18 Curly Ponytail Hairstyles That Are Anything but Basic
Let’s be honest — curly hair in a ponytail has been underestimated for far too long.
While straight ponytails have had their moment, curly ponytails bring texture, volume, dimension, and personality that flat hair simply can’t match.
Whether your curls are loose waves, tight coils, or somewhere in between, there’s a ponytail style here that will make you rethink your entire hair routine.
We’ve curated 18 of the most stunning, trending curly ponytail hairstyles for 2026 — each paired with the perfect outfit and a detailed styling guide so you can recreate the look at home.
Ready to elevate your ponytail game? Let’s dive in.
1: The Sky-High Curly Pony
This is the queen of all curly ponytails — lifted to the very crown of your head with maximum volume and bounce.
The sky-high curly pony instantly elongates your face and shows off your gorgeous curl pattern. It’s a look that commands attention without trying too hard.
Outfit Details
- Cropped fitted tank in white or neutral tone
- High-waisted wide-leg trousers for a balanced silhouette
- Gold hoop earrings that peek through the curls
- Strappy heeled sandals to complete the elevated casual look
Styling Guide
- Apply a curl-defining cream to damp hair and diffuse until 80% dry
- Gather hair at the crown using a silk scrunchie to prevent breakage
- Fluff and separate curls at the top for maximum volume
- Set edges with a light-hold edge control for a polished finish
- Spritz with a lightweight oil sheen for shine
2: The Romantic Low Pony
Soft, romantic, and endlessly elegant — the low curly ponytail gathered at the nape is perfect for date nights and formal events.
The loose curls draping down your back create a timeless, feminine silhouette that works beautifully with off-shoulder styles.
Outfit Details
- Off-shoulder satin blouse in champagne or blush
- Tailored midi skirt with a subtle slit
- Delicate pendant necklace that rests at the collarbone
- Pointed-toe kitten heels in nude or metallic
Styling Guide
- Curl hair with a 1.5-inch barrel curling iron in alternating directions
- Gently gather curls at the nape without pulling too tight
- Secure with a thin elastic and wrap a small section of hair around the base
- Pull out a few tendrils at the front for a soft, undone feel
- Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray to maintain movement
3: The Curly Bubble Pony
Playful, trendy, and totally Instagram-worthy — the bubble ponytail takes your curls to a whole new dimension.
By sectioning the ponytail with elastics and gently pulling each segment, you create those irresistible rounded ‘bubbles’ that make curly hair look absolutely magical.
Outfit Details
- Oversized graphic tee tucked into cargo pants
- Chunky sneakers or platform boots for street cred
- Layered chain necklaces mixing gold and silver
- Mini crossbody bag in a bold color
Styling Guide
- Start with a high ponytail secured with a strong elastic
- Place elastics every 2-3 inches down the length of the ponytail
- Gently tug each section outward to create the bubble shape
- Use bobby pins to anchor any sections that feel loose
- Mist with texturizing spray for extra grip and fullness
4: The Slicked-Back Glam Pony
Sleek at the front, voluminous at the back — this is the ultimate power ponytail. Perfectly laid edges and a gel-slicked front contrast beautifully with cascading curls, creating a look that’s equal parts polished and dramatic. It’s giving main character energy.
Outfit Details
- Structured blazer with nothing underneath for a bold statement
- Fitted leather pants or sleek trousers
- Chunky gold cuff bracelets and statement earrings
- Pointed stiletto heels in black patent
Styling Guide
- Apply strong-hold gel to the front and sides, brushing back with a boar bristle brush
- Tie a silk scarf around the hairline to set the sleek front while curls dry
- Secure the ponytail mid-height for the perfect balance
- Use a small edge brush to create swooped baby hair designs
- Remove the scarf once dry and add shine spray for a glass-like finish
5: The Sweeping Side Pony
There’s something irresistibly romantic about a curly ponytail swept to one side.
This asymmetrical style draws the eye and frames your face beautifully, making it perfect for garden parties, weddings, or any event where you want to look effortlessly stunning.
Outfit Details
- Flowy floral midi dress with a cinched waist
- Woven straw clutch or basket bag
- Dainty drop earrings on the exposed side
- Block-heel sandals wrapped at the ankle
Styling Guide
- Part hair deeply to one side and gather all curls over the opposite shoulder
- Secure with pins hidden beneath the curls at the nape
- Leave face-framing pieces on the parted side for softness
- Use a light mousse to enhance curl definition without crunch
- Pin a small fresh flower or jeweled clip for an extra romantic touch
6: The Half-Up Curly Pony
Can’t decide between wearing your curls down or up? Meet the half-up half-down ponytail — the best of both worlds.
The top section is pulled into a bouncy ponytail while the rest of your curls flow freely, creating incredible volume and dimension.
