The Double Ponytail Illusion
One of the oldest tricks in the book for faking a fuller, longer ponytail is to create two of them. This technique adds instant volume and lift with minimal effort. Start by dividing your hair horizontally into two sections, a top and a bottom. Secure
the top half into a ponytail at your desired height—a higher pony will give a more dramatic effect. Then, gather the bottom section and create a second ponytail directly underneath the first one. The tail of the top pony will fall over and conceal the base of the bottom one, creating the illusion of a single, much thicker ponytail. For those with fine or straight hair, this adds much-needed body. If you have curly hair, this method works wonders to create a tiered, voluminous shape without sacrificing your curl pattern.
Prep with Texture-Building Products
A great ponytail starts before you even gather your hair. The right products can build a foundation of texture and grip, making your hair easier to shape and giving it more staying power. For fine or straight hair that tends to fall flat, applying a volumizing mousse or a texturizing spray from roots to ends on dry hair is a game-changer. A light spritz of dry shampoo at the crown, even on clean hair, can also provide lift and a matte texture. For wavy and curly hair, the goal is definition without frizz. Work a curl cream or a light-hold gel through your strands to enhance your natural pattern. When gathering your hair, use your fingers instead of a brush to maintain the curl clumps and volume. A smoothing serum can be used to tame flyaways at the hairline without flattening the overall look.
Add Shape with Heat Styling
Introducing a different texture before you tie your hair back can add incredible dimension. For those with straight or wavy hair, using a crimper on a few hidden sections of hair before pulling it into a pony can double its perceived volume. You don’t need to crimp the entire head; just a few sections underneath the top layer will create a supportive cushion of texture. Alternatively, adding loose waves with a curling wand can give the ponytail a soft, romantic feel. For naturally curly and coily hair, a heat tool can be used to refine the shape. You can enhance your natural pattern by wrapping select pieces around a small-barrel curling wand to create more uniform spirals that will pop in the ponytail.
Create Bubbles for a Playful Shape
The bubble ponytail is a fun, high-impact style that adds a unique silhouette and works on most hair types, especially on longer hair. Start by securing your hair in a high or low ponytail. Then, take a small, clear elastic and tie it one to two inches down the length of the pony. Gently pull and fan out the section of hair between the two elastics to create a rounded ‘bubble’ shape. You can repeat this process all the way down the tail, spacing the elastics evenly. This style is fantastic for straight or wavy hair as it creates shape where there is none. For curly hair, this technique can be used on stretched or blown-out hair for a sleek look, or on natural curls for a more textured, whimsical version.
The Polished Hair Wrap Finish
For an instant upgrade that takes your ponytail from casual to sophisticated, conceal the hair elastic. After you've secured your ponytail, take a small strand of hair (about half an inch thick) from the underside of the tail. Wrap this piece around the base of the ponytail, completely covering the elastic. Once wrapped, secure the end of the strand by tucking it underneath the hair tie with a bobby pin. For an even more secure and seamless finish, you can pull the end of the strand through the elastic itself. This simple step creates a polished, cohesive look. For added texture, try making the small section of hair into a tiny braid before wrapping it around the base.
