Messy ponytails are the perfect blend of style and effortlessness. Whether you’re running errands, going to work, or attending a special event, a messy ponytail can elevate your look while keeping things casual. These 13 super-simple messy ponytail hairstyles are easy to achieve, making them ideal for all hair types and lengths.
1. Messy and Teased Gray Pony
How to Create a Messy and Teased Gray Ponytail
Gray hair is trending, and adding a messy, teased ponytail to the mix brings in a touch of edge and volume. Start by teasing your crown to add volume and give it a slightly disheveled look. Then, gather your hair into a high ponytail, leaving a few strands out to frame your face. For a final messy touch, pull gently on the ponytail to create some looseness and texture.
Styling Tip for a Messy Teased Ponytail
Use a texturizing spray before teasing your hair to add grip and volume. This will make the style hold better and keep the texture intact all day long.
2. Low Loose Pony with Side Bangs
Soft and Chic Low Loose Ponytail
The low loose ponytail with side bangs is the definition of casual chic. Start by parting your hair to the side and gathering it into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Allow your side bangs or a few front strands to fall freely around your face for a soft, feminine touch.
How to Keep It Messy Yet Polished
To keep this look effortlessly messy, avoid pulling the ponytail too tight. You can also add waves to the ponytail using a curling iron for a more relaxed feel.
3. Poofy Pony with Face-Framing Strands
Add Volume with a Poofy Ponytail
A poofy ponytail with face-framing strands gives off a youthful and playful vibe. Start by teasing the top section of your hair to add volume, then pull your hair into a ponytail at the crown. Leave a few strands loose around your face for a flattering, relaxed look.
Maintaining the Volume
To keep the volume lasting throughout the day, use a volumizing mousse or dry shampoo before teasing. Finish with a light mist of hairspray to hold the poof.
4. Romantically Messy Ponytail
Embrace Romance with a Messy Ponytail
A romantically messy ponytail is perfect for date nights or special occasions. Start by curling your hair into loose waves, then gather it into a low ponytail. Pull out a few strands around your face and at the back of the ponytail to soften the look.
Adding Texture and Movement
To enhance the romantic feel, use a curling wand to create soft waves in the loose strands. A texturizing spray will add body and movement to the ponytail, giving it that effortless charm.
5. Fabulous Formal Ponytail
The Perfect Blend of Messy and Formal
For a fabulous formal ponytail, combine sleek and messy elements. Begin by straightening your hair, then pull it into a low ponytail. Allow some loose strands to fall naturally, but keep the ponytail itself neat. This style works beautifully for formal events where you still want a relaxed vibe.
Keeping It Polished Yet Playful
Use a smoothing serum on the top section of your hair to keep it looking polished, and a curling iron on the loose strands to add a playful twist.
6. Side-Swept Curly Ponytail
Go Glam with a Side-Swept Curly Ponytail
For a glamorous twist, try a side-swept curly ponytail. Sweep all your hair to one side and gather it into a ponytail just behind your ear. Use a curling iron to create bouncy curls that cascade down your shoulder, giving the ponytail a voluminous, glamorous look.
Tips for Perfect Curls
To ensure your curls hold all day, use a strong-hold mousse before curling your hair. Once curled, gently loosen the curls with your fingers to maintain that messy, effortless vibe.
7. Pumped-Up Messy Ponytail
Add Height with a Pumped-Up Ponytail
A pumped-up messy ponytail is all about volume and lift. Begin by backcombing the crown of your hair for maximum volume. Then, pull your hair into a high ponytail, letting the top section remain slightly poofy for a lifted effect.
Maintaining the Lift
To keep the volume from falling flat, use a volumizing spray at the roots before teasing your hair. Secure the ponytail with a thick elastic band to prevent sagging.
8. Fancy and Full Side Ponytail
A Full and Fabulous Side Ponytail
For a fuller look, the fancy and full side ponytail is your go-to. Sweep your hair to one side and secure it with a hair tie just above your shoulder. To add volume, tease the ponytail lightly and let the loose strands frame your face.
Adding Extra Volume
Use a teasing comb on the ponytail itself to give it a fuller appearance. You can also add in some clip-in extensions for an even more voluminous look.
9. Curled-Up Messy Ponytail
Perfect Curls in a Messy Ponytail
A curled-up messy ponytail is ideal for those who love texture and volume. Start by curling your hair into loose waves, then pull it into a ponytail at the crown. Leave a few curls hanging loose for that perfect messy look.
Enhancing the Curls
For long-lasting curls, use a curl-enhancing mousse before styling. Once the ponytail is secured, gently pull on the curls to create more volume and a tousled finish.
10. Textured Ponytail
Achieve Effortless Texture with a Messy Ponytail
The textured ponytail is all about adding grit and dimension to your hair. Start by using a texturizing spray or dry shampoo to add volume. Then, gather your hair into a mid-height ponytail, leaving it slightly messy and undone.
Creating Perfect Texture
To enhance the texture, use a curling wand on random sections of the ponytail. A sea salt spray can also give your hair a more defined, beachy texture.
11. Mohawk Braid and Ponytail
Edgy and Cool Mohawk Braid Ponytail
For a bold and edgy look, combine a mohawk braid with a ponytail. Start by braiding the top section of your hair into a loose French braid, then gather the rest into a messy ponytail. This style adds texture and attitude, making it perfect for casual outings or nights out.
Perfecting the Braid
To keep the braid looking full and voluminous, gently pull at the sides of the braid after securing it. This will give the braid a more relaxed, messy appearance.
12. Retro Glam Ponytail
Channel Vintage Vibes with a Retro Ponytail
The retro glam ponytail is inspired by the voluminous ponytails of the 1960s. To create this look, tease the crown of your hair to add volume, then gather it into a high ponytail. Use a curling iron to add waves to the ponytail for that signature retro flair.
Finishing Touches for a Retro Look
Wrap a section of hair around the base of the ponytail to hide the elastic and give the style a polished, vintage feel. A hairspray with a strong hold will keep the volume intact all day.
13. Low-Hanging Ponytail
Keep It Casual with a Low-Hanging Ponytail
The low-hanging ponytail is the epitome of effortless cool. Simply gather your hair into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck, leaving some strands loose around your face for a relaxed, casual look. This style works well for both straight and wavy hair.
Keeping It Relaxed
To maintain the messy vibe, avoid over-brushing your hair before styling. Use a leave-in conditioner or smoothing cream to add a bit of shine without weighing your hair down.
Conclusion
Messy ponytails are versatile, easy to create, and effortlessly stylish. Whether you’re going for a romantic look or something more edgy, these 13 messy ponytail hairstyles offer something for everyone. With simple tweaks and a few styling products, you can achieve a chic and modern look without spending hours in front of the mirror. Experiment with these styles and find the one that best suits your personality and hair type!