Braiding the top of the head before gathering everything into a ponytail does two useful things: it keeps the front neat all day and turns a basic pony into something with real detail. This gallery shows thirty variations, from a loose French braid that ends at the nape for a casual day to a regal braid wrapped around a high ponytail for a formal night out.
You will see side ponytails with headband braids, a punky faux hawk made of tight braids with teased height, a bubble ponytail with a decorative braid, triple side braids paired with sleek straight hair, waterfall and fishtail combinations, an upside-down braid behind the pony and a twisted bun at the base of a long tail. Several looks use two-tone, ombré or highlighted hair, which braids show off especially well.
Most of these styles need hair at least to the shoulders, although extensions or a weave can fill in length. Thick hair makes fuller braids, while fine hair benefits from texture spray first and gently pulling the braid loops wider. Cornrow-tight looks feel sleek and edgy; loose, slightly messy braids feel softer and more romantic.
1. Loosely Braided Style
When you want a bit more than a plain pony without much effort, try a loose French braid that ends at the nape and tie the rest with an elastic. It suits casual plans perfectly. Skip styling products to keep the finish relaxed and natural.
Inspiration: @american_salon
2. Sculptural Punky Ponytail
For a rock-chick vibe, create a faux hawk. Section off the top, braid tight French braids flat along each side, then tease the central section as high as you dare. The braided ponytail adds edge and structure to the look.
Inspiration: @modernsalon
3. Double French Braid Crown
Loose braids, loose curls and hair wrapped softly around the elastic make this double crown braid low ponytail feel effortless. The trick is to apply workable styling products beforehand rather than spraying afterward. A light mousse or cream gives grip without stiffness.
Inspiration: @missysueblog
4. Flowy Side Braid
This romantic side braid works loose tension and medium sections from the crown down one side to the nape. A fishtail braid adds unique texture, and soft waves in the tail finish the look beautifully.
Inspiration: @american_salon
5. Unique Braided Up-Do
Formal hairstyles do not have to be pinned up fully. A dressed-up ponytail can be just as elegant for an event while showing off your length. A teased bouffant gives a fresh touch, but the curls are what really make this braided pony special.
Inspiration: @hairbyanasheh
6. Creative Side Ponytail
A small French braid at the crown acts as a headband, while a larger one adds visual interest. Keep braiding down to form an elegant side braid that sweeps over the shoulder. It is one of the most versatile braid-into-pony ideas.
Inspiration: @modernsalon
7. French Braid with Bubbles
Very long hair can take a bubble ponytail, a look popularised by Valentino, to a new level. French braid from crown to nape, then form bubbles in the tail with elastics, pulling them round. A thin braid laid across the bubbles adds decoration.
Inspiration: @hairbysel
8. Charmingly Soft Ponytail
A French braid into a ponytail adds volume and body. Start with sea salt or texturising spray and tease the back. Keep the braid low while pulling hair from the part for full, flowing lengths and a soft, romantic finish.
Inspiration: @hair_by_zolotaya
9. Triple Braid Style
Three individual braids run down the side before meeting a teased pony, combining Grecian goddess elegance with a relaxed, seventies spirit. Loosen the waves in the tail for a softer, more effortless effect. Thick hair gives the fullest braids.
Inspiration: @missysueblog
10. Perfectly Messy Braid Style
Braided ponytails are a great way to show off highlights and lowlights. The braids here are neat but not perfect, the side bangs stay wispy and the pony is lightly teased. It is as easy-going as a messy bun but more polished.
Inspiration: @laineymariebeauty
11. Diagonally Braided Ponytail
Start with a braid running diagonally across the head, either a waterfall braid or a separate section as shown. Mirror the angle with a second sweeping braid and gather both into a single side ponytail for a fresh, unusual result.
Inspiration: @braiderina
12. Braided Glam Hairstyle
Large, loose cornrow-style braids give this high ponytail glamorous attitude. Two-tone or ombré hair exaggerates the effect, and the loose braiding adds height on top. A high pony keeps the look bold and sassy. Secure it with a strong elastic.
Inspiration: @kykhair
13. French Braid with Curls
Showing off advanced braiding? This is the style. If you are still learning, patience is key: take only small sections at a time. Two Dutch braids leading into a low ponytail allow for more volume in the cascading curls.
Inspiration: @lalasupdos
14. Artistically Undone Braid
At first glance you might not realise these loose sections are actually a deconstructed braid. Contrasting tiny braids add intricate detail, making this creative ponytail a true work of hair art. It is best attempted with a friend’s help or by a stylist.
Inspiration: @hair_by_zolotaya
15. Regal Braided Up-Do
For a unique formal look, try a French braid starting at the front and wrapping around a high ponytail. The sleek finish and volume at the crown make it perfect for a night out or a special occasion.
