34 Simple Ponytail Hairstyles 2024 for Long and Short Hair: Cute and Easy Ideas
Ponytail hairstyles have always been a staple for their versatility, simplicity, and timeless appeal. As we move into 2024, there are several innovative and classic ways to rock a ponytail that caters to different hair types, occasions, and personal styles. Here are 34 captivating ponytail hairstyles that you can try this year.
High Sleek Ponytail
The high sleek ponytail is an iconic hairstyle that exudes sophistication and elegance. This style is perfect for formal events, such as weddings or black-tie affairs, and it beautifully complements oval and heart-shaped faces. It adds height and elongates the neck, making it a stunning choice for women with long hair. This cute hairstyle can also make a statement for college events or special nights out.
To achieve this look, start by straightening your hair with a flat iron for a sleek finish. Gather your hair at the crown and secure it with a strong elastic band. Use a fine-tooth comb and some hair gel or pomade to smooth out any flyaways. For extra shine and hold, finish with a mist of hairspray. Maintaining this style involves regular conditioning treatments, such as the Moroccanoil Hydrating Conditioner, to keep the hair smooth and frizz-free.
Low Textured Ponytail
The low textured ponytail is a hairstyle that combines casual ease with chic sophistication, making it perfect for a relaxed yet polished look. Ideal for medium to long hair, this style works well for round and square face shapes. It’s a versatile option for daily wear, whether you’re heading to the office or enjoying a day out with friends.
To create this look, start by adding some texture to your hair using a curling wand or texturizing spray. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and secure it with an elastic band. Gently pull out a few strands around your face for a softer look. This easy style can be maintained with a texturizing product like the Bumble and bumble Surf Spray to keep the waves defined and natural.
Bubble Ponytail
The bubble ponytail is a fun and cute variation that adds a playful twist to the classic ponytail. This style is perfect for kids and adults alike, making it a great option for school or casual outings. It works best on long hair and suits all face shapes.
To achieve the bubble ponytail, start by securing your hair into a high ponytail. Add hair elastics every few inches along the length of the ponytail, then gently pull on each section to create a “bubble” effect. This style can be enhanced with colorful hair ties or accessories. To maintain the look, use a lightweight styling gel like the Redken Braid Aid to keep each bubble in place and frizz-free.
Braided Ponytail
The braided ponytail is a stylish and versatile hairstyle that can be dressed up or down. It’s an excellent choice for special occasions like weddings or parties, as well as everyday wear. This style is particularly flattering for long hair and can be adapted for different face shapes.
To create a braided ponytail, start by braiding a section of your hair (such as a French or Dutch braid) from the front to the back. Gather all your hair, including the braid, into a ponytail and secure it with an elastic band. You can leave the ponytail straight or curl it for added volume. Maintaining this style is easy with the help of a leave-in conditioner like the It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product to keep the hair smooth and manageable.
Twisted Ponytail
The twisted ponytail is an elegant and easy style that adds a touch of sophistication to any look. Ideal for formal events or office settings, this hairstyle is best suited for medium to long hair and works well with oval and square face shapes.
To achieve the twisted ponytail, divide your hair into two sections. Twist each section individually, then twist them together and secure with an elastic band at the nape of your neck. This style can be maintained with a smoothing serum like the John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum to keep the twists sleek and polished.
Wrapped Ponytail
The wrapped ponytail is a cute and polished hairstyle that adds a touch of sophistication to any look. It’s perfect for office settings, casual outings, or even formal events. This style is best suited for medium to long hair and complements all face shapes.
To achieve the wrapped ponytail, gather your hair into a high or low ponytail and secure it with an elastic band. Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the base to conceal the elastic. Secure the end with a bobby pin. This style can be maintained with a medium-hold hairspray like the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray to keep the wrap in place and the hair smooth.
High Curly Ponytail
The high curly ponytail is a glamorous hairstyle that showcases natural curls or waves. This style is perfect for black natural hair and adds a touch of elegance to any outfit. It’s ideal for round and heart-shaped faces and can be worn to formal events or casual outings.
To create a high curly ponytail, start by defining your curls with a curl-enhancing product like the DevaCurl SuperCream. Gather your hair at the crown and secure it with an elastic band. Fluff out the curls for added volume and use a light-hold hairspray to keep the style in place. Regular use of a moisturizing conditioner, such as the SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Conditioner, will keep your curls healthy and hydrated.
Side Ponytail
The side ponytail is a cute and flirty hairstyle that adds a playful element to your look. It’s perfect for casual outings, school events, or even a day at the office. This style works best on medium to long hair and complements all face shapes.
To achieve the side ponytail, gather your hair to one side of your head and secure it with an elastic band just below the ear. You can add some waves or curls for extra texture and volume. To keep the style in place, use a flexible hold hairspray like the TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist. This style is easy to maintain with regular use of a volumizing shampoo like the OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Shampoo.
