“Braided ponytails are the perfect blend of elegance and functionality, offering endless styling options for every occasion.”
Braided ponytails have long been a go-to hairstyle for people looking to combine the sleekness of a ponytail with the intricate beauty of braids. Whether you’re attending a formal event, enjoying a casual outing, or preparing for a workout, a braided ponytail can be styled to fit your needs. With so many variations and adaptations, braided ponytails are more than just a hairstyle—they are a way to express your personal style. From simple three-strand braids to complex, multi-braided looks, this hairstyle can be tailored for any occasion.
Are you ready to update your hairstyle routine with a stylish and versatile look? Braided ponytails offer endless possibilities and can be customized to suit any mood, season, or event. Whether you’re going for a messy look or something sleek and sophisticated, the braided ponytail is here to stay. With a wide variety of styles to choose from, you can rock this look every day and keep it fresh with different textures, braid types, and ponytail placements.
In this article, we’ll dive into 26 different braided ponytail styles that range from classic to bold, offering inspiration and styling tips for everyone. You’ll learn how to create these styles step by step and find out which ones work best for different hair types. No matter your hair length or texture, there’s a braided ponytail hairstyle that will make you feel confident, stylish, and ready to take on the day!
1. Classic Braided Ponytail
The classic braided ponytail is timeless and easy to create. You can choose to create a simple three-strand braid, or go for a fishtail braid for more texture. Gather all your hair into a ponytail at your desired height—high, mid, or low—and secure it with a hair tie. Afterward, braid the ponytail and secure the end with another tie. This look is perfect for casual outings or even for a workout, as it keeps your hair out of your face and looks stylish at the same time.
2. Fishtail Braided Ponytail
A fishtail braid is a sophisticated and beautiful alternative to the traditional three-strand braid. This style involves taking smaller sections of hair and crossing them over each other in a weaving pattern. The result is a tight, sleek braid that looks intricate but can be achieved with a little practice. Once the fishtail is finished, secure it into a ponytail at your desired position for a elegant look that is sure to turn heads.
3. Dutch Braided Ponytail
A Dutch braid is similar to a traditional braid but instead of weaving the strands over, you weave them under, which creates a raised, 3D effect. Start by creating a Dutch braid from the top of your head, bringing it to the nape of your neck, and then gathering the remaining hair into a ponytail. This style adds volume and texture to your braid, making it a bold and eye-catching look for any event.
4. Box Braided Ponytail
Box braids are perfect for adding structure and length to your hair. This style involves creating individual braids throughout the hair, then gathering them into a ponytail. Box braids give your hair a sleek, polished appearance, and they work well for people with textured or natural hair. This braided ponytail is low-maintenance, versatile, and a great protective style for those who want to experiment with braids without worrying about the upkeep.
5. Waterfall Braided Ponytail
For a soft, romantic style, the waterfall braided ponytail is a beautiful option. In this style, you braid a section of hair along the side of your head, letting strands fall freely in a cascading manner. Once the braid reaches the end of your hair, you can pull the rest into a ponytail, allowing the loose strands to flow naturally around your face. This style is great for more formal occasions or when you want a soft, whimsical look.
6. Side Braided Ponytail
The side braided ponytail is playful and fun, making it a perfect choice for a casual day out or a night with friends. Start by parting your hair to one side and creating a braid along the side of your head. Once you reach the end, gather the rest of your hair into a ponytail, securing it with a hair tie. This style adds dimension to your face while giving you a flirty look that’s easy to achieve and fun to wear.
7. Bubble Braided Ponytail
The bubble braid is a trendy twist on the classic ponytail, creating fun “bubbles” along the length of your hair. Start by gathering your hair into a ponytail and securing it with a hair tie. Next, add several more elastic bands down the length of the ponytail. After securing each section, gently pull on the strands between the bands to create a bubbly effect. This look adds volume and texture, making it a bold choice for a fun day out.
8. Messy Braided Ponytail
If you’re going for a relaxed and laid-back vibe, the messy braided ponytail is the perfect style. Start by loosely braiding your hair, but don’t worry about making it perfect. The key to this look is creating a carefree appearance, so pull out some strands around your face and at the nape of your neck for extra texture. This style is great for an effortless chic look, ideal for brunches or casual hangouts.
9. Twisted Braided Ponytail
The twisted braided ponytail combines the elegance of braids with the texture of twists. Begin by dividing your hair into sections and twisting each one before braiding them together. Secure the braid into a ponytail, giving you a unique and textured look. This style works well for both formal and casual occasions and adds depth and volume to your hair.
10. Pull-Through Braided Ponytail
The pull-through braid mimics the look of a braid but with a much simpler technique. Begin by creating several ponytail sections and pulling each section through the one above it. This results in a braid-like look without the intricate braiding technique. The pulled-through effect gives a unique texture and volume, making it a fun style for a night out or a casual day.
11. Crown Braid Ponytail
The crown braid ponytail adds a regal touch to your hairstyle. Create a braid that wraps around the top of your head like a crown, then gather the rest of your hair into a ponytail. This look is elegant, flattering, and works perfectly for more formal events like weddings or parties. The crown braid adds a sophisticated frame to your face while keeping your hair secure and stylish.
