If I had to list the most underrated ways to style your hair, I would say the ponytail is on the top of that list. Not only is it one of the easiest ways to style second-day hair (particularly if you struggle with oily strands), but it’s also one of the most versatile. Whether you do sleek low ponytail, a laid-back variation, or a braided style, there are so many ways to make the look work for you.
Searching for low ponytail styles to try for yourself? Keep scrolling for 18 ideas you’re bound to love.
Is a low ponytail better for your hair?
If you’re concerned about tugging and friction, a ponytail that sits at the nape of your neck may be a better option. You may feel less discomfort with a low ponytail because this hairstyle doesn’t pull your strands in any gravity-defying direction. Pro tip: Use a gentle hair accessory like a silk or satin scrunchie or hair scarf to protect your strands from breakage and friction.
Styling Gelée All Purpose Styling Gel
An all-purpose styling gel that adds volume and smoothes frizz.
Root Lifter Volumizing Spray Foam
Volumizing hairspray for added bold fullness and added thickness.
How do you make a low ponytail look good?
The great thing about low ponytails is that you can style them many different ways. If you want a sleek look, you can use a hair gel like Biolage Styling Gelee All-Purpose Styling Gel to create a smooth, frizz-free finish. For a low ponytail full of volume, create curls or waves and complete the look with a volumizing hairspray like Redken Guts 10 Root-Volumizing Hairspray.
Is it okay to wear a ponytail everyday?
Like we always say, everything in moderation! If you wear your ponytail too tightly every day, that can lead to tension or hair breakage. So, when styling your ponytail, take time to style it in a way that doesn’t put pressure on your scalp.
Ready to try a low ponytail for yourself? Keep scrolling for 18 of our favorite looks.
The Best Low Ponytail Styles To Try Now
Good hair day by @thisislaurendavis.
Low Ponytail With A Scarf
Instead of using a hair tie, lock in your look with a hair scarf to achieve a look that’s elegant yet effortless. To add some volume to your ‘do, we recommend Matrix Vavoom Height of Glam Volumizing Foam. The foam adds weightless lift with a shiny finish.
Good hair day by @dropdeadkristi and @theconfessionsofahairstylist.
Woven Braided Ponytail
Get creative with your ponytail by doing woven braids. With this look, your hair will be the talk of any occasion.
Good hair day by @inastyled.
Curly Braided Ponytail
If you’re working with curly hair, a low ponytail is the perfect way to keep your strands out of your face but still show off your natural texture. Use a hair gel like Mizani True Textures Perfect Coil Oil Gel to refine your ringlets while controlling frizz.
Good hair day by @thefloralaw.
Accessorized Low Ponytail
Apply hair clips to the side of your ponytail for an instant touch of elegance. This simple accessory will turn any hairstyle into an on-trend look.
Good hair day by @jamiewileyhair.
Fishtail Braid Into Low Ponytail
Instead of doing a full fishtail braid, you can go for a partial one and tie the rest of your mane into a low ponytail.
Good hair day by @pureology.
Bubble Ponytail
If you’re searching for an Instagram-worthy low ponytail, look no further than the bubble pony.
Begin by brushing through your mane to remove any tangles. Then, pull your hair back to the nape of your neck and secure it with a clear hair tie to form a low ponytail.
Once the ponytail is secured, move about two inches down the lengths of your hair and fasten another hair tie. Repeat this step with the rest of your hair until you reach the ends. Be sure to leave an even amount of space between each hair tie for a symmetrical look.
Once the style is secured, gently pull on the hair between each elastic to create the appearance of a bubble. Complete the look with a few spritzes of hairspray.
Good hair day by @kamiixyz.
Sleek Low Ponytail
We simply can’t get enough of sleek ponytails. From the boardroom to the hottest runways, no other style quite competes.
Beginning with clean hair, brush through your strands to rid them of bumps or tangles. Gather hair into a tight, low ponytail and secure it with a hair tie. For this look, finish with a generous amount of hairspray to maintain hold and eliminate flyaways.
Good hair day by @jamiewileyhair.
