14 layered ponytail Hairstyles That Are Trending Everywhere Right Now
Forget everything you thought you knew about the humble ponytail. This classic hairstyle has undergone a stunning transformation, emerging from the gym locker room and onto the red carpet, all thanks to one key element: layers. The layered ponytail is the ultimate style chameleon, offering a perfect blend of effortlessness and high-fashion flair.
If you’re looking for a hairstyle that adds volume, texture, and undeniable movement to your look, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve scoured the runways, social media, and celebrity stylists’ playbooks to bring you the 14 most captivating layered ponytail hairstyles that are absolutely everywhere right now. Get ready to be inspired and learn how to turn a simple ponytail into a statement-making masterpiece.
1. The Classic Layered Ponytail
Let’s start with the foundation. The classic layered ponytail is all about embracing your hair’s natural texture and cut. When you gather your hair into a mid-height or high ponytail, the layers naturally fall to create a soft, face-framing effect. This style works beautifully on all hair types, from pin-straight to bouncy curls.
How to achieve it: Simply comb your hair back and secure it with a hair tie. The key is to not slick it back perfectly. Gently pull out a few face-framing layers around your temples and cheeks to soften the look. A light mist of texturizing spray can enhance the separation and give those ends a lived-in, chic feel.
2. The Bubble Ponytail
A playful and ultra-modern take on the ponytail, the bubble ponytail has taken over our feeds. This look involves sectioning your ponytail and tying it at regular intervals with clear or matching elastics to create a series of “bubbles.” It’s a fantastic way to add visual interest and length, even if your hair is on the shorter side.
How to achieve it: Create a sleek or textured ponytail. Then, starting a few inches down from the base, place another hair tie. Gently tug on the section of hair between the ties to puff it out, creating the first bubble. Continue this process all the way down the length of your hair. For a more dramatic effect, pull each bubble apart to make it fuller and rounder.
3. The Layered Low Ponytail
Sophisticated, sleek, and incredibly chic, the layered low ponytail is a red-carpet favorite. This style is perfect for formal events or a polished office look. The layers here add a subtle, cascading effect at the back, preventing the style from looking too severe or flat.
How to achieve it: Part your hair as desired and comb it back smoothly to the nape of your neck. Secure it with a hair tie. The magic lies in the details: gently pull a few layers loose from the top and sides to break up the hard lines. For an extra touch of glam, take a small section of hair from underneath the ponytail and wrap it around the base to conceal the hair tie.
4. The Braided Layered Ponytail
Why choose between a braid and a ponytail when you can have both? Incorporating braids into your layered ponytail is a stunning way to add texture and intricate detail. This style is perfect for adding a bohemian or warrior-princess vibe to your look.
How to achieve it: Create two or more small braids (like Dutch or French braids) along the sides of your head before gathering all your hair, including the braids, into a ponytail. You can also braid a section of the ponytail itself. The unbraided layers will mix with the braided sections for a multidimensional and eye-catching result.
5. The Textured & Teased Ponytail
This is the ultimate recipe for maximum volume and a touch of rock ‘n’ roll edge. The textured and teased ponytail is all about embracing a little chaos and a lot of height. It’s confident, bold, and perfect for a night out.
How to achieve it: Flip your head over and mist the roots with a volumizing spray. Lightly backcomb or tease the crown area to create lift. Gather your hair into a high ponytail, but leave it a little messy. Then, use a comb or your fingers to gently tease the length of the ponytail to create a full, wild, and textured finish.
6. The Wrapped Ponytail
A simple trick that makes a world of difference, the wrapped ponytail elevates the basic style to something special. It’s an elegant solution for hiding your hair tie while adding a personalized touch.
How to achieve it: After securing your ponytail, take a small section of hair from underneath the ponytail (or use a hair extension for more length) and wrap it tightly around the base. Tuck the end of the wrap under the base and secure it with a bobby pin. You can also use a colorful ribbon or a scarf for a more dramatic wrap.
