Now that summer is here, it’s time to go for cute, functional styles that make us both comfortable and fashionable. One of the most versatile and trendy choices? The ponytail. But we’re not just talking about any ponytail—we’re diving into summer ponytail hairstyles 2025, where creativity meets elegance. Whether you’re rocking short hair, medium length hair, or long hair, there’s a look for everyone. Ready to refresh your ponytail game? We’ll talk about those trendy styles that provide easy elegance, versatility for different lengths of hair, and the summer vibe.
Sleek High Ponytail for a Chic Summer Look
Picture this: A sleek, streamlined high ponytail that says a lot about your style with no effort. Each strand is well hidden, because of the compactness of the high ponytail. It’s perfect for a night out or a summer wedding, and the best part? It suits medium length hair and long hair.
If you intend to keep this look, I recommend to use a shine enhancing serum such as Olaplex No.7 Bonding oil. By preventing flyaways you get a neat, glassy finish to your hair. For long-lasting hold, finish with L’Oreal Elnett Satin Hairspray.
To me, this hairdo is perfect for those times when you don’t want your hair in your face but would like a polished look. Whenever I have back to back appointments or want to achieve a chic, no effort look, this hairstyle is my choice.
Those who are interested in this look for black women during the summer will be glad to hear that it works well. The smooth finish will make your natural curls and coils look even better if you use a product such as Mizani Press Agent.
Effortless Curly Ponytail with Volume
Nothing defines free summer better than a curly ponytail swinging with each step. The primary purpose of this look is to improve your natural hair texture and make it easy for warm weather. It is a fashionable and funny touch for the ones with long or medium-length tresses.
For curl definition minus frizz, and for controlling my curls, I turn to DevaCurl SuperCream. Batiste Dry Shampoo at the roots can be used to get the volume you need when restyling second day hair.
What I like most about this style is the fact that it flows so well from day to night. It is a great choice for bridesmaids in summertime weddings – just adorn it with subtle hairpins to make it look refined.
Adding a ponytail braid at the root will add a touch of style. It provides depth without compromising an airy easy look.
The Braided Ponytail: Classic with a Twist
With braids in a ponytail, it is easy to achieve one more layer of details without leaving a cute versatile hairstyle. This look is very helpful for short hair summer ponytail hairstyles as it gives the impression of length and volume and keeps your hair cool by lifting it off your neck.
I start off with a small braided piece at the top and grow it into a high ponytail. I use Cantu Shea Butter’s Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream to create sleekness.
Whether you are going to a wedding or just having a day out, this hairstyle is always safe. People always tell me how good it looks, although the style is surprisingly easy to achieve.
You can improve the look by using vibrant hair ties or even metallic cuff accents. It’s the perfect balance between chic and playful!
Bubble Ponytail for a Sporty, Playful Vibe
If you’re feeling like a little more edge to your look, the bubble ponytail brings the fun summer vibe right to your hands. Perfect for shiny locks, this look is just the ticket if you’re in the mood for a bit of adventure, but not too much.
To produce the famous bubbles, I tie elastic bands in the hair at intervals of a few inches. If each loop is slid just a little bit apart, then not only extra body is achieved, but a definite bubble texture is produced.
A little Redken Wax Blast 10 will help maintain the bubble effect and yet allow the hair to move naturally. Dimenison and texture can be achieved by lightly backcombing the hair between each band.
My choice for carefree summer energy, I often choose this style at beach soirees or any summer gathering when I am in the mood for a simple yet fun change.
Low Ponytail with a Sleek, Polished Finish
If you’re into a more discreet look, a classy straight glossy low twist tie will do. On medium and short hair length, it looks great, and a clean and sleek look will accent bold accessories.
For this ultra-smooth appearance; To get the sleek look, I always start with OGX Smoothing + Shea Sleek Smooth Style Spray. This exact product does not only tame hair in place but also leaves a soft radiant glow.
To be honest, it is very sophisticated and chic without being too complicated or flashy. Whenever I wear a slick appearance including a summer jumpsuit or a flowy maxi dress, this is what I go for. What is more, it effortlessly transitions from daytime wear to more classy nighttime wear.
This low smooth ponytail also goes well with natural textures when paired with soft curls at the ends for a touch of elegance during summer.
