17 Not-so-Basic Ponytail Looks That Are Anything But Ordinary

While we adore a meticulously styled hairdo—think blowouts, glamorous updos, or sleek silk presses—there’s an undeniable charm to a classic ponytail. It’s the perfect way to keep your hair away from your face, offers a fun temporary snatch, and can appear more intentional than you might expect. Don’t believe it? We’ve gathered 17 of our favorite ponytail hairstyles that prove this staple can be much more than just a post-gym look. Keep reading to discover them all.

1. Subtle Waves

Image: Getty/Pascal Le Segretain

Channel your inner Victoria's Secret Angel, Jasmine Tookes, by opting for a wavy ponytail. For this look, start with a blowout using a large round brush, then apply gel to slick back the front for a polished finish.

2. Double Ponies

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Pigtails aren't just for kids anymore! Take a cue from Paris Hilton, who recently sported this chic style. Simply divide your hair into two sections, slick them back into high ponies, and wrap a small piece of hair around the base of each.

3. Braided High Pony

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Youngest Kardashian sister Khloe rocked these braids pulled back into a high ponytail. If box braids feel too heavy, consider trying a half-up, half-down style instead.

4. Sleek Fringe

If you sport a fringe, this sleek look is made for you. Supermodel Tyra Banks slicked her vibrant locks into a tight ponytail at the crown, letting her bangs shine as the star of the show.

5. Bouncy Bombshell

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Jessica Alba has mastered the bombshell ponytail. Instead of curling your hair first, try styling the ponytail and curling it second to save time and effort.

6. Curly Low Ponytail

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If it’s been a while since you wore a low ponytail, this is your sign to revisit the style. We love how Zeze Millz’s curls create a stunning contrast between the sleek crown and voluminous curls.

7. Y2K-Inspired

Leave out a few face-framing pieces before pulling your hair into a high ponytail, and use a flat iron to add curls to those strands for a playful touch.

8. Wrapped Ponytail

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For an extra-long ponytail like Erika Jayne’s, grab your extensions! Clip-ins or ponytail extensions can help you achieve this look—just add some body with a curling iron.

9. Messy Ponytail

This proves that messy ponytails can be stylish. Simply gather your hair loosely at the back of your head and secure it with a hair tie for an effortless, chic look.

10. Half-Up Ponytail

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Half-up ponytails are perfect for hiding slightly dirty hair while adding volume. To recreate this look, gather the top section into a high ponytail secured with a bow and use a large barrel curling iron for soft waves.

11. Slicked-Back Curls

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Arya Starr rocks a stunning slicked-back curly ponytail that grazes her bum. This elegant style is perfect for any hair length.

12. Split Pony

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Emma Chamberlain’s split ponytail is a must-try. Keep some face-framing pieces out before pulling the rest into a high ponytail. Then, split those strands and slick them back to join the ponytail, adding a large bow for flair.

13. Braided Pony

Image: Getty/Pascal Le Segretain

Salma Hayek dazzles with her braided ponytail. To get a similar look, loosely gather your hair into a mid-to-high ponytail, braid it, and then loosen the braid for added texture.

14. Braided-Front Ponytail

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For a fun twist, try braids at the front with a loose, textured ponytail at the back, just like Issa Rae.

15. '70s Glam

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Blake Lively’s ‘70s glam look is gorgeous and may require fabulous extensions. Get ready to embrace volume!

16. Braided and Face-Framing

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If you have box braids, leave out a few strands for a face-framing effect, just like Any Gabrielly.

17. No-Fuss Pony

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Sometimes, a slicked-back ponytail is all you need—especially on day three hair. Victoria Pedretti shows us how to achieve this effortlessly chic look with a simple slick back and some hairspray.

With these 17 ponytail styles, you can easily elevate your everyday look, proving that the classic ponytail can be anything but basic!