One hairstyle, two parties. The low ponytail with a bow is elegant, suits every outfit, and works on straight, wavy, and curly hair. You can easily create it at home. Here’s how.
Why the low ponytail is everywhere this winter
Around the holidays, you’ll see velvet, silk, and satin bows in ponytails, braids, and half-up hairstyles. Bows also popped up in street style during London Fashion Week. Stylists call the low ponytail an effortless hairstyle that makes a big impact. Add a ribbon around it, and you’re ready for any party.
Step 1: blow-dry your hair smooth and shiny with a round brush
Work mousse or conditioner thoroughly through damp hair, especially around the hairline. This helps tame flyaways. Then blow-dry it smooth if you have time. The heat sets the product, so your hairstyle will last longer.
Are you using heat? Always apply a heat protectant first, such as HEO Heat Protection. For blow-drying, try the Max Pro Vento Föhn with the Jaguar Föhnborstel Rond T-serie.
Step 2: choose your version: sleek, glossy, or wavy
You can make the ponytail as sleek or wavy as you like. A serum or hair oil adds shine and smooths flyaways. This works for every version. Want to keep it simple? Choose glossy: just blow-dry it smooth, add a little shine, and you’re done.
Sleek: flat iron, a little gel, and comb it tightly back
- After blow-drying, run a flat iron over your hair, such as the Max Pro Evolution II. Always apply a heat protectant first.
- Create a sharp part with a fine-tooth comb.
- A little gel, such as Pure XX-Treme Gel, makes it extra smooth.
- Brush your hair back toward your neck with a soft brush.
- Keep the hair taut with a brush and your hands. Otherwise, the ponytail will look limp.
- Don’t tilt your head forward, or the base will come loose. A mirror behind you helps you check the back.
Wavy: curl the lengths with a curling iron and brush out the curls
A low ponytail with soft beach waves is chic and modern. Curl the lengths with a curling iron, such as the Max Pro Fusion Curler, and gently brush out the curls for soft waves. Apply a heat protectant first.
Step 3: secure the ponytail low at the nape of your neck and hide the hair tie with a strand of hair
Secure the ponytail at the very base of your neck. This is a flattering and elegant position. A clear hair tie won’t be visible. A bungee hair tie provides extra grip.
Hide the hair tie like this: take a thin strand of hair about one centimeter wide from the ponytail. Wrap it around the base and secure it with a bobby pin.
Tip: freshly washed hair can be slippery. Hair that is one day old works better. Alternatively, use a dry texturizing spray, such as MOHI Texture Spray.
Step 4: tie a bow around it and let the ends hang long
Tie the bow last. Choose a ribbon made of satin, velvet, or organza. For long hair, a bow with long ribbons works well. For shorter hair, choose a smaller bow. Prefer something else? A scrunchie bow or a hair clip on top of the hair tie can also work.
Step 5: tame baby hairs with wax and finish with hairspray
Smooth flyaways with a small amount of pomade, such as Murray's Pommade Hair-Glo. A toothbrush helps tame baby hairs.
Finish with hairspray. A flexible spray holds the style without feeling sticky. Want the ponytail to stay in place all evening? Choose a strong-hold hairspray, such as Imago Hairspray Extra Strong.
Curls or coily hair? Here’s how to achieve the look
- Soft: a low ponytail with your natural texture is just as elegant. Leave a few strands loose around your face.
- Sleek with heat: apply a heat protectant to wet hair, then use gel for extra stretch and smoothness. Blow-dry thick hair in small sections so the heat isn’t on it for too long.
- Sleek without heat: start with clean, air-dried, straightened hair. Lightly dampen it and apply gel section by section, such as Imago Megahold.
Short hair? A low ponytail can be difficult with a short bob. In that case, choose a half-up hairstyle with a bow.
Old and New Year: make it extra shiny with a statement accessory
Add more shine to the look for Old and New Year with a little serum or hair oil. Then wrap a second, more eye-catching band around the hair tie. This way, you can transform your Christmas hairstyle into a New Year’s Eve hairstyle in just a few seconds.
Bonus: a warm shade as a finishing touch
Warm colors such as chocolate brown, burgundy, and espresso are perfect for the holidays. Think of a burgundy bow in chocolate-brown hair. Want to make your hair color look warmer and shinier too? A demi-permanent color is something to discuss with your hairdresser.
You’ll find everything you need for this look in our Low Ponytail with Bow collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make sure my low ponytail stays in place all evening?
Work mousse or conditioner into damp hair and blow-dry it. The heat sets the product. Use hair that is one day old or a dry texturizing spray, as freshly washed hair can be slippery. A bungee hair tie provides extra grip. Finish with a strong-hold hairspray.
Does a low ponytail with a bow also work for curly or short hair?
Yes. For curly hair, you can choose a soft ponytail with your natural texture or a sleek version with gel. A low ponytail can be difficult with a short bob. In that case, choose a half-up hairstyle with a smaller bow.
How can I make the ponytail sleek without creating bumps on top?
Create a sharp part with a fine-tooth comb and brush your hair back with a soft brush. Keep the hair taut with a brush and your hands. Look straight ahead in the mirror and don’t tilt your head forward, or the base will come loose.
Which styling tool should I give as a gift to someone who loves creating party hairstyles?
Consider the style they enjoy creating. For sleek, shiny hair, a blow-dryer with a round brush is a good choice. For a sleek look, a flat iron; for waves, a curling iron. A heat protectant and a good hairspray are useful additions.
