Nataly is an experienced freelance writer well-versed in lifestyle, beauty, and fashion. She enjoys testing new hair products to tame her long locks. Believing in the power of self-care, Nataly collects styling tips like gems. Currently, she delivers exclusive content on the latest hairstyle trends and transformations.
Read full bio Editorial guidelinesThe top hairstylist drops her go-to tricks for a perfect ponytail look.
What is the first thing that comes to mind when you’re contemplating something quick and easy for your hair? A ponytail, of course! This classic upswept ‘do is a perfect choice for those lazy hair days and formal events alike due to its practicality and versatility. From messy and sleek styles to curled and braided hairdos – you can easily choose your favorite look to flatter any hair type and texture. And with some good fashion advice from a hair expert, you’ll surely find your ideal match.
We asked Olga Markuse, the UK-based professional wedding hairstylist and educator, to share her favorite tricks and tips on how to sport a bombshell ponytail look. There are many ways to enhance this hairdo and make it appear more sophisticated, depending on the occasion. Here are six smart and creative hacks for an upgraded ponytail hairstyle. Read on and try them out yourself!
One way to make your ponytail look more refined is to cover an elastic with your own hair. “This will instantly elevate the style and make it suitable for a special event or even a wedding,” the stylist explains. Start with a classic ponytail. Next, separate a single piece of hair to hide the elastic underneath the rest of your locks.
Olga Markuse suggests securing the strand in place by gently backcombing it first, wrapping it around the hair band, and then weaving a few bobby pins through the base of the ponytail. And there you have it – a snatched hairstyle that’s anything but basic!
A high ponytail is a bouncy and flippy hairstyle that commands attention wherever you go. But like any other iconic hairdo, it has many styling secrets and tricks that help achieve perfection. This hack will keep your pony from sagging, creating a perky ‘do. To avoid a limp look, a hair pro recommends making two ponytails on top of one another. Divide your hair into two horizontal sections first.
Then, tie the upper part with an elastic like a normal pony and topsy tail it. Make a second ponytail just below the first one and pull it through the opening in the upper section. “It will create a more lifted look and keep your hair from drooping,” the stylist promises.
If you want to make a ponytail with a clean and sharp middle parting, this hack is for you. According to Olga Markuse, the first step towards the fail-proof look is to leave about a 3-inch section at the front before making a ponytail with the rest of your hair.
Secondly, split that top section in the middle and brush each side of it towards the base of your ponytail. Finally, use some metal sectioning clips to keep the strands in place, then join the strands with the ponytail and use an elastic band to keep it all together.
The thing about wavy ponytails is that they bring out your natural hair texture and create the illusion of fullness. So, how about incorporating trendy Hollywood waves into a ponytail look and channeling your inner elegance and sophistication? Luckily, our hair expert knows how to make it happen.
Gather your tresses in a low ponytail first. Then, use your favorite curling iron to shape those gorgeous waves. “A secret of a perfect Hollywood wave ponytail is in curling all of your hair towards the same direction, and then brushing it all together,” Olga Markuse shares.
To get a neat and put-together look, you need to tame your baby hairs that will undoubtedly stick out of your pony once you tie it up. This hair hack will teach you how to do it with just two simple tools.
“If you like a super sleek ponytail look, use a toothbrush and some gel to eliminate all the frizz and create that smooth finish,” the hairstylist says. All you need to do is apply a small amount of a hair product on your hands and brush your locks back with it. Then, use a toothbrush to remove the excess gel and deal with unruly hairs.
For a fuller look, you can always backcomb your hair with a tail comb. This will give you the ultimate messy ponytail hairstyle fit for any occasion. As the hairstylist puts it, the best way to fluff your pony up is to use a teasing technique on separate strands.
Apply some texturizing powder throughout the length, and then gently tease the strands starting from the roots and following the mid-lengths. The trick works great on fine and thin locks, as it adds body and volume to the mane.
Mastering a perfect ponytail is not as difficult as it seems. And with a couple of helpful hair tricks in tow, you’ll definitely succeed. Save these hacks for your future looks and rock your ponytail hairstyles every time!
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