched braided ponytail is a sleek and sophisticated style that features precise parting and neatly braided cornrows. Ideal for black women who love a clean, structured look, this hairstyle is perfect for formal occasions like galas or weddings. The precision of the stitched braids adds a modern twist to the classic ponytail, making it suitable for heart-shaped faces, as it helps balance the face’s angles and draw attention to the cheekbones.
To achieve this look, section the hair into small, neat parts and braid each section tightly, using the stitched method. The braids are then gathered into a high ponytail for a sleek finish. To maintain the style, use a braid spray like African Pride Olive Miracle Braid Sheen Spray to keep the hair moisturized and prevent frizz. This will help the braids last longer and stay smooth.
High Braided Ponytail with Beads and Bangs
This high braided ponytail with beads and bangs offers a bold and playful look, making it a great option for both kids and adults. The beads add a fun, youthful touch to the hairstyle, while the bangs create a softer look, framing the face. Perfect for a casual day out or a family event, this style works best for those with oval or heart-shaped faces, as the bangs draw attention to the eyes and balance the overall look.
To create this hairstyle, braid the hair into small or medium braids and gather them into a high ponytail. Leave the front section of the hair out to create the bangs, which can be braided or styled as loose curls. Add beads to the ends of the braids for a decorative touch. Use a light-hold gel, such as Eco Style Black Castor and Flaxseed Oil Gel, to keep the bangs and edges in place.
Long Braided Ponytail with Designs
The long braided ponytail with intricate designs is a showstopping hairstyle perfect for special events or even fashion-forward looks. This style involves creating unique patterns or designs with the braids on the scalp, adding a personalized touch to the ponytail. It’s an excellent option for those with long hair or extensions, making it ideal for black women looking for a dramatic, attention-grabbing look.
To achieve this style, part the hair into different sections and braid intricate patterns close to the scalp. Once the designs are complete, gather the braids into a long, sleek ponytail. To keep the designs sharp and defined, use a strong-hold edge control like Got2B Glued Styling Spiking Gel. Regular moisturizing with a leave-in conditioner will help maintain the health of the scalp and hair.
Cute Braided Ponytail with a Bow and Curls
A cute braided ponytail with a bow and curls is perfect for kids or anyone wanting to add a playful touch to their hairstyle. The curls at the ends of the ponytail create volume and texture, while the bow adds a touch of charm. This style is suitable for any occasion, from school events to family gatherings, and works best for those with round or square faces as the curls soften the overall look.
Start by braiding the hair into medium-sized braids and gathering them into a high ponytail. Use a curling wand to create loose curls at the ends of the braids, then finish the look with a large, colorful bow. For added shine and definition, use Cantu’s Curl Activator Cream to keep the curls bouncy and defined throughout the day.
Low Boho Braided Ponytail with Front Bangs
This low boho braided ponytail with front bangs is an effortless yet chic hairstyle perfect for casual outings or festivals. The bangs add a face-framing element that works well for oval or heart-shaped faces. The low ponytail creates a laid-back vibe, while the boho elements, such as loose braids or added hair accessories, make it stand out.
To create this style, loosely braid the hair and gather it into a low ponytail. Leave the front section of the hair out for bangs, which can be curled or left straight depending on the desired look. Add a few hair accessories like feathers or beads to complete the boho feel. A sea salt spray, such as Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray, can help add texture and hold to the loose braids.
Medium Length Braided Ponytail with Curls
The medium length braided ponytail with curls is a versatile and stylish option for both everyday wear and more formal occasions. This style features medium-sized braids gathered into a ponytail, with the ends curled for added texture and volume. It works especially well for those with medium-length hair and round or heart-shaped faces, as the curls add softness and movement to the look.
To achieve this style, braid the hair into medium-sized sections and gather the braids into a high ponytail. Use a curling iron to add soft curls to the ends of the ponytail. A curl-defining mousse, such as TRESemmé Flawless Curls Mousse, will help keep the curls bouncy and prevent frizz throughout the day.
Stitched Braided Ponytail with a Swoop and Bangs
The stitched braided ponytail with a swoop and bangs is a sleek and edgy hairstyle perfect for those who want to make a statement. The swoop adds drama to the front of the hairstyle, while the stitched braids offer a clean and polished look. This style is ideal for formal occasions like galas or red-carpet events and works well for those with oval or heart-shaped faces.
To create this look, braid the hair into neat, stitched braids, leaving a section in the front for the swoop and bangs. Use a flat iron to smooth the swoop, and secure it with pins. A strong-hold gel, such as Eco Styler Gel, will keep the bangs and swoop in place, while a light sheen spray will add shine to the finished look.