7. The Half-Up Layered Ponytail
The perfect compromise between wearing your hair up and down, the half-up ponytail is a timeless style that gets a modern update with layers. It keeps the hair out of your face while showcasing the beautiful movement of your layers in the back.
How to achieve it: Take the top section of your hair, from about the temples back, and gather it into a ponytail high on the crown. Leave the bottom section down. The result is a playful, youthful look that allows your layered ends to dance freely.
8. The Space Buns Ponytail
For the truly adventurous, why not combine two major trends? The space buns ponytail is a fun, futuristic look that’s perfect for festivals, parties, or just making a statement.
How to achieve it: Part your hair down the middle. Create two high ponytails, one on each side. Instead of leaving them as is, twist each ponytail into a bun and secure it. The layers around your face and at the nape of your neck will naturally fall out, creating a cool, deconstructed effect.
9. The Sleek & Straight Layered Ponytail
This is power dressing for your hair. The sleek and straight layered ponytail is the epitome of sophistication and polish. When executed on layered hair, it creates a sharp, graphic silhouette with a cascading effect that is simply stunning.
How to achieve it: Apply a strong-hold gel or smoothing cream to damp hair and blow-dry it pin-straight. Use a flat iron for a flawless finish. Gather your hair tightly into a high or low ponytail, smoothing every strand. The layers will create a beautiful, graduated “stair-step” effect down your back.
10. The Curly Layered Ponytail
If you have natural curls or waves, this style is your time to shine. A curly layered ponytail is a celebration of volume and texture. It’s vibrant, full of life, and effortlessly beautiful.
How to achieve it: Apply a curl-defining cream to damp hair and allow it to air dry or diffuse. Gently gather your curls into a ponytail, being careful not to disrupt their pattern. Use your fingers, not a brush, to preserve the volume and texture. Pull out a few curls around your face to frame it beautifully.
11. The Accessorized Ponytail
Sometimes, the easiest way to transform your look is with the right accessory. Layered ponytails provide the perfect canvas for statement-making add-ons.
How to achieve it: Create your favorite layered ponytail style, then add your accessory of choice. Think oversized scrunchies for a 90s vibe, a delicate chain that clips into the hair for a modern edge, or even decorative pins scattered throughout the ponytail. The layers help to hold and display these accessories in a dynamic way.
12. The Messy Bun Ponytail Hybrid
Can’t decide between a bun and a ponytail? This hybrid style gives you the best of both worlds. It’s relaxed, artistic, and perfect for second or third-day hair.
How to achieve it: Create a low ponytail but only pull the hair halfway through on the last loop of the hair tie, creating a loop or a small, messy bun. Let the ends of your hair and the shorter layers stick out freely around the bun. Tug at the sides of your head to loosen some face-framing pieces.
13. The Asymmetrical Ponytail
Break the rules with an asymmetrical ponytail that pulls all the hair to one side. This style is dramatic, fashion-forward, and highlights the angles of your face and neck.
How to achieve it: Gather all your hair to one side of your head, just behind your ear, and secure it into a low ponytail. The layers will create a beautiful, cascading effect down one shoulder. For an extra touch, gently twist the hair from the opposite side before incorporating it into the ponytail.
14. The Wet Look Layered Ponytail
Straight off the runways, the wet look ponytail is the pinnacle of modern glamour. It’s slick, severe, and incredibly chic, and when paired with layers, it creates a stunning, sculptural effect.
How to achieve it: Apply a generous amount of strong-hold gel or hair wax to damp or dry hair. Use a comb to slick every strand back perfectly into a tight, high ponytail. The gel will define each layer, creating a sleek, cohesive, and powerful look that commands attention.
Time to Tie It All Together
As you can see, the layered ponytail is far from a one-note hairstyle. It’s a versatile, dynamic, and endlessly creative way to wear your hair. Whether you’re channeling old Hollywood glamour with a sleek low ponytail or embracing your inner festival queen with space buns, your layers are the secret weapon that adds movement, volume, and that all-important touch of modern flair.
