Sometimes we all just want to look undone, in a good way. Sometimes we all just want to look like we aren’t trying when we in fact are trying. And looking like you aren’t trying when you are is an art form. But, we are going to show you just how to master that art form with the messy ponytail! So saddle up and get rowdy cause we’re riding off into the sunset of messy ponytails.

How To Do A Messy Ponytail

Let’s start with the basics, shall we?

First the tools you’ll need to achieve the perfect messy ponytail:

1. Volumizing mousse
2. Texture spray
3. Hair tie
4. Comb

Step #1

It all starts before you even begin creating the ponytail and that means using volumizing mousse on wet hair and giving your hair a good blow dry. The mousse will help create volume, making it easier to create the messy look.

Step #2

Another product we recommend spraying in your hair is a good texturizing spray; this will give your locks that messy rolled-out-of-bed look while also looking clean and sleek.

Step #3

Without much technique, pull your hair back to the crown of your head. If you want you can use a brush, but that will diminish the point of the messy look.

Step #4

Now that you have your hair placed where you want it, secure it with a hair tie. Don’t tie it too tight, a looser grip will be better suited for the messy ponytail.

Step #5

Now that everything’s in place, simply take a comb and tease the ponytail. This will give it that perfectly messy look.

Messy Bun With Ponytail

Okay so off to a non ponytail start, but that’s okay, we gotta take what we can get. This messy bun with ponytail is sorta an elevated and reconstructed ponytail sorta speak. Start by creating a messy ponytail as we discussed earlier. Then, twist the length of your ponytail into a loose bun and secure it with bobby pins. This hybrid hairstyle is perfect for both formal and casual occasions, giving you the best of both worlds.

Messy Low Ponytail

The low ponytail is a classic hairstyle that never goes out of style. It’s a look that can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. Whether you’re heading to the office or going for a night out on the town, the messy low ponytail is a go-to option. To rock this messy ponytail simply follow the tutorial above, but tie your hair at the nape of the neck instead of the crown, and bam, you got yourself a messy low ponytail.

Messy Butterfly Braid Ponytail

If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, why not try a messy ponytail with a butterfly braid? This hairstyle is not only trendy but also enhances your overall look. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual day out or a special event.

To achieve this stunning hairstyle, there are a few simple steps to follow, such as:

• Gather all your hair and secure it with an elastic band. The key to a messy ponytail is to embrace the natural texture and volume of your hair. Don’t worry about making it too neat or polished; the beauty lies in its effortless and undone appearance.
• Once you have your messy ponytail in place, it’s time to create the butterfly braid. Take a small section of hair from the underside of the ponytail and split it into two equal parts. This will be the starting point of your braid. Crossing these sections over each other, as if you were tying a knot, creates the intricate butterfly effect.
• Secure the cross sections with bobby pins to keep them in place. Make sure to hide the pins within the hair for a seamless look. As you move down the ponytail, continue taking small sections of hair, crossing them over each other, and securing them with bobby pins.
• The repeated process will gradually form the butterfly braid.

If you wanted to go even further you could add some butterfly clips into the braid. Could be cute!

Messy High Ponytail

The high ponytail is a timeless hairstyle that never fails to make a statement. If you have long locs this is the style for you, truly. It will really make your long hair the star of the show. Don’t worry about making the ponytail too neat – the messier, the better!

Short Messy Ponytail

Yes, it’s true, short people can rock the messy ponytail too. The key is to create texture and volume. Use a texturizing spray or dry shampoo to add some grit to your hair and create that tousled look. Then, gather your hair at the back of your head and secure it with an elastic band. Let some strands fall loose around your face to frame your features. This short and sassy version of the messy ponytail is perfect for those days when you want to switch up your look. You could go for a low ponytail or do a high ponytail with some bobby pins securing the shorter strands at the back that didn’t make it into the hair tie.

Messy Updo Ponytail

If you’re looking for a more polished take on the messy ponytail, the messy updo ponytail is the way to go. You can easily get this look by creating a low ponytail and securing it with an elastic band. Then, divide the ponytail in half and twist each section in opposite directions. Once you reach the end, wrap each twisted section around the elastic band to create a messy updo. Secure everything with bobby pins and let some strands of hair fall loose for the perfect face frame.

Messy Braided Ponytail

Why settle for a plain ponytail when you can add some braided flair? It might look and sound complicated but it’s actually not at all. All you have to do is braid your ponytail. But, keep in mind that this is a messy ponytail look so you gotta get the braid looking messy! We recommend doing a nice tight braid as you normally would, but then pulling it slightly to give it a more rugged and messy look.

Black Messy Ponytail

Messy ponytails look absolutely stunning on black hair. The contrast between the messy texture and the sleekness of black hair creates a striking effect. To achieve the black messy ponytail look, follow the same steps we discussed earlier. Embrace your natural texture and color with this beautiful hairstyle.

Messy Side Ponytail

If you’re tired of the traditional center-parted ponytail, why not try a messy side ponytail? Simply gather your hair to one side of your head and secure it with an elastic band. Leave some strands loose for a more relaxed and effortless look. You can even add some waves or curls to your hair for added texture and dimension. This asymmetrical hairstyle is perfect for a night out with friends or a casual brunch date.

Messy Weave Ponytail

If you’re looking to amp up the drama, a messy weave ponytail is the way to go. This is a great look for adding volume and length. This hairstyle allows you to experiment with different colors, textures, and lengths, creating a bold look. Whether you choose a sleek and sleek ponytail or a tousled and messy one, the messy weave ponytail is guaranteed to make a lasting impression.

Messy Frontal Ponytail

The messy frontal ponytail is a modern take on the classic ponytail. Start by sectioning off a small section of hair at the front of your head, near your hairline. Use a comb to tease this section and create volume. Then, gather the rest of your hair into a ponytail, leaving the teased section loose. Secure the ponytail with an elastic band and let the teased section fall over the elastic.

Messy Ponytail Curly Hair

Curly hair and messy ponytails are a match made in heaven. The natural texture of curly hair adds volume and bounce to the ponytail, making it even more captivating. To achieve the messy ponytail curly hair look, start by scrunching your hair with a curl-enhancing product to define your curls. Gather your hair into a ponytail, leaving some curls loose around your face. Embrace the natural frizz and flyaways for a carefree look.

Final Thoughts

There you have it – a comprehensive guide to the fabulous world of messy ponytails. Whether you’re going for a casual look or a formal style, there’s a messy ponytail variation for every occasion. Remember to embrace the imperfections and let your hair speak for itself. With a little bit of practice and creativity, you’ll be rocking the messy ponytail like a pro.