Unicorn Braided Ponytail
Just like the mystical creature it’s named after, this look works like magic for concealing oily roots. Simply craft a three-strand braid down the center of your head until you reach the nape of your neck. Then, tie your remaining hair into a low ponytail with a hair elastic.
Good hair day by @jessiekass.
Boho Low Ponytail
If you’re looking to keep your low ponytail simple and care-free, you can’t go wrong with this bohemian hairstyle. Add a few flowers throughout your mane to really amp up your boho vibe.
Good hair day by @adina_pignatare.
Low Ponytail With Hair Clip
Bored of your run-of-the-mill hair ties? Use a geometric hair clip to lock your low pony in place.
Good hair day by @michelleleep.
French Twist Low Ponytail
If you love French-girl hair as much as we do, this sophisticated, Parisian-inspired ponytail is right up your alley. Before you style, apply a few spritzes of Redken Triple Dry 15 Dry Texture Finishing Spray to add a bit of texture and movement to your look.
Good hair day by @roydaniel.
Elegant Low Ponytail
Whether you’re the bride to be or a guest searching for a gorgeous wedding hairstyle, this elegant curled ponytail is perfect to wear for the big day.
Teased Volume Ponytail
If you thought volume was reserved for high ponytails, think again. To achieve this style, gently tease hair at the crown before creating a loose ponytail. Once it’s secured, split the ponytail into two sections and backcomb each to create volume. Complete the look with a few spritzes of medium hold hairspray.
For added texture, apply a finishing product like the Shu Uemura Art Of Hair Wava Wave Texture Spray. Complete the look with a few spritzes of medium hold hairspray.
Fishtail Side Ponytail
Attempting a fishtail braid is not for the faint of heart, but any hairstyle is achievable with a bit of practice. This tricky braid may require a bit more effort than the standard French style, but we love the look paired with an elegant side ponytail. It’s perfect for a summer wedding or a formal event.
Once you’ve fully completed the braid and secured the ponytail, gently loosen a few strands toward the front to create a soft, face framing finish.
Grungy Low Ponytail
Thanks to a recent revival of all things ‘90s, grunge is back and better than ever. The best part? Since grunge styles are defined by undone, messy looks, they work best with second (or third!) day hair.
Double Dutch Braid Ponytail
Begin by creating a part down the center of your head. Starting with either side, create a Dutch braid by dividing your hair into three sections and crossing the left strand underneath the middle strand. Repeat on the other side and continue until the braid reaches the nape of your neck. Secure the braid with a clear elastic and repeat it on the other side.
Once you have twin braids, connect them by fastening another hair elastic at the nape. If you want a more sophisticated look, try adding a hair clip at the base of the ponytail.
Accent Braid Ponytail
Looking for an effortless look? Opt for a textured low ponytail with an accent braid. Starting with damp hair, apply a texturizing cream such as L’Óreal Professional Tecni.Art Volume Envy Extra Mousse. Once your hair is completely dry, take a 1-inch section from either side of your head and create a French braid.
Secure the braid with a small elastic, then pull all of your hair back to create a low ponytail. Hold the ponytail in place with a hair tie and apply a small amount of light hold hairspray to complete the style.
Twisted Low Ponytail
When it comes to color-treated hair, sleek, straight hairstyles can sometimes make even the most vibrant colors fall flat. Instead, add a simple twist to create instant dimension. We love the look of a twisted low ponytail combined with balayage or fashion colors.
Interested in trying a new hair color? Use our salon locator to book an appointment at a salon near you.
Styling Gelée All Purpose Styling Gel
An all-purpose styling gel that adds volume and smoothes frizz.
Root Lifter Volumizing Spray Foam
Volumizing hairspray for added bold fullness and added thickness.
Vavoom Height of Glam Volumizing Foam
A weightless foam that provides volume, shine and style memory.
True Textures Perfect Coil Oil Gel
A moisturizing hair gel that fights frizz and is flake- and crunch-free.
Dry Texture Finishing Spray
Texturizing spray for all hair types that adds soft texture and lightweight volume for effortless style.
Tecni.Art Volume Envy Extra Mousse
A volumizing mousse that gives a natural, full hair look.