Sleek Blonde Ponytail: Timeless Summer Tradition
A perfectly polished and flowing blonde ponytail resembling strands of silk cascading down one’s back is truly timeless. A Leap To Freedom exudes effortless sophistication. It is wonderful for long hair and straight hair types, making a refined statement throughout hot summers. Sleek ponytails are ideal during summer season and portray a strong vibe.
Achieving that particular finish requires the use of Kenra Platinum Silkening Mist, my go to product. Applying the mist achieves a smooth surface on each strand while overall hair shine is maintained without looking greasy. While at the beach, consider using Sun Bum Hair Lightener, a UV protectant to keep sun-kissed blondes looking their best.
Feeling polished has never been easier with this hairstyle. It requires no additional effort and appropriately transitions from day to night. Add some hoops and you’re good to go.
For braid ponytail summer hairstyles, add a surprise small braid at the base for unexpected charm.
Bubble Ponytail: Fun, Flirty and Carefree
If you want a ponytail that is playful and full of volume, then the bubble ponytail is the way to go. This hairstyle screams fun, and it is the best choice for medium to long hair. You can make it extra fun by using different accessories to suit your style.
For maintaining the shape of the bubbles, Gimme Beauty Hair Ties work the best for me. These are non damaging to the hair and do not cause awkward kinks to form. And a touch of Bed Head by TIGI Hard Head Hairspray gives those bubbles some added lift for the whole day whatsoever.
Every time I put this on, I feel like I am set to tackle anything the day brings. It is effortlessly simple, and edgy at the same time. If you want to play it up a bit, you can also wrap the elastics in gold cords to give the look some metallic flair, instantly elevating the style.
This style is also amazingly paired with cute long hair summer braided ponytail hairstyles. It adds some fun to the look while still being summer appropriate.
Sleek Corporate Ponytail: Where Style Meets Power
Need to accentuate your professional side? A high ponytail will do just that. The simple, polished appearance represents sophistication and class. It is quite literally your best stylistic move, becoming the center of attention, yet subtle at the same time.
In order to enhance the described look, I use LivingProof Perfect Hair Day In Shower Styler for an Invisible finish and Shine. The look is frizz free perfection and a light mist of IGK Good Behavior Spirulina Protein Smoothing Spray adds shine and control.
Here is where I differ from the corporate professionals; instead of dressed up chic, I lean toward tactile polished sleek and crisp vibes. Not to mention with some summer flare, it’s a great go-to for black women ponytail hairstyles, as it’s universally stunning on any hair texture from straight to curly.
Enhancing features? Try bold structured earrings, or sharp blazers for that add-on feel of unmatched confidence.
Twisted Pigtails: A Blend of Nostalgic Aesthetics and Contemporary Charm
Quirky and fun to try, pigtails twisted like these offer a unique look. This hairstyle is ideal for summer festivals and casual brunches.
To ensure the twists remain secure, I use Ouai Matte Pomade which has a decent hold without the stiff texture. For the scalp, a light spritz of Drybar Detox Dry Shampoo protects from buildup and grease while keeping the scalp feeling fresh in the summer sun.
For days when I’m feeling nostalgic, this look does the trick. It works really well for short hair as it creates the illusion of thicker hair without the use of extensions.
HIGH WRAPPED PONYTAIL – GLAMOUR AND ELEVATION
A high wrapped ponytail is the definition of draped filmy hair. This look works best when going out or simply trying to feel like a diva. The hair is pulled to the top in to a crown and secured with a tight bunch, the hair twisted and wrapped around to form a luxurious volume.
I prep the hair with Moroccanoil Treatment Original to shining and smoothing to aid Touseled Effects to shine even more. Paul Mitchell Freeze and Shine Super Spray works wonders, so applied in moderation, the Super Spray is enough to keep everything in place to allow for a bouncy volumized ponytail.
Each time I step out flaunting this hairstyle, glamour sets in unabated. It shines most during the summer and is perfect for wedding guest hairstyles not with but alongside the bride while hoping to remain a show stealer.
High Ponytail with Waves: Effortless Glamour
This ponytail hairstyle captures the essence of the summer, the blissful hot season. It’s glamorous and fun all at once, perfect for when you want to feel put together but not overdone. The gentle waves add movement and life which is great for medium to long hair.
To keep the bouncy, buoyant waves in check, I adore Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Soft Waves Sea Salt Spray. It gives the right type of texture sans the crunchiness. Applying a touch of OGX Renewing Argan Oil on the ends helps keep those gorgeous waves moisturized and shiny, particularly during the humid summer days.
