Styling your hair in the summer should be a breeze, and ponytails are one way to keep things simple. While a plain old pony secured with a scrunchie will do the trick, there are plenty of more elevated alternatives to try. You could go for retro pigtails like Elle Fanning, tousle your tresses like Nicole Kidman, or opt for floaty, boho knotless braids if you have textured hair like Chase Infiniti.
How to style a ponytail that lasts all day
Texture and hold are key. “I always recommend prepping the hair with a texture spray, like Larry King’s Ride or Die,” Andreas Wild, hairstylist at Larry King Notting Hill, shares with Vogue. “Spritz throughout your roots and ends, then flip your hair back up for natural grip and hold,” he explains. “The biggest game-changer is using a hair tie with hooks at either end, which creates tension and keeps the ponytail firmly in place.”
How to nail your ponytail placement
Placement is everything when it comes to styling a perfect ponytail. It “completely changes the feel of a ponytail, so it’s important to decide before you begin,” Wild adds. “A high ponytail feels youthful and lifted, a mid-height ponytail is effortless and versatile, and a low ponytail often feels quite fashion-forward,” he asserts.
The best textures and lengths for ponytail hairstyles
Ponytail hairstyles work beautifully across every texture and length. “Styling should always complement the hair type,” Wild says. “Finer hair often looks best with added texture, as it creates fullness and movement,” he adds, noting that sleeker finishes usually complement thicker hair and longer lengths. “Braided ponytails are especially on-trend right now.”
Best tools and products for ponytail hairstyles
Before you get to the styling, keep in mind that second or third-day hair is often ideal for ponytails, as you’ll benefit from added grip and texture.
Texture sprays for volume and hair ties for security
Larry King
Ride or Die Texture Spray
Oribe
Dry Texturizing Spray
Hotop
Elastic Hook Hair Ties
Goody
Ouchless Hair Elastics
Pomades for a polished finish and straighteners for glossy results
Charlotte Mensah
Manketti Oil Pomade
Dyson
Corrale Styler Straightener
BabylissPro
Nano Titanium Prima Ionic Hair Straightener
Are ponytails wedding-friendly?
Ponytails can be tailored for almost any occasion, including a wedding. “A power ponytail can feel incredibly elegant and modern for bridal or guest styling, while a wispy ponytail creates a more relaxed, romantic finish,” Wild explains.
Below, find 13 ponytails that are ideal for summer.
Tousled ponytail
Photo: Savion Washington/WireImage/Getty Images
Photo: Savion Washington/WireImage/Getty Images
A tousled pony is particularly good in the heat. To perfect the look, tease your tresses with a comb to add texture. Next, separate bangs or any face-framing strands that you want left out at the front, then toss the rest of your hair into a bouncy mid-set ponytail.