Outfit Details
- Classic denim jacket over a white bodysuit
- High-waisted mom jeans with a relaxed fit
- White leather sneakers for an effortless vibe
- Simple stud earrings and a dainty layered bracelet set
Styling Guide
- Section hair from ear to ear, separating the top half
- Secure the top section into a ponytail at the crown
- Fluff out the ponytail curls and the remaining loose hair
- Blend the two sections by pulling a few curls from the ponytail downward
- Refresh curls with a water and conditioner mix in a spray bottle
7: The Braided-Base Curly Pony
Intricate braids leading into a voluminous curly ponytail — this style is a showstopper that celebrates the versatility of textured hair.
Whether it’s cornrows, Dutch braids, or feed-in braids, the structured base provides a stunning contrast to the free-flowing curls.
Outfit Details
- Fitted athletic crop top in a bold jewel tone
- High-waisted biker shorts or joggers
- Chunky hoop earrings with a clean-lined aesthetic
- Sleek white trainers or fashion-forward athletic shoes
Styling Guide
- Braid the front and sides tightly in your chosen pattern toward the back
- Gather all braids into one ponytail at the desired height
- Attach curly clip-in extensions if extra volume is desired
- Apply edge control along the braided sections for a polished look
- Use a lightweight oil on the curly ends to prevent frizz and add sheen
8: The Face-Framing Tendril Pony
Sometimes the smallest detail makes the biggest difference.
Leaving soft, wispy curly tendrils around your face while the rest is gathered into a ponytail creates an incredibly flattering and feminine look.
Those little pieces frame your features like a work of art.
Outfit Details
- Silk button-down blouse with a relaxed collar
- Tailored high-waisted trousers in a neutral shade
- Pearl drop earrings for timeless elegance
- Classic pointed-toe ballet flats
Styling Guide
- Before tying the ponytail, separate small sections at the temples and hairline
- Secure the remaining hair into a medium-height ponytail
- Curl the face-framing pieces with a small barrel iron or flexi rods
- Apply a tiny amount of lightweight gel to define the tendrils
- Let the tendrils fall naturally — imperfection is the charm
9: The Messy-Chic Curly Pony
Effortlessly undone yet somehow perfectly styled — the messy curly ponytail is weekend comfort at its most fashionable.
Loose, imperfect, and beautifully textured, this look says you woke up this gorgeous (even if it took a little work behind the scenes).
Outfit Details
- Oversized chunky knit sweater in cream or oatmeal
- Leggings or relaxed straight-leg jeans
- Cozy UGG-style boots or shearling slides
- A warm takeaway coffee cup as the ultimate accessory
Styling Guide
- Gather hair loosely at mid-height without brushing out the curls
- Secure with a claw clip or silk scrunchie — don’t worry about perfection
- Pull out random pieces around the face and nape for lived-in texture
- Scrunch in a sea salt spray for extra tousled dimension
- Skip the mirror check — the messier, the better
10: The Silk Scarf-Wrapped Pony
Accessorize your curly ponytail with a silk scarf and suddenly you’ve got a whole mood.
The scarf adds color, pattern, and personality while also protecting your curls from friction. It’s a look that transitions seamlessly from brunch to an art gallery opening.
Outfit Details
- Linen wrap top in a complementary color to the scarf
- Wide-leg linen pants for a breezy bohemian feel
- Wooden or beaded statement earrings
- Woven espadrille wedges or leather sandals
Styling Guide
- Tie hair into a ponytail at your preferred height
- Fold a silk scarf into a long strip about 2 inches wide
- Wrap the scarf around the base of the ponytail, tying in a knot or bow
- Let the scarf tails drape alongside your curls for a flowing effect
- Choose a scarf color that complements your outfit’s palette
11: The Two-Strand Twist Pony
Elegant twists leading into a curly ponytail create a look that’s both structured and free-spirited.
The two-strand twists add beautiful texture and pattern to the front of the style while the ponytail brings all the volume and bounce at the back.
Outfit Details
- Minimalist ribbed turtleneck in black or white
- Tailored wide-leg pants with a clean silhouette
- Geometric drop earrings in gold or silver
- Sleek mules or loafers in a tonal shade
Styling Guide
- Section the front of your hair into medium-sized parts
- Create two-strand twists going back toward the crown
- Gather all twists and remaining hair into a ponytail
- Pin down any flyaways along the twist pattern with bobby pins
- Apply a light sheen spray to make the twists gleam
12: The Curly Pony with Bangs
Bangs and a curly ponytail? Absolute perfection.
Whether you’re rocking curtain bangs, blunt bangs, or curly fringe, pairing them with a ponytail creates a retro-meets-modern vibe that’s endlessly flattering and full of personality.
Outfit Details
- Fitted turtleneck bodysuit with a vintage-inspired brooch
- High-waisted A-line midi skirt in a rich autumn tone
- Vintage-style cat-eye sunglasses perched on your nose
- Kitten-heel slingback shoes in patent leather
Styling Guide
- Separate the bang section before gathering the rest into a ponytail
- Style the bangs with a round brush and blow dryer for shape
- Allow curly bangs to air-dry with a curl cream for a natural look
- Secure the ponytail at mid-height to balance the bangs
- Use a light-hold spray on the bangs to prevent them from going flat
13: The Double Curly Pony
Double the ponytails, double the fun. Two high curly ponytails give off playful, youthful energy that’s perfect for festivals, concerts, or any day you’re feeling extra.