Every time I wear this look, I feel ready for a sunset rooftop party. It strikes the right balance of stylish and effortless. Furthermore, if you’re looking for summer wedding hairstyles, bridesmaid ponytail, these soft waves offer that romantic vibe which is always a top choice.
Sculpted Ponytail Edges: Eye-Catching, Sleek, Bold and All Out Fierce
If you need to make a statement, nothing beats the high ponytail sculpted edges hairstyle. This look is exact with smooth babylines and perfectly curved swooshs. It is a head turner for black women who are looking to elevate their summer ponytail hairstyles.
For this style, I suggest the use of Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel for the edges. It provides enough hold to sculpt edges without leaving behind any sticky residue. Finish with Design Essentials Edge Control and you are ready to s*lay all day.
This ponytail edges hairstyle summer look makes me feel like nothing can stop me. It’s bold, streamlined which means it’s perfect for summer moonlight evenings when you want to stand out. If you are rocking weave ponytail hairstyles for black women summer, this look gives that extra edge.
Mermaid Waves Ponytail: Dreamy and Ethereal
Have you ever wished to embody a mermaid? Mermaid waves ponytail hairstyle offers flowing hair for rough beach summer outings. It is excellent for women with long hair who wish to achieve a beautiful effortless style.
To achieve the look, smooth soft curls can be preserved using SheaMoisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie, which defines curls while controlling frizz. A small dollop of Ouai Hair Oil also guarantees extra shine.
In my opinion, this style captures a carefree, dreamy summer vibe. The mix of effortless bohemian beachy chic and “I don’t care” attitude makes it look wrong for those sticky lazy days best spent wandering the shore.
Textured Voluminous Ponytail: A Stylish Power Statement
A busy day can be best managed when you have that textured voluminous ponytail up. It has a dramatic effect in adding volume and is very flattering to medium and long hair. The ponytail works just as well for casual brunches as for more formal outings.
For that massive volume, I love using Big Sexy Hair Powder Play Volumizing & Texturizing Powder. It indeed works very well. It helps provide that gritty texture which allows the styled ponytail to hold. A spritz of Kenra Volume Spray 25 will help keep the style in place without adding too much weight.
This has always been my go-to when I want something bold yet easy to wear. This type of pony tail instantly draws an wearer into feeling taller, self assured and ready to take on the world.
Platinum Blonde Ponytail: Ice Queen Vibes
Want to be the center of attention this summer? A ponytail styled with perfection and dyed platinum blonde will do the trick. It is elegant and captures attention without a doubt. This hairstyle is ideal for people who love high-fashion aesthetics.
To maintain that cool toned, platinum color, the right products like Joico K-PAK Color Therapy Luster Lock and Fanola No Yellow Shampoo which works wonders against brassy tones.
Should I want to channel an ice queen, it has never been easier than this. It carries an aura of boldness which might be terrifying for some risk-takers. Styles like these capture attention for those few brave enough to try.
Sleek and Straight Ponytail : Minimalist and Timeless
This sleek, straight ponytail is the epitome of simplicity, and we have to agree with that. The style is all about the smooth feel and mirror-like polished look of the hair. It is ladylike, and it is wearable for long hair and medium-length hair. This ponytail hairstyle is perfect for those days when you want to effortlessly look put together.
To get a glass-like shine finish, Redken Shine Flash 02 Glistening Mist is perfect. It provides shine without weighing the hair down with gloss. A sprinkle will keep the style set all day like with Bed Head by TIGI Masterpiece Hairspray.
This look instantly transforms a person, so better looking for put together. This hairstyle is best for the nightly outings, or even on a workday during hot summer days.
Voluminous High Ponytail with Tousled Waves
This layered relaxed hairstyle that we’re covering today is best suited for people with long hair, although medium length hair can also work with the generous use of volumizing hair products. Looking sleek, daring and feminine all at once, it is one of the most appealing hairstyles to help you turn heads during the summer.
To get that tousled effect, use Living Proof Full Dry Volume Blast to do a root lift. Finish off by spraying texturizing hairspray to get a soft hold. For the curls, a 1.5 inch curling iron works wonders giving a gentle beach wave look. I love your texturizing products since they’re powerful yet allow for some mess.
Plan your outfit right and this look can take you from daytime casual to nighttime glam in moments with the addition of gold hoop earrings.
