Summer is the perfect season to experiment with fresh and stylish ponytail hairstyles. Whether you’re heading to the beach, attending a wedding, or just enjoying a sunny day out, a ponytail can be your go-to solution for looking effortlessly chic while keeping your hair off your neck. In this article, we’ll explore 46 stunning summer ponytail hairstyles that range from easy and casual to sleek and formal. Each style comes with practical hair care tips and product recommendations to help you achieve the perfect look. Get ready to transform your summer hair game with these versatile and trendy ponytail ideas!
High Ponytail with Beach Waves
A high ponytail with beach waves is a perfect blend of casual and glam. This style suits almost everyone, especially those with long, thick hair. The waves add volume and texture, making the ponytail look fuller and more dynamic. It’s an easy style that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion.
To achieve this look, use a sea salt spray like Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray to create natural-looking waves. For added hold, finish with Tresemmé Compressed Micro Mist Hairspray. This hairstyle is perfect for a day at the beach or a night out.
Low Sleek Ponytail
The low sleek ponytail is the epitome of elegance and simplicity. Ideal for formal occasions or professional settings, this hairstyle works best for those with straight or slightly wavy hair. The key to this look is its sleekness and shine.
Start by applying a smoothing serum like MoroccanOil Treatment to damp hair. Blow-dry your hair straight, then secure it in a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Use a flat iron to ensure it’s perfectly smooth. Finish with John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum for a polished look.
Braided Ponytail
The braided ponytail combines the simplicity of a ponytail with the intricate detail of braids. This style is perfect for those with long hair and is great for both casual and formal events. It’s a trendy and cute way to keep your hair out of your face while showcasing your braiding skills.
To create this look, start with a high ponytail. Braid the ponytail all the way down and secure it with a clear elastic. Use OGX Renewing + Argan Oil of Morocco Penetrating Oil to add shine and reduce frizz. This style is versatile and can be made even fancier with the addition of hair accessories.
Bubble Ponytail
The bubble ponytail is a fun and trendy twist on the traditional ponytail. It’s an easy hairstyle that works well for medium to long hair. This style is particularly great for kids and adults alike, adding a playful element to your look.
To achieve this hairstyle, start by creating a high or low ponytail. Add hair ties down the length of the ponytail, spacing them out evenly. Gently pull at each section to create the “bubble” effect. Use Garnier Fructis Style Pure Clean Finishing Paste to keep each bubble in place.
Side Swept Ponytail
The side swept ponytail is a pretty and elegant option that’s perfect for formal events like weddings. This hairstyle suits those with medium to long hair and adds a romantic touch to any look. It’s a great way to showcase your facial features and accessories.
To create this look, gather your hair to one side and secure it with an elastic. Curl the ends for added volume and texture using a curling iron like the Conair InfinitiPRO Curling Iron. Finish with L’Oreal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray to keep everything in place.
Messy Ponytail with Volume
The messy ponytail with volume is the perfect blend of effortless style and trendy appeal. This hairstyle is ideal for those with medium to long hair and works particularly well for adding a casual, chic vibe to any look. The key to this style is its volume and tousled texture, which create a relaxed, beachy appearance.
To achieve this look, start by backcombing the crown of your hair to add volume. Gather your hair into a high or mid-level ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Pull out a few strands around your face to enhance the messy effect. Use Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Texturizing Dry Shampoo to add texture and volume without weighing your hair down. Finish with a light mist of Herbal Essences Set Me Up Hairspray to keep everything in place.
Curly Ponytail
The curly ponytail is a timeless and elegant hairstyle that works beautifully for both casual and formal occasions. This style is perfect for those with naturally curly hair or those who want to add some curls to their look. It enhances the natural texture and volume of curly hair, making it look effortlessly pretty.
To create this look, start by defining your curls with a curl-enhancing product like DevaCurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler. Gather your curls into a high or low ponytail, securing it with an elastic. For added definition, use a curling wand to touch up any loose curls. Finish with Mizani True Textures Curl Enhancing Lotion to keep your curls frizz-free and bouncy.
Twisted Ponytail
The twisted ponytail is a simple yet elegant hairstyle that adds a touch of sophistication to any look. This style is perfect for those with medium to long hair and is great for both everyday wear and more formal occasions. The twists add an interesting detail to the classic ponytail, making it look more polished and refined.
To achieve this look, divide your hair into two sections and twist each section before securing them together into a ponytail. Use a product like Living Proof No Frizz Nourishing Styling Cream to keep the twists smooth and frizz-free. Secure the ponytail with an elastic and finish with Kenra Platinum Silkening Mist for a sleek and shiny finish.
Knotted Ponytail
The knotted ponytail is a chic and trendy hairstyle that adds a unique twist to the traditional ponytail. This style is perfect for those with long hair and is ideal for both casual and dressy occasions. The knots add an interesting texture and make the ponytail look more intricate and stylish.
