Curly hair can be playful, lively, and full of personality. Styling it into a ponytail keeps it practical while letting your curls shine. Whether for work, school, or casual outings, a curly ponytail can be both stylish and easy to manage. With simple techniques and small tools, you can create looks that feel polished and fun without spending much money. From classic styles to easy DIY twists, these ideas show how to make curly ponytails your go-to look every day.
1. Classic High Curly Ponytail
A classic high ponytail works for any occasion. Gather your curls at the crown, secure with a soft elastic, and let the natural volume shine. To prevent frizz, lightly mist with water or a curl cream before tying. You can wrap a small section of hair around the elastic for a polished finish. This style keeps hair off the face and feels effortless while highlighting the beauty of natural curls. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and perfect for days when you want a neat look without spending much time. A few bobby pins can hold any loose strands in place, and adding a small scarf or scrunchie gives an extra flair.
2. Low Curly Ponytail with Volume
A low curly ponytail looks effortless yet chic. Gather your curls at the nape and secure with a gentle elastic. Tease slightly at the crown for more height if you like. This style works well for thick or medium curls because it keeps them in place without flattening their texture. You can pull out a few face-framing strands for softness. Using a lightweight curl cream helps maintain shine and reduce frizz. Low ponytails can be accessorized with a ribbon, small clip, or hair scarf for a playful touch.
3. Side Curly Ponytail with Loose Strands
Pulling your curls to the side gives a relaxed, playful vibe. Secure at the side with a soft elastic and let a few curls fall naturally. This style is forgiving and works with any curl type. You can create more texture by lightly twisting small sections before tying them together. For extra volume, gently shake the ponytail once it’s secured. A small hair clip or decorative pin can add personality. Since curls tend to shrink when pulled, make sure the elastic isn’t too tight.
4. Braided Curly Ponytail
Adding a braid to a curly ponytail creates interest without being complicated. Start with a small braid along one side or from the front hairline and secure it into the ponytail. This technique works well for medium to tight curls. It keeps the hair looking styled while still feeling natural. Using a soft elastic ensures curls aren’t flattened. A braid can also help control flyaways and frame the face nicely.
5. Messy Curly Ponytail
A messy curly ponytail has a carefree feel that looks stylish without trying too hard. Simply gather your curls loosely and secure them with a gentle elastic. Pull a few strands around your face for softness. This style works with any curl type, allowing them to bounce naturally. You can refresh it during the day by lightly scrunching curls or spraying with water. Using a wide-tooth comb before tying helps control tangles without disrupting texture.
6. Half-Up Curly Ponytail
A half-up ponytail balances practicality and style. Gather the top half of your curls and secure them with a small elastic, leaving the rest free. This look keeps hair out of your face while showing off natural texture. Use a curl cream for shine and frizz control. You can add a small braid or twist to the section you tie for variety. Accessories like a mini scarf or clip make it feel playful.
7. Curly Ponytail with Scarf Wrap
Wrapping a scarf around your curly ponytail instantly adds flair. Choose a lightweight scarf and tie it around the base after securing the ponytail. Let the ends hang or tuck them neatly. This style is fun, practical, and works for various curl types. It keeps the ponytail in place while adding a personal touch.
8. Twisted Curly Ponytail
Twisting sections of curls before tying the ponytail adds a subtle design. Take two small sections, twist them, and secure them with the main elastic. The remaining curls flow naturally, creating a dynamic look. This style works with medium to tight curls and helps control smaller strands.
9. Curly Ponytail with Side Swept Bangs
Side-swept bangs soften the look of a curly ponytail. Secure your ponytail normally and let the bangs fall naturally. This style works with short to medium curls and keeps the front face visible. Using a curl cream prevents frizz and keeps bangs in place. Pulling a few curls from the ponytail adds movement.
10. Curly Ponytail with Multiple Elastics
Using multiple elastics along a ponytail creates an interesting pattern. Secure the hair with the first elastic at the crown, then place a few more down the length. Works for medium to long curls and adds dimension. Each segment can be fluffed for volume.
11. Low Curly Ponytail with Twists
Adding twists along the hairline before tying a low ponytail gives a subtle design. Take small sections at the front, twist them, and secure with pins or the main elastic. Works with medium to tight curls. Pulling a few curls loose softens the style.
12. Curly Ponytail with a Bun Twist
Combining a ponytail with a small bun creates a hybrid look. Gather your curls and fold the ponytail into a loose bun, leaving some curls free. Secure with pins or a soft elastic. Works with medium to long curls and adds flair without a lot of effort.
13. Curly Ponytail with Hair Clips
Decorative hair clips add instant style to a curly ponytail. Secure your ponytail normally, then clip a few small accessories along the sides or near the base. Perfect for medium to long curls and works for casual or semi-dressy looks.
14. Curly Ponytail with Bubble Effect
The bubble ponytail divides curls into segments with elastics for a playful, textured look. Tie the first elastic normally, then add others at intervals down the length. Gently puff each bubble for volume.
15. Curly Ponytail with Side Part
A side part changes the look of a simple curly ponytail. Part your hair deeply to one side and gather curls into a ponytail at the nape or side. Works with medium to tight curls. Pull a few curls around the face to soften the style.
16. Curly Ponytail with Wrap-Around Braid
Wrapping a braid around the base of a ponytail adds detail without taking much time. Create a small braid from a section near the front and wrap it around the elastic. Secure with pins. Works well with medium to long curls.
17. Curly Ponytail with Curls Framing Face
Leaving curls around your face softens any ponytail. Pull your hair back, secure the ponytail, and gently tug a few curls loose. Works with all curl types. Accessories like hair pins or ribbons add flair.
18. Curly Ponytail with Low Twisted Wrap
Twisting small sections around the base of a low ponytail gives a subtle, stylish touch. Take small front sections, twist, and pin around the ponytail elastic. Works with medium to long curls.
19. Curly Ponytail with Messy Top Volume
Adding messy volume on top makes any ponytail lively. Gently tease the crown or fluff curls before tying. Works with medium to tight curls. Pull a few curls around the face to soften the effect.
20. Curly Ponytail with Small Front Braids
Adding small braids at the front creates subtle detailing for a curly ponytail. Take small sections near your face, braid them, and secure with pins or elastic into the main ponytail.
21. Curly Ponytail with Elastic Wrap Detail
Wrapping a decorative elastic multiple times around a ponytail base adds subtle style. Secure your curls first with a standard elastic, then use a second one for extra detail. Works well with medium to long curls. Pull a few curls loose to soften the look.
Conclusion
Curly ponytails offer countless ways to style hair practically while showing personality. From high and low positions to side sweeps, braids, twists, and accessories, these ideas suit every curl type and occasion. Most styles require minimal tools, effort, or cost, making them perfect for daily wear. Accessories, teasing, and face-framing curls add unique touches to even simple ponytails. With a few inexpensive elastics, clips, or scarves, anyone can create looks that feel polished yet natural. Experimenting with positions, textures, and small details lets you find styles that complement your curls, keep them lively, and make every day feel intentional and stylish.
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