A twist on the ponytail, this pinned-up ponytail hairstyle is
I first started experimenting with different hairstyles when my hair was too short for a ponytail.
With frizzy hair, I never felt like a ponytail was a very stylish hairstyle for me. I love curly ponytails and sleek, straight ponytails but it never became one of my favourite hairstyles. This pinned-up variation is joining my weekly hairstyle faves.
The Pinned-Up Ponytail Hairstyle Tutorial
Step-by-step
You’ll need: A strong hair elastic, bobby pins.
Optional: Dry shampoo, hairspray
This hairstyle is best for medium to long hair. If you have hair that’s a lot longer than mine, keep reading below for a variation you can try.
You want to start with some texture in your hair – be that your everyday bedhead, or curl your hair with a large curling wand if you have straight hair. I’ve sprayed some dry shampoo in my hair to add volume and texture too.
- Part your hair and separate your fringe/bangs to pin up later. I’ve created a deep side part but adjust this section to suit you. You can do a centre part or just pull all your hair back.
- Gather your hair into a ponytail at the back of your head. Secure it tightly with a hair elastic and make sure your ponytail is tight against your head.
- Pin the middle of your ponytail above your elastic. Holding your ponytail, push it up so that your hair elastic is against your head and the hair at the top of your ponytail is above your elastic. You want to pin the top section of your ponytail against your hair. Push the pins in horizontally from both sides to hold your hair in place.
- Pin the ends of your ponytail at the nape of your neck. Pin the loose ends of your ponytail back underneath. I’ve just used a few bobby pins horizontally.
- Pin back your fringe/bangs. Now that your ponytail is all pinned up, it’s time to sort out the front. Arrange your hair loosely so it doesn’t sit too flat. You can backcomb lightly at the roots if you need some more volume. Curl the ends of your hair around and pin them above the top of your ponytail.
- Finish with a spritz of hairspray, if you want extra hold.
Long hair variation
- Plait/braid your ponytail before you pin it up. This will take some of the length out of your hair and makes it easier to pin in place too. Stretch out the braid to add a beautiful texture and detail to this style.
- Twist your ponytail around – for super long hair, twist your hair around your ponytail first (almost like a bun, or half a bun) and pin in place. Then pin your hair up and over the bun. Pin the ends under the bun and you’ll create a really unique updo.
Are you a fan of ponytails? What’s your fave ponytail variation?
I tried this and love it! But when I pinned the ends under the ponytail it kind of looked more like a weird rats tail situation than how it looks for you. How do I put the pins in under the base of the ponytail (nape of neck part) so that my hair looks nice at the ends still?
I love your blog! It’s awesome…keep up the great work.
Thank you 🙂
OMG this is super cute and had me immediately running off to get my bobby pins and elastic.
However I think I’ve managed to come up with some very interesting variations on this given that I’ved shaved half my hair off and by “interesting” I actually mean “frightful”! Wahhh! I’ve tagged you an insta to show that I do try to recreate your gorgeous ‘dos!
I love this style in your hair Cheryl! Your undercut makes it look so cool x
This is such a good way of giving volume and density to the hair! looks so full and beautiful! great idea!
My favorite Makeup Brushes Review | TheConscienceFund
Thanks Divya! x
What a gorgeous simple look!
Thanks Heidi! x
I like the messy look it creates and thus, hides my practicing it to look better! 😉
ah, you know the secret to all my fave styles Kimberley 😉 xx
So cute!
Thanks lovely! x