Are you searching for a hairstyle that is effortlessly chic, universally flattering, and surprisingly versatile? Look no further than the angled ponytail. Gone are the days when a ponytail was a simple, sporty afterthought. The modern angled ponytail is a statement, a sculptural element that can elevate your entire look. By positioning the tail high, low, or dramatically to the side, you can create anything from a powerful boardroom presence to a red-carpet-worthy glamour.
This guide will walk you through 13 modern ways to style an angled ponytail, ensuring you have the perfect look for every event on your calendar. Get ready to fall in love with your hair all over again.
1. The Sleek and High Angled Ponytail
This is the quintessential power ponytail. Think of it as the hairstyle equivalent of a sharp blazer. It’s polished, professional, and exudes confidence. To achieve this look, start with smooth, straightened hair. Apply a strong-hold gel or smoothing cream to tame any flyaways. Gather your hair high on the crown of your head, securing it with a tight, clear elastic. The key is the angle: it should sweep up and back from your temples, creating a clean, lifted effect that pulls the facial features upward for an instant facelift.
Pro Tip: Wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to conceal the elastic band for an even more seamless finish.
2. The Textured, Low-Angled Ponytail
For a more relaxed, off-duty model vibe, the low-angled ponytail is your go-to. This style is softer and more romantic than its high-flying counterpart. Instead of slicking hair back, create texture with a texturizing spray or by braiding your hair loosely the night before. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck, but instead of placing it directly in the center, position it over one shoulder. This creates a gentle, cascading angle that is effortlessly cool and perfect for a brunch date or a casual day out.
3. The Bubble Angled Ponytail
Inject a dose of playful fun into your look with the bubble ponytail. This trend involves sectioning your ponytail and tying elastics at even intervals down its length, then gently pulling apart each section to create a “bubble” effect. To modernize it, create a high or mid-height angled ponytail first. The angle adds a dynamic line that keeps the style from feeling too juvenile. It’s a fantastic choice for festivals, parties, or anytime you want to showcase your creative side.
4. The Braided Angled Ponytail
Combine the elegance of braids with the modern edge of an angled ponytail. There are countless ways to execute this. You can create a simple three-strand braid within the ponytail itself, or incorporate a more complex Dutch or French braid along the hairline before gathering the hair into the angled tail. This adds intricate detail and texture, making it an excellent choice for a day at the races, a wedding, or any event where you want a look that is both refined and interesting.
5. The Accessorized Angled Ponytail
Never underestimate the power of a good accessory. A simple angled ponytail can be transformed entirely with the right add-ons. Think beyond the basic hair tie. Try a sleek, padded scrunchie for a 90s nostalgia hit, a bold, metallic clip at the base of the ponytail, or even a delicate chain woven through the hair. This is the easiest way to adapt your ponytail for an evening event—simply swap your daytime elastic for something with sparkle or sophistication.
6. The Side-Swept Angled Ponytail
This is the most dramatic iteration of the angled ponytail. Here, the angle is so extreme that the ponytail essentially becomes a side ponytail, sweeping across the back of the head. It’s a bold, fashion-forward look that channels retro glamour with a modern twist. To keep it from feeling costumey, ensure the hair is sleek and smooth. This style pairs beautifully with a dramatic eye makeup look and is perfect for a gala or a night at the theater.
7. The Messy, Textured Angled Ponytail
Embrace the “undone” trend with a messy angled ponytail. This style is the antithesis of the sleek power ponytail and is all about effortless, lived-in texture. Tease the crown of your hair slightly for volume, then loosely gather your hair into a mid-height angled ponytail. Pull out a few face-framing pieces and gently tug at sections of the ponytail to create a fuller, softer shape. It’s ideal for second-day hair and exudes a cool, “I woke up like this” confidence.
8. The Angled Ponytail with Face-Framing Pieces
This is a universally flattering trick. Instead of pulling all your hair back, leave out two strategic sections around your face. These can be soft tendrils, blunt pieces, or even a few curled layers. When you create your angled ponytail, these face-framing pieces soften the look, contour the face, and add a touch of romance. It’s a simple modification that makes the style suitable for almost any face shape and occasion.
9. The Wet-Look Angled Ponytail
Make a splash with the high-fashion wet look. Achieved with a generous amount of strong-hold gel or a dedicated wet-look styling product, this style is slick, severe, and incredibly modern. A high, angled ponytail works best for this, as it showcases the sculptural quality of the look. It’s a daring choice that is perfect for a fashion event, a modern party, or when you really want to make a statement.
10. The Angled Ponytail with a Wrap
Elevate a simple ponytail with an elegant hair wrap. This involves taking a small section of hair from the underside of the ponytail and wrapping it around the elastic band, securing it with a bobby pin underneath. For an angled ponytail, this technique creates a beautiful, polished base that looks custom-made. You can also use a colored ribbon or a piece of leather cord for a more bohemian or edgy twist.
11. The Voluminous Angled Ponytail
Big hair is back, and your ponytail shouldn’t be left out. This style is all about maximum impact. Tease the hair at the crown before gathering it into a high ponytail to create lift at the roots. Then, use a curling iron or velcro rollers to add big, bouncy waves or curls to the tail itself. The angle ensures all that gorgeous volume is displayed to its best advantage. This is a show-stopping look for a birthday celebration or a formal dinner.
12. The Half-Up Angled Ponytail
Can’t decide between wearing your hair up or down? The half-up angled ponytail is the perfect compromise. Gather the top section of your hair and secure it into a small, high ponytail that angles upward. This leaves the rest of your hair down but adds lift, dimension, and keeps hair out of your face. It’s a youthful, fresh look that works for everything from a day at the office to a casual date.
13. The Crimped Angled Ponytail
Bring back the 80s with a modern, crimped ponytail. Crimping the entire length of the ponytail adds unbelievable texture and volume. Pair this with a high, angled position for a look that is both nostalgic and fiercely contemporary. You don’t have to crimp all your hair—just the ponytail section for a focused, statement texture. This is a fun, fearless look for a concert or a night out with friends.
Mastering the Base: Tips for a Perfect Angled Ponytail
No matter which style you choose, the foundation is key. Start with a good base. If you’re aiming for sleekness, use a smoothing serum and a fine-tooth comb. For texture, a texturizing spray is your best friend. Section your hair strategically. Use a tail comb to create a clean, sharp parting. When securing the ponytail, position the elastic with intention—the placement defines the angle. Finally, don’t forget the finishing touches. A light-hold hairspray can lock in style without stiffness, and a touch of shine spray can make a sleek ponytail look expensive and healthy.
The angled ponytail is more than just a hairstyle; it’s a tool for self-expression. It can be whatever you need it to be: powerful, playful, romantic, or rebellious. With these 13 modern interpretations, you now have a versatile arsenal of looks ready for any occasion that comes your way. So, grab your brush, your favorite elastics, and get ready to angle your way to amazing hair days.
