An enduring favourite and adaptable hairdo is the ponytail. Similar to how a curly ponytail is simple to make and gives you countless options at your disposal.
This article will give you all the styling instructions you need in step-by-step fashion so you can easily, affordably, and at home, create a range of curly ponytail designs.
What Is Ponytail?
A ponytail is a hairstyle in which the hair is pulled back and gathered at the back of the head, typically at the nape of the neck, and secured with a hair tie or elastic band. The hair is then allowed to hang freely from the tie, creating a tail-like appearance, hence the name “ponytail.”
Ponytails are a popular and versatile hairstyle because they are easy to create and can be worn in various settings, from casual to formal. They are often chosen for their practicality in keeping hair out of the face and neck, especially in hot weather or during physical activities. Ponytails can also be styled in different ways, such as high ponytails, low ponytails, side ponytails, and variations like braided or twisted ponytails, depending on personal preference and the desired look.
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Hair Accessories for Curly Ponytails
Curly ponytails can be enhanced with various hair accessories to add style and flair. Here are some hair accessories that work well with curly ponytails:
- Hair Ties: Use hair ties that match your hair color or are gentle on your curls to secure the ponytail without causing breakage or frizz.
- Hair Pins and Bobby Pins: These can be used to tame flyaways and secure loose curls in place for a polished look.
- Scrunchies: Scrunchies are gentle on curly hair and can add a fun and trendy element to your ponytail. They come in various colors and patterns to match your style.
- Hair Bands: Decorative hair bands or headbands can be worn around the base of the ponytail to add a touch of elegance or to keep the hair in place.
- Hair Clips: Use decorative hair clips or barrettes to pin back sections of your curly ponytail for a stylish and secure hold.
- Hair Combs: Insert hair combs into the sides of the ponytail for an elegant and vintage-inspired look.
- Hair Jewelry: Consider adding hair jewelry, such as beads, cuffs, or rings, to your curly ponytail for a unique and eye-catching accessory.
- Silk or Satin Scarves: Wrap a silk or satin scarf around the base of the ponytail or tie it as a bow for a chic and protective style that reduces friction and frizz.
- Hair Extensions: Clip-in or wrap-around hair extensions can be added to your ponytail to create more volume and length, providing versatility in styling.
- Flower or Bow Clips: Floral or bow-shaped clips can add a touch of femininity and charm to your curly ponytail.
When choosing hair accessories for curly ponytails, it’s essential to consider the texture and thickness of your hair, as well as your personal style preferences. Be mindful of accessories that won’t snag or damage your curls and opt for those that complement your overall look.
How Much Do Ponytail Accessories Cost?
The cost of ponytail accessories can vary widely depending on the type of accessory, its quality, brand, and where you purchase it. Here’s a general price range for common ponytail accessories:
- Basic Hair Ties: These are usually the most affordable and can cost anywhere from a few cents to a few dollars for a pack of multiple ties.
- Scrunchies: Scrunchies come in various price ranges. You can find budget options for a few dollars, while designer or specialty scrunchies may cost $10 or more each.
- Hair Pins and Bobby Pins: These are generally quite affordable, with prices ranging from a few cents to a few dollars for a pack.
- Hair Bands: Decorative hair bands or headbands can vary widely in price, from a few dollars for basic styles to $20 or more for designer or embellished options.
- Hair Clips and Barrettes: Prices for these accessories can range from a few dollars for basic clips to $10 or more for ornate or designer pieces.
- Hair Combs: Basic hair combs are typically affordable, while more intricate or decorative combs may cost $10 or more.
- Hair Jewelry: The cost of hair jewelry varies greatly based on materials and design. Simple beads or cuffs may be a few dollars, while more elaborate or precious metal jewelry can cost significantly more.
- Silk or Satin Scarves: Prices for scarves can range from a few dollars for budget options to $20 or more for high-quality silk or satin scarves.
- Hair Extensions: Clip-in or wrap-around hair extensions can vary widely in price, starting from $10 for basic synthetic options and going up to hundreds of dollars for high-quality human hair extensions.
- Flower or Bow Clips: These accessories can range from a few dollars for basic styles to $10 or more for intricate or designer pieces.
Keep in mind that you can often find a wide range of prices for the same type of accessory, so it’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase. Additionally, handmade or artisanal accessories may have higher price points but offer unique and personalized options. Your budget and style preferences will ultimately determine how much you’re willing to spend on ponytail accessories.
