Yahoo Lifestyle 4 New Ponytails To Try
That low-maintenance look has made a stylish return. It's a timeless look that creates an instant facelift effect and looks just as chic at a black-tie event as it does on the weekend. The key to mastering this 'do effortlessly is to "spend time prepping and perfecting the style", says Shane Henning, creative director at Noddy's On King Salon, Sydney. Here’s how to create four versatile versions at home.
The look: High Glamour
Where to wear: The elegance of the ponytail lends itself to a glitzy event. Teamed with a bold lip or a statement eye, it's sure to turn heads.
Why it's hot now: Seen on the catwalks, the high pony is no longer just a beauty staple, but one of the biggest trends to hit the runways this season.
Get the look: Blow-dry your hair, then add a few drops of hair oil to your palms and smooth through your mid-lengths and ends to prevent fly-aways. Next, use a boar bristle brush to pull your strands back. Take time to mould them into the correct position and shape on your head. The most flattering point is high on your crown. Then, secure with an elastic band and finish by taking a small section of hair from under the tail and wrap it around the band to disguise it, fastening with a bobby pin.
Top tip: For a more dramatic result, divide your pony into two sections. Wrap one piece at a time around a curling tong to create a polished curve that will dress up your look.
The look: Low and loose
Where to wear: Save time and still look fabulous with this simple 'do that will have you ready for the office in minutes.
Why it's hot now: This uncomplicated take can be adapted to suit any face shape or hair texture. The movement in your lengths softens the style to create that "I haven't made too much effort with my hair, but still look finished" effect, explains Henning.
Get the look: Begin by blow-drying your strands and setting them in rollers to add volume. Once your hair has cooled completely, gently brush out the curls and apply a small amount of styling cream or spray through your lengths to define the waves. Using your hands rather than a brush, pull your hair back and loosely secure just below the nape of your neck. Finish with a light mist of hairspray.
Top tip: Hair accessories are a fantastic way to add impact. With a loose style, it's all about relaxed glamour and simplicity.
The look: Super-sleek
Where to wear: Get holiday-ready with this slick style. Its simplicity allows you to play up your make-up for a high-impact effect.
Why it's hot now: The return to classic dressing calls for an easy, elegant style, says Henning.
Get the look: Apply a heat protection spray and smooth your lengths using a straightener. For an extra- sleek finish, apply a serum or gloss from root to tip. Create a part line using a comb. Then, brush your hair flat to your scalp, pull it back into a low pony and secure. If you are working with wet strands, apply gel to your roots, brush smooth and pull into place. To keep damp ends from losing shape, add a little styling oil or cream to keep them glossy.
Top tip: Smooth fly-aways and protect strands by using a leave-in conditioner before you style.
The look: The Bright Side
Where to wear: Appear pulled together on your day off with a look that requires minimal styling time.
Why it's hot now: "It's an easy and sophisticated second-day style," says Henning. Second-day hair is more malleable, meaning your pony will appear sleek and stay neatly in place.
Get the look: Create body and movement in dry hair by applying a volumising spray to your roots. Then, tip your head forwards and blast with your blow-dryer until the product has dried. Straighten up and use a tail comb to create a low side part. Pull your lengths around to the side, so they sit at the nape of your neck, just below ear level. Next, create a natural curl by twirling lengths around your fingers and then place the tail over your shoulder. For added texture, curl the ends with a hot tong. Set the style with hairspray.
Top tip: Consider your face shape before pulling all your hair off your face. If you feel this is too severe, try sweeping your fringe to the side or leave a few tendrils around your face to soften the style.
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