How to style the classic wedding ponytail

Most of us will admit, we have hair envy when we spot that perfect ponytail. We'll discuss how to achieve an effortless wedding ponytail, including tips on how to accessorise it.

When it comes to hairstyles, the wedding ponytail might not be the first option that comes to mind for many brides. However, the classic ponytail has evolved into a chic and versatile bridal look that can be both effortless and elegant. Whether you’re aiming for a playful, modern or sophisticated style, the wedding ponytail can be tailored to suit your bridal vision. Here’s how to style 5 of our favourite classic wedding ponytails to achieve an effortlessly beautiful look, including tips on how to accessorise them.

Why we love a wedding ponytail

Whether it’s relaxed and chic, or sleek and modern, the wedding ponytail doesn’t lack formal elegance. The wedding ponytail is beloved for its simplicity and versatility. It can be dressed up or down, making it suitable for various wedding themes and dress styles. The ponytail offers a comfortable and practical option that doesn’t compromise on style, making it perfect for brides who want to look stunning without the fuss.

1. The effortless low ponytail

A low ponytail exudes a sense of effortless elegance, making it a perfect choice for brides who want a chic and sophisticated look. This style works beautifully with sleek, straight or soft waves and can be adorned with delicate accessories for added detail.

How to achieve it

Start with smooth, straightened hair or create loose waves with a curling iron.
Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and secure it with an elastic band.
Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic to conceal it.
Secure with a bobby pin. Smooth down any flyaways with a bit of serum or hairspray.

How to accessorise it

A sheer lightweight veil will beautifully fram a low ponytail. Whether adorned with embellishments or sheer and plain, a long veil is a striking way to finish a low set ponytail.
For a touch of detail, add a crystal hair comb, bridal hair pins or a dainty ribbon to finish.
A birdcage veil is a chic and elegant piece to fram the face. The STAR GAZER birdcage veil was designed for the ponytail in mind. We’ve paired it with the exquisite DREAMER comb for a look that’s sophisticated with modern appeal.

2. The playful high ponytail

The high ponytail is a fun and chic option that adds a playful charm to your bridal look. This style is perfect for brides who want to make a statement and show off their personality. A high ponytail suits modern wedding gowns and also traditional dresses yearning for a touch of playfulness.

How to achieve it

Use a volumising mousse or spray at the roots to add lift and body to your hair.
Gather your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head and secure with an elastic band.
Lightly tease the ponytail to create more volume and fullness.

How to accessorise it

Add a playful bow, sheer wedding veil or crystal or pearl headband to finish.
A luxurious silk scrunchie is a playful finishing detail for your bridal or bridesmaids look.
There’s no reason why a ponytail wearing bride should go without a veil, just because of her hair choice. The BORDEAUX veil is the veil reimagined, this time for the classic ponytail. This veil was designed to curve around the base of a ponytail and features exquisite crystal elements for a touch of sparkle.
All wedding ponytails look stunning with statement earrings, especially a high ponytail. If a wedding veil doesn’t feel quite right for you, statement earrings are the perfect styling option for the ponytail-obsessed bride. Whether it’s a drop earring or simpler crystal stud, wearing a ponytail on your wedding day is the perfect opportunity to showcase your style with some statement jewellery.

3. The sleek ponytail

A sleek ponytail is the epitome of modern chic, offering a polished and sophisticated look that’s perfect for contemporary brides. This style works best with straight hair and creates a streamlined silhouette that complements minimalist dresses.

How to achieve it

Straighten your hair with a flat iron to achieve a sleek finish.
Use a smoothing serum or gel to tame any flyaways and create a glossy finish.
Gather your hair into a ponytail at your desired height and secure with an elastic band. Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic to hide it, securing with a bobby pin.
Apply a strong hold hairspray to keep everything in place.

How to accessorise it

Add simple pearl or crystal hair pins to one side to accessorise it. A hair piece with a slight curve to frame the ponytail will feel effortless and chic. Our STELLAR hair pin set and the GEMINI hair piece were designed specifically for this hairstyle.
For an ultra glamorous look, style your high ponytail with an oversized bow brooch secured to your shoulder strap for an asymmetrical and chic look.
We love the look of a long ponytail with a long wedding veil or neckerchief cape. Styling is often about proportions and looking for balance, and the clean lines of the AUDREY veil or the SWAY or VIOLETTA capes complements so many wedding dresses and hairstyles – including the beloved ponytail.
If you’re looking to style your ponytail with a veil, choose a veil with a small metal comb attached for a more streamlined and minimal finish.

4. The braided ponytail

A braided ponytail combines the elegance of braids with the simplicity of a ponytail, creating a romantic and modern look. This style is perfect for brides who want to add texture and interest to their hairstyle.

How to achieve it

Add texture to your hair with a texturising spray or by curling sections of your hair.
Braid a section of your hair or create a small braid on each side of your head.
Gather all your hair, including the braids, into a ponytail and secure with an elastic band.
Wrap a section of hair around the elastic to conceal it and secure with a bobby pin.

How to accessorise it

Scatter floral hair pins into the braids for a romantic touch.
Statement earrings are a beautiful way to frame your neckline, subtly peaking out from behind soft tendrils.
Opt for a simple bridal headband to frame your face and to let the texture of your ponytail remain the focus.
For an ultra romantic look, finish your textured ponytail with a dainty crown.
A sheer minimalist veil will ensure your braided ponytail won’t be covered and the textures and details will show through.

5. The messy ponytail

The messy ponytail is perfect for bohemian brides who want a relaxed and natural look. This style embraces texture and volume, creating an effortlessly beautiful appearance.

How to achieve it

Use a curling iron to create loose waves and add a texturising spray for volume.
Gather your hair into a loose ponytail, allowing some tendrils to fall naturally around your face.
Secure the ponytail with an elastic band and gently tease the ponytail for added volume.

How to accessorise it

Incorporate bohemian chic pieces like floral hair pins, hair vines or a slim headband.
Dainty and delicate statement earrings such as the CASCADE earrings or TEARDROP pearl earrings look effortless and romantic.
The BORDEAUX veil was designed to curve around the base of a ponytail and features exquisite crystal elements for a touch of sparkle.

Need personalised styling advice?

We love to work with our brides to design their perfect wedding accessories. If you aren’t sure which accessories will best suit your wedding dress and hairstyle, feel free to send us photos of your bridal look and we can get back to you with ideas and recommendations from our collections.

Talk to us about how our designs can be customised to suit your bridal ponytail and wedding dress.