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How to Create a Curly Ponytail
Creating a curly ponytail is a stylish and versatile hairstyle that can be achieved with a few simple steps. Here’s a guide on how to create a curly ponytail:
What You’ll Need:
- Curling iron or hot rollers (optional, if your hair is not naturally curly)
- Hair tie or elastic band
- Hairbrush or comb
- Heat protectant spray (if using heat styling tools)
- Hair product (e.g., mousse, curling cream, or hairspray)
- Bobby pins (optional)
Steps:
- Start with Clean Hair: Wash and condition your hair, and allow it to air-dry or use a diffuser on a low heat setting if you have naturally curly hair. If your hair is straight or less curly and you want to add curls, use a curling iron or hot rollers to create curls throughout your hair.
- Apply Heat Protectant (If Using Heat): If you’re using heat styling tools to create curls, apply a heat protectant spray to your hair to minimize damage.
- Create Curls (If Needed): If your hair is not naturally curly or you want to enhance your curls, use a curling iron or hot rollers to curl sections of your hair. Take small sections, wrap them around the curling iron or hot roller, hold for a few seconds, and release. Repeat this process until all your hair is curled. Allow the curls to cool before proceeding.
- Brush or Comb Your Hair: Gently brush or comb your hair to remove any tangles and ensure that it’s smooth and ready for styling.
- Gather Your Hair: Decide where you want to position your ponytail—high on your head, at the middle, or low near the nape of your neck. Use your fingers to gather all of your hair at the chosen location.
- Secure with a Hair Tie: Once your hair is gathered, use a hair tie or elastic band to secure it in a ponytail. Make sure it’s tight enough to hold the ponytail in place but not so tight that it’s uncomfortable.
- Enhance the Ponytail: To enhance the curly ponytail, you can gently scrunch the curls with your fingers to give them more volume and bounce. You can also apply a small amount of hair product like mousse, curling cream, or hairspray to hold the curls in place and reduce frizz.
- Optional: Wrap a Strand of Hair: For a polished look, take a small strand of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the base of the ponytail to conceal the hair tie. Use a bobby pin to secure the end of the strand under the ponytail.
- Final Touch: Adjust the position of the curls and the height of the ponytail to your liking. You can also use bobby pins to secure any loose strands or create a neater appearance.
- Set with Hairspray (Optional): If you want to ensure your curly ponytail stays in place throughout the day or evening, you can finish with a light mist of hairspray.
And there you have it—a curly ponytail that’s perfect for various occasions, from casual to formal. Enjoy your stylish and bouncy hairstyle!
Benefits Of Curly Ponytails
Creating a curly ponytail offers several benefits, making it a popular and versatile hairstyle choice. Here are some of the advantages of wearing a curly ponytail:
- Stylish and Trendy: Curly ponytails are fashionable and can be adapted to suit various occasions, from casual outings to formal events. They add a touch of elegance and flair to your overall look.
- Quick and Easy: This hairstyle is relatively quick and easy to achieve, making it a convenient choice for those with busy lifestyles. It’s a go-to option when you want a polished appearance without spending too much time on styling.
- Versatile: Curly ponytails are versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. You can choose the height, volume, and placement of the ponytail to create different looks.
- Keeps Hair Tamed: A curly ponytail is an effective way to keep your hair out of your face and off your neck, especially in hot weather or during physical activities. It’s a practical choice for keeping cool and comfortable.
- Enhances Curls: If you have naturally curly hair, a curly ponytail can showcase and enhance your natural curls, adding volume and definition to your hair.
- Curls Last Longer: Curly hairstyles tend to hold their shape longer than straight styles. When you create curls and secure them in a ponytail, they can stay bouncy and intact for an extended period.
- Elegant Look: A curly ponytail can be an elegant and sophisticated choice for formal events. It complements various outfits, including dresses, gowns, and suits.
- Versatile for All Hair Types: While naturally curly hair works beautifully for curly ponytails, individuals with straight hair can also achieve this look with the help of heat styling tools or hair rollers.
- Customizable Accessories: Curly ponytails can be enhanced with various hair accessories, such as scrunchies, hairpins, or decorative clips, allowing you to personalize your style.
- Protective Styling: By gathering your curls into a ponytail, you can reduce the risk of damage caused by friction, exposure to environmental elements, or excessive manipulation, helping to maintain the health of your hair.
- Effortless Elegance: Whether you’re attending a special event or simply want to elevate your everyday look, a curly ponytail effortlessly adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your appearance.
Drawbacks of a Curly Ponytail
Something to be aware of if you’re scheming on wearing a ponytail regularly is that regular wearing of closed ponytails (or other tight hairstyles) has been linked to hair loss (traction alopecia) and tension headaches.
In summary, a curly ponytail is a versatile, stylish, and convenient hairstyle that offers numerous benefits, including versatility, ease of styling, and the ability to keep your hair under control and looking great in various situations.
