Like many of us, I feel I’ve been overlooking the humble low ponytail for far too long. Historically, I’ve associated it solely with ease and practicality. That is, it’s only ever when I’m in need of a minimum-effort style for a WFH day, suffering with a serious case of bedhead, or about to have a tantrum because my hair is falling into my face that I opt for a five-second “tie it back and hope for the best” approach.
It was only recently that I realised I’ve majorly overlooked the style. From Renée Zellweger’s tousled look at the new Bridget Jones premiere, to Billie Eilish’s choppy updo at this year’s Grammys, some of my favourite celebs have been rocking the low ponytail lately – and actually showing just how versatile it can be when spruced up a little.
So whatever your hair length, face shape or stock of hair accessories, we’ve compiled our favourite A-lister approved ways to elevate the simple style.
The Slicked-back
A clean middle parting is a universally flattering choice for most face shapes. Coupled with an elegant low pony like Gwyneth Paltrow’s and a lightweight gel to slick down any flyways (we love Color Wow One Minute Transformation, £11), it offers a beautifully elegant updo.
The Secret
From the front, Kerry Washington’s ’do at this year’s Golden Globes seems sleek but simple. But when you take a closer look, the secret loose tie-back adds a little extra touch to the look. Make use of a quality straightener to keep it sophisticated, then finish off with a high-shine oil like Olaplex No.7 Bonding Oil, £28, for a glossy finish.
The Added Accessory
If in doubt, opt for a simple black bow like Renée Zellweger at her recent premiere in Paris. A subtle accessory can be a deceptively low-effort way to elevate a bog-standard ponytail – and is perfect for an occasion or evening out.
The Hack
At GH, we love nothing more than a hack (especially when it comes to hair), and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s hairstylist’s use of an inch-wide section of hair to conceal the hairband holding her ponytail together adds the perfect touch of sophistication – simply secure with a stronghold pin like Kitsch Essential Bobby Pins, £4.
The Braid
Okay, this may be cheating a little, but if there’s a best way to spice up a simple ponytail, it’s by adding a long rope braid. Anya Taylor-Joy’s look is reminiscent of Rapunzel, and her subtle waves help to add dimension and texture to the style.
The Highlights
Although Victoria Beckham has sported every style under the sun, this one is up there with my favourites, as her careful use of subtle golden highlights and soft, textured waves takes this easy low ponytail from practical to premiere-ready.
The Side Pony
Opting for a low ponytail that’s swooped to the side is a great option for those with shorter hair in particular. Lucy Liu’s hairstylist made clever use of wispy, face-framing strands to highlight her pony, which can be replicated using any of our favourite curling tools, such as mdlondon’s CURL, £129.
The Beachy One
Cameron Diaz’s effortless pony offers a tousled, beachy look, without compromising on volume. A few spritzes of the Hair By Sam McKnight Cool Girl Barely There Texture Mist, £28, will deliver similar results, after styling.
The Fringe
Anyone lucky enough to rock a fringe can take inspiration from Margot Robbie’s Academy Awards look from 2021. Her pairing of choppy, dirty blonde bangs with a loose, “bedhead but better”-style pony is best achieved by leaning into the casual look and letting any flyaways roam free.
The Bubble
For us, the bubble braid trend never left, and Kendall Jenner’s is the perfect example of a surprisingly quick but glamorous way to spruce up a ponytail. Secure each section with transparent bands and a few spritzes of hairspray (we like ARKIVE The Veil Hairspray, £13) for a long-lasting look.
