The Ultimate Guide to Chic High Ponytails: Celebrity Styles & How-To Master This Timeless Trend

The high ponytail, an iconic and undeniably chic hairstyle, has transcended mere trend status to become a timeless staple in the world of fashion and beauty. Lately, it’s been making an extraordinary resurgence, gracing red carpets, high-fashion runways, and even casual celebrity street style moments. This isn’t just about throwing your hair up; it’s about making a statement of elegance, sophistication, and effortless cool. From sleek and polished to voluminous and playful, the high ponytail offers unparalleled versatility, proving why it’s the go-to look for everyone, especially for those seeking a stylish yet practical at-home solution. Join us as we delve into how celebrities are rocking this trend and provide you with the ultimate guide to achieving your own perfect high ponytail.

Why the High Ponytail is Everyone’s Favorite Hairstyle Right Now

Ponytails, in their various forms, have always been a cornerstone of easy, everyday hairstyling. However, the specific iteration that has captured the attention of Hollywood’s elite is the sleek, elevated high ponytail. This particular style offers a unique blend of practicality and glamour, making it incredibly appealing. It’s a hairstyle that can seamlessly transition from a high-profile event to a relaxed day out, providing a polished look that requires minimal effort once mastered. Celebrities like Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, and Jennifer Lopez have all been spotted flaunting this sophisticated ‘do, solidifying its status as the ultimate must-try trend.

Gigi Hadid: Effortless Parisian Chic

Supermodel Gigi Hadid effortlessly demonstrated the high ponytail’s power to elevate a casual ensemble during her outing in Paris on February 28th. She elegantly swept her long blonde locks back into a perfectly positioned high ponytail, creating a striking contrast with her laid-back attire. Her fashion choice for the day included a comfortable Cotton Citizen Brooklyn Oversized Crew sweater, a chic baggy pinstripe coat, classic black leggings, a pair of edgy Reebok Zig Kinetica Sneakers, and unique In Private Studio See You in Hollywood Socks, all accessorized with sleek Amavii Benjamin Sunglasses. The high ponytail instantly transformed this otherwise relaxed look into a statement of intentional style, showcasing how a well-executed hairstyle can significantly impact an overall outfit. It proved that even the most casual pieces can exude an air of sophisticated nonchalance when paired with the right hairstyle, making it ideal for both leisurely strolls and fashion-forward appearances.

Kendall Jenner: Glamour and Edge in Miami

Another fashion icon, Kendall Jenner, showcased the allure of the high ponytail during her appearance in Miami on December 4th. As always, Kendall exuded confidence and stunning beauty. She opted for a daring, skintight, spaghetti-strap fuschia zebra print For Love & Lemons Duran Dress, which featured flattering ruching that accentuated her petite frame. To complete her glamorous ensemble, she added a pair of bedazzled Amina Muaddi Crystal Embellished Mules and statement Ellie Vail Gage Oversized Link Earrings. However, the true showstopper of her look was undoubtedly her hair. Kendall pulled her sleek black hair into a super high ponytail, carefully parting the front in the middle and tucking her subtle bangs behind her ears. This styling choice perfectly framed her face, adding a touch of sophisticated structure to her bold and vibrant outfit. It’s a testament to how the high ponytail can complement even the most eye-catching fashion statements without overshadowing them, proving its versatility for high-octane events.

Kylie Jenner: Retro Glamour with a Modern Twist

Following in her sister’s stylish footsteps, Kylie Jenner also embraced the high ponytail trend for the premiere of Travis Scott’s Netflix film, Look Mom I Can Fly, in Los Angeles on August 27th. Kylie opted for a distinctly retro aesthetic, donning a vintage white Dolce & Gabbana midi dress, elegantly tied at the neck with a thin white ribbon. Her choice of a high ponytail proved to be the perfect modern counterpoint to her vintage attire. Her hair was meticulously styled with a side part, one side gelled back to achieve a super sleek finish, leading into a high ponytail secured with her own hair wrapped around the base. This technique not only conceals the hair tie for a more polished look but also adds a sophisticated touch, making the ponytail appear seamless and perfectly sculpted. Kylie’s look brilliantly illustrated how the high ponytail can bridge different fashion eras, adding a contemporary edge to classic designs and ensuring she stood out on the red carpet.

Bella Hadid: Edgy Sophistication at the VMAs

Bella Hadid showcased a strikingly similar yet uniquely edgy high ponytail look at the 2019 VMAs on August 26th. True to her avant-garde style, Bella chose a full Charlotte Knowles ensemble, which included a daring sheer tube top subtly adorned with yellow paint splatters, perfectly matched with a coordinating skirt. Her outfit boldly displayed her enviable figure and incredibly toned abs. Adding an unexpected element, Bella wore suspenders across her shoulders and stomach, attached to her skintight, completely see-through, low-rise mini skirt. The standout feature of her entire look, however, was her newly bright blonde hair, dramatically pulled up into a high ponytail. One side of her hair was smoothly swept behind her ear, creating a clean profile, while the ends of the ponytail were artfully flipped underneath, adding a unique, sophisticated curve to the style. This detail gave her high ponytail an extra layer of polish and edge, perfectly complementing her bold and fashion-forward VMA appearance and making a strong statement.

