Okay, bestie, real talk: nothing levels up your vibe faster than a braided ponytail that looks straight off Pinterest but actually survives your chaotic day. We’re ditching the basic high pony for 15 twists (literally) that work for brunch, Zoom calls, or that sneaky third-date energy. Grab your brush, a few clear elastics, and let’s braid our way to main-character status. Ready? Let’s spill the tea on these elevated braided ponytail hairstyles that’ll have everyone asking, “Who did your hair?” (Spoiler: it was you, queen.)
1. The Dutch Braided Crown Pony
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
Start with a Dutch braid from your hairline, sweeping it around like a halo before tying the rest into a mid-height pony. The braid pops like a crown, and the ponytail swings like you’ve got places to be. Pro tip: Tug the braid loose for that “I didn’t try too hard” fluff. People will swear you spent an hour—when it’s really 7 minutes and a prayer.
2. Bubble Braids Meet Ponytail
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
Section your pony into 4-5 bubbles with mini elastics, then gently pull each section apart for that juicy volume. It’s the hairstyle equivalent of contouring—zero skill, max impact. Styling hack: Add a silk scrunchie at the base for instant luxe. This one’s for the girlies who want to look expensive without the effort.
3. Fishtail Braid Side Pony
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
Pull all your hair to one shoulder, fishtail braid halfway down, then secure the rest in a low pony. The braid adds texture, the side pony adds drama. Mini-story time: I wore this to a coffee date and got asked if I was a TikTok influencer. (I’m not. Yet.) Pair with hoop earrings and watch heads turn.
4. Micro Braids into High Pony
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
Take 4-6 tiny braids from your front sections, pull everything into a sky-high pony, and let the braids dance free. It’s giving Y2K spice without the cringe. Tip: Use edge control on the baby hairs for that sleek finish. This look says, “I’m fun, but I still pay my bills on time.”
5. Rope Twist Ponytail
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
Split your pony into two sections, twist each tightly, then wrap them around each other. Secure with an elastic and fluff. It’s the lazy girl’s braid that still slays. Why you’ll love it: Takes 60 seconds but looks like you watched 12 YouTube tutorials. Add a velvet ribbon for extra chef’s kiss.
6. Pull-Through Braid Pony
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
No actual braiding required—just section, loop, and secure with clear elastics every few inches. The result? A chunky, faux braid that screams volume. Sarcasm alert: Because who has time for real braids when Netflix is calling? Spray with texture spray for that “I woke up like this” grit.
7. French Braid Low Pony
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
French braid from your crown down to your nape, then gather the rest into a low, loose pony. The braid keeps flyaways in check, the low pony keeps it chill. Styling suggestion: Wrap a strand of hair around the elastic to hide it. Perfect for the “I’m low-maintenance but make it fashion” vibe.
8. Cornrow-to-Ponytail Hybrid
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
Cornrow two sections from your temples back, then merge everything into a sleek high pony. It’s protective, it’s fierce, it’s giving festival queen. Tip: Slick the sides with gel for that razor-sharp part. Bonus: lasts 3-4 days if you pineapple at night.
9. Boxer Braids Ponytail
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
Two tight Dutch braids from the front, meeting in a high pony at the crown. Athletic but make it chic. Real talk: I wore this to hot yoga and still looked cute leaving. Add metallic cuffs to the braids for that “I’m extra but earned it” energy.
10. Half-Up Braided Pony
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
Braid the top section into a mini Dutch, then combine with the bottom half into a mid pony. It’s the mullet of hairstyles—party on top, business in the back. Hack: Tease the ponytail for volume that says, “Yes, I have my life together.” (We both know the truth.)
11. Lace Braid Wrap-Around Pony
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
Start a lace braid (only adding hair from one side) along your hairline, wrap it around the base of your pony, and pin. The braid acts like a built-in headband. Why it works: Frames your face like a filter IRL. Add fresh flowers for wedding guest realness.
12. Twisted Crown to Messy Pony
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
Twist two sections from the front, pin them at the back, then gather everything into a messy low pony. The twists elevate, the mess keeps it real. Tip: Pull out a few face-framing pieces for that “I rolled out of bed hot” effect. Works with second-day hair—bless.
13. Triple Braid Ponytail
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
Three mini braids (regular, fishtail, rope) merging into one thick pony. It’s the hairstyle version of a charcuterie board—variety is the spice of life. Styling hack: Use different colored elastics for a playful pop. This one’s for the girl who can’t commit to one vibe.
14. Waterfall Braid into Pony
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
Waterfall braid across the crown, let the “falls” cascade into your ponytail. It’s romantic, it’s breezy, it’s giving cottagecore princess. Mini-story: Wore this to a picnic and got proposed to by a bee. (He was very polite.) Mist with sea salt spray for texture.
15. Braided Space Buns to Pony
SOURCE: Pinterest.com
Two mini braids from the front, twisted into space buns, then the rest into a high pony. It’s playful, it’s bold, it’s festival-ready. Tip: Add star clips for that “I’m a shooting star” energy. Perfect for the girl who texts in all caps and means it.
Girl, there you have it—15 braided ponytail hairstyles that turn “I’m late” into “I’m iconic.” Pick one, snap a selfie, and tag your bestie (it’s me, hi). Which one are you trying first? Drop it in the comments, because IMO, braided ponytails are the glow-up we all deserve. Now go slay—your hair’s already doing the most.