They’re fun, expressive, and a total head-turner wherever you go.
Outfit Details
- Colorful tie-dye or graphic baby tee
- Denim cutoff shorts or a mini skirt
- Layered festival-style body chains or beaded jewelry
- Platform sneakers or chunky-sole boots
Styling Guide
- Part hair down the center from forehead to nape
- Gather each section into a high ponytail on either side
- Fluff out each ponytail for maximum curly volume
- Use colorful scrunchies or matching elastics as a style detail
- Spritz with a shine-enhancing curl refresher for bouncy definition
14: The Gold-Cuffed Glam Pony
Elevate your curly ponytail from everyday to extraordinary with gold hair cuffs and metallic accessories.
Threading gold rings and cuffs through your curls catches the light with every movement, making this the ultimate party and night-out hairstyle.
Outfit Details
- Sparkly sequin or metallic cami top
- Sleek black leather mini skirt or satin pants
- Statement chandelier earrings in gold
- Strappy heeled sandals with metallic accents
Styling Guide
- Style curls with a strong-definition gel for bouncy, separated coils
- Secure a high or mid-height ponytail with a thin elastic
- Thread gold cuffs and rings onto individual curls throughout the ponytail
- Place accessories at varying heights for a scattered, organic look
- Apply a reflective shine spray to amplify the metallic shimmer
15: The Formal Sleek-Low Pony
Red carpet worthy and utterly sophisticated — the formal low curly ponytail is the hairstyle of choice when elegance is non-negotiable.
Polished at the base with lush curls cascading down the back, this look pairs flawlessly with evening gowns and cocktail dresses.
Outfit Details
- Floor-length black or jewel-toned evening gown
- Diamond or crystal drop earrings for maximum sparkle
- Satin clutch in a matching or contrasting shade
- Elegant stiletto heels in a classic silhouette
Styling Guide
- Smooth the hair from roots to the nape using a smoothing serum and brush
- Secure a tight, low ponytail with a thin elastic at the nape
- Wrap a strand of hair around the elastic for a seamless look
- Define each curl with a curling wand for uniform, polished ringlets
- Lock everything in place with a strong-hold finishing spray
16: The Pineapple Workout Pony
The pineapple pony isn’t just a bedtime protective style — it’s a certified gym look.
Gathered loosely at the very top of your head, this high ponytail keeps curls out of your face during workouts while looking impossibly cool. Function meets fashion at its finest.
Outfit Details
- Color-coordinated sports bra and leggings set
- Lightweight zip-up hoodie or cropped athletic jacket
- Supportive cross-training sneakers in a fun colorway
- Sweat-wicking headband to catch flyaways
Styling Guide
- Flip your head upside down and gather curls loosely at the crown
- Secure with a soft fabric scrunchie — never a tight elastic
- Let the curls fan out naturally in every direction
- Tuck a sweatband below the ponytail for extra security during movement
- Post-workout, simply release and shake out for refreshed curls
17: The Ribbon-Bow Curly Pony
A oversized satin ribbon tied around a curly ponytail is the sweetest, most feminine detail you can add to your hair.
It’s giving cottagecore princess, ballet dancer, and fashion It-girl all at once. The contrast of structured ribbon against bouncy curls is pure magic.
Outfit Details
- Puff-sleeve smocked blouse in soft pastels
- Flowy tiered maxi skirt or a dainty floral dress
- Delicate pearl or cameo stud earrings
- Mary Jane flats or ballet-style lace-up shoes
Styling Guide
- Create a mid-height ponytail with well-defined, moisturized curls
- Take a wide satin ribbon (at least 2 inches) in a complementary color
- Tie the ribbon in a large bow at the base of the ponytail
- Adjust the bow loops to be full and symmetrical
- Let the ribbon tails hang alongside your curls for a cascading effect
18: The Power-Length Curly Pony
Go big or go home — the extra-long, voluminous curly ponytail with extensions is a statement of confidence and glamour.
Whether it’s for a photoshoot, a special event, or just a Tuesday when you’re feeling yourself, this dramatic length commands every room you walk into.
Outfit Details
- Tailored power blazer with structured shoulders
- Sleek bodycon dress or high-waisted trousers with a corset top
- Bold statement sunglasses for an incognito-celebrity vibe
- Pointed-toe stiletto boots or sky-high heels
Styling Guide
- Secure natural hair in a firm ponytail at the desired height
- Attach curly drawstring or clip-in ponytail extensions securely
- Blend the extension curls with your natural curl pattern
- Wrap a section of hair or matching extension piece around the base
- Use a holding spray on the roots and a curl cream on the extension ends
Your Curls Deserve the Spotlight
No matter which style you choose, remember that every curl pattern is unique and beautiful.
These looks are meant to inspire — so feel free to adapt, mix, and make each ponytail your own.
The best hairstyle is the one that makes you feel like the most confident version of yourself.
Tag us in your recreations and let us know which curly ponytail became your new signature look. Happy styling!