Jennifer Lopez: The “Snatched” Ponytail Masterclass

Jennifer Lopez, a perennial style icon, commanded attention at the 2019 CFDA Fashion Awards on June 3rd, held at the Brooklyn Museum in New York. While her vibrant orange Ralph Lauren outfit was certainly memorable, it was her impeccably styled “snatched” ponytail that truly stole the show. JLo’s iconic extra-long high ponytail was the masterful creation of Color Wow Creative Director and Celebrity Hairstylist, Chris Appleton. Appleton’s meticulous process began by spritzing JLo’s damp hair with Color Wow Dream Coat Anti-Humidity Hair Treatment. This crucial first step established a strong, humidity-resistant base, imbuing the hair with incredible shine before blow-drying to achieve a flawlessly smooth finish. Next, he strategically added Hidden Crown Clip-ins in a clockwork pattern at the back of her head, ensuring they blended seamlessly and added significant length and volume in the direction of the ponytail. Once the extensions were in place, Appleton applied Color Wow Cult Favorite Firm + Flexible Hairspray to the roots, meticulously brushing all the hair into a high ponytail. To achieve that signature “snatched,” flyaway-free look, he then sprayed the same hairspray onto a toothbrush and gently combed up to the hairline, eliminating any stray hairs. The final touch involved curling the hair in sections, adding movement and a luxurious finish to this show-stopping hairstyle, which became an instant classic for JLo. This detailed approach highlights the artistry and precision required to achieve such a powerful and iconic high ponytail.

Hailey Baldwin: Met Gala Elegance with a Bow

Hailey Baldwin presented one of the most memorable high ponytail looks at the 2019 Met Gala on May 6th in NYC, showcasing a refined and feminine aesthetic. Her exquisite hairstyle was crafted by celebrity stylist Jen Atkin, known for her modern and chic creations. Atkin began by prepping Hailey’s damp hair with OUAI Wave Spray, setting the stage for texture and hold, before blow-drying it to perfection using the advanced Dyson Airwrap Styler. To achieve impressive length and volume, Luxy hair extensions were meticulously attached. To ensure a seamless blend with Hailey’s natural color, Rita Hazan Root Concealer in light brown was expertly sprayed. The roots were then treated with Tancho stick for ultimate sleekness and hold, before being precisely molded into a high ponytail using a barbers brush. The pièce de résistance was a delicate little black Alexander Wang bow, which adorned the base of the ponytail, adding a touch of sophisticated charm and completing a look that was both glamorous and elegantly understated. This Met Gala appearance demonstrated how a high ponytail can be transformed with strategic accessories and expert styling, making it worthy of fashion’s biggest night and a timeless source of inspiration.

Kourtney Kardashian: Sleek & Strong for the Gala

The Kardashians are renowned for their love of a perfectly executed sleek high ponytail, and Kourtney Kardashian certainly delivered at the amfAR Gala in NYC back in February. Her flawless hairstyle for the event was the creation of celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons, who employed a meticulous process to achieve such a polished look. Fitzsimons started by prepping Kourtney’s hair with NatureLab TOKYO Perfect Smooth Blowout Lotion, a product designed to enhance smoothness. He then blow-dried her hair upside down, a technique that helps to smooth the hair cuticles and prepare it for being pulled into a high ponytail without bumps or frizz. Following this, the ends were flat ironed to guarantee the ponytail remained perfectly straight and sleek. To add significant length without creating bulk, BeautyWorks Invisi-Tape Hair Extensions were strategically placed at the back of her head. Once the hair and extensions were perfectly prepared, Fitzsimons sprayed a brush with RUSK W8less Plus Extra Strong Hold Shaping & Control Hairspray, then expertly pulled all of Kourtney’s hair into a high pony, positioned just in front of the crown for optimal lift and face-lifting effect, before securing it tightly with a hair tie. This detailed method ensures a long-lasting, impeccably sleek, and gravity-defying high ponytail that commands attention on any red carpet.

Mastering Your Own High Ponytail: Tips & Techniques

Inspired by these celebrity transformations, it’s clear that the high ponytail is far more than just a quick fix. It’s a statement of style, confidence, and modern elegance. With a little practice and the right tools, you can easily recreate this versatile look at home, tailoring it to your personal style and the demands of your day.

Preparation is Key to Perfection

• Hair Condition: While a high ponytail can certainly work on freshly washed hair, many stylists and individuals find that second-day hair offers better grip and texture, making it easier to hold the style. If your hair is exceptionally clean or fine, a volumizing mousse, texturizing spray, or a light application of dry shampoo can add the necessary grit and body.
• Protect & Prep: Always apply a high-quality heat protectant if you plan to use styling tools such as a flat iron or curling iron on your hair. For a super sleek look, a smoothing serum or a lightweight leave-in conditioner applied from mid-shaft to ends will help tame frizz and add a glossy finish.
• Detangle Thoroughly: Ensure your hair is completely detangled before attempting to pull it up. Any knots will lead to bumps and an uneven finish.