Platinum Blonde Ponytail with Tendrils
What really catches my attention about this hairstyle is how unexpected yet playful a platinum blonde ponytail is with the wispy tendrils framing the face. For anyone fond of early 2000s nostalgia, the ponytail’s edgy yet soft aesthetic gives you exactly that. It is a cute summer ponytail hairstyle and works with short, medium, and long hair.
I always recommend using Fanola No Yellow Shampoo for maintaining blonde hair color cold, icy, and not brassy. With a touch of Amika The Wizard Detangling Primer, hair can have shine and smoothness without being weighed down which makes it ideal to be out during hot weather.
This hairstyle reminds me of pop princesses. Bubblegum pop and the times of energetic, playful pop culture really come to mind. It’s perfect for summer activities especially if you are attending music festivals or going out with friends.
Sculpted High Ponytail: Fierce and Sleek
Sculpted high ponytail is the ponytail hairstyle of choice for those looking to make an impact. It perfectly accentuates the ponytail’s sharp, clean look featuring slicked back roots and a wrap around the base for a polished finish. It is particularly fascinating on black women with weave ponytails.
Eco Styler Black Castor & Flaxseed Oil Gel is my go to product to maintain the sleek finish. This gel gives maximum hold with no crunch. To simplify shine, I use ORS Olive Oil Glossing Hair Polisher which makes hair look glossy and smooth.
This look focuses on drama. It makes a powerful, unashamed statement and is perfect for those days feeling like a superhero. Equally, it enhances a vivid, wing liner for all round glam.
Relaxed and Bohemian Styled Low Puppy Tail
One of my favorite go-to hairstyles for those heat-filled summers is the textured low ponytail. It is the exact antibiotic to the rigid upldo chic ponytails we often suffer through. More relaxed and care-free compared to it’s tight uptown cousin, the low ponytail neatly embraces the hair without fuss, heat, or any other effort. Textured low ponytail completes any outfit during those warm and casual days in the sun. Moreover, it’s perfect for long and mid-length hair.
Getting the relaxed and effortless look of the ‘I woke up like this’ while, in reality, being ready in minutes or less is all the rage these days. Pairing on some layered necklaces completes the effortlessly chic flowy dress look, ensuring you strut around looking like a boho dream.
To make the process as simple as possible, the first step is applying Kristen Essence Dry Hair Finishing Spray to the lower sections. Adding some Verb Ghost Oil will guarantee texture without the ends looking frizzy. This styling suggestion is an instant head turner melt for anyone who does not want to put on much effort and still look good.
Ultra Sleek High Ponytail: Glossy and Refined
This ultra sleek high ponytail shines like glass from a mirror. It features hair that is pulled back as tightly as possible, with all strands tamed down; a bold and strong look that works unequivocally for making an impression. While this style suits long hair best, medium length hair can also be styled into this look with the help of suitable extensions.
For that mirror shine, I suggest Mielle Rosemary Mint Strengthening Edge Gel. It also controls flyaways while providing a perfectly shiny look. For added hold, a light mist of Got2B Glued Blasting Freeze Spray works wonderfully.
This is one of those hairstyles that make one feel invincible. It brings out boldness, and refinement, and is powerful at the same time. This hairstyle screams ‘summer ponytail hairstyle for black women’. It evokes fierce vibes while remaining elegant.
Low Wrapped Ponytail: Calming Charm
Ponytails can be recreational too. This is a summer style that is great for hot days shine or even for casual weddings where a relaxing yet stylish look is needed something bridesmaids can sport.
For this specific more polished look I guse got2b’s hydrating pull throughs shine hair balm this offers shine without moisture. For light hold soft finish Il use sprinkle of paul mitchells super clean light spray.
This effortlessly chic style manages to look soft, takes care of long hair with ease so it doesn’t drag down hair, wear makeup and foods, feeling unburdened.
Volume and Swoops Styled High Ponytail
The most dramatic ponytail—where height meets wavy structured swoops—is certainly the high ponytail with swoops and volume. This sleek style especially works best for black women as it accentuates bold glamorous vibes.
To achieve that glass-like finish, I always use design Essentials Sleek Edge Control which gives a glassy shine while holding all strands in place. Teasing the crown and setting it with Sebastian Shaper Plus Extra Hold Hairspray adds extra volume.
This look is all about confidence. A bold and glamorous ponytail like this will have everyone doing a double take. Perfect for summer events and nights out when you want to turn heads.