Half-Up Ponytail
The half-up ponytail is a versatile hairstyle that combines the best of both worlds. It’s a great option for medium short hair and adds a touch of elegance to any outfit. This style works well for oval and heart-shaped faces and can be worn for various occasions, from casual outings to formal events.
To create a half-up ponytail, gather the top section of your hair from the temples to the crown and secure it with an elastic band. Leave the rest of your hair down for a soft, romantic look. To add volume, tease the crown section slightly before securing it. This style can be maintained with a lightweight volumizing mousse like the Herbal Essences Body Envy Volumizing Mousse.
Twisted Crown Ponytail
The twisted crown ponytail is a sophisticated and cute hairstyle that adds elegance to any outfit. Perfect for Indian weddings, festivals, or special occasions, this style suits long hair and oval face shapes best.
To create this look, start by parting your hair in the middle and twisting two sections from the front. Wrap each twist around to the back of your head, securing them with bobby pins. Gather the rest of your hair into a low ponytail and secure it with an elastic band. Use a lightweight mousse like the TRESemmé Flawless Curls Mousse to add volume and hold to the twists. Regular conditioning with a moisturizing product like the Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Conditioner will keep your hair smooth and manageable.
High Puff Ponytail
The high puff ponytail is a chic and effortless hairstyle perfect for black natural hair. This style is great for casual outings, school, or even a night out. It works best on round and square face shapes and adds a touch of playfulness to your look.
To achieve the high puff ponytail, gather your hair at the crown and secure it with an elastic band. Use a pick to fluff out the ponytail, creating a voluminous puff. Maintain this style with a curl-enhancing product like the SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie, which will keep your curls defined and frizz-free.
Ribbon Wrapped Ponytail
The ribbon wrapped ponytail is a cute and stylish hairstyle perfect for kids and adults alike. This style is great for school, casual outings, or even festive events. It works well on medium to long hair and complements all face shapes.
To achieve this look, gather your hair into a high or low ponytail and secure it with an elastic band. Wrap a colorful ribbon around the base of the ponytail, tying it into a bow. Use a light-hold hairspray like the Dove Style+Care Strength & Shine Flexible Hold Hairspray to keep the style in place. Maintain the look with a detangling spray like the Johnson’s No More Tangles Spray, which will keep the hair smooth and tangle-free.
Bubble Braid Ponytail
The bubble braid ponytail is a cute and fun hairstyle perfect for kids and adults alike. This style is great for school, casual outings, or even festive events. It works well on medium to long hair and complements all face shapes.
To achieve this look, gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic band. Add hair elastics every few inches along the length of the ponytail, then gently pull on each section to create a “bubble” effect. Use a light-hold hairspray like the TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist to keep the style in place. Maintain the look with a volumizing shampoo like the OGX Thick & Full Biotin & Collagen Shampoo, which will add body and texture to the hair.
Messy Ponytail
The messy ponytail is a relaxed and easy hairstyle that adds a touch of casual chic to any look. Perfect for a day out, school, or even a casual office setting, this style suits medium to long hair and all face shapes.
To create the messy ponytail, gather your hair into a loose ponytail and secure it with an elastic band. Pull out a few strands around your face for a soft, undone look. Use a texturizing spray like the Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray to add volume and texture. Maintain this style with a lightweight leave-in conditioner like the It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product to keep your hair smooth and frizz-free.
Curly Ponytail
The curly ponytail is a glamorous hairstyle that showcases natural curls or waves. This style is perfect for formal events, casual outings, or even a day at the office. It suits long hair and all face shapes.
To create a curly ponytail, start by defining your curls with a curl-enhancing product like the DevaCurl SuperCream. Gather your hair at the crown or nape of your neck and secure it with an elastic band. Fluff out the curls for added volume and use a light-hold hairspray to keep the style in place. Regular use of a moisturizing conditioner, such as the SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Conditioner, will keep your curls healthy and hydrated.
Faux Hawk Ponytail
The faux hawk ponytail is a bold and edgy hairstyle that adds a touch of drama to any look. This style is perfect for concerts, parties, or a night out. It suits medium to long hair and all face shapes.
To create the faux hawk ponytail, start by sectioning off the top part of your hair and securing it with an elastic band. Tease the top section for added volume and texture. Gather the rest of your hair into a low ponytail and secure it with another elastic band. Use a strong-hold hairspray like the Got2b Glued Blasting Freeze Spray to keep the style in place. Maintain this look with a volumizing mousse like the TRESemmé Flawless Curls Mousse, which will add body and texture to the hair.
Scarf Ponytail
The scarf ponytail is a cute and stylish hairstyle perfect for casual outings, school, or even festive events. This style works well on medium to long hair and complements all face shapes.
To achieve this look, gather your hair into a high or low ponytail and secure it with an elastic band. Wrap a colorful scarf around the base of the ponytail, tying it into a bow. Use a light-hold hairspray like the Dove Style+Care Strength & Shine Flexible Hold Hairspray to keep the style in place. Maintain the look with a detangling spray like the Johnson’s No More Tangles Spray, which will keep the hair smooth and tangle-free.