Essential Tools You’ll Need

• Brush: A dense boar bristle brush is invaluable for achieving a super sleek finish, as it effectively smooths hair and gathers every strand without creating static. A paddle brush can also work for initial gathering.
• Hair Ties: Opt for strong, snag-free elastic ties that won’t damage or pull your hair. Bungee cords, which hook into the hair, are a favorite among professional stylists for extra security and a truly tight hold, especially for very thick hair.
• Styling Products: Essential products include a strong-hold hair gel for taming stubborn flyaways, a reliable hairspray (firm yet flexible is often best), and a shine spray or serum to add a luxurious gloss. A small, clean toothbrush can be a secret weapon for precision flyaway control.
• Optional Enhancements: Bobby pins are always useful for securing loose strands or creating specific shapes. Hair extensions (clip-ins or tape-ins) are excellent for adding significant length and volume, as demonstrated by JLo and Kourtney. Hair accessories like decorative bows, chic scrunchies, or elegant hair wraps can add a personalized touch.

Step-by-Step for a Sleek High Ponytail

1. Determine Your Ideal Placement: The “perfect” high ponytail usually sits just above or directly at the crown of your head, aligning with your cheekbones or the top of your ears for a natural face-lifting effect. Look in a mirror, perhaps tilting your head back slightly, to find the most flattering spot that gives you a lifted appearance.
2. Brush & Smooth Upwards: Begin by leaning your head back slightly. Using your boar bristle brush, meticulously smooth all your hair upwards towards your chosen placement point. Be patient and consistent, aiming to eliminate any bumps or stray strands. You might find it easier to work in sections initially, gathering the bottom half first, then the top.
3. Secure with a Hair Tie: Once all hair is gathered tightly and smoothly at your desired height, secure it firmly with a strong hair tie. For extra security and longevity, especially with heavy hair, you can use two ties or a bungee cord.
4. Refine the Ponytail Base: For a truly polished and salon-quality look, take a small section of hair from the underside of your ponytail (about half an inch wide). Wrap this section tightly around the base of the hair tie to completely conceal it. Secure the end of this wrapped section with a small bobby pin, tucking it neatly underneath the ponytail.
5. Tame Flyaways with Precision: To achieve that coveted “snatched” and polished finish, spray a small amount of strong-hold hairspray onto a clean toothbrush or a fine-tooth comb. Gently brush down any minuscule flyaways around your hairline, temples, and neck for an ultra-sleek appearance.
6. Add Shine & Finish the Ends: A final mist of lightweight shine spray will give your ponytail that glossy, professional look. You can leave the ends of your ponytail perfectly straight (as Kourtney did), add soft waves with a curling iron for movement, or even braid a section for an intricate and unique touch.

Creative Variations to Explore

The beauty of the high ponytail lies in its adaptability. Don’t be afraid to experiment and personalize the look to match your mood and occasion.

• The Voluminous High Ponytail: After securing your pony, gently backcomb or tease the hair within the ponytail itself for added volume and texture. This creates a softer, more dramatic effect.
• High Ponytail with Bangs/Face-Framing Pieces: Instead of tucking them away, allow your bangs or shorter face-framing layers to fall naturally around your face. This softens the overall look and can beautifully highlight your features.
• Wavy High Ponytail: For a romantic or playful vibe, curl your hair before pulling it into a high ponytail, or simply curl the ends of the secured ponytail for soft, bouncy waves.
• Braided High Ponytail: Incorporate intricate braids into your high ponytail. You can start with a French braid or Dutch braid leading up to the ponytail, or braid the ponytail itself for added texture and interest. A fishtail braid within the pony offers a particularly chic twist.

The Enduring Appeal of the High Ponytail

The high ponytail remains a perennial favorite because it flawlessly combines fashion and function. It offers an instant face-lift, elongates the neck, and projects an aura of confidence and refined style. Whether you’re channeling Gigi’s casual elegance, Kendall’s bold glamour, JLo’s “snatched” perfection, or Kourtney’s sleek sophistication, this versatile hairstyle can be adapted to suit any occasion, outfit, or personal aesthetic. Its enduring popularity among celebrities not only underscores its timeless appeal but also provides endless inspiration for how to make this classic look your own.

From Kendall Jenner’s, 23, high ponytail with fresh new front bangs, to Gigi Hadid’s, 24, middle-parted sleek pony with waves, the array of stunning high ponytail looks is truly inspiring. With the right techniques and a touch of creativity, you too can master this chic, celebrity-approved hairstyle and rock it with confidence, whether you’re at home, running errands, or stepping out for a glamorous evening.