Inspiration: @american_salon
16. Cute and Carefree Ponytail
A modern take on the hippie aesthetic, this pony combines three side braids with smooth straight lengths. Use pomade or wax as you braid to keep everything sleek. It feels current and wearable, not costume-like.
Inspiration: @braidsbyallie
17. Fiercely Braided to Perfection
Tight cornrow-style braids at the temples and a perfectly straight high ponytail create a confident, fierce style. It is versatile enough for a fun day out or an evening, without feeling too formal. Shine serum keeps the tail glossy.
Inspiration: @nk_beautysalon
18. Long Elegant Ponytail
Long, straight hair is the star here. Temple braids act as a decorative divider between the teased top and the sleek lower section. Highlights and ombré strands stand out beautifully when wrapped around the hair tie.
Inspiration: @sweethearts_hair
19. Intricate and Adorable French Braid
Part hair down the centre as if for pigtails, then create waterfall braids that drop strands on top rather than below. Braid those dropped strands together to conceal the part. The result is intricate and lovely.
Inspiration: @braiderina
20. Fantastical French Braid
This impressive style combines waterfall French braids at the centre and sides, joined in between, with a fishtail below to balance the intricacy. It takes practice, but the result is spectacular. Clear elastics help hold each section.
Inspiration: @braided_to_infinity
21. Reverse Braid and Side Ponytail
Placing the braid behind the ponytail rather than at the front is an interesting twist. Since you put in the work, do not hide it with the tail; sweep the pony to the side for a flirty, lively look.
Inspiration: @hairbydreeze
22. Messy Double Braid
For a carefree boho look, try a side braid with wispy flyaways. Instead of a standard French braid, this weaves a thin, tight braid into a larger loose one, creating a detail that is impossible to miss.
Inspiration: @stylebylizette
23. Twin Braid Updo
Many braided ponytails need longer hair, but a weave can help create full, lasting styles that look realistic. This double Dutch braid updo leading into a pony shows how effective added length can be. Match the extension shade closely to your own.
Inspiration: @braiding_witch
24. Multicolored Jumbo Braid
This multicoloured jumbo braid is a grown-up version of a childhood colourful pony. Pink and blonde highlights run through the wavy lengths, adding vibrance while keeping the overall effect balanced. Clip-in coloured strands can give a similar look without dye.
Inspiration: @danielle_anspach_hair
25. Braid and Bun
For prom or a formal event, think creatively. Adding a twisted bun at the base of a long pony and side braid creates something unexpected and memorable that still shows off your length. Pin the bun securely so it holds all night.
Inspiration: @lilithmoonlife
26. Blonde Pony with Double Braid
This double French braid pony looks simple at first, but connecting side braids, a twisted ponytail and blonde waves add special detail. It is a wonderful date-night look for anyone who loves beauty. Loose curls in the tail keep it soft.
Inspiration: @thecombmag
27. Elegant Pony for Events
Formal styles do not have to be stiff. This polished high pony with a braid is still approachable, making it ideal for juggling several events in one evening. Long blonde hair shows the braid beautifully.
Inspiration: @modernsalon
28. Straight Triple Threat
Pair braids with straight hair for an edgier, less romantic feel. This sleek style combines polished lengths, a wrapped ponytail and three small cornrows for a sharp, no-nonsense finish. Flat iron the lengths before braiding for the sleekest result.
Inspiration: @american_salon
29. Trendy Two-Tone Braided Pony
When mornings are rushed, colour does the work. A two-tone blend of brown and blonde turns a standard braided ponytail into something exciting. The messy side braid keeps it relaxed and easy. Second-day hair braids most easily.
Inspiration: @sun__kissed__blonde
30. Side Braid for Medium Hair
This shoulder-length side braid is a lovely bridal option for achieving a full braided ponytail without extensions. A jumbo braid paired with loose curls creates an enchanting look for the big day. Tuck in small flowers for a romantic touch.
Inspiration: @modernsalon
Braiding into a ponytail, step by step
- Start on second-day hair or prep with texture spray or a little dry shampoo for grip.
- Section the area you want to braid and French braid toward the point where the pony will sit, adding hair from both sides as you go.
- Stop braiding where the ponytail begins and gather the remaining hair with the braid end into a strong elastic.
- Wrap a strand around the elastic to hide it and pin underneath.
- Gently pull the edges of the braid for volume, then add waves or curls to the tail if you like.
French, Dutch or fishtail?
A French braid crosses strands over the middle and lies flat; a Dutch braid crosses them under, so the braid stands up and looks bolder. A fishtail uses two sections and looks more intricate and textured. Choose Dutch for maximum visibility on fine hair, French for a sleek office look and fishtail when you want a boho finish. Use a light pomade or wax as you braid to control flyaways without hairspray stiffness.