12. Braided Ponytail with a Top Knot
If you want to add some edge to your look, try combining a braided ponytail with a top knot. Start by creating a braid in your hair, then gather it into a ponytail. Secure the ponytail at the top of your head, and wrap the remaining hair into a messy bun. This style is fun and adds volume while still feeling polished, making it great for a night out or a weekend outing.
13. Double Braided Ponytail
The double braided ponytail is a playful and youthful style. Create two braids—either side braids or a pair of fishtail braids—and gather them together into a ponytail. This look is great for adding volume and texture to your hair and is perfect for a fun, casual style. It’s a great way to add some personality to your look, especially for informal events or relaxed outings.
14. Braided Ponytail with Hair Accessories
Adding hair accessories to a braided ponytail can instantly elevate the look. From sparkling clips to elegant ribbons, you can customize your braided ponytail to suit your outfit and mood. A decorative hair accessory can make your braid stand out even more, making this style suitable for formal events, weddings, or nights out.
15. Half-Up Braided Ponytail
For a mix of elegance and ease, try the half-up braided ponytail. Begin by braiding the top half of your hair and securing it into a ponytail. Let the bottom half of your hair remain loose for a textured and flirty look. This style is perfect for anyone who wants to combine the best of both worlds—a little braid and a lot of volume.
16. Braided Ponytail for Curly Hair
Curly hair adds volume and texture to a braided ponytail, making it even more dynamic. Begin by creating a braid at the crown of your head, leaving curls free around your face. Gather the rest of your curls into a ponytail, allowing them to flow naturally. This look adds bounciness and is ideal for those with curly hair who want to keep things secure but stylish.
17. Braided Ponytail for Fine Hair
If you have fine hair, a braided ponytail can add the volume and thickness you’re looking for. Try adding some loose curls or waves to the ends of the ponytail for extra body. The braid itself helps to create a fuller, more voluminous look, which is great for those with finer hair textures. This hairstyle gives the illusion of thicker, more robust hair.
18. Braided Ponytail for Long Hair
Long hair offers plenty of room to create intricate braided ponytails. If you have long hair, you can experiment with different braid types, including fishtail, Dutch, and waterfall braids. A long braided ponytail adds drama and elegance to your look, making it perfect for formal events, date nights, or even just a stylish day at the office.
19. Braided Ponytail for Short Hair
Even with shorter hair, you can enjoy a stylish braided ponytail. Create a small braid along the crown of your head and gather the rest of your hair into a low ponytail. Short hair offers a fun, modern twist on the traditional braided ponytail, giving it a youthful and playful vibe. It’s a great style for anyone who wants a fresh and unique look.
20. Braided Ponytail with a Side Part
A side part can completely transform the appearance of a braided ponytail. By starting your braid from the side, you add dimension and a more casual feel to the look. The side part also helps create a more natural-looking hairstyle, making it ideal for both casual and semi-formal events.
Dark Hair with Light Face Framing
21. Layered Braided Ponytail
For an added dimension, try a layered braided ponytail. Layering adds depth to the braid and helps to enhance the texture, giving you a more voluminous, dynamic appearance. This style is perfect for individuals with thicker hair who want to show off the layers and textures of their hair.
22. Braided Ponytail with a Hair Wrap
Adding a hair wrap around your braided ponytail is an easy way to dress up your look. After completing your braid, wrap a section of hair around the base of the ponytail, securing it with a small pin or tie. This adds an elegant and polished touch to your hairstyle, perfect for a more formal or chic event.
23. Tight Braided Ponytail
For a more sleek and structured look, go for a tight braided ponytail. Secure your hair tightly into a ponytail and create a tight braid that gives a polished, neat look. This style works perfectly for work, interviews, or other formal settings where you need your hair to stay in place without sacrificing style.
24. Boho Braided Ponytail
A boho braided ponytail is relaxed and carefree. Start by braiding the sides of your hair and letting the rest flow naturally into a loose ponytail. The look is perfect for beach days, festivals, or casual weekends, giving you a carefree vibe that is comfortable yet stylish.
25. Braided Ponytail with Curls
If you love curls, try combining them with a braided ponytail for a voluminous and textured look. Start by curling your hair before creating the braid, and then gather the curls into a ponytail. This look gives a natural, effortless vibe, combining the elegance of a braid with the bouncy texture of curls.
26. Braided Ponytail for Special Occasions
For a special occasion like a wedding or gala, you can elevate your braided ponytail with luxurious touches. Add sparkling hair accessories, tease the hair for extra volume, or create an intricate braided style to match the formality of the event. This style is perfect for those who want to keep their hair out of their face while still making a statement.
Conclusion
Braided ponytails are incredibly versatile, and there’s a style for everyone, no matter your hair length or texture. From classic three-strand braids to more intricate fishtail or Dutch braids, this style can be customized for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a fun and casual look or an elegant, sophisticated style, braided ponytails are the perfect choice for effortless beauty.
So next time you want to switch up your hairstyle, give one of these braided ponytail looks a try and enjoy the benefits of a stylish, practical hairstyle that will never go out of fashion!
Hi! I’m Isabel, a Nail and Hairs art enthusiast who loves exploring the latest trends and sharing creative ideas to inspire your next manicure.
