Short hair doesn’t mean you can’t rock a stylish ponytail! Whether you want something sleek, voluminous, or playful, ponytails offer versatility and elegance for any occasion. These 15 chic short hair ponytail ideas will inspire you to try something new and show off your fabulous look.
Chic Short Hair Ponytail Ideas
From voluminous curls to sleek low knots, short hair can be just as versatile when it comes to ponytails. Whether you’re looking for a casual style or something more glamorous, these chic ponytail ideas will have you covered.
1. Voluminous Curly Ponytail
A voluminous curly ponytail is a great way to add texture and volume to short hair. By adding curls, you can create the illusion of a fuller ponytail while keeping the look fun and playful.
Tips:
- Ideal for: Naturally curly or wavy hair.
- How to Style: Use a curling wand to add definition to your curls, then gather your hair into a high ponytail and fluff the curls for volume.
- Extra Tip: Tease the roots to give extra lift before securing the ponytail.
2. Low Wavy Pony
The low wavy ponytail is an easy, chic style that’s perfect for both casual and formal occasions. Soft waves add texture while keeping the look effortless and elegant.
Tips:
- Ideal for: Straight or wavy hair.
- How to Style: Use a curling iron to create loose waves, then pull the hair into a low ponytail at the nape of the neck.
- Extra Tip: Let a few face-framing pieces fall loose for a softer look.
3. Sleek Low Knot
A sleek low knot is the epitome of minimalistic elegance. This look keeps your hair out of your face while maintaining a polished and sophisticated vibe.
Tips:
- Ideal for: Straight or fine hair.
- How to Style: Use a straightener for a sleek finish, then tie your hair into a low knot just above the nape of your neck.
- Extra Tip: Apply a smoothing serum to tame flyaways and enhance the sleekness.
4. Sleek High Ponytail
The sleek high ponytail is a go-to for a chic, fashion-forward look. By keeping the hair smooth and pulling it up high, this style adds height and elegance to short hair.
Tips:
- Ideal for: Straight or wavy hair.
- How to Style: Use a flat iron to smooth your hair, then pull it into a high ponytail and secure with an elastic.
- Extra Tip: Wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail for a polished finish.
5. Messy Low Ponytail
The messy low ponytail is a relaxed, casual look that’s perfect for a day out or a casual evening. It’s easy to create and offers a playful, undone feel.
Tips:
- Ideal for: Wavy or textured hair.
- How to Style: Gently pull the hair into a low ponytail, allowing some strands to fall naturally. Tug at the ponytail to loosen it for a messier look.
- Extra Tip: Add a texturizing spray to enhance the messy effect.
6. High Ponytail with Front Curls
A high ponytail with front curls gives a vintage, glamorous twist to your hairstyle. By adding defined curls at the front, this style is both fun and feminine.
Tips:
- Ideal for: Curly or wavy hair.
- How to Style: Curl the front section of your hair before pulling the rest into a high ponytail.
- Extra Tip: Let the curls fall loosely across your forehead or pin them back for a more polished look.
7. Slicked-Back High Ponytail
A slicked-back high ponytail is all about sleek, shiny, and bold styling. This style adds height and drama, making it perfect for formal events or nights out.
Tips:
- Ideal for: Straight hair, oval faces.
- How to Style: Apply a smoothing gel and use a fine-tooth comb to slick back the hair into a high ponytail.
- Extra Tip: For extra shine, use a serum or a glossy finishing spray.
8. Curled Low Ponytail
A curled low ponytail adds a touch of glamour to a simple look. The curls give the ponytail texture and dimension, perfect for a more formal or romantic occasion.
Tips:
- Ideal for: Straight or wavy hair.
- How to Style: Curl the ends of your hair with a curling wand, then pull the hair into a low ponytail and let the curls cascade down.
- Extra Tip: Add a decorative clip or hair tie to enhance the look.
9. High Ponytail with Curled Bangs
For a playful yet elegant look, a high ponytail with curled bangs is a great choice. The combination of sleek and curly adds contrast and interest to the style.
Tips:
- Ideal for: Straight or wavy hair.
- How to Style: Curl the bangs with a small-barrel curling iron and pull the rest of the hair into a high ponytail.
- Extra Tip: Use a light-hold hairspray to keep the bangs in place without stiffness.
10. High Ponytail with a Hair Clip
A high ponytail with a hair clip adds a fashionable touch to a simple style. It’s an easy way to elevate your ponytail for both casual and formal occasions.
Tips:
- Ideal for: Straight or wavy hair.
- How to Style: Pull your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a trendy hair clip.
- Extra Tip: Use a decorative or embellished clip for extra flair.
11. Low Knot with a Floral Accent
A low knot paired with a floral accent offers a romantic, bohemian vibe. This look is perfect for weddings, garden parties, or any outdoor event.
Tips:
- Ideal for: Straight or wavy hair.
- How to Style: Create a low knot at the nape of your neck and add a small floral accessory to one side.
- Extra Tip: Use fresh or silk flowers that match your outfit for a cohesive look.
12. Braided Curly Ponytail
The braided curly ponytail is a textured, boho-inspired look that’s perfect for casual and festival looks. Braiding sections of the hair adds dimension and interest to the curls.
Tips:
- Ideal for: Curly or wavy hair.
- How to Style: Create a few small braids, leaving the rest of your hair curly, and pull it into a ponytail.
- Extra Tip: Loosen the braids slightly for a more relaxed, lived-in look.
13. Messy Twisted Low Pony
A messy twisted low ponytail is an effortlessly chic style. The twists add texture, while the loose, messy finish keeps the look casual and easygoing.
Tips:
- Ideal for: Wavy or textured hair.
- How to Style: Twist small sections of your hair before gathering them into a low ponytail. Tug at the twists to loosen them for a messier finish.
- Extra Tip: Add some beachy waves to enhance the messy, textured look.
14. High Ponytail with Flipped Ends
A high ponytail with flipped ends gives a retro, playful look. The flipped ends add volume and bounce, making this a fun style for everyday wear.
Tips:
- Ideal for: Fine to medium hair.
- How to Style: Use a flat iron to flip the ends outward and gather the hair into a high ponytail.
- Extra Tip: Use a setting spray to hold the flipped ends in place throughout the day.
15. Low Ponytail with Loose Curls
A low ponytail with loose curls is a timeless, elegant style. The loose curls add softness and femininity, making it perfect for formal occasions or romantic evenings.
Tips:
- Ideal for: Curly or wavy hair.
- How to Style: Curl your hair with a medium-barrel curling wand, then loosely tie it into a low ponytail.
- Extra Tip: Let a few strands fall around your face for a softer, more relaxed look.
Conclusion
Short hair can still offer plenty of styling options when it comes to ponytails. From sleek and polished to fun and messy, these 15 chic ponytail ideas are perfect for women with short hair who want to switch up their look. Whether you’re heading to a formal event or just out for a casual day, there’s a ponytail here for every occasion!