Braided Crown Ponytail
The braided crown ponytail is an elegant and romantic hairstyle that adds a touch of sophistication to any look. This style is perfect for weddings, proms, or other formal events and suits long hair best. It complements oval and heart-shaped faces beautifully, enhancing their natural contours.
To create this look, start by parting your hair in the middle and braiding two sections from the front. Wrap each braid around to the back of your head, securing them with bobby pins. Gather the rest of your hair into a low ponytail and secure it with an elastic band. Use a light hairspray like the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray to keep the style in place. Regular conditioning with a hydrating product like the Pantene Pro-V Daily Moisture Renewal Conditioner will keep your hair smooth and manageable.
Braided Ponytail with Accessories
The braided ponytail with accessories is a trendy and cute hairstyle perfect for both casual and formal occasions. This style adds a touch of elegance and fun, making it suitable for kids, black women, and anyone looking to add a little sparkle to their look. It works well with long hair and suits all face shapes.
To create this look, start by braiding a section of your hair from the front to the back. Gather all your hair, including the braid, into a high or low ponytail and secure it with an elastic band. Add decorative hairpins, beads, or ribbons to the braid for extra flair. Use a light-hold hairspray like the TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist to keep the style in place. Maintain this look with a moisturizing conditioner like the Pantene Pro-V Daily Moisture Renewal Conditioner to keep your hair smooth and shiny.
Knotted Ponytail
The knotted ponytail is a sophisticated and easy hairstyle that adds a unique twist to the classic ponytail. This style is perfect for both casual and formal settings, making it ideal for the office, a day out, or even a special event. It suits medium to long hair and all face shapes.
To achieve the knotted ponytail, divide your hair into two sections and tie them into a knot at the back of your head. Secure the knot with bobby pins and gather the rest of your hair into a ponytail, securing it with an elastic band. Use a smoothing serum like the John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum to keep the hair sleek and free of flyaways. Regular conditioning with a hydrating product like the Moroccanoil Hydrating Conditioner will keep your hair smooth and manageable.
Twisted Ponytail with Braid
The twisted ponytail with braid is a versatile and cute hairstyle that adds an elegant touch to any look. This style is perfect for weddings, proms, or other formal events. It works well on medium to long hair and suits all face shapes.
To create this look, start by twisting two sections of your hair from the front to the back. Secure the twists with bobby pins and gather all your hair into a low ponytail. Braid the ponytail and secure the end with an elastic band. Use a lightweight mousse like the TRESemmé Flawless Curls Mousse to add volume and hold to the twists and braid. Maintain this style with a moisturizing conditioner like the Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Conditioner to keep your hair smooth and manageable.
Sleek Low Ponytail
The sleek low ponytail is a classic and elegant hairstyle that adds sophistication to any look. This style is perfect for formal events, office settings, or even casual outings. It suits medium to long hair and all face shapes.
To achieve the sleek low ponytail, start by straightening your hair with a flat iron for a smooth finish. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and secure it with an elastic band. Use a fine-tooth comb and some hair gel or pomade to smooth out any flyaways. Finish with a mist of hairspray like the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray to keep the style in place. Regular conditioning with a hydrating product like the Moroccanoil Hydrating Conditioner will keep your hair smooth and manageable.
Double Ponytail
The double ponytail is a cute and playful hairstyle perfect for kids, black kids, and anyone looking for a fun and youthful look. This style is great for school, casual outings, or even festive events. It works well on medium to long hair and complements all face shapes.
To achieve the double ponytail, divide your hair into two sections, one on top of the other. Gather the top section into a ponytail and secure it with an elastic band. Then, gather the bottom section into another ponytail, securing it with an elastic band just below the first. Use a texturizing spray like the Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Sea Salt Spray to add volume and texture. Maintain the look with a detangling spray like the Johnson’s No More Tangles Spray to keep the hair smooth and tangle-free.
French Braid Ponytail
The French braid ponytail is a classic and cute hairstyle that combines the elegance of a braid with the simplicity of a ponytail. This style is perfect for Indian weddings, school, or casual outings. It suits medium to long hair and all face shapes.
To create the French braid ponytail, start by French braiding your hair from the front to the crown of your head. Gather the rest of your hair into a ponytail and secure it with an elastic band. You can leave the ponytail straight or curl it for added volume. Use a light-hold hairspray like the TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist to keep the braid and ponytail in place. Maintain this style with a smoothing serum like the Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum to keep the hair sleek and frizz-free.
Ponytails are a versatile and timeless hairstyle that can be adapted to suit any occasion, hair type, or personal style. Whether you prefer a sleek and polished look or something more casual and textured, there’s a ponytail style for everyone in 2024. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these easy and cute ideas to find the perfect ponytail that suits your personality and lifestyle.