To create this look, start by dividing your hair into two sections. Tie the sections into a knot and secure them with an elastic. Repeat the process along the length of the ponytail, creating multiple knots. Use TIGI Bed Head After Party Smoothing Cream to keep the knots sleek and shiny. Finish with Redken Control Addict 28 High-Hold Hairspray to ensure the knots stay in place.
Ponytail with a Scarf
The ponytail with a scarf is a stylish and versatile hairstyle that can instantly elevate your look. This style is perfect for those with medium to long hair and is great for adding a pop of color and texture to your outfit. The scarf can be tied in various ways, making this hairstyle highly customizable and creative.
To achieve this look, start by choosing a colorful scarf that complements your outfit. Gather your hair into a high or low ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Tie the scarf around the base of the ponytail, letting the ends hang loose or wrapping them around the ponytail. Use Ouai Wave Spray to add texture and volume to your hair. Finish with Batiste Dry Shampoo to keep your hair fresh and voluminous.
Double Ponytail
The double ponytail is a playful and trendy hairstyle that adds volume and length to your hair. This style is perfect for those with medium to long hair and is great for both casual and cute looks. The double ponytail creates the illusion of thicker, fuller hair, making it an excellent choice for those with fine hair.
To achieve this look, divide your hair into two sections: top and bottom. Create a high ponytail with the top section and secure it with an elastic. Then, gather the bottom section into a ponytail just below the first one. Use OGX Bodifying + Bamboo Fiber-Full Big Hair Spray to add volume and texture. Finish with Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Humidity Hairspray to keep everything in place.
Ponytail with Braided Crown
The ponytail with a braided crown is an elegant and sophisticated hairstyle that combines the beauty of braids with the simplicity of a ponytail. This style is perfect for formal occasions, including weddings and fancy events. It suits those with medium to long hair and adds a regal touch to any look.
To create this look, start by parting your hair down the middle. Braid each side from the front, working your way back towards the crown. Secure the braids with bobby pins, then gather the remaining hair into a low ponytail. Use Kérastase Elixir Ultime L’Huile Originale Hair Oil to add shine and smoothness. Finish with Sebastian Professional Shaper Hairspray for a long-lasting hold.
Wrapped Ponytail
The wrapped ponytail is a sleek and polished hairstyle that adds a touch of elegance to your everyday look. This style is perfect for both casual and formal settings and suits those with straight or slightly wavy hair. The wrap around the base of the ponytail hides the elastic, giving the style a seamless finish.
To achieve this look, gather your hair into a high or low ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the base to conceal the elastic. Secure the end of the wrap with a bobby pin. Use Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum to smooth flyaways and add shine. Finish with Kenra Volume Spray 25 for a firm hold.
Retro High Ponytail
The retro high ponytail is a glamorous and fancy hairstyle that channels vintage vibes from the ’60s. This style is perfect for those with medium to long hair and is great for adding a touch of retro chic to your look. The high ponytail with voluminous curls creates a bold and elegant statement.
To create this look, start by backcombing the crown of your hair to add volume. Gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Use a large-barrel curling iron like the Hot Tools Professional 24K Gold Curling Iron to create big, bouncy curls. Finish with Aquage Beyond Body Thermal Spray for heat protection and L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray for a strong hold.
Half-Up Ponytail
The half-up ponytail is a versatile and trendy hairstyle that combines the ease of a ponytail with the sophistication of an updo. This style is perfect for those with medium to long hair and works well for both casual and formal occasions. It keeps hair out of your face while still showcasing your length.
To achieve this look, gather the top section of your hair and secure it into a ponytail at the crown of your head. Leave the bottom section loose. Use a curling wand like the Bed Head Curlipops Curling Wand to add waves or curls to the loose hair. Finish with Herbal Essences Tousle Me Softly Hairspray for a natural, touchable hold.
Ponytail with Hair Accessories
Adding hair accessories to a ponytail can instantly elevate your look, making it more glamorous and trendy. This style is perfect for any hair length and is great for both casual and formal occasions. Hair accessories such as clips, pins, and scrunchies can add a touch of personality and flair to your ponytail.
To achieve this look, start by choosing your favorite hair accessory. Create a high, mid, or low ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Add your accessory to the base of the ponytail, or use multiple accessories for a more embellished look. Use Scunci No-Slip Grip Hair Ties to keep your ponytail in place and Goody Ouchless Hair Elastics for comfort. Finish with Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray to add volume and texture.
Low Ponytail with a Twist
The low ponytail with a twist is an elegant and sophisticated hairstyle that adds a modern touch to a classic look. This style is perfect for those with medium to long hair and is ideal for both professional settings and formal events. The twist adds an interesting detail that elevates the simple low ponytail.