Braided Ponytail with Natural Hair and Beads
A braided ponytail with natural hair and beads is a beautiful way to celebrate and showcase black kids real hair or black women’s natural texture. This style is perfect for kids and adults alike, adding a playful and unique element with the addition of beads. Suitable for both casual and formal occasions, this look is best for those with oval or round face shapes.
To achieve this style, braid the natural hair into small or medium braids and gather them into a high ponytail. Add beads to the ends of the braids for a fun and decorative touch. To maintain the health of the natural hair, use a hydrating leave-in conditioner like Mielle Organics Pomegranate & Honey Leave-In Conditioner to keep the braids moisturized and frizz-free.
High Braided Ponytail with Swoop and Bow
The high braided ponytail with a swoop and bow is a bold and trendy hairstyle that’s perfect for special events or parties. The swoop in the front adds drama and elegance, while the bow at the base of the ponytail adds a playful, feminine touch. This style works well for those with long hair or extensions and is ideal for heart-shaped or oval faces.
To create this look, braid the hair towards the back, leaving a section in the front for the swoop. Once the braids are secured in a high ponytail, add a large bow at the base for extra flair. To keep the swoop and braids sleek, use a strong-hold gel like Got2B Glued Gel, and a shine spray for added gloss.
Braided Ponytail with Tutorials for Black Women
For black women looking to master the perfect braided ponytail at home, the tutorials braided ponytail is a great option. This style allows you to experiment with different braid sizes, placements, and added elements like bangs or curls. Ideal for all face shapes and occasions, this style can be both casual or formal, depending on how you choose to braid your hair.
To recreate this style, find an online tutorial that matches your desired look, whether it’s a sleek high ponytail or a more intricate design. You’ll need a rat-tail comb for parting, edge control gel for sleek edges, and elastic bands to secure the braids. For long-lasting results, use a braid mousse like Shine ’n Jam Magic Fingers Setting Mousse to keep the braids neat and frizz-free.
Low Braided Ponytail with Stitched Braids and Bow
This low braided ponytail with stitched braids and a bow is perfect for formal events or a day at the office. The stitched braids provide a polished, clean look, while the bow adds a touch of elegance. This style is best for heart-shaped or oval faces, as the low ponytail elongates the face, while the stitched braids offer structure and definition.
To create this look, part the hair into small, neat sections and braid each section using the stitched method. Gather the braids into a low ponytail at the nape of the neck and secure with a decorative bow. For added shine, use a lightweight finishing spray, such as OGX Argan Oil of Morocco Weightless Healing Dry Oil, to give the braids a sleek finish.
High Braided Ponytail with Curls and Bangs
This high braided ponytail with curls and bangs is a stylish and versatile option that suits both casual and formal settings. The bangs add a trendy element, framing the face beautifully, while the curls at the end of the ponytail add texture and volume. Ideal for round or square face shapes, this style softens the features while adding a touch of glamor.
To achieve this look, braid the hair into medium-sized braids and gather them into a high ponytail. Leave a section out for bangs at the front, which you can curl or leave straight. Use a curling wand to add loose curls to the ponytail for volume, and a styling gel like Eco Styler Gel to keep the bangs in place and the braids sleek.
Medium Braided Ponytail with Feed-In Braids and Bow
A medium braided ponytail with feed-in braids and a bow is perfect for anyone looking for a sophisticated yet playful look. The feed-in braids create a seamless transition from the scalp to the ponytail, while the bow adds a feminine touch. This style is well-suited for oval and heart-shaped faces, as it draws attention upwards and enhances the cheekbones.
To create this style, use the feed-in technique to braid the hair, gradually adding more hair as you braid toward the ponytail. Once the braids are complete, gather them into a medium ponytail and add a bow at the base. Use a lightweight braid mousse like Shine ’n Jam Magic Fingers Setting Mousse to keep the braids sleek and frizz-free, ensuring the style lasts all day.
Boho Braided Ponytail with Curls and Bangs
This boho braided ponytail with curls and bangs offers a relaxed, laid-back vibe perfect for music festivals, beach days, or casual outings. The curls add a playful touch, while the bangs frame the face softly. This style works well for those with oval or round face shapes, as it highlights the cheekbones while softening the jawline.
To create this style, braid the hair loosely, leaving a section at the front for bangs. Gather the braids into a ponytail and curl the ends for a touch of boho charm. Add accessories like beads or feathers to enhance the look, and use a texturizing spray like Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Sea Salt Spray to maintain the effortless, tousled texture.
Braided ponytail hairstyles are an exciting way to elevate any look, whether for casual days or special events. With 34 different ideas, there’s a style for everyone, from classic designs to more elaborate boho touches. Feel free to try these styles and share your experiences in the comments. Let’s inspire each other to bring out the best in our braided looks!