To achieve this look, gather your hair into a low ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and twist it around the base to conceal the elastic. Secure the twist with bobby pins. Use Living Proof No Frizz Nourishing Styling Cream to keep your hair smooth and frizz-free. Finish with Redken Fashion Work 12 Versatile Hairspray for a flexible hold.
High Ponytail with a Braid
The high ponytail with a braid is a chic and stylish hairstyle that combines the height of a high ponytail with the intricate detail of a braid. This style is perfect for those with long hair and is great for both casual outings and formal events. The braid adds texture and interest to the classic high ponytail.
To achieve this look, create a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Braid the ponytail all the way down and secure the end with another elastic. For a more polished look, use a smoothing serum like MoroccanOil Treatment to keep flyaways at bay. Finish with Tresemmé Compressed Micro Mist Hairspray for a strong, flexible hold.
Textured Ponytail
The textured ponytail is a versatile and trendy hairstyle that adds volume and movement to your hair. This style is perfect for those with naturally wavy or curly hair, but it can also be achieved with styling tools. It’s great for casual outings and gives a relaxed, beachy vibe.
To achieve this look, start by adding texture to your hair with a sea salt spray like Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray. Gather your hair into a high or low ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Use a curling wand to add waves or curls to the ponytail if needed. Finish with Ouai Wave Spray to enhance the texture and Garnier Fructis Style Pure Clean Finishing Paste to keep everything in place.
Ponytail with Side Braid
The ponytail with a side braid is a cute and elegant hairstyle that combines the simplicity of a ponytail with the charm of a side braid. This style is perfect for those with medium to long hair and is ideal for both casual and formal settings. The side braid adds a touch of romance and sophistication to the look.
To achieve this look, create a side braid starting from one side of your head, working your way towards the back. Secure the braid and gather all your hair into a low ponytail. Use L’Oreal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil to add shine and smoothness. Finish with John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum to keep your hair frizz-free and polished.
Fishtail Braided Ponytail
The fishtail braided ponytail is a stunning and intricate hairstyle that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any look. This style is perfect for those with medium to long hair and is great for both casual and formal occasions. The fishtail braid adds texture and interest, making the ponytail stand out.
To achieve this look, start by gathering your hair into a high or low ponytail and securing it with an elastic. Divide the ponytail into two sections and create a fishtail braid by taking small pieces from the outer edge of each section and crossing them over to the opposite side. Continue this process until you reach the end of the ponytail and secure it with another elastic. Use Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil to add shine and smoothness. Finish with Oribe Superfine Hair Spray for a light, flexible hold.
Ponytail with Ribbon
The ponytail with a ribbon is a charming and timeless hairstyle that adds a touch of femininity and elegance to your look. This style is perfect for all hair lengths and is ideal for both casual and formal settings. The ribbon adds a delicate and pretty accent to the ponytail.
To achieve this look, gather your hair into a high or low ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Choose a ribbon that complements your outfit and tie it around the base of the ponytail, making a bow. Use Kérastase L’incroyable Blowdry Lotion to keep your hair smooth and manageable. Finish with Tresemmé Keratin Smooth Shine Serum for added shine and frizz control.
High Ponytail with Bangs
The high ponytail with bangs is a trendy and chic hairstyle that adds a youthful and modern touch to your look. This style is perfect for those with medium to long hair and works well with both straight and wavy hair. The bangs frame the face beautifully, adding a cute and trendy element to the high ponytail.
To achieve this look, start by blow-drying your bangs with a round brush to add volume and shape. Gather the rest of your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Use Living Proof Full Dry Volume Blast to add volume and texture to the ponytail. Finish with Sebastian Shaper Plus Hairspray for a strong yet flexible hold.
Ponytail with Floral Accents
The ponytail with floral accents is a beautiful and romantic hairstyle that is perfect for special occasions like weddings and garden parties. This style suits all hair lengths and adds a touch of elegance and natural beauty to your look. The floral accents create a whimsical and pretty effect.
To achieve this look, gather your hair into a low ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Choose fresh or artificial flowers that complement your outfit and carefully pin them around the base of the ponytail. Use Amika The Wizard Detangling Primer to keep your hair smooth and manageable. Finish with L’Oreal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray to ensure the flowers stay in place.
Low Ponytail with Soft Waves
The low ponytail with soft waves is a classic and elegant hairstyle that is perfect for both casual and formal occasions. This style suits those with medium to long hair and adds a touch of softness and femininity to your look. The soft waves create a gentle and pretty effect.
To achieve this look, start by creating loose waves with a curling iron like the Conair InfinitiPRO Curling Iron. Gather your hair into a low ponytail and secure it with an elastic. Use Ouai Wave Spray to enhance the texture and add definition to the waves. Finish with John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum for added shine and frizz control.
Ponytails are incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit any occasion. From casual beach days to formal events, there’s a ponytail style for everyone. Try out these 46 summer ponytail hairstyles and find your perfect look. Leave a comment below to let us know which style is your favorite!
